Business · Economy · 53 mins ago
Higher Halloween prices are pushing US shoppers to spend more carefully
In the United States, Halloween candy and costume prices have risen, adding pressure for people buying treats and outfits.
Candy and chewing gum prices were up 7.7% year over year in September, while one analysis found popular Halloween confectionery cost 15.3% more than in 2025.
Costume shop owner Lorenzo Caltagirone said adult costumes at his Washington, DC, store now cost about $10 more, partly because imported goods and shipping are more expensive.
Some shoppers are trading down or buying less, including choosing smaller candy packs or costume accessories instead of full outfits.
Candy sales were down 6.7% by the middle of October, though shoppers appeared more willing to spend as Halloween approached.
The figures come from different measures, but they show how higher costs are changing what some households buy for the holiday.
US shoppers are facing higher prices for Halloween costumes and candy, leading some to spend more carefully.
Candy and chewing gum prices rose 7.7% year over year in September, while general inflation was 3.7%.
Costume shoppers are choosing accessories or cheaper options as some adult costumes cost $50 to $70.
Candy sales were down 6.7% by mid-October, though smaller packs were gaining ground as Halloween approached.
Some consumers are still planning their usual celebrations, using coupons or accepting higher costs to provide treats.
- Who
- US shoppers buying Halloween costumes and treats, along with retailers and industry analysts.
- What
- Higher Halloween prices are prompting some shoppers to trade down, buy smaller packs or look for deals.
- When
- In the run-up to Halloween 2026.
- Where
- The United States, including Washington, DC, and New York.
- Why
- Higher costs for candy, costumes, labor, energy and transportation are contributing to price pressures.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Valerie Edwards gave out around $200 worth of Halloween candy.
Halloween treat sales were down 11.7% by the middle of the month, according to NielsenIQ.
Halloween treat sales were down 6.7%, an improvement from September, according to NielsenIQ.
The BBC and Bloomberg published reports on rising Halloween treat prices and shoppers trading down.
CNN and Business Insider published reports on higher Halloween costs and changes in consumer spending.
- Candy and chewing gum inflation
- 7.7% year over year in September 2026
- General inflation
- 3.7% in September 2026
- Halloween treat sales
- Down 6.7% by mid-October, according to NielsenIQ
- Costume prices at Total Party
- Adult costumes cost about $10 more, bringing prices to $50–$70
- Halloween candy spending
- Valerie Edwards spent $283 for the same amount that cost about $200 in 2024
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What people are saying
It's ridiculous, but the kids are so excited, and we're very fortunate that we have the resources to be able to provide these things.
I think the holiday's gotten scary, more from an economic [perspective], than it might be for scaring people at the door.
This feels like a consumer who still wants the occasion, but is paying much closer attention to what goes into the basket.
But now I’m paying twice as much for half of what I’m getting.