Trump Tariffs Could Make Halloween 2025 Costlier for American Shoppers

Halloween 2025 may be financially scarier than usual for American shoppers, thanks to the lingering effects of Trump-era tariffs on imported goods.

Record-Breaking Halloween Spending Expected

According to a survey by the National Retail Federation (NRF), Americans are expected to spend a record $13.1 billion on Halloween this year, up from $11.6 billion in 2024. Average spending per person is projected to hit $114.45, nearly $11 more than last year and surpassing the previous record of $108.24 in 2023.

Popular purchases this season include candies, costumes, decorations, and greeting cards.

Tariffs Driving Up Prices

The NRF survey found that 79% of shoppers anticipate higher prices for Halloween products due to tariffs on foreign imports. Many items contain at least one component made overseas, most commonly in China.

President Donald Trump’s tariffs, initially raised to 145% in April 2025 before being reduced to 30% in May, have disrupted supply chains. CNN reported that many production orders were halted in April, as importers deemed it too costly to bring goods into the U.S. in time for Halloween.

As a result, inventories are tighter, and consumers may face higher prices on many items. Products produced outside China, however, may see little or no price increase.

Real-World Impact on Businesses and Shoppers

Chris Zephro, founder of Trick or Trick Studios, which supplies products to over 10,000 retailers (65% in the U.S.), revealed that tariffs have cost his company more than $800,000 this year. The financial strain forced him to lay off 15 employees, a first in the company’s 15-year history.

Consumers are feeling the pinch too. Reyna Hernandez, shopping for her six-year-old’s costume, told CNN, “A lot of people are not going to be able to afford a costume this year.”

Retailers like Phantom Halloween in Northridge, California, say child costumes may stay the same price, but adult costumes could cost $5–10 more. Some makeup items are unaffected because they are imported from Vietnam, India, or the UK.

Some Halloween props will see dramatic price hikes. For instance, a 6.5-foot-tall prop called “Cagey the Clown”, originally priced at $399.99, could cost around $600 this year. Zephro also stopped production on certain action figures, citing that higher prices would make them unsellable.

Bottom Line

Tariffs have disrupted the supply chain of Halloween items, raising costs for both consumers and businesses. However, some products remain unscathed, so Americans should expect a price hike for many Halloween costumes, decorations, and props this season.