A 2026 study from online candy retailer CandyStore revealed top Halloween candy picks for North Carolina, plus nationwide favorites and more.
The CandyStore study noted that according to the National Retail Federation, the amount the average American consumer spends on Halloween candy went up by 55 cents in the past year. With about 96% of consumers planning to buy sweets for Halloween, that 55 cents per person amounts to a whopping $200 million increase in the nation.
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According to the 2026 CandyStore study, North Carolina shares only one Halloween candy in its top three favorites with the overall list of favorites in the United States. Here’s what else the data shows on Halloween candy this year.
What is the most popular Halloween candy in the U.S.?
The top three most popular Halloween candy picks in the U.S. for 2026 were:
- No. 1 – M&M’s
- No. 2 – Sour Patch Kids
- No. 3 – Skittles
What is the most popular Halloween candy in North Carolina?
The top three most popular Halloween candy picks in North Carolina for 2026 were:
- No. 1 – M&M’s
- No. 2 – NERDS Gummy Clusters
- No. 3 – Hershey’s Mini Bars
How much do Americans spend on Halloween candy?
According to data from the National Retail Federation, total Halloween spending in the U.S. was estimated at $13.5 billion for 2026, $4.1 billion of which was made up of candy. Data showed that on an individual basis, consumers will spend an average of $34.79 each on Halloween candy, with 96% of consumers planning to buy sweets for the occasion.
How popular is candy corn really?
Finally, on the subject of one of America’s most controversial candies: the CandyStore study found that while candy corn was ranked No. 1 countrywide for most hated Halloween candy, the seasonal treat still ranks No. 8 in national volume of candy purchased and placed No. 1 for favorite candy in three states.
Reporting by Iris Seaton, Asheville Citizen Times / Asheville Citizen Times
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
