Trick or treat! Halloween is almost here, and the great candy debate is back. From chocolate favorites to chewy, sour treats, Americans have some strong opinions about what belongs in their Halloween bags.
CandyStore.com has released its 2026 Most Popular Halloween Candy by State map, along with its annual ranking of the best and worst Halloween candies. The results might surprise you!
California Has a Sweet Tooth for Chocolate
According to CandyStore.com’s latest map, based on 18 years of candy sales data, M&M’s remain California’s favorite Halloween candy, followed by Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and Skittles.
But not every state agrees. This year, 12 states have crowned a new favorite candy.
Nationally, M&M’s continue to dominate, tying with Sour Patch Kids for the most states where they rank first.
Meanwhile, NERDS Gummy Clusters are making a serious impression, climbing into the national top ten at No. 5.
Curious about what your neighbors are handing out this Halloween? Explore the 2026 Halloween Candy Map to discover the top three candies in every state.
And the Worst Halloween Candy Is…
Poor candy corn. It just can’t catch a break!
In a separate survey, 3,200 CandyStore.com customers voted for their favorite and least favorite Halloween treats, and candy corn has once again earned the unfortunate title of America’s worst Halloween candy.
The colorful, sugary Halloween staple may be a seasonal tradition, but apparently that doesn’t mean everyone wants to eat it.
Joining the unpopular crowd this year is Almond Joy, which makes a new appearance on the worst candy list.
Snickers Takes the Crown
When it comes to the candy people actually want in their trick or treat bags, Snickers takes the No. 1 spot for 2026.
The classic combination of chocolate, caramel, peanuts and nougat continues to win over candy fans.
Another big winner is NERDS Gummy Clusters, which debuts at an impressive No. 3 on the best candy list. The combination of crunchy candy and chewy centers is clearly finding an enthusiastic audience.
Whether you’re stocking up for trick or treaters, planning a Halloween party or secretly saving a few chocolate bars for yourself, one thing is certain: Americans take their Halloween candy seriously.
Will you stick with the classics or try something new this year?
Check out CandyStore.com’s complete Best and Worst Halloween Candy Rankings for 2026 and see whether your favorites made the cut.
And if you’re a candy corn fan, don’t worry. That just means there may be more left for you!
