Looking for cheaper or free alternatives to VocabularySpellingCity? We compare the best options for teachers and parents.
SpellingJoy Team
•Last Updated: January 15, 2026
VocabularySpellingCity was once the go-to spelling app for teachers, but at $117-125/year (up from just $35/year a few years ago), many schools and families are looking for alternatives.
The price increase has been frustrating for educators, especially those with tight budgets. Some districts have dropped SpellingCity entirely, leaving teachers scrambling for replacements.
Good news: There are now excellent alternatives - including completely free options that offer similar core features. We've tested them all to help you find the right fit.
Why Teachers Are Switching from SpellingCity
Price increases: From $35/year to $117-125/year in just a few years
Budget cuts: Many districts can no longer afford site licenses
Better free options: Apps like SpellingJoy now offer core features for free
Simpler alternatives: Some teachers don't need 35+ activities - just solid spelling practice
Spelling Shed is a UK-based spelling app with gamification features including competitive leagues and rewards. Home subscription $4.99/mo or $29.99/yr for up to 5 students.
SpellingJoy is a 100% free spelling practice platform for K-6 students. Unlimited spelling games, unlimited tests, 134+ word lists, custom list creation, and progress tracking - all completely free with no subscriptions and no hidden costs.
Simplex Spelling uses research-backed methods and is particularly effective for students with learning differences.
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. Some districts have also dropped SpellingCity due to budget cuts.
Our Verdict
If you need a free alternative, SpellingJoy is our top recommendation. It offers unlimited students, 134+ word lists, text-to-speech, and progress tracking - all completely free.
For a paid option, Spelling Shed ($38/year) offers good gamification at a fraction of SpellingCity's price.
Bottom line: You don't need to pay $125/year for quality spelling practice. Try SpellingJoy free and see if it meets your needs before paying for anything.
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.
