Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year, but it can also get expensive fast if you’re buying fancy decorations, costumes, and party supplies. The good news? You don’t have to spend a fortune to make your home feel spooky, festive, and fun. In this guide, we’re sharing 26 Halloween décor ideas on a budget. From clever DIY projects to cheap store-bought finds, these ideas are practical, easy to do, and still pack a big spooky punch.
With a bit of creativity and some budget-friendly hacks, you can transform your space without emptying your wallet.
Throughout the post, you’ll also discover simple money-saving strategies like repurposing items you already have, finding hidden gems at the dollar store, and upcycling materials that might otherwise be thrown away.
By the end, you’ll see that Halloween décor doesn’t have to be expensive, it just takes a bit of creativity and planning.
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Halloween Decor Ideas On a Budget
1. Paper Ghosts and Bats
One of the easiest and most budget-friendly Halloween decorations you can make is paper ghosts and bats. All you need is some paper, white printer paper, old newspapers, or even scrap cardstock will work. For ghosts, cut out simple ghost shapes and draw faces with a marker.
You can hang them from the ceiling with string, tape them to walls, or even float them in windows for a spooky effect.
For bats, cut bat silhouettes from black paper or cardboard and stick them around doorways, walls, or windows.
If you want to get creative, you can fold the wings slightly to give them a 3D effect, making them look like they’re flying.
Money-saving tip: Use scrap paper, cereal boxes, or old magazines instead of buying new materials. You can also involve kids in the cutting and decorating, it’s fun, free, and doubles as a family activity.
This simple project instantly adds a festive feel to your home without spending more than a few cents.
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2. Mason Jar Lanterns
Mason jar lanterns are a classic, budget-friendly Halloween decoration that looks far more expensive than it actually is. All you need are some empty jars, mason jars, old pasta jars, or any glass container will work.
Paint them with black, orange, or white acrylic paint to create spooky designs like jack-o’-lantern faces, ghosts, or witches.
Once the paint dries, place a tealight or battery-operated candle inside to make your lantern glow.
You can line them along your porch, windowsill, or even your indoor shelves to instantly add a warm, eerie vibe. If you want to get extra creative, wrap some jars in cheesecloth for a ghostly effect or add spider stickers for a creepy crawl.
Money-saving tip: Don’t buy new jars; reuse what you already have at home. Battery-operated tea lights are cheaper in bulk and safer than real candles. This project is simple, versatile, and gives your Halloween décor a polished, spooky touch without spending a fortune.
3. Toilet Paper Roll Spiders
Toilet paper roll spiders are a fun, inexpensive, and creative Halloween décor project, perfect for adding a creepy-crawly vibe to your home.
All you need are empty toilet paper rolls, black paint (or black paper to wrap them), pipe cleaners for legs, and googly eyes or markers for faces.
Paint or wrap the rolls in black, then attach pipe cleaners on each side to create eight spooky legs. Add eyes, and your spider is ready to hang or crawl along shelves, windowsills, or door frames.
You can make a whole army of these spiders to scatter around your home, or hang them from the ceiling with a string to give the illusion they’re dropping down from above.
Kids love helping with this project, making it both a decorative and fun family activity.
Money-saving tip: Instead of buying craft supplies, repurpose pipe cleaners from old projects, use leftover black paper, and stick to the toilet paper rolls you already have. These tiny spiders are incredibly cheap, yet they add a surprisingly big impact to your Halloween setup.
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4. Pumpkin Painting Instead of Carving
Carving pumpkins can be messy, time-consuming, and sometimes expensive if you need carving kits or multiple pumpkins. A simple and budget-friendly alternative is painting pumpkins.
All you need are some inexpensive pumpkins (real or artificial) and acrylic paint.
You can create jack-o’-lantern faces, spooky designs, or even fun patterns like polka dots, stripes, or glitter accents.
Painting pumpkins is not only cleaner but also longer-lasting. Unlike carved pumpkins, painted ones won’t rot quickly, so you can display them throughout the season.
You can also use leftover craft supplies like markers, stickers, or stencils to get creative without buying anything new.
Money-saving tip: Use small, inexpensive pumpkins from dollar stores or local markets. If you already have leftover paint at home, you don’t need to buy anything extra.
Painted pumpkins are a cost-effective way to decorate your home while still getting that classic Halloween vibe.
5. DIY Spider Webs
Nothing says Halloween like a spooky spider web, and the best part is, you don’t need to buy expensive decorations to achieve it.
