When October rolls around, the question of where to celebrate Halloween becomes a serious consideration for many families. A recent WalletHub report, released in October 2026, analyzed the 100 most populated U.S. cities across 20 key metrics, from costume stores to haunted houses and pedestrian safety. The findings highlight three California cities that stand out as prime destinations for the spooky season: Los Angeles, Anaheim, and San Francisco. But despite the Golden State's strong showing, an East Coast powerhouse continues to dominate the national rankings.
California's Halloween contenders
The West Coast has transformed into a hub for autumn entertainment, with decades of investment in theme parks, community events, and public infrastructure paying off. These cities offer a mix of family-friendly attractions and adult-oriented thrills, making them ideal for a wide range of visitors.
Los Angeles: The City of Angels' Halloween reign
Los Angeles secured the second spot nationally with an overall score of 61.11 points, and it ranked third in the "fun" category. The city boasts the highest number of movie theaters per capita, a key metric for those who enjoy a cinematic scare. It also placed sixth in haunted houses, seventh in costume stores, tenth in candy shops, and eleventh in amusement parks. This diverse array of options ensures that Angelenos and visitors alike can craft a Halloween experience tailored to their tastes.
For those looking to dive deeper into the city's cultural offerings, the historic plaques in Boyle Heights offer a glimpse into the neighborhood's rich Latino heritage, a reminder that Halloween is just one of many vibrant traditions in LA.
Anaheim: Family fun and theme park magic
Anaheim came in seventh place with 56.85 points, driven largely by its world-famous resort complexes that go all out for the holiday. The city's theme parks transform their facilities every autumn, offering mechanical rides and large-scale productions that appeal to families. The report's metrics gave Anaheim high marks in family entertainment, solidifying its reputation as a strategic hub for Halloween celebrations.
San Francisco: Walkable streets and Victorian charm
San Francisco rounded out the top 10 in ninth place with 54.28 points. The city's high walkability and historic Victorian architecture add a distinct atmosphere to the festivities. Strong traffic safety data and a high density of businesses across traditional neighborhoods helped the city surpass dozens of larger competitors. For those who prefer a more urban Halloween, San Francisco offers a unique blend of history and modern celebration.
What the WalletHub metrics really measure
WalletHub's methodology compared the 100 most populated U.S. cities across 20 metrics, organized into three major categories: entertainment, safety, and logistics. These include crime rates, population density, street walkability, and pedestrian risks. The goal was to provide a comprehensive view of what each city offers for Halloween enthusiasts.
However, analysts caution that a high ranking does not guarantee equal safety across every neighborhood or free admission to every event. The report evaluates citywide averages, and it limits its scope to official municipal boundaries, excluding broader metropolitan areas. So, while these rankings are useful, they should be viewed as local urban indicators rather than assessments of neighboring communities.
New York: The undisputed Halloween capital
Despite California's impressive gains, New York City holds onto the top spot nationally with a score of 71.22 points. The Big Apple's high population density, massive volume of specialty stores, and iconic traditional parades give it an unbeatable edge. The report also highlights that New York's pedestrian safety factors and cultural offerings exceed national averages, attracting thousands of international tourists each October.
For those who love a good scare on screen, our queer horror film picks might be the perfect complement to a night in, whether you're in New York or anywhere else.
As California cities continue to gain ground in modern entertainment metrics, the East Coast's cultural capital retains its crown. But for those on the West Coast, the options are plentiful and diverse, making it easy to find the perfect Halloween adventure without crossing the country.
For more on how Latinos are shaping the cultural landscape, check out our story on asexual Latinos on love and dating, a testament to the community's diverse experiences.
