An estimated 26 million kids across the country are expected to attend summer camp this year. Their families are going to feel some sticker shock when they see the price tag.

“Pre-pandemic summer camp could range from anywhere to $180 to $220 per week,” said Brenna Lupo, vice president of education and childcare services for YMCA Buffalo Niagara.

Now, Lupo says the price for YMCA summer camp costs has increased 6-8%, to keep up with standard operating costs. 

"Everything in our nation has increased right now as well as staffing costs," Lupo said. "So minimum wage in New York state went up and we pay above minimum wage to keep and retain quality staff."

Another factor that contributes to the rise in summer camp costs is transportation.

“At some of our camps, we’re busing kids out to our Camp Tahigwa in Corfu, and with that means busing costs and increase in fuel so their costs have increased and neither organization can operate at a deficit," Lupo said. 

According to Lupo, many things used for the camps have also seen a rise in price

“We’ve seen an increase on something as simple as crayons and markers, to construction paper, sporting equipment," she said. "Everything that we use for camp has increased over the past two years.”

She says she hasn’t seen the price increase hasn’t impacted enrollment. 

'The demand for childcare has greatly increased," Lupo said. "We’re seeing waiting lists already on most summer camps at this point because parents are going back to work and need that safe secure childcare option for their kids in the summer."

But for parents looking at prices and who have sticker shock, there’s the Access for All Program. 

"That is basically a sliding fee scale that you are awarded a percentage off your program or membership fees based on your family income," Lupo said.

The YMCA says there's been a staffing shortage, so they are currently recruiting.