Halloween can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. You can save money by planning your decorations, costumes, and treats wisely. Buying items early or using what you already have can cut costs without lowering the fun.
You can also make money during Halloween by selling homemade costumes, baked goods, or offering services like party planning or decorating. Many people look for creative ways to celebrate, so there is a good chance to earn if you tap into the right market.
Understanding how to balance saving and making money during Halloween lets you enjoy the holiday without breaking your budget. This article provides simple, practical ideas to help you keep more money in your pocket.
Here are some facts to help you understand how much people spend during Halloween.
In the U.S. alone, Americans spent a record $12.2 billion on Halloween in 2023, averaging about $108.24 per household on costumes, candy, decorations, and other fun extras, according to Capital One Shopping.
Candy remains a top treat, raking in $3.6 billion in 2023, while decorators splurged $3.9 billion on spooky setups Capital One Shopping. Costume lovers weren’t left behind, $4.1 billion went toward costumes in 2023, with adults costing up more than kids, and even $700 million tucked into pet costumes over several seasons Capital One ShoppingSimple Global.
So, while Halloween is big for retailers, it doesn’t have to be a nightmare for your budget. Stick around, I’ll walk you through simple, creative ways to slash costs and potentially spin some earnings this Halloween.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may get compensated without extra cost if you buy something through my link. Read the full disclosure here.
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Smart Ways To Save Money During Halloween
To save money during Halloween, it’s essential to plan carefully and make wise choices.
You can control your spending by setting clear limits, shopping with a list, and taking advantage of discounts. Sharing costs and buying in bulk also help reduce expenses.
1. Set a Realistic Halloween Budget
Start by determining how much money you can afford to spend on Halloween without compromising your other expenses.
Think about costumes, decorations, candy, and parties. Write down how much you want to spend on each category.
Stick to your budget by tracking every purchase. Use your phone or a notebook to record expenses as you shop.
This helps you avoid impulse buys. Remember, it is better to spend less than planned than to go over your limit.
2. Plan and make a Shopping List to save money during Halloween
Plan what you need before making a purchase. Review your costume ideas, decorations, and food options.
Make a detailed list of all items to avoid buying things you don’t need.
Check what you already have at home to cut costs. Planning lets you shop more efficiently and prevents last-minute, expensive purchases.
Early preparation also means you can spot good deals more easily.
3. Use Coupons and Shop Sales
Look for coupons online and in local flyers before buying Halloween supplies.
Many stores offer discounts on candy, costumes, and decorations during October.
Sign up for store newsletters to get special savings.
Compare prices at different stores and use apps that offer cash back or coupons. Shopping during sales or clearance events can save you a lot.
4. Buy In Bulk or Share Costs With Friends
Buying candy and decorations in bulk is cheaper per item. Check warehouse stores or online bulk sellers for good deals. You can keep leftover candy for later.
If you have friends or family who are also preparing for Halloween, consider sharing the cost of decorations or party supplies.
Pool money to buy bigger packs or joint decorations that everyone can use. This lowers your spending and still gets you what you want.
Affordable DIY Halloween Costumes
You can create fun and original costumes without spending a lot of money. Using what you already own, exploring thrift stores, and opting for simple, no-sew ideas can save you a significant amount.
5. Repurpose Items From Home to Save Money During Halloween
Look around your house for clothes and accessories that can be turned into a costume.
Old sheets can be made into ghosts or togas. Sweaters and scarves work well for scarecrows or wizards.
Use makeup or face paint to add details without buying extra items. Cardboard boxes can become robot parts or armor.
Check closets for hats, belts, and jewelry that fit your theme.
This approach reduces costs since you don’t have to buy new supplies. It also lets you be creative by mixing and matching items in new ways.
6. Thrift Store Finds for Costume Traditions
Thrift stores are great spots to find clothes and props at low prices. Look for vintage dresses, hats, or jackets that match classic Halloween characters like vampires or witches.
Search for accessories like fake jewelry, gloves, and bags. These can complete a costume without extra crafting. Pay attention to sales or discount days to get better deals.
