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Best SpellingCity Alternatives in 2025

Looking for cheaper alternatives to VocabularySpellingCity? We compare the best options from free to affordable.

SpellingJoy TeamSpellingJoy Team
•Last Updated: January 15, 2025
Child learning spelling

VocabularySpellingCity is a popular spelling platform, but at $117-125/year (up from $35/year), many families and schools are seeking alternatives.

We've tested the best SpellingCity alternatives to help you find quality spelling practice that fits your budget.

Our Top Picks:

1

Spelling Shed

Spelling Shed is a UK-based spelling app with gamification features including competitive leagues and rewards.

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Best for - Gamified spelling with teacher tools
Price - $38/yr
Grades - Ages 5-11
Platforms - Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • ✓ Strong gamification features
  • ✓ Competitive leagues
  • ✓ Affordable pricing

Cons

  • ✗ UK curriculum focus
  • ✗ Less suitable for US standards
2

SpellingJoy

SpellingJoy is a free spelling practice platform for K-6 students. It offers word lists aligned with US curriculum standards, including Dolch and Fry sight words.

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Best for - Free unlimited spelling practice
Price - Free
Grades - K-6
Platforms - Web

Pros

  • ✓ Completely free - no hidden costs
  • ✓ K-6 curriculum coverage
  • ✓ 134+ pre-made spelling lists

Cons

  • ✗ Web-only (no native mobile apps)
  • ✗ Classroom features coming soon
3

IXL

IXL is a comprehensive adaptive learning platform covering all subjects from Pre-K through 12th grade.

Read IXL Review
Best for - All subjects including spelling
Price - $79-159/yr
Grades - Pre-K-12
Platforms - Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • ✓ Comprehensive K-12 coverage
  • ✓ Adaptive learning
  • ✓ Detailed analytics

Cons

  • ✗ Expensive
  • ✗ Spelling is small part of ELA
4

Reading Eggs

Reading Eggs provides a comprehensive reading program for children ages 2-13 with lessons, games, and books.

Read Reading Eggs Review
Best for - Reading + spelling combined
Price - $70-100/yr
Grades - Ages 2-13
Platforms - All platforms

Pros

  • ✓ Wide age range
  • ✓ Comprehensive program
  • ✓ Includes spelling component

Cons

  • ✗ Expensive
  • ✗ Can be overwhelming
5

Education.com

Education.com offers thousands of worksheets, printables, and learning activities for Pre-K through 8th grade.

Read Education.com Review
Best for - Mixed learning approach
Price - $120/yr
Grades - Pre-K-8
Platforms - Web

Pros

  • ✓ Huge worksheet library
  • ✓ Printable resources
  • ✓ Good for homeschool

Cons

  • ✗ Web only
  • ✗ Expensive
6

Simplex Spelling

Simplex Spelling uses research-backed methods and is particularly effective for students with learning differences.

Read Simplex Spelling Review
Best for - No subscription required
Price - $5-15/app
Grades - K-5
Platforms - iOS

Pros

  • ✓ Research-backed methodology
  • ✓ Great for special needs students
  • ✓ One-time purchase

Cons

  • ✗ iOS only
  • ✗ Multiple apps to purchase
  • ✗ No web version

Frequently Asked Questions

VocabularySpellingCity increased prices significantly (now $117-125/year, was $35/year). Many parents and schools are looking for more affordable options with similar features.

Our Verdict

Spelling Shed is the best paid alternative at $38/year with good classroom features.

For a free option, SpellingJoy offers unlimited spelling practice with curriculum-aligned word lists.

Try SpellingJoy Free

About the Author

SpellingJoy Team

The SpellingJoy team is dedicated to creating free, high-quality spelling resources for K-6 students and their families. We test every app we review and provide honest assessments to help parents make informed decisions.

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