You can make DIY spider webs using simple, cheap materials like yarn, string, or even white cotton balls stretched out.
Start by tying a few anchor points in a corner, then stretch the yarn or string across in a web pattern. The irregular lines give it a realistic, eerie look.
For added effect, sprinkle a few plastic spiders on the web or hang it over windows, doorways, or mantels to make it look like a haunted scene.
You can even make miniature webs for mason jars or small corners of your home for a subtle creepy touch.
Money-saving tip: Use leftover yarn, twine, or string from past crafts instead of buying new. This project is extremely cheap, reusable, and instantly adds a Halloween vibe to any room without taking up much space.
6. Tin Can Lanterns
Tin can lanterns are a creative and budget-friendly way to add a spooky glow to your Halloween décor. All you need are empty tin cans, like those from beans, vegetables, or soup.
Wash and dry them thoroughly, then use a hammer and nail (or a screwdriver) to punch holes in patterns such as stars, moons, jack-o’-lantern faces, or spooky designs.
Once your pattern is ready, place a small candle or battery-operated tea light inside, and watch the light shine through the holes for a haunting effect.
These lanterns can be lined along your porch, windows, or walkways to create a creepy ambiance without spending much money.
You can even paint the cans black, orange, or white to make the designs pop.
Money-saving tip: Reuse cans you already have at home instead of buying new ones, and opt for battery-operated tea lights, they’re safer, reusable, and last longer than real candles. Tin can lanterns are an inexpensive, DIY way to make your Halloween setup feel festive and eerie.
7. Salt Dough Pumpkins
Salt dough pumpkins are a fun, inexpensive way to create custom Halloween décor, perfect for adding a personal touch without breaking the bank.
All you need are basic ingredients you probably already have at home: flour, salt, and water. Mix them into a dough, shape it into mini pumpkins, and use a knife or toothpick to add grooves and textures like a real pumpkin. Once shaped, bake them in the oven until hardened.
After they cool, you can paint them orange, add green stems, or even create spooky faces.
These pumpkins are lightweight, durable, and reusable year after year if stored properly. They’re great for tabletops, shelves, or as part of a centerpiece for a Halloween-themed table.
Money-saving tip: Instead of buying decorative pumpkins, make your own from scratch using ingredients that cost only pennies. This is a cheap, creative way to bring festive charm to your home, and it’s a fun project for kids or adults alike.
8. Halloween Garland
A Halloween garland is an easy and inexpensive way to add a festive touch to any room or outdoor space. You can make one using scrap paper, fabric, felt, or even old magazines.
Simply cut out shapes like pumpkins, bats, ghosts, or witches, and string them together with yarn, ribbon, or twine.
Hang your garland along walls, windows, doorways, or across your mantel for an instant Halloween vibe.
To make it more eye-catching, mix different colors, textures, and sizes of shapes. You can also add glitter, stickers, or paint to give each piece extra character.
Garlands are versatile, they can be swapped or reused year after year with minimal effort and cost.
Money-saving tip: Use materials you already have at home instead of buying new supplies. Old magazines, scrap fabric, or colored paper work perfectly. A DIY garland is an affordable, creative, and reusable way to decorate without spending much money.
9. Creepy Candle Holders
Creepy candle holders are a simple yet effective way to add a spooky atmosphere to your Halloween setup. You don’t need to buy anything fancy, recycled glass jars, old candle holders, or even small drinking glasses can be transformed into eerie décor.
Paint the jars black or cover them with white tissue paper or cheesecloth for a ghostly effect. You can draw spooky faces, stick on stickers, or even use rubber spiders for extra creepiness.
Place battery-operated candles or tealights inside for a soft, haunting glow.
You can line these candle holders along your porch, windowsill, or mantel to instantly create a creepy vibe without spending much.
Money-saving tip: Repurpose jars and old glass containers from your kitchen instead of buying new ones. Battery-operated candles are reusable and safer than real flames. This project is quick, affordable, and adds a professional-looking Halloween touch on a budget.
10. Cardboard Tombstones
Cardboard tombstones are an easy, inexpensive way to create a spooky graveyard scene in your yard or even indoors.
All you need is some sturdy cardboard, a marker, and scissors (or a craft knife if you’re careful). Cut the cardboard into tombstone shapes and write fun or creepy epitaphs like “R.I.P.,” “Here Lies…,” or custom spooky messages.
For extra effect, you can paint them gray or black to make them look more realistic.
These tombstones can be taped, pinned, or propped up in your yard, garden, or along pathways. They’re lightweight and easy to move around, making them perfect for both indoor and outdoor decorations.
