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3h ago

NYC Tops 2025 Halloween Rankings as Record Spending Meets Higher Candy and Costume Costs

Tariffs and poor West African cocoa harvests are lifting candy and costume prices even as the NRF expects a record $13.1 billion in Halloween spending.

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Skeletons adorn a Houston front yard as part of a fundraiser in support of St. Jude Children's Hospital called ‘Skeletons for St. Jude’ in Houston on Oct. 15. Although most consumers expect tariffs to drive up Halloween prices this year, they are still planning to celebrate with costumes, candy and decorations.
A federal judge has struck down a Missouri law requiring child sex offenders to post “no candy” signs on Halloween, finding the requirement violates the First Amendment. (Darryl Brooks/Dreamstime/TNS)

Overview

  • WalletHub’s 2025 list names New York City No. 1 for Halloween, followed by Jersey City and Los Angeles, based on 20 metrics across trick-or-treater friendliness, fun, and weather.
  • The National Retail Federation projects $13.1 billion in total outlays, about $114.45 per celebrant, with roughly $3.9 billion going to candy and 73% of households planning to take part.
  • Government and industry data show candy prices rising faster than overall inflation, with analysts citing tariffs and cocoa shortfalls; examples include Hershey variety packs up about 22% year over year and chocolate items roughly 15% higher since spring.
  • Shoppers are responding by buying in bulk, hunting promotions and coupons, favoring cheaper non‑chocolate treats, reusing costumes and décor, and in some cases handing out alternatives like pretzels or pantry items.
  • Price checks point to deal hunting by location, with CashNetUSA finding Target offers the lowest candy prices in Florida and many other states, while retailers emphasize value assortments and late‑season discounts.