https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/candy-prices-got-you-scared-stiff-what-to-know-about-the-cost-of-halloween-this-yearContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/candy-prices-got-you-scared-stiff-what-to-know-about-the-cost-of-halloween-this-yearhttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/candy-prices-got-you-scared-stiff-what-to-know-about-the-cost-of-halloween-this-year#u178644Thu, 05 Nov 2026 20:42:13 +0000Halloween candy sales are off to a slow start as high chocolate prices and cost of living pressures deter consumers. Federal data shows candy and gum prices rose 7.7% in one year and over 18% in two years, while some reports indicate a 47% increase since 2020. Sales fell 6.7% in the month ending October 17. While some shoppers are financing their holiday spending, others are cutting back due to affordability concerns and health-conscious trends, leaving chocolate manufacturers like Hershey facing volume declines despite price hikes.Why it mattersTariffs and broader economic factors are driving