You can even layer several tombstones together to create a miniature graveyard scene.
Money-saving tip: Use cardboard from old boxes instead of buying new craft materials. Markers, leftover paint, or scrap paper can make your tombstones look polished without spending a dime. Cardboard tombstones are a creative, budget-friendly way to give your Halloween décor a chilling, haunted vibe.
Affordable Store-Bought Halloween Decor : Halloween décor Ideas on budget
Not everyone has time for DIY projects, and that’s perfectly okay, there are plenty of affordable store-bought Halloween decorations that can make your home spooky without costing a fortune.
Dollar stores, discount retailers, and even online shops offer decorations like mini pumpkins, fake cobwebs, battery-operated lights, and plastic skeletons at a fraction of the cost of high-end décor.
The key is to shop smart and combine these budget finds with a few DIY touches.
For example, you could buy inexpensive plastic pumpkins and paint them yourself, or pair dollar-store spider webs with your homemade cardboard tombstones.
Even small details like Halloween-themed napkins, cups, and tableware can double as décor, adding festive flair without extra spending.
11. Dollar Store Pumpkins
Dollar store pumpkins are a perfect example of affordable Halloween décor that looks festive without costing much.
Many dollar stores sell mini pumpkins, foam pumpkins, or even small plastic pumpkins for just a few dollars each.
You can use them as-is, paint them for added flair, or combine them into a centerpiece or porch display.
Mini pumpkins can be arranged on mantels, tabletops, or windowsills, while larger ones make a great addition to your front porch or yard.
They’re lightweight, reusable, and versatile, so you can mix and match them with other decorations like garlands, lanterns, or DIY tombstones.
Money-saving tip: Skip buying expensive decorative pumpkins from big retailers—dollar store options are cheap, effective, and can often be customized with paint, markers, or stickers. This simple swap keeps your Halloween décor festive and budget-friendly.
12. Fake Cobwebs & Spiders
Fake cobwebs and spiders are a classic, inexpensive way to instantly make your home look spooky. You can buy them at dollar stores, craft shops, or online for just a few dollars.
Stretch the cobweb material across windows, doorways, mantels, or furniture to create a haunted, creepy effect.
Then, strategically place plastic spiders throughout the web to give the illusion of real spiders lurking around.
This decoration is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, and it’s incredibly versatile—you can make it look subtle or go all out for a full haunted house vibe.
Because it’s lightweight, you can layer multiple webs to cover larger areas without spending much.
Money-saving tip: Reuse fake cobwebs year after year and combine them with DIY spider props or upcycled materials like black pipe cleaners to stretch your budget further. This simple addition creates a dramatic Halloween effect at minimal cost.
13. Battery-Operated Tea Lights
Battery-operated tea lights are an easy, safe, and affordable way to add a spooky glow to your Halloween décor. Unlike real candles, they eliminate the risk of fire, making them perfect for homes with kids or pets.
You can place them inside mason jar lanterns, tin can lanterns, or even small pumpkins to create eerie lighting throughout your space.
They’re also incredibly versatile—you can scatter them along windowsills, line them on porches, or tuck them into DIY tombstones or jars to make them glow from within.
Many tea lights are reusable, and buying them in bulk is inexpensive, making them a practical choice for multiple decorations.
Money-saving tip: Look for bulk packs at dollar stores or discount shops.
Pairing battery-operated tea lights with DIY lanterns or repurposed jars allows you to achieve a professional, spooky effect without spending a fortune.
14. Halloween Window Clings
Halloween window clings are an easy, affordable way to transform your windows into spooky displays without taking up space or making a mess.
These decorative stickers come in a variety of shapes, ghosts, bats, witches, pumpkins, and can stick directly to glass or mirrors.
You can layer multiple clings to create a haunted scene, or stick them sporadically for a subtle, festive touch.
Window clings are reusable and removable, making them perfect for renters or anyone who doesn’t want to commit to permanent décor.
They work great on front windows to entertain trick-or-treaters or inside on mirrors and glass doors to create a festive atmosphere throughout your home.
Money-saving tip: Dollar stores often sell packs of window clings for just a few dollars, making them a cheap yet effective way to decorate. You can combine them with DIY paper ghosts or spiders to enhance the spooky effect without spending more.
15. Cheap Halloween Figurines
Cheap Halloween figurines are a quick and budget-friendly way to add character to your décor. You can find small skeletons, witches, zombies, black cats, and pumpkins at dollar stores, discount retailers, or online for just a few dollars each.
