A recent study by personal-finance website WalletHub identifies the New York metropolitan area as the premier destination for Halloween celebrations. The analysis highlights New York City’s abundance of candy stores and costume shops, along with a high volume of Google searches related to Halloween parties, making it an ideal spot for families and Halloween enthusiasts alike.
To evaluate the best cities for Halloween, WalletHub compared 100 of the most populated U.S. cities across three primary categories: trick-or-treater friendliness, Halloween fun, and Halloween weather. With a focus on the safety and enjoyment of young trick-or-treaters, the study assigned the most weight to trick-or-treater friendliness. Various metrics were assessed, including the percentage of the population under 15 years old, pedestrian fatality rates, and the availability of Halloween-related stores.
Top Halloween Cities
Following New York City, Jersey City in New Jersey secured the second position, while Newark ranked tenth. The study emphasizes Jersey City’s suitability for trick-or-treating, citing its high population density and walkability score. With the 15th-lowest violent crime rate and the fifth-lowest property crime rate in the U.S., as well as the tenth-lowest pedestrian fatality rate, Jersey City is portrayed as a safe environment for Halloween festivities. Additionally, the city boasts a significant number of movie theaters, offering diverse entertainment options for those looking to enjoy a spooky film.
Los Angeles claimed the third spot, thanks to its numerous pumpkin patches and Halloween party supply stores. It also ranks seventh in the number of Halloween costume shops and tenth for candy stores per capita. The city’s walkability score and population density rank 11th and 14th, respectively. For teens and adults, Los Angeles provides ample opportunities for thrills, including a high number of amusement parks and haunted houses.
Other cities making the top ten list for Halloween experiences include Miami, Anaheim in California, Boston, Gilbert in Arizona, and Newark.
Halloween Spending Trends
As Halloween approaches, WalletHub reports that the average U.S. household is expected to spend $114.45 on decorations, treats, and costumes this year. This collective spending translates to an estimated $13.1 billion contributed by the 73% of American households that celebrate the holiday.
Chip Lupo, an analyst at WalletHub, underscores the cultural significance of Halloween in American society. He states, “Halloween holds a big place in American popular culture, and we collectively spend billions of dollars celebrating every year.” Lupo also highlights the risks associated with the holiday, as children often visit strangers’ homes in the dark. According to the study, the safest cities for Halloween celebrations are characterized by a wealth of activities, Halloween-related stores, and favorable weather conditions.
As families and individuals prepare for Halloween festivities, the findings of this study serve as a valuable guide for those seeking the most enjoyable and safe experiences in their local areas.
