Our kids didn’t apply ED anywhere…because they didn’t want to make that firm a commitment even though each had a clear top choice.
So much can change between when ED applications are sent and when kids have to make college matriculation choices if they don’t apply ED. Our kids wanted to keep their options open.
Both DID apply EA and rolling admissions wherever available on their application lists. Both had at least three acceptances before Christmas…and some with merit aid awards.
I do agree that if the net price calculators indicate the school will be affordable, it’s fine to apply ED. I’ll add, the more robust the NPC, the better the estimated net cost will be.