Scary family finances will be spooking a lot of folks this Halloween, according to a recent poll by the National Retail Federation. This year, consumers expect to spend an average $56 on the holiday, compared with $67 last year, the survey found. Nearly a third said the economy was to blame.

Nearly half said they'd buy less candy, while more than a third said they wouldn't add anything new to last year's decorations. Another third said they'd reuse or make costumes. Given the state of many folks' finances, the costume pictured here might be just the ticket.

For more healthful and potentially less-expensive treats, consider this evergreen advice from Consumer Reports Health. And if you've got other ideas for Halloween savings, feel free to comment below.–Tobie Stanger