Business
Vermont Halloween Oct. 31: Candy Inflation Hits Trick-or-Treat Plans
Burlington, VT – Vermont residents preparing for Halloween on Saturday, Oct. 31, could find themselves spending significantly more on trick or treat candy this year. With Halloween less than a week aw
By Grant Holloway · 2026-10-25T19:19:27.235Z
Burlington, VT – Vermont residents preparing for Halloween on Saturday, Oct. 31, could find themselves spending significantly more on trick or treat candy this year. With Halloween less than a week away, rising candy prices may prompt some households to purchase fewer bags, distribute smaller portions or reconsider their holiday budgets.
According to a 2026 study by FinanceBuzz, Halloween candy prices nationwide have climbed 71% since 2021 , more than triple the national inflation rate of 22% over the same period.
Researchers found that a 100 piece bag of assorted Halloween candy now averages $16.96 , compared with just $9.91 five years ago. That represents an additional $7.05 per bag, a noticeable increase for households expecting large numbers of trick or treaters.
For families in Burlington, South Burlington, Rutland, Montpelier and communities throughout Vermont, those higher costs could influence how much candy ends up in Halloween buckets this year.
Residents who traditionally purchase multiple large bags may find themselves paying considerably more to maintain the same Halloween traditions.
Although candy inflation has slowed, prices still increased 3.5% from 2025 to 2026, according to FinanceBuzz. Much of the five year increase occurred between 2023 and 2025.
Meanwhile, the National Retail Federation estimates Americans will spend $13.5 billion celebrating Halloween in 2026 , including approximately $4.1 billion on candy alone.
The federation's September survey found that 31% of consumers plan to comparison shop when Halloween prices exceed expectations, while another 26% intend to seek coupons or discounts.
Those figures reflect nationwide shopping patterns rather than Vermont specific spending, but they highlight the financial considerations facing households ahead of Oct. 31.
With Halloween approaching, Vermont residents may find savings by comparing prices, checking store promotions and estimating how many trick or treaters they expect.
Whether candy inflation ultimately results in fewer treats at Vermont doorsteps remains uncertain, but higher prices are adding another consideration to this year's Halloween preparations.