Economics of Halloween: How much money did Americans spend on trick-or-treating?

“Halloween continues to resonate with consumers of all ages,” stated Katherine Cullen, vice president of the National Retail Federation. Despite concerns about tariffs, Americans were predicted to spend a record $13.1 billion this Halloween according to the retail trade association.

“Whether it’s dressing in costume or carving a pumpkin, more consumers plan to take part in Halloween activities and traditions,” Cullen added. Halloween revelers spent on average $114.45 per person this year, which is almost $11 more than the previous record set in 2023.

The NRF VP shared that Halloween has transformed from a single night of trick-or-treating into a multi-week extended celebration involving decorations, dressing up in costumes and neighborhood parties from coast to coast.

What did American trick-or-treaters spend their money on?

Nearly three-quarters of Americans planned to celebrate Halloween this year, according to NRF data from their annual consumer survey. The top activities that they planned to do this holiday included handing out candy, donning a costume and decking their home or yard with spooky decorations.

Trick-or-treating Americans planned to spend $4.3 billion on costumes, $4.2 billion on decorations, $3.9 billion on candy and $0.7 billion on greeting cards based on responses to the federation’s survey.

Joyful escapism driving Halloween celebrating and record spending

Cullen shared on the federation’s podcast that with Halloween Americans are looking for connection, a sense of normalcy. and “for some fun at a time when the headlines aren’t always fun.”

“Moments like Halloween are a time for people to focus on something fun, something that connects them to their community,” Cullen added.

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