Best Places to Buy Cheap Pumpkins for Halloween 🎃 (2025)

Love a good pumpkin patch photo op but not the prices? We compared grocery, club, and local options so you can grab carving, pie, and heirloom pumpkins for less this year. The Fabulessly Frugal team checked current store ads and local markets so you know where to buy pumpkins for Halloween 2025.

Quick Picks: Cheapest Pumpkin Spots

• Walmart: ~$2.62–$4.50 for carving pumpkins (availability varies).
• Target: Carving pumpkins around $5.49; minis from $2.99.
• Trader Joe’s: Orange pumpkins $4.99, heirlooms $7.99, minis $1.49.
• Aldi: Seasonal bins about $3.95–$3.99; sometimes lower mid-month.
• Costco: Jumbo porch pumpkins around $6.99.
• Local grocery stores: Prices typically $3–$6, with weekly ad promos and loyalty savings.
• Farmers markets & farm stands: Fresh-picked pumpkins often $2–$8 depending on size and variety.
• Pumpkin patches: Best for the full fall experience; usually $8–$12+ but includes fun extras like hayrides and photo ops.

Where to Buy Pumpkins (Store by Store)

Walmart

Walmart often wins on price. Many stores display bins of pumpkins between $2.62–$4.50. You’ll also find mini, white, and pie pumpkins in most regions. Check the seasonal section early in October for the best size and stem selection.

Check Walmart pumpkin selection →

Target

Target usually prices carving pumpkins near $5.49 and smaller decorative ones from $2.99. Find them in the Halloween aisle or seasonal outdoor display. Watch for Target Circle offers for bonus discounts or RedCard savings.

Browse Target Halloween section →

Trader Joe’s

Trader Joe’s shelves are stacked with fall décor. You’ll find orange pumpkins around $4.99, heirlooms and fairytales near $7.99, and adorable mini pumpkins about $1.49. Great color variety and freshness for the price!

Aldi

Aldi’s seasonal bins stay wallet-friendly — most stores show $3.95–$3.99 pumpkins in October. Prices sometimes drop mid-month as new loads arrive. Aldi is the perfect choice if you’re stocking up for front porch displays or school parties.

See Aldi pumpkin product page →

Costco

Costco members can grab jumbo pumpkins around $6.99. You’ll often find huge porch pumpkins or unique heirloom varieties perfect for décor. Stock can sell fast — snag one early in October before they disappear.

Local Grocery Stores, Farm Stands & Farmers Markets

Local grocery stores like Safeway, Kroger, and WinCo often source pumpkins from regional farms. Prices hover around $3–$6, and loyalty cards can add extra savings. Check the weekly circular for weekend “BOGO” or $2.99 carving pumpkin promos.

Farm stands and farmers markets deliver unbeatable freshness and variety. Expect prices between $2–$8, depending on size and variety. Buying direct supports local growers and often means your pumpkin lasts longer since it’s fresh from the field. Bring cash — many are self-serve.

Pumpkin Patches

For the full fall experience, visit a pumpkin patch! While prices are typically higher ($8–$12+), you’ll also enjoy hayrides, cider, corn mazes, and the best photo ops. It’s a fun outing — and you can still pick one or two perfect carving pumpkins to take home.

When to Buy (and How to Make Them Last)

• Timing: Buy 1–2 weeks before Halloween for best freshness.
• Storage: Keep uncarved pumpkins cool, dry, and ventilated — they can last 1–3 months.
• After carving: Coat cut edges with petroleum jelly and use battery candles instead of real flames to slow decay.

More Ways to Save on Pumpkins

• Shop mid-week when new shipments arrive for fresher options.
• Use store loyalty apps (Target Circle, Kroger Rewards, etc.) for extra savings.
• Buy mini pumpkins by the bag for better per-piece value.
• Split a bulk box from a farm stand or club store with a neighbor.
• Watch local Facebook Marketplace or swap groups for gardener extras.

After You Buy: Ideas & Preservation

Once you’ve found your perfect pumpkins, the fun begins! Whether you’re carving, painting, or baking, there are so many ways to enjoy them this season.

Start with 5 fun things to do with pumpkins besides carving — from centerpieces to roasted seeds. Then learn how to preserve your carved pumpkin using simple household items so it lasts longer this Halloween!

Next: Prep for Halloween Night

• 🎃 Halloween Hub — costumes, décor, and candy deals.
• 🍬 Best Halloween Candy Deals
• 🩸 Bones & Blood Breadsticks Recipe

Editor’s note: Prices current as of publication; regional variation expected. Always check your local store tags or weekly ads for the most accurate pricing.