Fort Worth Ranked Top Texas City for Halloween Enthusiasm

Fort Worth, Texas, has emerged as the leading city in Halloween enthusiasm in the state, ranking fifth nationwide, according to a recent report from Betway, an online casino. This ranking highlights the city’s vibrant engagement with the spooky season, reflecting a broader national trend where U.S. consumers are expected to spend a remarkable $13.1 billion on Halloween-related activities in 2025.

Residents like Delilah Trillo are fully embracing the festivities. On October 30, 2025, Trillo visited a Goodwill store in search of accessories for a Jurassic Park-themed trick-or-treat display for her son’s school. “That’s the vibe I’m going for,” she stated, adding that she had already made multiple trips to the store this season.

The Betway report, which analyzed social media data and search trends, indicates that Fort Worthians celebrate Halloween with notable passion. The top four cities ahead of Fort Worth are Orlando, Florida; Cleveland, Ohio; Salt Lake City, Utah; and Baltimore, Maryland. Other Texas cities, including San Antonio, Plano, Houston, and Austin, follow Fort Worth in regional enthusiasm.

Halloween Spending Trends in Fort Worth

The excitement extends beyond decorations and costumes, as residents are increasingly investing in Halloween-themed merchandise. According to a WalletHub study, which examined key metrics related to Halloween spending, Fort Worth secured the 55th position nationally. The study revealed that the average American household plans to spend over $114 on decorations, costumes, and other expenses this year.

In Texas, Laredo ranks highest for Halloween spending at 17th nationally, with other Texas cities such as Irving (25th), El Paso (26th), and Arlington (33rd) also making the list. WalletHub’s analysis considered factors such as the number of costume stores per capita and potential trick-or-treat stops. The study indicates that approximately 73% of U.S. households will celebrate Halloween, resulting in $4.3 billion allocated for costumes and $3.9 billion for candy.

Retailers in Fort Worth cater to this demand, with stores like Magic Etc./Fort Worth Costume Inc., a business that has operated year-round for 40 years, and Harris Costumes, established in 1949, offering a variety of Halloween items.

Shifts Towards Thrift and DIY Costumes

Amid economic uncertainties, including inflation and the recent government shutdown, many consumers are opting for second-hand retailers and thrift stores. Goodwill locations, particularly their seasonal “Bootiques,” have reported a surge in shoppers looking for budget-friendly options. Goodwill’s Altamesa Boulevard store is one of several locations where Halloween merchandise is prominently displayed.

A survey by Goodwill Industries International Inc. found that 84% of consumers, especially those from Generation Z, are turning to thrift stores for recyclable materials for their Halloween costumes. The survey also showed that 65% of Gen Z consumers plan to limit their spending on costumes this year.

Shay Gipson, vice president of community engagement for Goodwill North Texas, noted that budget-friendly costume ideas were shared on the organization’s website in early October. “We put some looks together for under $20,” she explained. “When you’re going to the bigger Halloween specialty stores, you’re spending $50, $60, sometimes $75, on a costume when you can really get an idea online or ask AI and then get those items from a Goodwill store.”

The trend of younger consumers shopping at Goodwill aligns with the desire to reduce their carbon footprint. Gipson remarked that these shoppers are specifically drawn to the store during the Halloween season, aiming to find unique costumes at a discounted price.

As Halloween approaches, Fort Worth’s blend of traditional celebrations and modern, budget-conscious shopping continues to shape the city’s festive spirit.