Prices are going up, and shoppers are feeling it — myself included.
Halloween is in a few days, but I’m not dressing up this year because costumes seem extra expensive (even though my plan to go as Musa from the Winx would’ve been iconic). I just moved to Tulsa all the way from Georgia, and my wallet is still feeling those moving costs.
But as the cost of living reporter for the Flyer, I have been brainstorming fun ways to talk about money. That’s why we’re piloting a new series: What’s in your cart?
We’re hoping to provide a glimpse of Tulsa’s cost of living by talking with people in different parts of town about what they’re buying. Or, rather, asking them — what’s in your cart?
Feeling the Halloween spirit, we stopped at SpotLite Magic & Costumes near 68th and Memorial. As soon as we walked in, we were greeted by animatronics and costumes lining the walls. SpotLite is a family-owned store that sells costumes year-round. They’re open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 8 p.m.
I asked shoppers how much they’re spending on Halloween this year and also about Tulsa’s cost of living overall. The consensus? Even though costumes are putting a pinch on people’s wallets, they seem to still be worth it. Oh, and gas prices are absolutely breaking the bank.
Karen Blackwell
Work: Pumpkin Town Farms
Amount spent: $32, more than expected
“It was a little more expensive this year, but it’s worth it,” Blackwell said. “She’s only little once, so you got to enjoy it while they’re little and willing to do this with you.”
Each year, Blackwell budgets to spend less than $80 on Halloween for her family, including her young daughter. She’s proud to say she’s been able to stick to it.
Cassandra Williams and Aaron Williams
Work: Galaxy Home Recreation and Jim Norton Toyota
Amount spent: $100, more than expected
“It’s definitely gone up, for sure. I mean, 50 bucks for our costumes, a little outrageous,” Cassandra Williams said. “For a jumpsuit, for a prisoner, I wouldn’t spend more than 25 bucks, but it’s like 50.”
Since they both bought costumes to dress up for a work event, Cassandra Williams said they may not be able to afford a new one for their kid this year.
Riley Crump
Work: Waitress at Captain John’s in Eufaula
Amount spent: $53.39, less than expected
“(Last year), I was not going to buy a whole Halloween costume. But now it’s a competition at work, and it’s $500 for the person that wins,” Crump said.
She’s working a double Friday and Saturday, but she hopes to trick or treat with her 2-year-old brother.
This is the first “What’s in your cart?” — but it’s not the last. We’d like to tag along on your next grocery store trip. If you’d be willing to let me shop with you, email me at libby@tulsaflyer.org.
News decisions at the Tulsa Flyer are made independently of our board members and financial supporters. Read more about our editorial independence policy here.
