As we reported last year, “Halloween Spending Is Big Business.” Here, we examine expected Halloween 2018 spending. How much are people spending? And on what? Will 2018 Halloween sales exceed those in 2018? Given the state of the economy, we would certainly expect that.
What Is the Level of Expected Halloween 2018 Spending?
Halloween is big business. But would it surprise you to learn that 2018 Halloween spending will fall slightly below that in 2017? It certainly surprises us. But facts are facts. 
According to Niall McCarthy, reporting for Statista:
“Revellers gear up for Halloween by splurging on a host of costumes, decorations, and candy. And all of that spending add ups. Indeed, for some people, the fright factor isn’t just confined to Halloween with credit-card bills sending a shiver down people’s spines well afterwards. This year, 70 percent of Americans plan to celebrate the beloved autumn holiday. And on average, each person will spend $87.”
“Halloween always represents great news for U.S. retailers. This, this year, Americans are expected to spend $9.0 billion in total. Slightly down on last year’s $9.1 billion, according to the National Retail Federation.”
“45 percent of Americans will shop at a discount store this year. While just under a quarter will make their Halloween purchases online. When it comes to how people will celebrate, 70 percent will hand out candy. 50 percent will decorate. And 48 percent will dress in costume.”
“Speaking of costumes, Americans will spend $3.2 billion on spooky outfits in 2018. The top costumes for children this year are the princess, superhero, and bat. Among adults, witch is at top of the costume list, followed by vampire and zombie. Of course, we never forget our four-legged friends Halloween. And for 2018, the top pet costumes are the pumpkin, hot dog, and bumble bee outfits.”
Look at the infographic for specific spending patterns.
