Americans are facing higher Halloween prices in 2026 as rising import costs, tariffs and inflation push up the cost of costumes, candy and pumpkins. Despite these increases, consumers are expected to spend a record $13.5 billionon Halloween, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF).
Compare Halloween Costume Prices Before Buying
Halloween costumes have become more expensive, prompting shoppers to look for affordable alternatives. At Total Party, a costume store in Washington, DC, adult costumes now cost between $50 and $70, approximately $10 more than previously.
Store owner Lorenzo Caltagirone told CNN that higher import expenses, licensing fees and material costs have contributed to price increases. Around 95% of the store’s costumes come from China, while others are imported from Vietnam.
Freight costs have risen at least 20% over the past year, adding pressure to retailers already dealing with price-conscious customers.
Some shoppers are choosing accessories instead of complete costumes. A group of college students looking for Minions outfits opted for goggles, gloves and hats after discovering that full costumes cost $60 each.
Track Rising Halloween Candy Prices
Halloween candy prices have also increased significantly. According to the Groundwork Collaborative, candy costs have risen by as much as 15% compared with last year, substantially exceeding overall inflation.
Chocolate products from Hershey and Ferrero have become 19% more expensive, partly because unfavorable weather conditions have affected cocoa production in West Africa.
Meanwhile, gummy candy prices from Mondelez, which produces Sour Patch Kids and Swedish Fish, have increased by 39%.
Higher sugar, corn syrup and transportation costs are contributing to these increases.
Check Pumpkin Prices at Local Farms
Pumpkin prices are also climbing as farmers face higher diesel and fertilizer expenses.
At Round Hill Farm near Culpeper, Virginia, pumpkin prices increased from 70 cents to 80 cents per pound.
Farm owner Rob Faulconer told CNN that he tries to limit price increases because visiting pumpkin patches remains an important family tradition.
Review Halloween Spending Trends for 2026
Despite higher prices, Halloween spending remains strong.
| Spending category | Expected spending in 2026 |
|---|---|
| Total Halloween spending | $13.5 billion |
| Costumes | $4.4 billion |
| Candy | $4.1 billion |
| Average spending per person | $115.14 |
The NRF expects total spending to increase by approximately $400 million compared with 2025.
Consumers are balancing affordability with holiday traditions, often purchasing cheaper accessories while continuing to spend on costumes, decorations and candy.
Plan Halloween Purchases Around Higher Prices
Rising Halloween prices are forcing families to reconsider their budgets, but demand for seasonal celebrations remains resilient.
Retailers face higher operating costs and increasingly selective shoppers, while consumers continue prioritizing memorable holiday experiences.
The 2026 Halloween season shows that Americans are spending more despite growing concerns about affordability, reflecting the importance of annual traditions even during periods of financial pressure.
Source: CNN, October 31, 2026; National Retail Federation; Groundwork Collaborative.