These figurines work perfectly as accents on shelves, mantels, tables, or even as part of a larger Halloween scene.
You can also mix and match different figurines to create a fun or spooky display. For example, group witches around a small cauldron, or place skeletons near your tombstones for a mini graveyard setup.
Even a few small figurines can make a big impact and bring your Halloween theme to life.
Money-saving tip: Instead of buying high-end decorations, stick to dollar store or thrifted figurines, and consider painting or customizing them yourself for extra flair. This allows you to achieve a festive, eye-catching display without overspending.
16. Plastic Pumpkins for Candy
Plastic pumpkins aren’t just for holding candy, they’re a versatile, budget-friendly Halloween decoration. You can find them at dollar stores or discount shops in various sizes and colors, often for just a few dollars each.
Place them on your porch, windowsill, or table as festive décor, or use them to hold candy for trick-or-treaters.
These pumpkins are lightweight, durable, and reusable year after year, making them an excellent investment for budget-conscious decorators. You can also get creative, paint them, add glitter, or personalize them with spooky faces to match your theme.
Money-saving tip: Skip expensive decorative pumpkins and stick to simple plastic versions from discount stores. By repurposing them each year, you save money while still creating a festive Halloween vibe. They’re practical, reusable, and perfect for both décor and candy storage.
17. Halloween Tableware
Halloween tableware is an easy and inexpensive way to add festive décor to your home without buying separate decorations.
Plates, cups, napkins, and tablecloths with spooky prints can instantly transform your dining table, snack station, or party setup.
You can even place themed tableware around the house as part of your overall décor, stacked cups can double as mini towers, or plates can serve as a base for candles or small pumpkins.
Using tableware as décor is especially handy if you’re hosting kids’ parties or handing out candy, it’s functional and decorative at the same time.
Plus, it adds pops of color and Halloween vibes without much effort.
Money-saving tip: Dollar stores, discount shops, and clearance sections often sell Halloween-themed tableware for very little. Buying a few packs can cover multiple uses, making it a cost-effective way to decorate while staying practical.
18. Outdoor Yard Stakes
Outdoor yard stakes are an affordable way to turn your yard into a spooky Halloween display. These stakes can feature pumpkins, tombstones, skeletons, witches, or signs with fun Halloween messages.
Simply stick them into the ground along your walkway, garden, or lawn to create an instant haunted atmosphere. They’re lightweight, easy to install, and reusable year after year.
Yard stakes are perfect for making a big impact without spending a lot.
You can mix cheap store-bought stakes with DIY elements, like cardboard tombstones or homemade ghosts, to create a layered, professional-looking display on a budget.
Money-saving tip: Look for stakes at dollar stores, thrift shops, or online discount retailers. By combining inexpensive stakes with your own DIY or repurposed decorations, you can achieve a festive and spooky yard setup without overspending.
19. Old Clothes into Scarecrows
Repurposing old clothes into scarecrows is a fantastic, budget-friendly way to create spooky Halloween décor for your yard or porch.
Grab shirts, pants, hats, or jackets you no longer wear, stuff them with newspaper, old towels, or scrap fabric, and position them in a seated or standing pose.
You can use sticks, poles, or even a chair as a base to give your scarecrow structure.
Add details like gloves for hands, a scarf, or a drawn-on face to make it look playful or creepy, depending on your style. These scarecrows can serve as fun photo props, yard decorations, or part of a larger Halloween scene.
Money-saving tip: Use clothes and materials you already have at home, avoiding the need to buy new items. This project recycles old items into eye-catching décor, giving your Halloween setup a creative, personalized, and budget-friendly touch.
20. Milk Jugs as Ghosts
Milk jugs make excellent, cheap, and eco-friendly ghost decorations for Halloween. Simply clean out empty milk jugs, remove labels, and use a permanent marker or paint to draw spooky faces.
You can also cut small holes in the sides and place a battery-operated tea light inside to make them glow eerily at night.
These ghosts can be lined along your walkway, porch, or windowsill, creating a playful or spooky atmosphere depending on your design.
They’re lightweight, durable, and completely reusable year after year.
Money-saving tip: Reuse milk jugs you already have at home instead of buying craft supplies. Pair them with leftover paint or markers, and you have instant, low-cost outdoor décor that looks fun and festive without spending a dime.
21. Glass Bottles as Potion Bottles
Glass bottles are perfect for creating spooky Halloween potion bottles on a budget.
