Are you on the hunt for a spooky, fun, and budget-friendly look this Halloween? You’re not alone. With rising prices everywhere, many people are searching for cheap Halloween costume ideas in 2025 that still look stylish and creative. The good news is you don’t have to spend a fortune to stand out this Halloween.
Whether you’re attending a costume party, trick-or-treating with kids, or just dressing up for fun, this list of the top 10 cheap Halloween costumes in 2025 has got you covered. These ideas are easy to put together, cost-effective, and full of personality. Plus, most of them use items you might already have at home.
1. The Classic Ghost with a Twist
The ghost costume never gets old. But in 2025, it’s all about adding a modern twist.
Why it’s cheap:
All you need is a white sheet or an old curtain. Cut two holes for the eyes, and you’re set.
How to elevate it:
Add accessories like a black chain necklace, sunglasses, or even a sign that says “Ghosted” for a funny touch.
Estimated cost:
Under $10 (if you already have the sheet, it’s free)
Perfect for:
Minimalists and last-minute planners
2. TikTok Trend Zombie
TikTok culture continues to influence Halloween in 2025. One fun idea? Dress as a zombie version of a viral TikToker.
Why it’s cheap:
Repurpose clothes you already own. Tear them slightly and add fake blood (or red paint).
What you’ll need:
Old clothes, dark eyeshadow for a sunken look, and DIY blood from corn syrup and red dye.
Estimated cost:
$5 to $15
Perfect for:
Teens and social media lovers
3. Barbie or Ken on a Budget
Barbiecore is still trending in 2025. Luckily, you don’t need a designer wardrobe to dress like Barbie or Ken.
Why it’s cheap:
You can recreate the look using thrift store finds or bright pink clothes already in your closet.
Accessories to use:
Big sunglasses, plastic heels, or a toy accessory like a brush or fake phone.
Estimated cost:
$10 to $20, depending on what you have already
Perfect for:
Pop culture fans
4. DIY Alien Explorer
Aliens are hot again in 2025 pop culture. Create your own alien explorer costume with some imagination.
Why it’s cheap:
Use silver foil, glow sticks, and dark sunglasses to get that futuristic vibe.
How to DIY:
Wrap cardboard pieces in foil for shoulder pads or antennas. Use glow sticks as “energy weapons.”
Estimated cost:
$5 to $15
Perfect for:
Sci-fi lovers and kids
5. Scarecrow with Style
This rustic costume remains one of the most beloved cheap Halloween costumes.
Why it’s cheap:
A flannel shirt, a straw hat, and jeans are probably already in your wardrobe.
Makeup tip:
Use black eyeliner to draw a stitched mouth and add patches to the cheeks.
Estimated cost:
Under $10
Perfect for:
Adults and kids alike
6. Retro 80s Workout Guru
Go back in time with this colorful and fun costume idea. The 80s never go out of style.
Why it’s cheap:
Most items can be found at a thrift shop or your parents’ closet.
What to look for:
Neon leggings, sweatbands, leotards, and a plastic dumbbell as a prop.
Estimated cost:
$10 to $15
Perfect for:
Group costumes or solo fun
7. Cereal Killer
Pun-based costumes are always a Halloween hit. This one is funny, scary, and easy to make.
Why it’s cheap:
You just need a plain shirt, small cereal boxes, plastic knives, and fake blood.
DIY tip:
Glue the cereal boxes to the shirt and stab them with the plastic knives.
Estimated cost:
$10 to $12
Perfect for:
Adults who love wordplay
8. Black Cat Glam
The black cat is a Halloween staple. Add a little glam, and you’ve got a budget costume that still looks cute.
Why it’s cheap:
Black clothes are easy to find. Just add cat ears and draw whiskers with eyeliner.
Bonus tip:
Use glitter or rhinestones on your face for an elevated glam look.
Estimated cost:
$5 to $10
Perfect for:
Anyone who loves cute and spooky
9. Tourist Lost in Time
Why it’s cheap:
Hawaiian shirts, fanny packs, and old cameras are either at home or available cheaply.
Funny touches:
Add a map, confused expression, or signs that say “Where’s the Wi-Fi?”
Estimated cost:
$5 to $15
Perfect for:
Comedians and creative thinkers
10. Mummy with Attitude
Wrap yourself up in white fabric strips and rock the night as a stylish mummy.
Why it’s cheap:
Old sheets, gauze, or even toilet paper can be used.
How to do it:
Wrap carefully, leaving room to breathe. Add white face makeup for a full look.
Estimated cost:
$3 to $8
Perfect for:
Anyone who loves classic Halloween
Bonus Tips to Save More on Halloween Costumes in 2025
Use What You Have
Check your closet before heading to the store. You’ll be surprised what you can create with everyday clothes.
Thrift It
Visit secondhand shops early in October. You’ll find amazing costume pieces for half the price.
DIY Makeup
Use regular makeup for costume looks. YouTube tutorials can help you create almost any Halloween face style.
Swap with Friends
Host a costume swap party. Everyone brings old costumes and trades. It’s fun and saves money.
Shop Off-Season
If you’re planning ahead, buy costumes on clearance after Halloween for next year.
Why Cheap Halloween Costumes Can Still Be Amazing
Cheap doesn’t mean boring. In fact, it forces creativity. The best costumes often come from clever ideas, not expensive stores.
Your personality, your effort, and a few small accessories can turn a $10 costume into something unforgettable. It’s all about how you wear it.
Halloween is about fun, not your budget. You don’t need to spend hundreds to impress your friends or win a costume contest. Just be original, confident, and playful.
Final Thoughts
This year, choose one of these top 10 cheap Halloween costume ideas in 2025 and enjoy the spooky season without stressing about money. From scary to silly, simple to creative, these ideas prove that style doesn’t have to come with a high price tag.
Remember:
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Think outside the box
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Use what you already have
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Don’t be afraid to get crafty
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Make it your own
Halloween is all about expression and imagination. Go have fun with it—without breaking the bank.
Ready to try one of these cheap Halloween costumes in 2025?
Let us know which idea you love most or tag us in your spooky look!