You can also find makeup kits or Halloween decorations to enhance your look. Thrift shopping helps you stick to a budget while achieving traditional costume styles.
7. Easy No-Sew Costume Ideas
You don’t need to sew to make good costumes. Use safety pins, fabric glue, or tape to hold pieces together. A large T-shirt can be transformed into a superhero cape with fabric paint.
Try using face paint or makeup for masks or character details. Paper or felt can be cut and glued into shapes like crowns, masks, or wings.
No-sew costumes save time and money, as you avoid the cost of buying sewing tools or paying for alterations. They are flexible and quick to adjust if needed.
Decorate on a Budget
You can create a spooky and fun atmosphere without spending a lot of money. Using simple materials and innovative ideas will help you save. You can make your own decorations, utilize items you already have, and even help protect the environment.
8. Homemade Halloween Decorations
Creating your own decorations allows you to control costs and be creative. Use materials like paper, cardboard, and old jars. For example, cut out paper bats and ghosts to hang around your house.
Paint empty jars with black and orange to make candle holders.
You can also make spider webs using white yarn or cotton balls stretched thin. Print or draw spooky signs on recycled paper.
These DIY projects cost far less than store-bought decorations and add a personal touch to your Halloween setup.
Gather your family or friends and turn decorating into a fun activity. This way, you save money and spend quality time together.
9. Eco-Friendly Crafting Tips
You can decorate while caring for the environment. Choose natural and recycled materials when possible. For example, pumpkins can be carved and later composted instead of thrown away.
Use leftover fabric scraps to make small ghosts or banners. Avoid using plastic as it often ends up in landfills. Instead, try painting rocks with Halloween faces to put around your yard.
If you need glue or paint, look for non-toxic, water-based options. This helps keep your home safe and reduces the use of harmful chemicals.
Eco-friendly crafts help you save money by using items you may already have.
10. Reuse and Upcycle Past Decor
Look through your old Halloween decorations for ideas. You can fix broken items with glue or paint to give them new life. For example, repaint old pumpkins or re-string broken lights.
Upcycling refers to transforming used items into something new and valuable.
Turn old T-shirts into ghost costumes or create signs from scrap wood. This saves money and reduces waste.
Keep decorations in good condition after the holiday so you can reuse them year after year.
Store them carefully to avoid damage, which means you won’t need to buy replacements often.
Cutting Costs on Halloween Treats
You can save money on Halloween treats by making them yourself, buying in bulk, and being mindful not to overspend. These steps help you spend less and prevent candy from going to waste.
11. DIY Treat Batches
Making your own treats lets you control the cost and ingredients. Instead of buying pre-packaged candy, try baking simple cookies or popcorn balls in large batches. You can also create small treat bags by mixing store-bought candy with homemade snacks.
Buy basic ingredients like sugar, flour, and chocolate chips in bulk before the end of October. This can reduce costs compared to purchasing multiple small candy packs.
DIY treats allow you to personalize flavors and packaging. Plus, you can make enough to share with all your trick-or-treaters without overspending.
12. Buy Candy in Bulk
Buying Halloween candy in big bags or boxes often costs less per piece. Stores like warehouse clubs or online retailers usually offer better deals than small convenience stores.
Look for sale events before early October. Stock up on popular candies, such as chocolate bars, gummies, and lollipops, to cater to most tastes.
Check candy labels for expiration dates to avoid buying too early. Keep treats sealed and stored in a cool, dry place to keep them fresh longer.
13. Avoid Overbuying and Waste
Planning how many kids will come helps you avoid buying too much candy. Use last year’s data or ask neighbors about trick-or-treater numbers.
Limit candy per child to one or two pieces. This keeps costs down and prevents leftover candy piles.
Store unopened candy correctly to keep it for next year or donate extra to schools or charities. Avoid impulse buys of rare or expensive treats that might not get handed out.
Creative Ways To Make Money During Halloween
You can turn Halloween into a chance to earn extra money by using your skills and resources. Focus on creating unique products, offering services, or selling items that fit the Halloween theme.
