Halloween Spending Scares Americans as Inflation Forces Many to Skip the Holiday

Inflation Haunts Halloween Budgets

As candy aisles fill and costumes hit store shelves, nearly one in five Americans say they’ll be sitting out Halloween this year. A new survey from CouponFollow reveals that 19% of U.S. adults won’t celebrate the holiday in 2025, with 72% of those citing inflation as the primary reason. Nearly half said they simply can’t afford to join in on the festivities.

Older Generations Cut Back the Most

The pinch of rising prices seems to hit older generations hardest. According to the survey, 50% of baby boomers plan to skip Halloween this year, compared to 22% of Gen Xers, 16% of millennials, and just 10% of Gen Z. Many respondents noted lingering regret from last year—8% said they overspent on Halloween 2024 and are tightening their belts this season.

Shrinking Celebrations Nationwide

Even among those still celebrating, Americans are scaling back. Nearly one in five say their Halloween budget is smaller than last year’s. Costumes, candy, and decorations now total an average of $220, according to the study—an amount fewer families can justify amid broader economic strain.

With inflation creeping into every corner of daily life, this Halloween looks to be less about tricks and treats and more about trade-offs and tight budgets.