GITNUXREPORT 2025

Candle Industry Statistics

Global candle market valued at $3.5 billion with eco-friendly growth accelerating.

Jannik Linder

Co-Founder of Gitnux, specialized in content and tech since 2016.

First published: April 29, 2025

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Statistic 1

Approximately 60% of candle buyers purchase candles for home décor purposes

Statistic 2

The average household in the US burns about 4 candles per month

Statistic 3

Candle sales during the Christmas season can account for up to 40% of annual sales

Statistic 4

70% of consumers prefer soy or beeswax candles over paraffin candles

Statistic 5

Burning candles can improve mood and reduce stress, according to 65% of candle consumers

Statistic 6

The majority of candle consumers (approximately 55%) purchase candles online

Statistic 7

The average price of a high-end designer candle can be over $50

Statistic 8

Approximately 45% of candle buyers are women aged 25-45

Statistic 9

Candles with natural or essential oil fragrances tend to be preferred by 75% of consumers

Statistic 10

The biggest candle purchase spikes occur during holidays like Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day

Statistic 11

Candle making classes increased by 15% during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many consumers taking up the craft as a hobby

Statistic 12

Nearly 40% of candle consumers prioritize burn time as a key purchase factor

Statistic 13

Scented candles are preferred by 65% of buyers for relaxation and creating ambiance

Statistic 14

The average household purchase of candles during holiday seasons increases by 50%

Statistic 15

The top three candle scent categories are floral, citrus, and vanilla, dominating 70% of the market share

Statistic 16

The primary consumers of luxury candles tend to be urban, higher-income households, making up around 40% of the market

Statistic 17

Conversions from traditional candles to LED candles increased by 25% during the COVID-19 lockdowns

Statistic 18

Candle-making kits saw a 40% increase in sales among beginners during 2020-2022, indicating rising DIY trends

Statistic 19

Urban households purchase candles approximately 25% more frequently than rural households

Statistic 20

The increase in environmental awareness has caused a 20% rise in the demand for non-toxic, biodegradable candles

Statistic 21

The majority of candles sold in retail stores are scented, with scented candles accounting for over 75% of sales in some markets

Statistic 22

Candle packaging innovations, such as minimalist and eco-friendly designs, have increased consumer interest by 15% in recent years

Statistic 23

The biggest online sales spikes for candles occur during promotional events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, with increases of up to 50%

Statistic 24

The most popular scent categories in candles are floral, citrus, vanilla, and woody, accounting for over 75% of the market

Statistic 25

The average consumer spends around $20 to $30 on candles per month, with higher spends during holidays

Statistic 26

Customizable candles have grown in popularity, with 30% of online shoppers considering personalized candles as a preferred purchase

Statistic 27

The sustainability aspect of candles, including recyclable packaging and eco-friendly ingredients, influences 68% of consumer purchasing decisions

Statistic 28

The majority of candle packaging now includes eco-labels and certifications, which increases consumer trust by 12%

Statistic 29

Data shows that scented candles can improve sleep quality, according to 40% of consumers using them for relaxation

Statistic 30

Approximately 65% of consumers prefer candles with long-lasting fragrance, influencing product development trends

Statistic 31

The demand for biodegradable and non-toxic candles increased significantly during the pandemic, by about 30%, as consumers focused on health and safety

Statistic 32

The most popular candle scents vary by region but often include vanilla, lavender, citrus, and cinnamon, depending on cultural preferences

Statistic 33

Consumer interest in multi-wcented candles with layered fragrances increased by 15% in 2023, offering multisensory experiences

Statistic 34

The prevalence of natural and organic candles increased by 20% in sales in 2023

Statistic 35

The global scented candle market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8% from 2023 to 2028

Statistic 36

Eco-friendly candles have seen a 25% annual increase in sales over the past three years

Statistic 37

The use of LED candles has grown by over 20% annually due to safety concerns

Statistic 38

Custom and handmade candles make up approximately 35% of the online candle market

Statistic 39

Candle sales in Europe are forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 7% between 2023 and 2028

Statistic 40

Organic candles represent approximately 15% of the global market share, with growth driven by eco-conscious consumers

Statistic 41

The popularity of aromatherapy candles increased by 18% in sales during 2023

Statistic 42

The average retail price of candles has increased by 12% over the past five years, partially due to increased costs of raw materials

Statistic 43

Candle subscription boxes have gained popularity, with an estimated 10 million subscribers worldwide as of 2023

Statistic 44

The global demand for eco-friendly candles is projected to reach $5 billion by 2025

Statistic 45

The global handmade candle market is estimated at $700 million in 2023, with a CAGR of 9% since 2018

Statistic 46

Candle fragrances are becoming more complex, with blends containing up to 20 different notes, enhancing consumer experience

Statistic 47

The use of natural additives like beeswax and soy has contributed to a 10% increase in premium candle sales annually

Statistic 48

The candle industry expects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% from 2023 to 2028

