Soaring inflation weighs on consumer budgets for Halloween party

But this year, according to the findings of economists, soaring inflation is weighing on consumer budgets. The price of pumpkins is up from 2021. The average price of a pumpkin in stores is around $5.19, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a +7.5 change % compared to the same period last year, when average prices were $4.83. If the comparison is made against the average price per pound, according to USDA data, the pound of pumpkins is priced at 50 cents, compared to 39 cents last year, a change of +28.2%, well above average food inflation.

 

Candies are also an essential part of the Halloween party, but candy prices jumped by +9.4% in July, +10.9% in August and +13.1% in September. This price spike is the largest in almost 15 years. We have to go back to 2008, during the financial crisis, for an equivalent situation before Halloween.

 

Inflation is also impacting energy costs, and many American households will forgo energy-guzzling decorations, inside or outside their homes. Another category impacted by inflation: Halloween costumes. Overall, the "apparel" category was up 5.5% in September year-over-year and the "sewing machines, fabrics and supplies" category was up 11% in September from last year. 'last year. The prices of store-bought costumes have also increased, this year you have to spend between 60 and 70 USD per costume.