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How much did Halloween costumes cost decades ago?
WMTW • • business
Key Points:
- Adults plan to spend an average of $59.29 on Halloween costumes in 2026, contributing to a total expected Halloween spending of $13.5 billion in the U.S., with $4.4 billion on costumes alone.
- The National Retail Federation (NRF) reports that 79% of shoppers anticipate higher prices this year due to tariffs, reflecting a general perception of increased costs.
- Historical costume prices, such as a 1974 Spider-Man costume priced at $2.94 (equivalent to $19.39 in 2026 dollars), are significantly lower than current prices, with Spirit Halloween selling a basic children's Spider-Man costume for $49.99 in 2026.
- The variety and complexity of costumes have increased over time, but the comparison focuses on the most basic versions to analyze price changes adjusted for inflation.
