Halloween spending is down this year, with Americans planning to spend $162 on average, a 16% drop from $192 in 2025, according to a LendingTree survey of 2,000 U.S. consumers. This decline reflects broader economic concerns and shifting priorities among consumers.
The share of shoppers making Halloween purchases has also fallen, from 90% last year to 80% this year. Among those shopping, 61% will skip some items, including candy (35%), decorations (31%), and costumes (29%). Nearly two-thirds of shoppers are cutting back, even on staple items, as they handle tighter budgets.
The survey reveals a generational divide in financial strain. 43% of Gen Zers and 35% of millennials expect to take on Halloween debt, compared to just 14% of Gen Xers and 2% of baby boomers. Furthermore, nearly a quarter (24%) of all respondents anticipate paying for their Halloween purchases with debt, highlighting the financial pressure many are facing.
Among those who’ve previously taken on debt, 51% regret overspending, citing pressure to keep up appearances and higher prices as reasons. This regret shows the emotional and financial toll of holiday spending.
Prices for holiday staples like children’s toys have indeed risen. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index shows a 4.2% increase in toy prices from August to September, and a 6.6% jump compared to last year. These price hikes are forcing consumers to rethink their spending habits.
Many shoppers are adapting by seeking discounts and shopping early. An Ibotta survey found 45% of respondents feel financially insecure, with over 70% focused on saving money. This shift toward frugality is evident in the strategies consumers are employing to manage costs.
Despite this, a Deloitte survey of 1,500 U.S. shoppers found 70% can easily afford their Halloween purchases. However, 42% anticipate economic deterioration next year, reflecting a cautious outlook. More than half of shoppers are buying their Halloween items at grocery stores and 40% are shopping at discount stores for the holiday.
The National Retail Federation supports this trend, with 39% of consumers citing discount stores as their top Halloween shopping destination.