Statistic 49

Candle sales in Asia Pacific are projected to grow at a CAGR of 9% from 2023 to 2028, driven by rising disposable incomes

Statistic 50

Candle exports from India increased by 15% in 2022, making it one of the top exporters globally

Statistic 51

The trend towards minimalist design has led to a 20% decrease in packaging waste in the candle industry over the last five years

Statistic 52

The U.S. market for herbal, aromatherapy, and wellness candles grew by 22% in 2023, reflecting wellness trends

Statistic 53

The growth of online marketplaces has helped small-scale candle makers increase their sales by over 50% since 2020

Statistic 54

The number of candle artisans and small businesses has increased by 30% over the last five years, driven by rising DIY and e-commerce trends

Statistic 55

The use of sustainable and recycled candle packaging materials has grown by 25% since 2020, driven by eco-conscious consumer demand

Statistic 56

The global candle market was valued at approximately $3.5 billion in 2022

Statistic 57

The North American candle market accounted for over 30% of the global market share in 2022

Statistic 58

The U.S. candle industry generated over $2 billion in retail sales in 2021

Statistic 59

The U.S. candle industry employs over 20,000 workers nationwide

Statistic 60

The top consumer countries for luxury candles are the U.S., China, and the UK, making up over 60% of sales

Statistic 61

The retail market for candles is projected to reach $4.3 billion globally by 2025, considering all types of candles

Statistic 62

Sales of themed candles (e.g., seasonal, holiday) account for approximately 40% of total annual candle sales

Statistic 63

The global demand for luxury scented candles reached an estimated $1.2 billion in 2022, with significant growth in boutique and high-end brands

Statistic 64

Soy candles accounted for approximately 35% of the U.S. candle market in 2022

Statistic 65

The most common wax type used in mass-market candles is paraffin, accounting for 60% of the market

Statistic 66

Soy wax candles tend to last approximately 30-50% longer than paraffin candles

Statistic 67

The average candle burn time varies from 20 to 50 hours depending on type and size, with premium candles lasting longer

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Key Highlights

The global candle market was valued at approximately $3.5 billion in 2022
The North American candle market accounted for over 30% of the global market share in 2022
The U.S. candle industry generated over $2 billion in retail sales in 2021
Approximately 60% of candle buyers purchase candles for home décor purposes
Soy candles accounted for approximately 35% of the U.S. candle market in 2022
The prevalence of natural and organic candles increased by 20% in sales in 2023
The average household in the US burns about 4 candles per month
Candle sales during the Christmas season can account for up to 40% of annual sales
70% of consumers prefer soy or beeswax candles over paraffin candles
Burning candles can improve mood and reduce stress, according to 65% of candle consumers
The majority of candle consumers (approximately 55%) purchase candles online
The global scented candle market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8% from 2023 to 2028
The average price of a high-end designer candle can be over $50

The candle industry is igniting a global market valued at over $3.5 billion in 2022, with eco-friendly, luxury, and DIY trends brightening the future for both consumers and makers worldwide.

Consumer Behavior and Preferences

Approximately 60% of candle buyers purchase candles for home décor purposes
The average household in the US burns about 4 candles per month
Candle sales during the Christmas season can account for up to 40% of annual sales
70% of consumers prefer soy or beeswax candles over paraffin candles
Burning candles can improve mood and reduce stress, according to 65% of candle consumers
The majority of candle consumers (approximately 55%) purchase candles online
The average price of a high-end designer candle can be over $50
Approximately 45% of candle buyers are women aged 25-45
Candles with natural or essential oil fragrances tend to be preferred by 75% of consumers
The biggest candle purchase spikes occur during holidays like Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day
Candle making classes increased by 15% during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many consumers taking up the craft as a hobby
Nearly 40% of candle consumers prioritize burn time as a key purchase factor
Scented candles are preferred by 65% of buyers for relaxation and creating ambiance
The average household purchase of candles during holiday seasons increases by 50%
The top three candle scent categories are floral, citrus, and vanilla, dominating 70% of the market share
The primary consumers of luxury candles tend to be urban, higher-income households, making up around 40% of the market
Conversions from traditional candles to LED candles increased by 25% during the COVID-19 lockdowns
Candle-making kits saw a 40% increase in sales among beginners during 2020-2022, indicating rising DIY trends
Urban households purchase candles approximately 25% more frequently than rural households
The increase in environmental awareness has caused a 20% rise in the demand for non-toxic, biodegradable candles
The majority of candles sold in retail stores are scented, with scented candles accounting for over 75% of sales in some markets
Candle packaging innovations, such as minimalist and eco-friendly designs, have increased consumer interest by 15% in recent years
The biggest online sales spikes for candles occur during promotional events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, with increases of up to 50%
The most popular scent categories in candles are floral, citrus, vanilla, and woody, accounting for over 75% of the market
The average consumer spends around $20 to $30 on candles per month, with higher spends during holidays
Customizable candles have grown in popularity, with 30% of online shoppers considering personalized candles as a preferred purchase
The sustainability aspect of candles, including recyclable packaging and eco-friendly ingredients, influences 68% of consumer purchasing decisions
The majority of candle packaging now includes eco-labels and certifications, which increases consumer trust by 12%
Data shows that scented candles can improve sleep quality, according to 40% of consumers using them for relaxation
Approximately 65% of consumers prefer candles with long-lasting fragrance, influencing product development trends
The demand for biodegradable and non-toxic candles increased significantly during the pandemic, by about 30%, as consumers focused on health and safety
The most popular candle scents vary by region but often include vanilla, lavender, citrus, and cinnamon, depending on cultural preferences
Consumer interest in multi-wcented candles with layered fragrances increased by 15% in 2023, offering multisensory experiences

