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Maine Trick-or-Treat Alert: Halloween Candy Up 71% by Oct. 31
Portland, ME – Maine families preparing for Halloween on Saturday, Oct. 31, could face a more expensive trick or treat season as candy inflation continues to strain household budgets. With prices up s
By Claire Benton · 2026-10-25T19:18:56.297Z
Portland, ME – Maine families preparing for Halloween on Saturday, Oct. 31, could face a more expensive trick or treat season as candy inflation continues to strain household budgets. With prices up sharply over the past five years, some residents may reconsider how much candy they purchase and distribute this year.
According to a 2026 FinanceBuzz study, Halloween candy prices nationwide have increased 71% since 2021 , more than triple the 22% national inflation rate over the same period.
The research found that a 100 piece bag of assorted Halloween candy now averages $16.96 , compared with $9.91 in 2021. That represents an additional $7.05 per bag, potentially making Halloween more expensive for Maine households expecting dozens or even hundreds of trick or treaters.
For families in Portland, Lewiston, Bangor and communities throughout Maine, those increases could influence Halloween shopping decisions. Residents who traditionally hand out several pieces of candy may choose smaller portions, purchase fewer bags or look for less expensive alternatives.
The increases have slowed somewhat in 2026, with candy prices rising 3.5% compared with last year. However, the cumulative cost remains substantially higher than five years ago.
Meanwhile, the National Retail Federation projects Americans will spend $13.5 billion on Halloween in 2026 , including approximately $4.1 billion on candy.
The organization's September survey also found that 31% of consumers would comparison shop if Halloween prices exceeded expectations, while 26% would seek coupons or sales.
Although these figures reflect national trends rather than Maine specific purchasing data, they illustrate the financial pressure facing households as October draws to a close.
With Halloween just days away, Maine residents planning to welcome trick or treaters may benefit from comparing store prices, setting spending limits and purchasing only what they expect to distribute.
Whether higher prices ultimately mean fewer treats at Maine doorsteps remains uncertain, but candy inflation is giving shoppers another expense to consider this Halloween.