If you're someone who looks forward to Halloween all year long—the spooky decorations, the haunted houses, the crisp fall air, and pumpkin everything—choosing a place to live where the spirit of Halloween thrives might be on your radar. Some towns in the U.S. go all out when it comes to celebrating the spooky season, with elaborate festivals, historic charm, and a deep-rooted love for all things eerie. Whether you love haunted history or just enjoy a festive, community-wide celebration, here are the top five towns in the U.S. to move to if you're a die-hard Halloween fan.
1. Salem, Massachusetts
It’s impossible to talk about Halloween destinations without mentioning Salem, the quintessential Halloween town. Known for its infamous 1692 witch trials, Salem fully embraces its haunted past and transforms into a Halloween haven every October. The entire month is packed with haunted happenings, including ghost tours, witchcraft demonstrations, parades, and spooky museums.
Living in Salem, you'd be part of a town that celebrates Halloween in grand style, not just for one night but for an entire month. The community comes together with themed events, costume contests, and an overall eerie atmosphere. Plus, Salem’s rich history and picturesque New England charm make it an appealing place to live year-round.
Why it's great for Halloween lovers: From haunted history to month-long festivities, Salem offers a deep connection to Halloween that’s unlike anywhere else in the country.
2. Sleepy Hollow, New York
Immortalized by Washington Irving’s famous tale, Sleepy Hollow is a small town steeped in Halloween lore. The village fully leans into its spooky reputation with The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze, where thousands of hand-carved pumpkins light up the night in intricate displays. There's also the annual Halloween parade, haunted hayrides, and cemetery tours that bring Irving’s "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" to life. Moving to Sleepy Hollow means being surrounded by history and folklore all year long, but Halloween is when the town truly comes alive. With Headless Horseman sightings, Gothic architecture, and riverside landscapes, Sleepy Hollow provides a perfect backdrop for lovers of all things eerie.
Why it's great for Halloween lovers: The town's association with one of the most iconic Halloween stories in American literature makes it an ideal place for those who live for spooky stories and haunted traditions.
3. Anoka, Minnesota
Anoka proudly calls itself the "Halloween Capital of the World," and for good reason. This small town in Minnesota has been celebrating Halloween since the 1920s, making it one of the longest-standing Halloween traditions in the U.S. Anoka hosts a variety of festive activities, including parades, house-decorating contests, and even a coronation of a Halloween king and queen. Residents of Anoka are passionate about their town’s spooky reputation, and the community is known for coming together to celebrate with enthusiasm. Moving to Anoka means you’ll be part of a place where Halloween is more than just a holiday—it’s a way of life. The town’s charm extends beyond October, with a tight-knit community and a picturesque setting along the banks of the Mississippi River.
Why it's great for Halloween lovers: If you love small-town charm combined with rich Halloween history, Anoka’s tradition of spooky fun makes it a perfect place to settle down.
4. New Orleans, Louisiana
While New Orleans is famous for its Mardi Gras celebrations, this city also knows how to do Halloween in grand fashion. Known for its haunted history, French Quarter ghost tours, and cemeteries filled with above-ground tombs, New Orleans has a spooky vibe that lasts year-round. During Halloween, the city takes on an extra layer of magic, with parades, costumed revelers, and a vibrant celebration of all things supernatural. New Orleans is home to some of the country’s most haunted locations, from the eerie LaLaurie Mansion to the infamous St. Louis Cemetery. Add to that the city's reputation for incredible food, live music, and a rich cultural history, and you've got a Halloween lover’s paradise that lasts long after October 31st.
Why it's great for Halloween lovers: The city’s haunted history, combined with its lively spirit and festive atmosphere, makes New Orleans a top pick for those who love to celebrate Halloween with a mix of culture and fun.
5. St. Helens, Oregon
If you're a fan of Disney’s Halloween cult classic Halloweentown, you’ll love living in St. Helens. This small town was the filming location for the movie, and every October, it transforms into "Halloweentown" to celebrate the spooky season. St. Helens hosts the Spirit of Halloweentown festival, which includes everything from haunted tours and pumpkin carving to costume contests and film screenings.
Residents of St. Helens take pride in their town’s cinematic Halloween fame and go all out for the annual festival. Moving here means living in a charming Pacific Northwest town with a big Halloween heart. Beyond October, St. Helens offers scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and a close-knit community that celebrates its Halloween heritage year after year.
Why it's great for Halloween lovers: The town’s strong connection to Halloweentown and its dedication to celebrating Halloween in a fun and family-friendly way make it a dream for fans of festive fall traditions.
If you’re someone who lives for the spooky season, moving to a town that shares your passion for Halloween can make every October feel like a magical experience. Whether you’re drawn to the historic hauntings of Salem, the legendary lore of Sleepy Hollow, or the festive spirit of St. Helens, these towns offer Halloween celebrations that go beyond just trick-or-treating. So, if you’re considering a move and love all things spooky, these five towns might just be the perfect places for you to call home.
For more tips, insight, and inspiration for your next move, sign up for our free relocation guide and newsletter at: GET READY. SET. MOVE!
Comments