US Halloween candy prices surge as shoppers feel the pinch

US shoppers are facing markedly higher prices for Halloween confectionery this year, according to recent research.

Financial adviser Demetrio Beltres, 33, said he was budgeting $20‑$30 for treats at a Target in Manhattan, up from his usual $15‑$20 spend. He noted the price rise was evident across the colour‑coded aisles.

Academic Stephen Zagor of Columbia Business School warned that tighter household budgets mean many will curb extravagance, describing the holiday as “scary” from an economic standpoint.

Analyses by the Groundwork Collaborative and the Century Foundation show popular Halloween chocolates are 15.3% more expensive than in 2025, while Finance Buzz reports a 71% price increase over the past five years, outpacing overall inflation.

The surge is linked to soaring cocoa costs, with a tonne of cocoa hitting over $10,700 in January 2025, driven by climate‑related supply disruptions.

Consumer‑research firm NielsenIQ found Halloween treat sales fell 11.7% by mid‑September and 6.7% by mid‑October, though sales have modestly recovered as the holiday approaches, with smaller packs gaining favour.

Experts suggest shoppers might offset costs by offering creative presentations or homemade treats, turning the “trick” into part of the experience.

Source: BBC News. Photo: Terrance Barksdale / Pexels.