Halloween is a time for costumes, candy, and fun. But this year, Americans will spend more on this holiday than ever. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), consumers in the United States are expected to pay a record $10.14 billion on Halloween spending in 2021. This is a significant increase from the $9.1 billion spent last year, and it is only expected to grow in the future. So what are people doing with all that money? Well, they’re buying costumes, decorations, and candy.
Halloween Numbers

According to NRF data, 69% of Americans said they planned to take part in celebrations in 2022, up from 65% the previous year. U.S. consumers are expected to spend an estimated $10.6 billion on purchases.
Americans will spend an estimated 10.6 billion dollars in 2022. The average person is expected to spend 100.45 dollars. Here is how the Halloween expenses are expected to break down:
- $3.6 billion for costumes
- $3.1 billion for candy
- $3.4 billion for decorations
- $0.6 billion for greeting cards
After two years of COVID-19 pandemic disruptions, expenses rise as people return to their usual activities.
A recent survey found that most people who plan to celebrate in 2022 will do so by handing out candy (67%) or decorating their homes/yards (51%).
Costume Spending

Many people begin to think about what they will wear. Costumes are a big part of the holiday, and people of all ages enjoy dressing up. According to the National Retail Federation, Americans are expected to spend $3.6 billion on costumes in 2022. Of that amount, $1.2 billion is expected to be spent on children’s costumes, $1.7 billion on adult Costumes, and $0.7 billion on pet Costumes.
Children love dressing up as their favorite characters on Halloween. Superheroes are always popular; this year, Spider-Man is the most popular choice. Princesses are also very popular, with tiaras, gowns, and glass slippers often spotted while trick-or-treating. Batman, other favorite superheroes, and witches are among the year’s top choices. Child-sized costumes typically cost between $25 and $40, not including additional props, makeup, and a bag to hold all of the candy.
Many adults are getting into the Halloween spirit this year by donning costumes. Adults’ most popular costume choices this year are witches, vampires, ghosts, cats, and pirates. Costumes typically range from $30 to $60 but can be more expensive for those who want to commit to their look.
This year, many pets will be donning costumes as their owners take them out trick-or-treating. Some popular pet costumes include pumpkins, hot dogs, bats, witches, and bumblebees.
Saving Money

There are ways to avoid overspending. Here are a few tips to help you enjoy the festivities without breaking the bank.
- Hand-making costumes versus buying them.
- Purchasing candy for trick-or-treaters in bulk at warehouse clubs.
- Making decorations from low-cost supplies or items you have around the house.
- Shopping thrift stores or surplus stores to find inexpensive costumes and decor materials.
- Taking advantage of free Halloween events in your community.
What better way to celebrate than by throwing a spooky party? To save some money, why not ask everyone to bring a few snacks or drinks to share? You can also find some great deals on decorations and party supplies at your local dollar store or online.
As soon as this holiday is over, start thinking about next year. Stores usually have big sales on Halloween supplies the day after, so take advantage of that and stock up on items for next year. Just keep in mind that candy might not be as fresh then.
Money Spent On Halloween

Americans are expected to spend a whopping $10.6 billion this Halloween on costumes, candy, decorations, and greeting cards. That’s an average of $100.45 per person! This spending is up from last year’s $10.14 billion, according to National Retail Federation (NRF) estimates. So get ready to celebrate Halloween in style.
Most Popular Costumes
Children love to dress up as their favorite superheroes or princess. Adults, on the other hand, tend to prefer costumes that are a bit more spooky, such as witches, vampires, ghosts, cats, and pirates.
Final Thoughts
People are planning to spend more money this Halloween than ever before to make it memorable. Some scary spending scenarios can await you unless you plan. You can give next year’s budget a break by shopping the post-Halloween sales.