Top 5 Halloween Spending Trends in the US
Halloween is one of the most celebrated holidays in the United States, and its popularity continues to grow each year. From buying creepy scary skeletons to splurging on a life-size 5 foot skeleton or decorating with a skeleton jack pumpkin, Americans are spending more than ever to create the ultimate spooky atmosphere. Retailers are witnessing a surge in spending as consumers invest in costumes, décor, and entertainment, making Halloween a booming business. Let’s take a closer look at the top five Halloween spending trends in the US and how they are shaping the holiday. Know more..
1. Record-Breaking Spending on Decorations
Decorating homes and yards has become a major Halloween tradition. Consumers are increasingly investing in high-quality decorations such as creepy scary skeletons, skeleton jack pumpkin figures, and larger-than-life props like a 5 foot skeleton to create jaw-dropping displays. According to recent reports, Americans spent over $3.5 billion on Halloween decorations in 2024, and the trend is expected to continue rising. Homeowners are embracing elaborate displays with motion-activated props, LED lights, and fog machines to create an immersive haunted house experience. Businesses, too, are getting in on the action by enhancing storefronts to attract customers and create a festive atmosphere.
2. High Demand for Life-Size Skeletons and Animatronics
Life-size skeletons and animatronic decorations have taken Halloween decor to the next level. Items like the 5 foot skeleton and larger versions, such as the viral 12-foot skeleton, have become must-haves for Halloween enthusiasts. These towering skeletons are often sold out weeks before Halloween, with shoppers eager to snatch them up for their eye-catching appeal. Animatronics that move, light up, and emit eerie sounds are also in high demand, contributing to the increase in spending on innovative and interactive decor. Retailers have responded by stocking more life-size props, ensuring that customers have a wide variety of choices to bring their Halloween visions to life.
3. Increased Spending on Costumes and Accessories
Costume spending remains a significant portion of Halloween expenditures. Consumers are not only buying costumes for themselves but also for their pets. Popular choices include classic monsters, superheroes, and trendy characters from movies and TV shows. Among the trending themes this year are skeleton jack pumpkin costumes and outfits inspired by creepy scary skeletons, catering to those who love a mix of spooky and fun. Families are also opting for coordinated costumes to create memorable group photos and themed experiences. In 2024, the average American household spent around $100 on costumes alone, with pet costumes accounting for a growing share of the budget.
4. Surge in DIY Halloween Projects and Crafts
DIY Halloween projects have gained immense popularity as consumers look for creative and budget-friendly ways to decorate and celebrate. From crafting skeleton jack pumpkin displays to assembling creepy scary skeletons with household items, DIY enthusiasts are getting hands-on with their Halloween decor. Social media platforms like Pinterest and TikTok are filled with tutorials and inspiration for creating custom decorations and costumes. This trend is driving sales of craft supplies, paints, and accessories, allowing families to bond over spooky DIY projects. As a result, retailers have expanded their Halloween craft sections to meet the growing demand.
5. Growth in Spending on Haunted Experiences and Events
Beyond home decor and costumes, Americans are also spending more on haunted attractions and Halloween-themed events. Whether visiting haunted houses, participating in pumpkin patches, or attending spooky mazes, consumers are eager to immerse themselves in the Halloween spirit. Many of these attractions feature elaborate decorations, including creepy scary skeletons and oversized props like the 5 foot skeleton, enhancing the overall experience. Theme parks and entertainment venues have capitalized on this trend by offering Halloween-themed packages that combine rides, shows, and interactive elements. As experiential spending continues to rise, this trend is expected to generate billions in revenue for the industry.
Why Halloween Spending Continues to Grow
Several factors contribute to the steady growth of Halloween spending in the US. First, social media has amplified the desire for Instagram-worthy displays and costumes, encouraging consumers to go all out with their decorations and outfits. Second, the rise of e-commerce has made it easier for consumers to access a wide variety of Halloween products, from skeleton jack pumpkin figurines to animated creepy scary skeletons. Finally, the post-pandemic desire for communal celebrations and family-friendly events has fueled an increased interest in interactive and immersive Halloween experiences.
Online Shopping Dominates Halloween Sales
Online shopping has transformed how Americans prepare for Halloween. Consumers prefer the convenience of browsing through thousands of products, comparing prices, and reading reviews before making purchases. Popular online retailers offer a vast selection of Halloween essentials, including life-size props like the 5 foot skeleton and trending decorations such as creepy scary skeletons and skeleton jack pumpkin figurines. Additionally, exclusive online deals and fast shipping have further boosted e-commerce sales during the Halloween season.
The Role of Social Media in Influencing Spending
Social media platforms have become a driving force behind Halloween spending trends. Influencers and DIY enthusiasts showcase their creative displays and costumes, inspiring millions of followers to replicate or innovate on those ideas. Viral trends, such as setting up elaborate graveyards with 5 foot skeleton props or creating glowing skeleton jack pumpkin displays, push consumers to invest more in their own Halloween decor. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have turned Halloween into a highly visual and competitive holiday, motivating consumers to spend more to achieve standout results.
Budget-Conscious Trends and Smart Spending Tips
While Halloween spending is on the rise, many consumers are also looking for ways to stretch their budgets. Discount stores, DIY projects, and off-season shopping have become popular strategies for saving money while still creating an impressive Halloween display. Thrift stores and dollar stores offer affordable materials for DIY enthusiasts eager to craft their own creepy scary skeletons or customized skeleton jack pumpkin props. For those willing to plan ahead, post-Halloween clearance sales provide an excellent opportunity to stock up on discounted decorations for the following year.
Future Outlook: What’s Next for Halloween Spending?
As technology advances and consumer preferences evolve, Halloween spending is likely to continue growing. Augmented reality experiences, interactive displays, and smart home technology could redefine how people celebrate Halloween in the future. Retailers are expected to introduce even more innovative products, from AI-powered animatronics to customizable 5 foot skeleton displays. With an increasing emphasis on personalization and experiential elements, the Halloween industry is poised for sustained growth and continued consumer engagement.
Final Thoughts
Halloween spending in the US shows no signs of slowing down, with consumers eager to invest in creepy scary skeletons, life-size 5 foot skeleton props, and unique skeleton jack pumpkin displays. As trends shift toward interactive experiences, DIY projects, and immersive events, retailers and event organizers will continue to see strong demand. Whether you’re decorating your home, attending a haunted attraction, or simply enjoying the season’s festivities, Halloween offers endless opportunities to create unforgettable memories.
