Inflation May Affect How Families Celebrate Halloween, Survey Finds

More Americans are returning to traditional Halloween celebrations like wearing costumes and trick-or-treating, according to the results of Goodwill Industries International’s annual national Halloween survey. However, current economic conditions will affect their ability to purchase Halloween supplies.

The survey found that four in five Americans (81 percent) plan to celebrate Halloween this year, up from 74 percent who had Halloween plans in 2021. Wearing Halloween costumes tops the list of ways that families celebrate, with 60 percent of households saying that at least one family member (including pets) will dress up.

But 70 percent of consumers also reported that continuing concerns about inflation and the economy will limit how much they can spend. Nearly two thirds of those respondents said that, because of rising costs due to inflation, they are more likely to create DIY Halloween costumes than purchase from a store.

“Thrift stores have always been a go-to source for Halloween shoppers who want to make their own costumes and decorations,” said Jaymie Eichorn, chief marketing officer for Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina. “And this year, we expect that trend to grow as more and more families are trying to save money while still creating a fun, memorable experience.”

“Costumes are usually the top expense for families who celebrate Halloween,” Eichorn said. “On average, households spend $39 per person on costumes and costume-making materials. That goes much further when you’re shopping at a thrift store. And even better, a DIY costume is original and unique to you.”

The survey also indicated that costume trends of recent years will continue. The most popular costumes are classics like witches, vampires, and ghosts, followed by pop-culture inspired costumes such as characters from movies, TV, video games, and books. Nearly half (45 percent) of adults say that they plan to coordinate costumes with someone else or with a group.

“It’s exciting to see that people are more comfortable dressing up, trick-or-treating or going to Halloween events than they have been for the last two years,” Eichorn said. “Even in the current economic climate, families shouldn’t feel discouraged about how they’ll celebrate Halloween. With a little creativity, you still can have a knock-out costume and the best decorations on your street without spending a lot of money.”

Find your nearest Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina store here.