Halloween candy sales drop 6.7% amid rising costs and high chocolate prices

Halloween candy sales in the U.S. have decreased by 6.7% in the month ending October 17 compared to the same period last year, according to NielsenIQ data reported by ktok.iheart.com. This decline follows an earlier 11.7% drop in mid-September, which erased preseason gains from the previous two years.

The drop in sales is linked to rising costs for consumers, including higher prices for fuel, housing, clothing, and food. Chris Costagli, a vice president at NielsenIQ, explained that many consumers are unable to afford as much Halloween candy this year because of these increased expenses.

Small bags of candy are the only size category showing sales growth through mid-October, while large and extra-large bags have seen the biggest declines. Candy and gum prices have increased 44% over the past five years, exceeding the 22.5% increase in prices for all food eaten at home.

Cocoa prices, a key factor in chocolate costs, reached a record high in January 2025 due to poor weather in West Africa and speculative trading, as reported by U.S. News & World Report. Although cocoa prices fell earlier this year, they started rising again in the spring due to disruptions from the Iran war and the El Niño weather pattern.

Despite these challenges, the National Retail Federation expects over $4 billion in candy sales this year, and the National Confectioners Association remains optimistic about Halloween sales, noting strong consumer enthusiasm as the peak period approaches. NielsenIQ also observed that shoppers are making more frequent trips and spreading out their spending, which may lead to last-minute purchases before Halloween.