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The cost of Halloween candy spiked 71% in 5 years
New York Post • • business
Key Points:
- The cost of filling a Halloween candy bowl has surged 71% since 2021, significantly outpacing the national inflation rate of 22%, with a 100-piece bag now averaging $16.96.
- Prices have risen sharply between 2023 and 2026, with a notable increase of $5.05 in that period compared to $1.70 from 2021 to 2023, and candy pieces now cost about 17 cents each on average.
- In New York City, Halloween candy prices are even higher, with a 75-piece bag at Target Times Square costing $20.68 and larger assortments at CVS and Walgreens exceeding $23.
- The price hikes are attributed to soaring cocoa costs due to environmental and supply issues in West Africa, alongside increased expenses for vegetable oil, labor, energy, packaging, and transportation.
- Consumers are turning to alternative, budget-friendly treats and themed non-candy items such as honey sticks, pretzels, glow sticks, and small toys to manage rising costs during the spooky season.
