Record spending on dorm decor as college costs soar past $100,000 annually

Families are projected to spend a record $14 billion on dorm furnishings this year, part of a broader $103.5 billion back-to-school spending surge. The trend includes elaborate custom designs, with some projects costing up to $20,000, even as annual college costs at many institutions approach or exceed $100,000. The National Retail Federation data shows a significant increase from last year.