Halloween Costs Reach Record High as Tariffs Drive Up Prices

Americans are facing a frightfully expensive Halloween this year, with spending expected to hit a record $13 billion—about $114 per person, according to the National Retail Federation.

The culprit? Tariffs and international supply chain issues. With nearly 90% of Halloween products containing at least one component made overseas—mostly from China—increased tariff costs are being passed directly to consumers. Chocolate prices have jumped 40% due to poor cocoa crops, making candy particularly expensive.

NBC's Todd Strain visited local shoppers and costume retailers to see how they're adapting to the sticker shock. From creative cost-cutting strategies to social media outcry, find out what people are saying about this year's Halloween expenses.

Watch the full report above to hear from shoppers who spent up to $195 on Halloween gear, and learn how one local costume shop owner is fighting back against rising costs with an innovative approach.