Use empty bottles from juice, soda, or sauces, clean them thoroughly, and add labels with fun or creepy names like “Witch’s Brew,” “Zombie Elixir,” or “Ghostly Potion.” You can fill them with colored water, glitter, or even leave them empty for a mysterious look.
Paint or wrap the bottles in black or metallic foil to make them stand out on a shelf or table.
These potion bottles work great as part of a haunted display, on mantels, or as a centerpiece for a Halloween-themed party.
You can also group several bottles together for a mini “witch’s lab” scene.
Money-saving tip: Reuse bottles you already have at home instead of buying new ones, and use leftover craft supplies for labeling or decorating. This project turns everyday items into striking, budget-friendly Halloween décor.
22. Old Picture Frames as Haunted Frames
Old picture frames can be transformed into haunted Halloween décor without costing a dime. Remove the glass or photo and replace it with spooky prints, black-and-white photos, or creepy silhouettes you can print or draw yourself.
You can also add cobwebs, fake spiders, or dark tulle to create a ghostly effect.
Hang these frames on walls, doors, or mantels to create a haunted gallery feel. You can mix and match different frame sizes and shapes to give your display depth and character.
They work especially well in hallways or entryways to give guests a spooky surprise as they walk through.
Money-saving tip: Use frames you already have at home or thrift store finds. Combine them with DIY inserts and inexpensive craft supplies to create professional-looking Halloween décor that is both budget-friendly and highly customizable.
23. Broken Furniture for Spooky Scenes
Broken or unused furniture can be repurposed into creepy Halloween décor for your home or yard.
An old chair can become a haunted throne, a cracked table can serve as a witch’s potion station, or a worn-out dresser can be transformed into a spooky display with cobwebs, candles, and figurines.
Adding minor touches like fake spiders, bats, or painted faces can make ordinary furniture look eerie and thematic.
This approach not only saves money but also gives new life to items that might otherwise be thrown away.
By thinking creatively, you can turn discarded pieces into memorable, eye-catching decorations.
Money-saving tip: Use furniture you already own or find inexpensive, discarded pieces from thrift stores or curbside giveaways. A little paint, fabric, or simple props can transform them into striking Halloween décor without spending much.
24. Floating Ghosts with Balloons
Floating ghosts made with balloons are a fun, inexpensive, and eye-catching Halloween decoration. All you need are white balloons, some white cheesecloth or tissue paper, and a black marker for the face.
Inflate the balloon, drape it with cheesecloth, and draw spooky or funny ghost faces. You can tie a string to hang them from the ceiling, porch, or tree branches to make them “float” in mid-air.
These ghosts are lightweight, easy to make in bulk, and perfect for both indoor and outdoor décor. Kids can help create them, making it a fun craft activity as well as a decoration.
Money-saving tip: Use leftover balloons and fabric scraps from around the house instead of buying new materials. This DIY decoration is affordable, reusable (if stored carefully), and adds a whimsical yet spooky vibe to any Halloween setup.
25. DIY Door Wreaths
DIY door wreaths are a simple and affordable way to welcome guests with Halloween spirit. You can make one using materials you likely already have at home, such as scrap ribbon, old fabric, twigs, or faux leaves.
Shape a circular base from a wire hanger, cardboard, or a foam ring, then attach your decorations with glue, string, or tape.
Add accents like small pumpkins, bats, or spiders for extra Halloween flair.
Hang your wreath on your front door, above a mantel, or even inside as part of a festive wall display. They’re customizable, reusable, and a creative way to show off your personal style.
Money-saving tip: Repurpose items like old ribbons, scraps of fabric, or leftover craft supplies to create your wreath instead of buying a new one. This project is cost-effective, creative, and instantly adds Halloween charm to any space.
26. Halloween Chalk Art
Halloween chalk art is a fun, inexpensive, and temporary way to decorate your porch, driveway, or sidewalk. All you need is some colored chalk, and you can draw pumpkins, ghosts, spiders, or spooky messages like “Boo!” or “Trick or Treat.”
The best part is that it’s completely customizable, you can create large murals, small designs, or even games for kids to enjoy.
Chalk art adds an instant festive vibe without taking up physical space or requiring permanent decorations.
It’s also a great activity for families or neighborhood fun, letting kids get creative while contributing to the Halloween décor.
Money-saving tip: Use leftover sidewalk chalk or inexpensive packs from dollar stores. Since it washes away easily, you can refresh your designs multiple times throughout the season without spending extra money. Chalk art is a simple, budget-friendly way to make your home feel spooky and festive.
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