Candy and Sweet Prices Rise Sharply, Impacting Consumer Spending

Candy and chewing gum prices increased 7.7% between September 2025 and September 2026, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Overall U.S. inflation was 3.7% over the same annual period. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Service reported that prices for sugar and sweets were 5.5% higher in September 2026 than in September 2025, with candy and chewing gum accounting for much of that increase. Cassidy, who resides in Oxford, noted that rising candy prices are impacting student spending.

The price increases make it difficult for shoppers to maintain holiday traditions without spending more money than the previous year. Higher candy prices are affecting student purchasing habits, such as those at the University of Mississippi.