US Halloween Spending to Reach $13.5 Billion in 2026

Consumers across the United States are projected to spend billions on costumes, decorations, and candy for the holiday.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Spending

Gouache-painted illustration of a carved pumpkin with scattered candy wrappers and fabric pieces, representing seasonal consumer spending. — Americans are projected to spend a record $13.5 billion on Halloween in 2026, driven largely by inflationary pressures on holiday goods. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Americans will spend $13.5 billion on Halloween in 2026, marking a significant rise in holiday-related outlays. Seven in 10 U.S. adults report they plan to celebrate the festivities occurring in October 2026.

Why it matters

The $2 billion spending increase compared to 2024 is largely attributed to inflationary pressures. This trend highlights how rising costs for essentials like candy and supplies are shaping seasonal consumer behavior.

Total spending is expected to reach $13.5 billion, representing an increase of nearly $2 billion over the 2024 period. Meanwhile, 7 in 10 U.S. adults confirm plans to participate in this year's festivities.

The details

The projected expenditure covers a wide array of holiday items, including costumes for participants, house decorations, and candy for trick-or-treaters. Despite the higher price points influenced by inflation, public engagement remains high with a majority of adults planning to celebrate.

Halloween spending was comparatively quiet during 2020.
Halloween spending was $2 billion lower in 2024 than in 2026.
Halloween festivities and consumer spending occur in October 2026.

Market Dynamics

This growth follows the 2024-2026 U.S. inflation rate trajectory, where rising prices for consumer goods have fundamentally reshaped seasonal spending. The current trajectory mirrors a pattern where nominal increases reflect inflationary pressure rather than a surge in volume.

The anticipated surge in holiday outlays may impact the quarterly revenue expectations for retailers heavily reliant on seasonal inventory. Individual consumers should anticipate paying higher prices for holiday essentials compared to prior years due to ongoing inflationary effects.

The takeaway

Consumers should prepare for higher costs this year by planning their holiday budgets in advance to account for inflationary trends. Comparing prices on candy and decorations early in October can help shoppers manage the rising expense of seasonal traditions.