Halloween candy prices have surged 47% since 2020, with consumers expected to spend $4.1 billion on treats this year. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows significant price increases across popular candies. A 38-ounce party-size bag of M&Ms now costs $14.84, up from $8.98 in 2020. Hershey's Kisses have shrunk in size while doubling in price per ounce, rising from $8.98 to $14.92 for a 30-ounce bag. Candy corn's largest bag has also decreased from 44 to 34 ounces.
The price hikes are driven by several factors, including a spike in cocoa prices in 2024 due to weather and crop disease, which remain nearly double 2016 levels according to the IMF. Rising costs for sugar, fertilizer, and fuel have also contributed to the increases. The National Taxpayers Union attributes part of the cost increase to President Trump's 50% aluminum tariffs, which have raised foil packaging costs. The group advocates for ending the federal sugar program and rolling back the aluminum tariffs.