Every October, Main Street turns orange – and so do America’s bank accounts. Costume shops, both permanent and pop-up, become ground zero for one of the year’s biggest bursts of discretionary spending. Montana Capital recently carried out a survey of 3,001 shoppers, identifying the best costume stores across the country. The top 10 were as follows:
#1. American Costumes, Las Vegas, Nevada
American Costumes captures the spirit of Vegas in every sequin. Open for decades, this local favorite is known for its huge range of rental and retail costumes – from movie icons to full showgirl glamour. The space is neatly organized but brimming with character, making it a pleasure to browse. Whether you’re chasing classic nostalgia or over-the-top fun, American Costumes is where Las Vegas comes to play dress-up.
#2. Fantasy Costumes, Chicago, Illinois
Chicago’s Fantasy Costumes is a full-blown playground for costume lovers. Open all year, it’s packed from floor to ceiling with masks, wigs, props, and every accessory imaginable. The atmosphere is half excitement, half organized chaos – the fun kind. Shoppers come for everything from movie-quality makeup to over-the-top Halloween transformations. It’s one of those rare places where the city’s energy meets pure theatrical flair.
#3. Abracadabra NYC, New York, New York
In the heart of Manhattan, Abracadabra NYC is where imagination goes shopping. This multi-story Flatiron favorite feels part costume emporium, part magic shop, and entirely New York. Its selection ranges from movie-quality costumes to everyday cosplay pieces, with an entire floor dedicated to wigs, makeup, and theatrical effects. The store’s magic section – complete with tricks, props, and illusions – adds an extra layer of charm. It’s chaotic, colorful, and completely unforgettable.
#4. Star Costume & Theatrical Supply, Las Vegas, Nevada
Star Costume & Theatrical Supply brings professional polish to Las Vegas’s larger-than-life costume scene. Family-run and deeply rooted in the city’s creative community, it serves everyone from stage performers to party planners. The store’s inventory spans wigs, props, theatrical makeup, and custom costumes designed for serious showmanship. Whether you’re prepping for a production or a themed event, Star Costume ensures every detail dazzles under the spotlight.
#5. Orlando Vintage Clothing and Costumes, Winter Park, Florida
Just outside the buzz of the theme parks, Orlando Vintage Clothing and Costumes captures the magic of old Hollywood. Its carefully curated racks hold pieces that look straight off a film set, blending authentic style with imagination. Locals drop in for Halloween inspiration, while stylists browse for the perfect period piece. The shop radiates charm and expertise – part costume house, part fashion time machine.
#6. The Costume Company, Waltham, Massachusetts
Just outside Boston, The Costume Company has earned a loyal following for its theatrical flair and timeless quality. Appointments here feel like private fittings, with racks of detailed costumes and vintage clothing that inspire creativity at every turn. The shop’s reputation rests on craftsmanship and care – a haven for performers, stylists, and anyone chasing that perfect transformation. It’s old-school costume magic with a distinctly Boston edge.
#7. Crazy For Costumes / La Casa De Los Trucos, Miami, Florida
In Miami, where costumes are practically a lifestyle, Crazy For Costumes – known locally as La Casa De Los Trucos – stands out as a Little Havana favorite. The store bursts with color, energy, and creativity, offering everything from elegant carnival looks to playful pop-culture outfits. The staff are as spirited as the inventory, always ready with quick suggestions and clever styling ideas. It’s pure Miami – bold, bilingual, and built on a love of spectacle.
#8. Halloween Time Costume Super Store, Hot Springs, Arkansas
In Hot Springs, Halloween Time Costume Super Store turns spooky season into something special. Every corner hides a new discovery – wigs, masks, props, and endless inspiration for DIY dreamers. Families love how easy it is to outfit everyone in one stop, while costume enthusiasts appreciate the shop’s playful atmosphere. It’s bright, welcoming, and just chaotic enough to remind you why Halloween never really goes out of style.
#9. Beauty and the Beast Costumes, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga’s Beauty and the Beast Costumes brings imagination to life all year long. The shop caters to everything from Halloween and school plays to Christmas parades and themed events, offering both sales and rentals. Each season, it fills with color, sparkle, and energy – and come October, the extended hours and lively atmosphere make it a community favorite. With its wide range of costumes and accessories, it’s the perfect stop for anyone looking to add a little magic to their celebrations.
#10. Costume Holiday House, Columbus, Ohio
Costume Holiday House has been keeping Columbus in costume for generations. This family-run favorite offers an impressive mix of retail and rental options, covering everything from Halloween classics to theatrical showpieces. Shelves overflow with accessories, wigs, and makeup that make it easy to pull together a complete look. Open year-round and full of creative energy, it’s a one-stop shop for anyone who loves the art of dressing up.
Interactive map showing the top costume stores for Halloween in each state
Montana Capital wanted to find out more about how Americans are footing the bill for fright night – and how rising prices are shaping Halloween habits.
It turns out, most people are keeping their spending in check the old-fashioned way:
- 65% are using cash or debit only.
- 27% are putting it on a credit card.
- 5% are borrowing from friends or family.
- 3% are using personal loans or “buy now, pay later” plans.
But inflation hasn’t gone unnoticed. More than half of respondents (52%) said they will be cutting back this year, while 43% are spending roughly the same. A small but determined 6% said they will actually spend more, treating Halloween as a make-up celebration for previous years of restraint.
What Gets the Chop When Budgets Bite
When asked which Halloween traditions would go first if money got tight, respondents were surprisingly divided. Decorations topped the list at 30%, followed by party expenses (28%), while candy and costumes tied at 21% each.
The Emotional Side of Spending
For most people, Halloween is still considered a worthy indulgence. Seven in ten described it as “a small but worth-it treat,” while 30% admitted the costs “add stress they can’t really afford.”
Parents, meanwhile, pointed to where that pressure often comes from:
- Kids (46%).
- Friends (30%).
- Social media (25%).
And the desire to keep up appearances sometimes pushes people further than expected.
Nearly one in seven (14%) said they’ve borrowed money just to host or attend a Halloween party, while a thrifty 51% have worn the same costume two years in a row to save cash.
