Business
Colorado Trick-or-Treat Costs Soar Before Halloween Oct. 31
Denver, CO – Colorado families preparing for Halloween on Saturday, Oct. 31, could face a costly surprise at the checkout counter as trick or treat candy prices remain substantially higher than five y
By Rachel Monroe · 2026-10-25T19:43:32.415Z
Denver, CO – Colorado families preparing for Halloween on Saturday, Oct. 31, could face a costly surprise at the checkout counter as trick or treat candy prices remain substantially higher than five years ago. With Halloween less than a week away, rising costs may prompt some households to buy fewer bags, distribute smaller portions or reconsider their holiday spending.
According to a 2026 FinanceBuzz study, Halloween candy prices nationwide have increased 71% since 2021 , compared with a 22% rise in overall consumer prices during the same period.
Researchers found that a 100 piece bag of assorted Halloween candy now averages $16.96 , up from $9.91 in 2021. That represents an additional $7.05 per bag for households stocking up ahead of trick or treating.
For residents in Denver, Colorado Springs, Aurora, Fort Collins, Lakewood, Boulder and communities throughout Colorado, those higher costs could influence Halloween shopping decisions.
A household purchasing 300 pieces of candy at the study's average price would spend approximately $50.88 in 2026 , compared with $29.73 five years ago — an increase of $21.15.
Although candy inflation has slowed, FinanceBuzz found prices increased another 3.5% between 2025 and 2026, continuing a multiyear trend of higher Halloween expenses.
Meanwhile, the National Retail Federation projects Americans will spend $13.5 billion celebrating Halloween in 2026 , including approximately $4.1 billion on candy alone.
Its consumer survey found that 31% of shoppers would compare prices if Halloween items cost more than expected, while 26% would seek coupons or discounts.
These figures reflect nationwide trends rather than Colorado specific purchasing data. They also do not establish that families are actually handing out fewer treats.
Colorado residents hoping to manage Halloween expenses can compare supermarket promotions, establish candy budgets and estimate how many trick or treaters typically visit their neighborhoods.
Whether higher candy prices ultimately mean fewer treats at Colorado doorsteps remains uncertain. However, with Halloween approaching Saturday, candy inflation is adding another financial consideration to this year's celebrations.