1. Sell Handmade Costumes and Crafts
Creating and selling handmade costumes can be a smart way to earn a living. Focus on simple but creative designs that stand out.
Use affordable materials like felt, fabric scraps, or recycled clothing to keep costs low.
You can sell your costumes online through marketplaces like Etsy or social media. Also, consider local craft fairs or Halloween parties where people look for unique costumes.
Handmade crafts like wreaths, decorations, or spooky accessories are also popular. Packaging your items nicely and setting fair prices will help you attract buyers.
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2. Offer Face Painting or Makeup Services
Providing face painting or Halloween makeup can be profitable if you have artistic skills. Kids and adults often want simple or dramatic looks for parties or trick-or-treating.
You can promote your services at local events, community centers, or even set up a booth in your neighborhood.
Have a portfolio or pictures of your work to show potential customers.
Make sure you use safe, skin-friendly materials. Prices can vary depending on design complexity, so offer a few options to suit different budgets.
3. Host a Themed Yard Sale
A Halloween-themed yard sale can help you make money while clearing out unwanted items. Decorate your yard with pumpkins, spider webs, and signs to grab attention.
Sell costumes, decorations, party supplies, or even toys and clothes that fit the season. Keep prices reasonable and group smaller items to encourage faster sales.
Advertise your sale through local online groups or flyers.
Playing Halloween music can help create a festive atmosphere and attract more visitors.
Profiting From Halloween Events and Parties
You can earn money by utilizing your skills to organize Halloween activities or by providing essential items that people need for their celebrations. This includes hosting events, assisting others in planning parties, and renting out costumes or decorations.
4. Plan and Host Paid Halloween Events
You can create a Halloween event where attendees pay a ticket fee. Choose a fun theme like haunted houses or costume contests.
Ensure your event features clear activities and entertainment to attract guests.
Set a price that covers your costs and earns a profit. Advertise locally using flyers, social media, and word of mouth.
Charge for extras, such as food, drinks, or games, to increase your earnings.
5. Charge for Party Planning and Setup
Many people want to throw Halloween parties, but don’t have time to plan. Offer your services to organize the event from start to finish.
Include tasks such as decorating, arranging food, selecting music, and coordinating activities. Set a fixed fee based on the size and complexity of the party.
You can also charge separately for setup and cleanup.
Create a list of services you provide and clearly communicate prices before the event.
6. Rent Out Costumes or Decorations
If you have Halloween costumes or decorations, renting them out can be an easy way to earn money.
Keep your items clean and in good condition. Create a price list based on the quality and popularity of each item.
Establish rental periods, deposit requirements, and return rules. Use a simple contract to avoid misunderstandings and protect your items.
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Seasonal Side Hustles for Extra Income
You can find several ways to make extra money during Halloween by using skills you already have or taking on temporary work. These options allow you to earn cash without a significant time commitment.
7. Freelance Photography or Videography
If you have a camera and know how to use it, offer your services to capture Halloween events.
People want photos of kids in costumes, parties, or local festivals. You can charge by the hour or per event.
Focus on locations like community centers, schools, or family gatherings. Promote your services on social media or local groups early in the season.
Make sure to have a portfolio ready, even if it’s small. Good lighting and clear shots matter most. Deliver edited pictures quickly to get referrals and repeat clients.
8. Work at Seasonal Halloween Stores
Many stores hire temporary workers to sell costumes, decorations, and candy, these jobs usually last from late September through October.
Your tasks might include stocking shelves, helping customers, or setting up displays. You don’t need special skills for entry-level work, but good customer service helps.
Look for job postings online or in local shops by early September. These positions often pay hourly and may offer flexible hours, including weekends and evenings.
9. Offer Haunted House Tours
If your area has popular haunted houses or scary trails, you can work as a guide or ticket seller. Some places also need help with setup and light maintenance.
You get to interact with visitors and share details about the attraction. Being friendly and able to manage crowds is important.
