Consumers are expected to spend an average of $56.31 on Halloween, down from $66.54 last year, and total spending on the holiday is expected to reach $4.75 billion. The National Retail Federation published the data based on its 2009 Halloween Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey, conducted by BIGresearch.

Average Person Halloween Spending
2003	$41.77
2004	$43.57
2005	$48.48
2006	$59.06
2007	$64.82
2008	$66.54
2009	$56.31

Source: NRF/BIGresearch

Nearly one in three (29.6%) consumers said the state of the U.S. economy would impact their Halloween spending plans. Of those who will be affected, the largest majority (88.0%) plan to spend less overall. Others say they will be buying less candy (46.5%), using last year's decorations without buying new ones (35.4%), making costumes instead of purchasing them (16.8%), reusing last year's costumes (15.8%), and not participating in as many Halloween activities such as haunted houses or fall festivals (26.4%).

National Retail Federation President and CEO Tracy Mullin said, "The economy has caught up to Halloween this year. Since retailers know that Americans will be looking to celebrate on a budget, there's no doubt we will see creative costume and decorating ideas in every price point imaginable."

Young adults, who were last year's big spenders for Halloween, plan to scale back dramatically this year. According to the survey, the average 18-24 year-old will spend $68.56 on the holiday, compared to $86.59 last year and $81.91 in 2007.

BIGresearch Executive Vice President of Strategic Initiatives Phil Rist said, "With part-time jobs more scarce and parents unable to help out financially, many young adults have been impacted substantially by the economy. The overriding theme for Americans' Halloween celebrations this year will be, "How creative can I be, and how little can I spend?""

Link to NRF