Halloween costs are climbing, and families across the country are feeling the pinch. The National Retail Federation reported a record $13.1 billion in expected spending this year, up from $11.6 billion the previous year. A 2025 PwC survey showed the average household plans to spend $289, while parents expect to spend $445.

Why Prices Are Higher

Even candy is more expensive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows candy and chewing‑gum prices rose 8.1 % from August 2025 to August 2026, driven by higher cocoa and sugar costs, supply shortages, and extreme weather in major cocoa‑producing regions. Those ingredient increases ripple through costumes, decorations and other Halloween essentials.

Start With a Simple Budget

Treat Halloween like any other holiday by creating a budget before you shop. List the items you normally buy—candy, costumes, decorations, activities—and estimate how much each will cost. Set a spending limit that fits your household income and size. Include a small cushion for unexpected expenses so you aren’t caught off guard.

Smart Shopping Strategies

• Check what you already own. Pull out last year’s decorations or costumes before buying new ones.
• Shop thrift stores and community groups. Many families sell gently used costumes after a single use. Look on local Buy‑Nothing or Freecycle pages for free or low‑cost options.
• Swap with other families. Organize a costume exchange with neighbors or friends; a child may be thrilled to wear a costume they’ve never tried.
• Watch for sales. Compare prices online, use coupons, and shop during discount periods to stretch your dollars.

Involve the Kids

Getting children involved in budgeting teaches valuable financial habits. Ask them to help inventory existing items, suggest DIY decorations, or pick a costume they can assemble from clothes they already have. This not only reduces costs but also makes the holiday more meaningful.

Track Your Spending

Use a budgeting app, spreadsheet, or simple notebook to record each purchase. Seeing the numbers in real time helps you stay within your limit and avoid impulse buys.

Financing Options—Use Caution

If you need extra funds, consider a low‑interest credit card, personal loan, or line of credit, but compare repayment terms carefully. Borrowing should be a last resort after you’ve exhausted savings and budgeting measures.

Final Thoughts

Halloween should be a time of fun and community, not financial stress. By planning ahead, reusing what you have, and shopping wisely, families can keep the holiday spooky in the right way—without scaring the household budget.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.