Note: Data last updated on 08/02/2024. Some examples were also removed due to significant price fluctuations (they remain at the bottom of the table marked by an asterisk).
The average American will spend $192.80 on Valentine’s Day gifts and activities. The most popular Valentine’s Day gift is candy, with 57% of Americans planning to buy some.
But are you getting your money’s worth?
We take a look at the cost of Valentine’s Day themed candies compared to their regular counterparts.
Key Findings
Note we took the closest equivalent standard product available, there may be slight differences in pack weight or flavors. The % difference is worked out per ounce.
- Valentine’s Day themed candies can cost up to 251% as much as their non-themed counterparts.
- A box of 12 Ferrero Rocher chocolates in a Valentine’s themed box costs $11.20 more than the same 12 chocolates packaged in a regular box. That’s a 251% price increase per ounce.
- A heart shaped box of Sour Patch Kids is 234% more expensive than a standard shaped pack.
- A heart shaped box of Lindt truffles is 119% more expensive than the truffles in their regular packaging.
Tips For Saving Money This Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to express appreciation for your loved ones, but it doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag, especially when it comes to candy.
To save money, consider buying candy in bulk and creating personalized combinations for your loved ones. This not only adds a personal touch, but also avoids the premium pricing of Valentine’s-themed packaging.
For packaging, I would recommend getting crafty. Check out your local dollar store for supplies, you should be able to find everything you need there including tissue paper, bags, ribbons, and tags.
Or consider delaying your Valentine’s Day this year. Valentine’s Day themed candy will very likely be heavily discounted after the big day, meaning you can stock up on high-quality chocolates in fancy packaging for a fraction of the cost.
Methodology And Sources
Prices were taken on 12/02/2024 from Walmart.com.
We looked at the Valentine’s Day offering and then found the closest equivalent product from the standard range to compare. The weight of the products may differ slightly, so we worked out the percentage price difference using price per ounce.
Prices are subject to change.
Full Data
Note we took the closest equivalent standard product available, there may be slight differences in pack weight or flavors. The % difference is worked out per ounce.
PRESS & MEDIA INQUIRIES
For any press and media inquiries, or for access to any specific base data, please contact Veronica at [email protected].
About Pantry And Larder
Pantry & Larder exists to help normal people get the most out of their food. Whether that’s by learning the best way to store and reheat your leftovers, by discovering the most delicious pairing for your meals, by finding different substitute ingredients, or learning some cool kitchen hacks.
We’ve spent thousands of hours in the kitchen, rigorously testing everything you see here. We make the mistakes so you don’t have to.
Check out some of our most popular articles including what to serve with ghee rice, the best substitutes for shrimp paste, how to reheat pork belly, how to reheat curry, and how to reheat falafel.