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Is Prom overpriced or just right?

Senior prom is one of the most talked about events in any high school. Most students look forward to the glamorous day with excitement and stars in their eyes. It's the biggest party seniors experience during their four years of high school. However, how much is too much for senior prom?

A recent survey from Visa showed that the average U.S. family plans to spend about $919 on a teenager going to prom, with parents covering as much as 73 percent of the cost. Another survey found families with an income below $25,000 planned to spend $1,393 while families with an income over $50,000 planned to spend an average of $800.

“I’m excited for prom but I’m not excited about spending my money,” said senior Te’A Shah. “Prom is very overpriced. It shouldn’t be thousands of dollars. I still have a life after prom.”

As prom season kicks into full effect, several seniors begin preparing for this long awaited day. The desire to look red carpet ready can cost seniors a pretty penny. Every year high schools find different activities to add to their students’ senior packages, making expenses for seniors skyrocket to extreme heights.

“My budget for my two prom-going kids would be about fifteen hundred [dollars],” said Carlos Towns, father of senior Asia McKinney.

Several parents with set incomes don’t have the financial luxury of spending hundreds let alone thousands on prom compared to the parents who can spend a significant amount of money.

“It’s a waste of time to spend over $600 because you only have one prom and not a lot of places to wear your dress,” said senior Davinua Hogan.

Of course, there are those extravagant seniors who may treat this one-day event like they are the rich and famous.

“Kids are setting the bar real high,” said Towns. “You have those kids who are going all out. You have kids renting helicopters, Rolls Royce, Phantoms, and Lamborghinis.”

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