Halloween enthusiasts looking for the ultimate spooky celebration should head to the New York metropolitan area, according to a recent study conducted by personal-finance website WalletHub. The research highlights that New York City boasts the highest number of candy stores per capita and ranks second for Halloween costume shops. Additionally, residents of New York search for “Halloween parties” and similar terms more than any other U.S. city, making it a prime destination for families and trick-or-treaters alike.
The study evaluated 100 of the most populated U.S. cities, focusing on three key categories: trick-or-treater friendliness, Halloween fun, and Halloween weather. To assess these cities, WalletHub analyzed 20 different metrics, including the percentage of the population under the age of 15, pedestrian fatality rates, and the number of Halloween costume and supply stores per capita. Trick-or-treater friendliness received the most weight in the rankings, while weather was considered least important.
Top Halloween Cities Revealed
Following New York City, Jersey City, located just across the Hudson River, secured the second spot for the best Halloween experience. It features the second-highest population density and the third-highest walkability score, making it an ideal location for trick-or-treating. The study also noted Jersey City’s commendable safety record, with the 15th-lowest violent crime rate and the fifth-lowest property crime rate in the country. Additionally, it ranks 10th for pedestrian fatalities, enhancing its appeal for families celebrating Halloween.
Los Angeles claimed the third position, attributed to its abundance of pumpkin patches and Halloween party supply stores. The city also houses the seventh-most Halloween costume shops and the tenth-most candy stores per capita. With a population density ranking of 14th and a walkability score of 11th, Los Angeles provides a diverse range of activities. For older teens and adults, the city features the sixth-most haunted houses per capita, as well as numerous amusement parks and movie theaters.
The rankings continued with Chicago in fourth place, followed by Las Vegas in fifth. Completing the top ten are Miami, Anaheim (California), Boston, Gilbert (Arizona), and Newark (New Jersey). Each of these cities offers unique opportunities for Halloween festivities, contributing to their high rankings.
Halloween Spending and Cultural Impact
As Halloween approaches, American households are projected to spend an average of $114.45 on decorations, treats, and costumes, amounting to a staggering $13.1 billion collectively. The study reveals that approximately 73% of U.S. households participate in Halloween celebrations.
Chip Lupo, an analyst at WalletHub, emphasized the cultural significance of Halloween in American society. He remarked, “Halloween holds a big place in American popular culture, and we collectively spend billions of dollars celebrating every year.” Lupo pointed out the dual nature of the holiday, which, while festive, also carries risks, particularly for children visiting unfamiliar homes in the dark.
The cities ranking highest for Halloween not only offer a plethora of activities and stores but also ensure a safer environment for revelers. As families and friends prepare for October 31, the insights from WalletHub provide valuable guidance for those seeking the best Halloween experiences across the United States.
