Spooky Prices: How Tariffs Are Making Halloween More Expensive This Year

Halloween is supposed to be fun — a night for costumes, candy, and spooky

decorations. But if you’ve already started shopping, you may have noticed something frightening: prices are higher than ever.

The primary reason is tariffs — extra taxes on imported goods. Here’s what’s happening, why it matters for families, and how you can still enjoy Halloween without blowing your budget.

How Tariffs Are Driving Up Halloween Costs

Since April 2025, Trump’s tariffs have targeted electronics, plastics, and festive goods — including many Halloween costumes and decorations, most of which come from China. Tariffs that once reached 145% (now capped at 30% until November 10, 2025) have disrupted the holiday supply chain, driving higher prices, fewer choices, and shipping delays. Retailers must either pay more for Chinese imports or switch to lower-quality suppliers.

What’s Changing in Prices

Recent reporting shows some clear shifts:

• The National Retail Federation expects Halloween spending in the U.S. to hit a record $13.1 billion in 2025, up from about $12.2 billion last year.

  
  

• Most costumes are made overseas and through different manufacturers. The tariffs now range from 5% to 19% for many of these products.

  
  

• Some businesses say costumes that sold for about $20 last year might sell for $40 this year; simple masks could jump from $4.99 to $9.99.

  
  

• Decorations are climbing, too — a fog machine that cost around $58 could now be about $74.

  
  

• Candy prices keep climbing: family-size bags of chocolate are up about $5 compared to last year; snack-size bars rose about $2. Last year, a 48-count box of full-size chocolate bars cost about $40. This year it’s more than $50.

How Families Can Save This Halloween

With families already facing tighter budgets, price spikes on costumes and candy feel sharper. Here’s what you can do to try and save this Halloween:

• Shop early. Prices often rise and shelves empty closer to Halloween. Start looking in September and set online price alerts.

  
  

• DIY costumes and decorations. Get creative with thrift store finds, craft supplies, and household items to save money and personalize your look.

  
  

• Set a budget and prioritize. Decide whether costumes, candy, or decorations will be your splurge item and stick to that plan.

  
  

• Compare local and online options. Shipping costs and in-store clearance sales can make a big difference in the final price.

  
  

• Look for bundles, promotions, and coupons. Sign up for store email lists or use discount apps to save on candy or decor bought in bulk.