The Best Stores in New York to Buy Back-to-School Supplies
The new school year is approaching, and it’s time to get those backpacks ready! Whether you are an expat living in New York, a newcomer, or simply visiting before the start of the school year, the city offers plenty of stores where you can find everything you need.
From major retailers to independent stationery shops, here are the best places to buy notebooks, pens, backpacks, binders, creative supplies, and school accessories, whatever your budget.
Staples: The go-to store for everything in one place
If you had to choose just one store, Staples would probably be the obvious choice.
The retailer offers everything students and teachers need:
- notebooks and binders
- pens, pencils, and highlighters
- calculators
- printers
- backpacks
- computers and accessories
- teacher supplies
As the back-to-school season approaches, Staples usually offers major discounts on essential school supplies, making it a great option for families.
Best for: getting all your supplies in a single visit.
Target: The best value for money
Target stores are a must during the “Back to School” season.
You can find:
- colorful notebooks
- pencil cases
- water bottles
- backpacks
- pencils and markers
- desk accessories
Prices are often very competitive, and many promotions run throughout the summer. Some collections also support educational initiatives.
Best for: families looking to stick to a budget.
New York Pen & Stationery: A dream destination for stationery lovers
Located near Greenwich Village, this store is a true institution for stationery enthusiasts.
You’ll find:
- premium pens
- notebooks
- high-quality paper
- desk accessories
- unique stationery items
It is the perfect place if you enjoy writing with quality supplies or want to buy a beautiful notebook for the new school year.
Best for: students, professionals, and stationery lovers.
Goods For The Study: Elegant and stylish stationery
This boutique is known for its refined selection of school supplies and office accessories.
You’ll discover:
- designer notebooks
- Japanese pencils
- premium pens
- planners
- minimalist accessories
The products are more high-end, but the quality is excellent.
Best for: those who appreciate beautiful stationery.
New University Stationery: A practical shop for students
Located just steps away from NYU, this stationery store is especially popular among students.
You can easily find:
- notebooks
- paper supplies
- pens
- binders
- art supplies
- computer accessories
Prices remain reasonable, and the store is very convenient for completing a school supply list.
Teacher’s Choice: A paradise for teachers
Although the store is located in Brooklyn, it is definitely worth the trip.
You’ll find:
- educational materials
- learning games
- school supplies
- classroom decorations
- creative activities
This store is particularly appreciated by New York teachers.
GRAMCO School & Craft Supplies: Affordable school supplies
GRAMCO is known for offering popular brands such as:
- Crayola
- Sharpie
- Elmer’s
- Mead
as well as more affordable alternatives.
It is an excellent place to buy supplies in bulk without breaking the bank.
Muji: Japanese simplicity and quality
Muji stores are popular among students thanks to their simple, functional, and well-designed supplies.
You’ll find:
- notebooks
- gel pens
- pencil cases
- binders
- folders
- organizers
The quality is excellent, and the minimalist design appeals to both students and professionals.
Best for: those looking for elegant and long-lasting supplies.
Barnes & Noble: Much more than a bookstore
In addition to school and university books, Barnes & Noble has a large stationery section.
You can buy:
- planners
- notebooks
- pens
- bags
- desk accessories
- student supplies
It is also a great place to find academic preparation books and university study materials.
Tips for saving money on school supplies
The best time to buy school supplies in New York is between late July and the end of August, when stores launch their “Back to School” promotions. Discounts often apply to notebooks, pencils, binders, backpacks, and essential supplies.
Before heading out shopping:
- check the supply list provided by the school;
- compare prices between Target and Staples for everyday items;
- choose specialized stationery stores for higher-quality supplies;
- take advantage of promotions to buy multiples of items used throughout the year.
In conclusion
Whether you are looking for affordable school supplies or a beautiful stationery store, New York offers plenty of options to prepare for the new school year.
For a quick and complete shopping trip, Staples and Target remain reliable choices. Stationery lovers will enjoy Goods For The Study, New York Pen & Stationery, and Muji, while Teacher’s Choice and GRAMCO are excellent alternatives for teachers and families looking to buy supplies in larger quantities.
All that’s left to do is fill the backpack and enjoy this exciting new school year in New York!