Halloween goods costs soar while families seek ways to save money

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) - From finalizing your costumes, setting up the decor, and buying the treats, we are in the final stretch of the Halloween season. However, the cost of most Halloween goods are on the rise from last year.

"We're seeing the prices for Halloween candy going up at basically four times the rate of inflation," said Kyle Moore, the head Economist for The Century Foundation. "Anything that gets to a store in the US is probably taken there on a truck that runs on diesel. And so when you see diesel prices going up, those price increases are going to get passed on to consumers through higher prices."

The National Retail Federation estimates families could spend anywhere from $115 to upwards of $500 this Halloween, based on their household size.

However, local stores may offer some discounts to help you save your hard earned cash.

"I'd like to touch base on our 'Freddy Finds' which has some seasonality to it," the Idaho Falls Fred Meyer store leader, Jesse Smith, said. "You're able to pick up some cheap decorations and things for around the house. And then the other things I'd like to touch base on is our 50% off decor, costumes, lights. As well as our buy one, get one candy."

And families are coming up with their own solutions to save money wherever they can. In a poll on "Idaho Falls Moms", we asked how families were saving their money. Some families say they forgo candy altogether for bulk boxes of snacks and chips.

And to keep the cost of costumes down, many people are looking to thrift stores, reusing old costumes, or even digging through their closets; finding items that can be reworn in everyday life.

"Money doesn't make the season for sure," Smith said "But I mean, it definitely helps when you can save a buck or two and still be able to celebrate Halloween."

Holiday costs are on the rise, but you don’t have to break the bank to make memories with your family.