Halloween Candy Costs Strain Shoppers’ Budgets

Families preparing for Halloween were paying more for treats and costumes, with shoppers in Chicago and New York describing tighter budgets and a search for lower prices. One Chicago shopper said she compares prices in stores and online; another said $85 bought only 10 bags of candy for a school celebration.

Candy prices in one analysis were up 7.7% from a year earlier, against a 1.8% rise in grocery prices overall. A separate study found popular Halloween sweets cost 15.3% more than in 2025. Research by FinanceBuzz put the five-year increase in Halloween treat prices at 71%.

Higher cocoa costs have contributed to pricier confectionery. Cocoa reached more than $10,700 per tonne in January 2025, as severe weather affected supplies. A Columbia Business School professor said candy now being sold was made with cocoa purchased when prices were elevated.

Shoppers also appeared to be buying less. NielsenIQ found Halloween treat sales were down 11.7% by mid-September and 6.7% by mid-October. Its food-sector vice-president said smaller packs were gaining popularity while larger sizes remained difficult to sell.

In Chicago, a community organization is offering a costume exchange at the 36th Ward Office on Friday, allowing families to trade rather than buy outfits. It will also take costume donations after Halloween for next year. A wholesaler in Hermosa is preparing a free community Halloween party on Saturday.