Consumer Behavior and Preferences Interpretation

With holiday sales contributing up to 40% of annual candle revenue and over half of consumers prioritizing eco-friendly, long-lasting, and scented candles for mood-lifting home ambiance, it’s clear that the candle industry is burning brighter—especially for those who embrace natural fragrances, online shopping, and sustainable packaging in their quest for cozy, stress-relieving illumination.

Industry Trends and Market Growth

The prevalence of natural and organic candles increased by 20% in sales in 2023
The global scented candle market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8% from 2023 to 2028
Eco-friendly candles have seen a 25% annual increase in sales over the past three years
The use of LED candles has grown by over 20% annually due to safety concerns
Custom and handmade candles make up approximately 35% of the online candle market
Candle sales in Europe are forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 7% between 2023 and 2028
Organic candles represent approximately 15% of the global market share, with growth driven by eco-conscious consumers
The popularity of aromatherapy candles increased by 18% in sales during 2023
The average retail price of candles has increased by 12% over the past five years, partially due to increased costs of raw materials
Candle subscription boxes have gained popularity, with an estimated 10 million subscribers worldwide as of 2023
The global demand for eco-friendly candles is projected to reach $5 billion by 2025
The global handmade candle market is estimated at $700 million in 2023, with a CAGR of 9% since 2018
Candle fragrances are becoming more complex, with blends containing up to 20 different notes, enhancing consumer experience
The use of natural additives like beeswax and soy has contributed to a 10% increase in premium candle sales annually
The candle industry expects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% from 2023 to 2028
Candle sales in Asia Pacific are projected to grow at a CAGR of 9% from 2023 to 2028, driven by rising disposable incomes
Candle exports from India increased by 15% in 2022, making it one of the top exporters globally
The trend towards minimalist design has led to a 20% decrease in packaging waste in the candle industry over the last five years
The U.S. market for herbal, aromatherapy, and wellness candles grew by 22% in 2023, reflecting wellness trends
The growth of online marketplaces has helped small-scale candle makers increase their sales by over 50% since 2020
The number of candle artisans and small businesses has increased by 30% over the last five years, driven by rising DIY and e-commerce trends
The use of sustainable and recycled candle packaging materials has grown by 25% since 2020, driven by eco-conscious consumer demand

Industry Trends and Market Growth Interpretation

As candle enthusiasts glow brighter with natural, artisanal, and eco-friendly options, industry statistics reveal a flickering trend: while sales of organic and sustainable candles surge by up to 25%, innovative delivery via online subscriptions, complex fragrances, and eco-conscious packaging are illuminating a market poised to grow at a steady 6.5-8% CAGR through 2028.

Market Size and Regional Data

The global candle market was valued at approximately $3.5 billion in 2022
The North American candle market accounted for over 30% of the global market share in 2022
The U.S. candle industry generated over $2 billion in retail sales in 2021
The U.S. candle industry employs over 20,000 workers nationwide
The top consumer countries for luxury candles are the U.S., China, and the UK, making up over 60% of sales
The retail market for candles is projected to reach $4.3 billion globally by 2025, considering all types of candles
Sales of themed candles (e.g., seasonal, holiday) account for approximately 40% of total annual candle sales
The global demand for luxury scented candles reached an estimated $1.2 billion in 2022, with significant growth in boutique and high-end brands

Market Size and Regional Data Interpretation

With a $3.5 billion global glow and over half of that illuminating the U.S. and Chinese markets, the candle industry flickers steadily toward a projected $4.3 billion by 2025, proving that while we chase luxury scents and seasonal themes, the industry’s true flame remains rooted in the flickering allure of warmth, ambiance, and a well-lit economy.

Product Types and Material Preferences

Soy candles accounted for approximately 35% of the U.S. candle market in 2022
The most common wax type used in mass-market candles is paraffin, accounting for 60% of the market
Soy wax candles tend to last approximately 30-50% longer than paraffin candles
The average candle burn time varies from 20 to 50 hours depending on type and size, with premium candles lasting longer

Product Types and Material Preferences Interpretation

Despite soy candles comprising only about a third of the market, their longer burn times and eco-friendly appeal are flickering signs of a shifting preference in a market still largely glowing with paraffin's mass appeal.