Why Halloween Candy Is Getting More Expensive — and Less Chocolate-y

This year, Halloween candy comes with a higher price tag and fewer chocolate treats than you might expect.

Across the U.S., candy prices are up 10.8% compared to last year — nearly four times the overall inflation rate. 

🍫 The Root Cause: Cocoa Crisis

Chocolate makers are feeling the squeeze as cocoa harvests in West Africa collapse under extreme weather, disease and ageing trees. This region supplies the majority of the world’s cocoa. Futures prices soared in recent years. 

To make matters worse, U.S. tariffs on cocoa imports have added extra cost. As a result, candy firms are raising prices — and in some cases giving you less chocolate for the same or higher price. 

🍬 More Gummies, Fewer Bars

Beyond price hikes, the mix of candy is shifting. Chocolate’s share of Halloween candy volume has dropped from 52% in 2024 to around 44% this year. 

Cheaper alternatives — like gummies, sour candies and novelty sweets — are rising in popularity. These require little or no cocoa and offer better margins for manufacturers. 

📦 What You’ll See on the Shelf

Here’s how it might look in real life:

• Smaller chocolate bars or fewer pieces in bags (“shrinkflation”)
• More non-chocolate snacks like fruit gummies or wafer-filled bars
• Higher sticker prices for classic chocolate variety packs (Hershey’s up ~22%, Mars up ~12%) 

🎯 Takeaway for Shoppers

Halloween treats are still plentiful — but you may pay more, see less chocolate and discover a sweeter (or tangier) mix this year. For chocolate lovers, snagging deals early may be the best move.