Reference page
U.S. candle industry statistics: sales, scent, and consumer facts
A straightforward collection of published U.S. candle figures for writers, retailers, makers, and people who want the numbers behind the glow.
Last updated September 25, 2026
$3.14B
Estimated annual U.S. candle retail sales
The National Candle Association cites Mintel’s 2013 estimate of approximately $3.14 billion in annual U.S. retail sales of candle products.
Direct link to this statistic ↗National Candle Association, citing Mintel (2013), checked September 25, 202635%
Of candle sales occur during the Christmas and holiday season
The National Candle Association reports that the remaining 65% of candle sales occur outside the Christmas and holiday season.
Direct link to this statistic ↗National Candle Association, Facts & Figures, accessed September 25, 20261B+ lb
Of wax is used for candles sold in the U.S. each year
This industry estimate reflects the scale of candle production serving U.S. consumers.
Direct link to this statistic ↗National Candle Association, Facts & Figures, accessed September 25, 202610,000+
Different candle scents are estimated to be available to U.S. consumers
The variety reflects how strongly scent choice shapes the category, from familiar comfort scents to more personal combinations.
Direct link to this statistic ↗National Candle Association, Facts & Figures, accessed September 25, 202675%
Of candle buyers rate fragrance as extremely or very important
The National Candle Association identifies fragrance as the most important characteristic affecting candle purchases.
Direct link to this statistic ↗National Candle Association, Facts & Figures, accessed September 25, 20269 in 10
Candle users say candles make a room feel comfortable or cozy
For many buyers, a candle is as much about the feeling of a room as the fragrance itself.
Direct link to this statistic ↗National Candle Association, Facts & Figures, accessed September 25, 202642%
Of candle users most often burn candles in the living room
The kitchen follows at 18%, then the bedroom at 13%, according to National Candle Association consumer figures.
Direct link to this statistic ↗National Candle Association, Facts & Figures, accessed September 25, 202675%
Of candle users typically burn candles for four hours or less at a time
Always follow the candle maker’s burn guidance and the National Candle Association’s safety recommendations.
Direct link to this statistic ↗National Candle Association, Facts & Figures, accessed September 25, 202676%
Of candle purchasers see candles as an appropriate holiday gift
Candle purchasers also reported strong gift appeal for housewarmings, host gifts, thank-yous, and adult birthdays.
Direct link to this statistic ↗National Candle Association, Facts & Figures, accessed September 25, 202680%
Of candles made in the U.S. come from National Candle Association member companies
The association reports that its member companies account for approximately 80% of all candles made in the United States.
Direct link to this statistic ↗National Candle Association, Facts & Figures, accessed September 25, 2026$1.99–$35
Typical retail price range reported for a votive through a large pillar or jar candle
The National Candle Association notes that exceptionally scented, highly decorated, or elaborately boxed candles can cost $200 or more.
Direct link to this statistic ↗National Candle Association, Facts & Figures, accessed September 25, 2026For writers and researchers
Cite this page
Scent-Sation-Creation. “U.S. Candle Industry Statistics: Sales, Scents, and Consumer Facts.” Updated September 25, 2026. https://scent-sation-candles.com/candle-industry-statistics
For a single number, use the link in its statistic card to send readers straight to that figure and its source note.