Zillow’s Creepy-Cute List Of 13 American Towns Where Halloween Never Ends – Financial Freedom Countdown
For millions of Americans, Halloween isn’t confined to October 31. It’s an aesthetic, a mindset, and in some cases, a real estate priority. Zillow has revealed 13 “boo-tiful” towns across the U.S. where the spooky season never truly ends; and where homebuyers can find both charm and community alongside cobwebs and carved pumpkins.
From Witch Trials to Walkable Streets: Salem, Massachusetts
Typical home value: $607,354 and Typical rent: $2,655
Salem’s infamous witch trial history makes it the undisputed Halloween capital of New England. But beyond its supernatural reputation lies a thriving coastal city full of art galleries, independent boutiques, and Victorian homes.
Every October, “Haunted Happenings” takes over the city for a monthlong celebration that draws thousands. For residents, it’s Halloween all year long; without sacrificing walkability or coastal charm.
A Headless Legend Lives On: Sleepy Hollow, New York
Typical home value: $975,045 and Typical rent: $4,215
Nestled on the banks of the Hudson River, Sleepy Hollow brings Washington Irving’s eerie tale to life. From candlelit cemetery tours to the annual Headless Horseman festival, the town embraces its folklore with pride.
Its proximity to New York City makes it ideal for commuters who prefer a suburban escape with a side of spooky.
Anoka, Minnesota: The Self-Proclaimed ‘Halloween Capital of the World’
Typical home value: $325,314
Anoka has celebrated Halloween longer than just about anyone, hosting parades and costume contests since 1920. Beyond the ghosts and goblins, it’s a warm, family-friendly Midwestern town where affordability and friendliness come first; a place where the scare factor stops at the decorations.
New Orleans, Louisiana: Ghosts, Gumbo, and Gothic Charm
Typical home value: $238,620 | Typical rent: $1,623
New Orleans’ haunted reputation is well-deserved; from ghostly mansions in the French Quarter to voodoo lore that runs deep.
But residents also enjoy a culinary paradise, cultural festivals, and vibrant nightlife. Halloween here rivals Mardi Gras in spectacle, and the festive spirit lasts all 12 months.
Halloweentown in Real Life: St. Helens, Oregon
Typical home value: $426,176 and Typical rent: $1,895
Fans of Disney’s Halloweentown will instantly recognize St. Helens. Every fall, the riverside town transforms into a real-life movie set with its “Spirit of Halloweentown” celebration. Locals enjoy small-town living with easy access to Portland and the Columbia River’s stunning scenery.
Independence, Kansas: Small Town, Big Halloween
Typical home value: $110,198
Home to one of the most affordable markets on Zillow’s list, Independence hosts the century-old “Neewollah” festival; a weeklong Halloween-themed celebration that brings the community together. The town’s low cost of living and family-friendly atmosphere make it an underrated gem for those seeking old-fashioned charm.
Estes Park, Colorado: The Hotel That Inspired The Shining
Typical home value: $683,187 and Typical rent: $2,349
Set against the Rocky Mountains, Estes Park offers both beauty and terror. It’s home to the Stanley Hotel, Stephen King’s muse for The Shining; where visitors can take nightly ghost tours.
Despite its chilling fame, Estes Park is also an outdoor paradise for hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and stargazers.
Savannah, Georgia: Southern Charm Meets Supernatural Tales
Typical home value: $327,947 and Typical rent: $1,802
Savannah’s cobblestone streets and moss-draped oaks give it an unmistakably haunted atmosphere. Frequently dubbed “America’s Most Ghostly City,” Savannah blends spooky storytelling with Southern hospitality. Locals enjoy its art galleries, walkable squares, and historic homes steeped in legend.
Orlando, Florida: Where the Magic and Monsters Never Stop
Typical home value: $374,018 and Typical rent: $1,932
While Orlando is best known for Disney and Universal Studios, it’s also a year-round haven for Halloween lovers. The city’s endless parade of theme park events; from Halloween Horror Nights to family-friendly trick-or-treat trails keeps the spirit alive even in 90-degree weather.
Denton, Texas: The Lone Star State’s Halloween Hub
Typical home value: $352,464 and Typical rent: $1,550
With coffin races, haunted houses, and a creative arts scene, Denton has earned its title as “Halloween Capital of Texas.” The college town energy gives it a youthful vibe, while affordable housing and strong community spirit make it an appealing long-term haunt.
Rutland, Vermont: Autumn Magic in a Mountain Town
Typical home value: $278,983 and Typical rent: $1,475
Rutland’s famous Halloween Parade, one of the oldest in the country, transforms the city into a carnival of creativity. Residents enjoy the scenic beauty of Vermont’s mountains and a close-knit community that values art, nature, and tradition; especially in the fall.
Bucoda, Washington: Small Town, Big Spooks
Typical home value: $314,934
Don’t let the population size fool you; Bucoda goes all out for Halloween. Its annual “Boo-Coda Spook-Tacular” features hearse processions, haunted houses, and ghost tours.
Locals say the town’s secret isn’t its scares; it’s the year-round sense of belonging and quirky fun.
Laconia, New Hampshire: Pumpkins, Festivals, and New England Charm
Typical home value: $427,529 and Typical rent: $1,977
In New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Laconia is a postcard-perfect setting for fall lovers. Its annual Pumpkin Festival fills the streets with glowing jack-o’-lanterns, while residents enjoy four distinct seasons and strong community ties. For those who love crisp air and cozy traditions, Laconia delivers year-round enchantment.
Why Halloween Lovers Are Moving to These Towns
Zillow’s list reveals a growing lifestyle trend: Americans aren’t just looking for square footage; they’re looking for community identity. Towns that celebrate Halloween often boast higher civic engagement, tourism-driven economies, and distinctive local pride.
For many, living in a “haunted” town means more joy, not fear.
Living the Spooky Dream
Whether it’s the witchy vibes of Salem or the Southern gothic charm of Savannah, these “boo-tiful” towns prove Halloween doesn’t have to end on November 1.
As Zillow’s home trends expert Amanda Pendleton notes, “Halloween has always been about bringing people together.”
For those who crave a bit of mystery with their mortgage, Zillow’s list offers the perfect inspiration to find your forever haunt.
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IRS Rolls Out New Form to Claim Trump’s Tax Breaks For Seniors, Tips, Overtime, and Car Loans
The Internal Revenue Service has released an early draft of a new form that will make it easier for working Americans to take advantage of tax breaks included in President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The new two-page form, Schedule 1-A, will allow taxpayers to claim deductions on tips, overtime pay, car loan interest, and enhanced senior benefits beginning with 2025 returns filed next year. The changes mark a rare expansion of tax relief for ordinary Americans; extending benefits to those who take the standard deduction as well as those who itemize.
IRS Rolls Out New Form to Claim Trump’s Tax Breaks For Seniors, Tips, Overtime, and Car Loans
Social Security’s “Full Retirement Age” May Get a Rebrand; But Critics Say It Misses the Real Problem
Most Americans don’t actually know when they qualify for their full Social Security benefits. A recent survey by the Nationwide Retirement Institute found that only 21% of adults could correctly identify the age when they can claim 100% of their earned benefits. The confusion isn’t surprising; the program’s terminology has long been a tangle of jargon and outdated phrases.
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John Dealbreuin came from a third world country to the US with only $1,000 not knowing anyone; guided by an immigrant dream. In 12 years, he achieved his retirement number.
He started Financial Freedom Countdown to help everyone think differently about their financial challenges and live their best lives. John resides in the San Francisco Bay Area enjoying nature trails and weight training.
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