Halloween candy prices have surged by 15.3% in the past year, surpassing the overall inflation rate and increasing the financial burden on families during the holiday season.

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Major candy manufacturers like Mondelez, Hershey, and Ferrero have implemented significant price hikes on popular products.

The new analysis by Groundwork Collaborative and The Century Foundation finds the price of a 100-piece bag of Halloween candy is $16.96 this year, a 3.5% increase from last year and a 71% increase from 2021.

These price increases are attributed to higher ingredient and packaging costs, as well as geopolitical tensions affecting expenses.

Despite a federal tariff exemption for cocoa, candy manufacturers have maintained elevated prices, leading to increased profit margins for companies like Hershey and Mondelez.

The rising costs of candy and costumes are adding to financial strain for parents as they prepare for Halloween celebrations, following a costly back-to-school season.

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