Check local event listings or contact haunted house organizers about temporary job openings. This work often pays weekly and can include tips from guests.
Leveraging Online Platforms for Halloween Sales
You can turn Halloween into a chance to save and earn by using online platforms. These tools help you reach buyers, advertise your offers, and share creative digital products easily. The smart use of these platforms improves your chances of making money or cutting costs during the holiday season.
10. Sell Halloween Items on Marketplaces
You can sell costumes, decorations, and party supplies on sites like eBay, Etsy, or Facebook Marketplace. Take clear photos of your items, write detailed descriptions, and set fair prices based on condition and demand.
Timing matters. Start listing your items a few weeks before Halloween to catch early buyers. Offer bundle deals to encourage bigger purchases.
Also, be sure to check shipping costs and return policies. Select the most suitable shipping options to ensure buyer satisfaction and manage your own expenses effectively.
11. Promote Services Through Social Media
Utilize your social media accounts to offer Halloween-related services, such as pumpkin carving, face painting, or party planning.
Post engaging photos and videos to show your skills and past work.
Use hashtags like #HalloweenService or #SpookySeason to reach local audiences. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews or share their experiences to build trust.
You can also create event pages or limited-time offers to boost interest. Keep your messages clear and update regularly to stay visible in followers’ feeds.
12. Create Digital Halloween Printables
Design and sell Halloween-themed digital printables, such as party invitations, coloring pages, or decor templates. Use simple tools like Canva or Adobe Spark to create these products without heavy costs.
Offer your printables on platforms like Etsy or your own website. Make sure your files are easy to download and print.
You can also bundle printables in packages or offer custom designs for extra earnings. Focus on clear instructions and eye-catching designs to attract buyers quickly.
Long-Term Halloween Savings and Income Strategies
You can save money and build income around Halloween by being smart with your purchases and planning early. Using clearance sales, protecting decorations, and looking ahead can help you avoid overspending and even make some extra cash.
13. Buy After-Halloween Clearance Items
Right after Halloween ends, stores cut prices on costumes, candy, and decorations. You should buy these clearance items to use next year or resell them at a higher price.
Look for deals on popular costumes and reusable decorations, as they tend to retain their value longer.
Check the websites of major retailers and local stores for deep discounts, often 50% to 90% off. Buy only what you can store and use next year.
Avoid buying candy that can expire or melt in storage. Create a list of necessary items to avoid impulse purchases.
14. Store and Maintain Decorations
Keeping your decorations in good shape saves money by avoiding replacements. Use sturdy containers, such as plastic bins, to protect items from moisture and damage. Label each box clearly by year and type of decoration.
Keep fragile decorations wrapped in bubble wrap or soft cloth, and store electronics in dry, cool spots to prevent damage. Before storing, check for missing parts or broken pieces and fix them early.
15. Plan for Next Year’s Opportunities
Start planning Halloween early to spot ways you can save or earn. Follow sales calendars and join online groups that share deals or selling tips.
You can also offer services such as costume rentals, setup of decorations, or hosting paid events.
Track last year’s spending and earnings to improve your budget. Set aside a small fund to purchase items during early sales next year. Planning gives you time to research trends and prepare smart financial moves.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can cut costs on Halloween by using simple materials for costumes. Hosting events with low expenses can also generate extra revenue. Saving on candy is possible with smart shopping and careful planning.
What are cost-effective ways to create Halloween costumes?
Use items you already have at home, like old clothes or accessories.
Shop at thrift stores for cheap costume pieces.
Make simple costumes using cardboard, face paint, or paper.
Are there any budget-friendly Halloween party ideas that can also be profitable?
Host a small event with a low entry fee to cover costs and make some money.
Offer a costume contest with a small prize paid for by entry fees.
Sell homemade Halloween treats or decorations at the party.
What tips can help me save on Halloween candy and treats?
Buy candy in bulk during sales or after Halloween.
Select candies that have a longer shelf life to minimize waste.
Keep track of your spending by setting a candy budget.
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