Average Laptop Price Below $1,000

Since 2001, the average cost of a laptop computer has fallen 39 percent, from $1,640 to $1,000 this year, according to a recent survey completed by the Wall Street Journal. The reason behind the falling prices is rising demand for laptops, mainly driven by the college market, as well as cheaper component prices.

According to college polling firm Student Monitor, about three out of every four people of college age planning to buy a computer within 12 months are expecting to opt for a laptop. A possible reason for the spike in demand among college students could be the greater presence of wireless Internet on college campuses.