For many families, the question isn’t how can they teach their children at home, it’s how can they even afford it. If you’re living on one income and wondering whether you can afford to homeschool your children, the answer is yes. With a little bit of planning, creativity, and resourcefulness, homeschooling on a single income is completely doable!
Here are some practical strategies we’ve learned (and lived!) to make it work:
Know Your Why and Remember It
When you’re making sacrifices, it’s important to know why you’re doing it. Write it down. Whether it’s for faith reasons, flexibility, better academics, or more time as a family, your “why” will help you through the tight budget months and hard days. Keep it somewhere visible: on your fridge, in your planner, or near your homeschool space.
Live Below Your Means
This isn’t glamorous advice, but it’s the literal foundation of living well on one income. Track your expenses, figure out your needs vs. wants, and build a budget that’s right for your family. Look for ways to cut recurring costs like subscriptions, streaming services, dining out, etc.
Use Free and Affordable Curriculum
There are so many great low-cost or free curriculum options out there. Some favorites for budget friendly ones include:
- The Good and the Beautiful (many levels are free in PDF form)
- Easy Peasy All-in-One Homeschool (completely free)
- Khan Academy (great for math and science)
- Library card + Pinterest (never underestimate their power!)
You can also put together curriculum using secondhand books, thrifted resources, or downloads from Teachers Pay Teachers during sales.
Take Advantage of Community Resources
A lot of libraries, churches, museums, and nature centers have free or discounted homeschool programs. Ask around in your local homeschool group or on Facebook. Exchanging resources with other families like books, curriculum, and even babysitting can help build both savings and friendships.
Meal Plan and Cook at Home
Food is often one of the biggest expenses a family can control. Meal planning and cooking from scratch will stretch your budget significantly. Bulk buying, prepping meals ahead of time, and reducing wasting food are all habits that help.
Supplement Income Creatively (If Needed)
Many homeschool parents find creative ways to earn a little extra income from home:
- Freelance or virtual work (writing, teaching, bookkeeping, etc.)
- Etsy shops or digital downloads (printables, planners, curriculum aids)
- Selling secondhand items
- Babysitting, pet-sitting, or tutoring
Find what works in this season. You don’t need to hustle nonstop to make an impact on your budget.
Keep the Extras Simple
You don’t need a bunch of manipulatives, monthly subscription boxes, or a picture-perfect schoolroom. Some of the most meaningful lessons happen with a notebook and pencil at the kitchen table. Focus on connection, consistency, and curiosity, not comparison.
Embrace a Minimalist Mindset
Homeschooling can quickly clutter your home. The more you can simplify, the more peace you’ll find. Focus on what truly matters: teaching your children, being present, and creating a beautiful life together.
Remember: Richness Isn’t Always Financial
Some of the most valuable things your children gain from homeschooling (security, time with you, a love of learning) aren’t tied to money. There’s a richness in living simply, loving deeply, and learning together.
Final Thoughts
Homeschooling on a single income is possible, and you are not alone. With prayer, planning, and a willingness to be a little counter-cultural, your family can thrive. You don’t need a perfect setup—just a heart for your children and a vision for the life you’re building together.
Let’s chat!