18 Group Halloween Costumes for 4 People That Are Actually Good (I’ve Done 6 of These Myself)

I have a confession to make: I peaked in college when my three roommates and I went as the entire cast of The Wizard of Oz. We didn’t just wear costumes; we committed.

I spent a week hot-gluing fake foliage to a wire hanger for my “Scarecrow” hat, and my friend Sarah actually painted herself silver to be the Tin Man.

We looked incredible. We also couldn’t sit down or use the bathroom normally all night.

That was a decade ago. Now, coordinating a group costume involves group chats that die faster than a houseplant in a dark corner.

Someone wants to be sexy, someone wants to be funny, and someone else just wants to wear black and call it a day. I get it.

The pressure to find a group Halloween costume for 4 people that everyone actually agrees on is real.

I’ve been the point person for group costumes for everything from a 21st birthday bar crawl to a neighborhood block party.

I’ve learned that the best group costumes aren’t just about the theme—they’re about logistics.

Can you walk? Can you eat? Can you afford it? After sifting through the viral TikTok trends and the tired classics, here are 18 ideas that actually work for a squad of four, complete with the real-world trade-offs I’ve discovered along the way.

How I Judged These Group Costume Ideas for 4

Before we dive in, a quick note on how this list is structured. I’m not just throwing out themes. I’ve broken these down into categories so you can find what fits your vibe—whether you’re looking for a DIY group costume that costs less than a round of drinks or a last-minute group costume you can order on Amazon Prime.

For each idea, I’ll tell you why it works, how to pull it off, and the one thing most people forget. And because I know budget is a huge factor, I’ve included a comparison of cost tiers and effort levels at the end. Let’s find you a costume that won’t end with a passive-aggressive group chat.

The Comparison Table: Which Vibe Fits Your Squad?

Here’s the quick-and-dirty breakdown if you’re choosing between a few different directions. I’ve priced these based on my own experience shopping for coordinated group costume ideas over the years.

Costume Vibe	Example Idea	Avg. Cost Per Person	Effort Level	Best For
Iconic Movie/TV	Stranger Things Kids	$30 – $50	Low (Thrift store)	Friends who love a pop culture reference
Punny & Clever	Ceiling Fans	$15 – $25	Medium (Some DIY)	The friend group that loves to laugh
Classic Spooky	Sanderson Sisters	$40 – $70	High (Wigs & Makeup)	The group that goes ALL OUT for photos
Group Couples	Schitt’s Creek Roses	$35 – $60	Medium (Specific finds)	Two couples who always hang out together
Abstract/Minimalist	The Four Seasons	$10 – $20	Low (You probably own it)	The “we waited until the last minute” crew

1. The Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus (and a Zombie Billy)

I have to start here because it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser. If you are a group of four women, this is the group Halloween costume for 4 that will get you stopped for photos every five minutes. You need a Winifred, Sarah, Mary, and then you need a fourth person to be either a zombie Billy Butcherson or a “Dead Man’s Toe” (a simple, funny prop).

Why it works: The silhouettes are iconic. You don’t need to be identical twins; you just need the hair and the colors.
How to do it: The trick is the wigs. Don’t buy the cheap $10 wigs from the party store—they shed like a golden retriever in summer. I splurged on a decent auburn wig for Winifred two years ago, and it made the whole look. For Mary, the “spider” hair is non-negotiable.
Pro Tip: If you have a fourth person who isn’t into the witch vibe, they can be “Binx the Cat” in a black hoodie with cat ears. It’s a low-effort, high-reward role. And for the love of all things holy, practice your witch cackle before the party. It sets the tone.

2. The Stranger Things Kids (The Season 1 Look)

This is my go-to recommendation for a group of four friends who want something recognizable but comfortable. You can go as Mike, Eleven, Dustin, and Lucas. It’s a DIY group costume dream because you can source most of it from a thrift store or your own closet.

Why it works: It’s nostalgic, comfortable (you’re basically wearing jeans and a t-shirt), and instantly recognizable.
How to do it: The key is the details. Mike needs a striped polo and a walkie-talkie. Eleven needs a pink dress, blue jacket, and a box of Eggos. Dustin needs a trucker hat and a curly wig (or a lot of hairspray). Lucas needs a bandana and a slingshot. I saw a group do this at a party last year, and the girl playing Eleven carried a fake waffle the whole night. It was a hit.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget the “Hellfire Club” shirts if you want a Season 4 version. It’s more current, but it requires everyone to wear a black tee, which is easy. Just be prepared for people to ask you where Eddie is.

3. The Four Seasons (The Abstract & Easy Win)

I love a costume that makes people think. This is one of those coordinated group costume ideas that costs almost nothing if you already have the basics. You each represent a season: Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.

Why it works: It’s a great last-minute group costume because you can pull it together from your own wardrobe. It’s also comfortable.
How to do it:

• Spring: Wear a floral dress, a flower crown, and carry a watering can.
• Summer: Wear a Hawaiian shirt, sunglasses, and carry a beach ball.
• Fall: Wear a flannel, jeans, and carry a rake (or a fake leaf garland).
• Winter: Wear a white sweater, a scarf, and a beanie.
  Pro Tip: The “Winter” person always gets hot. I made the mistake of wearing a chunky knit sweater to an indoor party once and nearly passed out. Go for a white t-shirt with a snowflake drawn on it instead. Also, make sure the “Fall” person doesn’t actually bring a rake—it’s a weapon after a few drinks.

4. The Schitt’s Creek Roses (For Two Couples)

If you’re rolling with two couples, this is the smartest way to do a group Halloween costume for 4. You have Moira, Johnny, David, and Alexis. The beauty is that you can split it into two couples: Johnny & Moira and David & Alexis.

Why it works: The characters are so distinct that you don’t need much. It’s all about the attitude and the wigs.
How to do it: Moira needs a black-and-white wig (or a lot of dry shampoo) and a dramatic black outfit. Johnny needs a suit and a slightly confused expression. David needs a black sweater with white graphics and a lot of rings. Alexis needs a denim skirt, a pink top, and a high ponytail.
Pro Tip: The “David” of the group will likely want to wear the most comfortable shoes. I recommend the classic white sneakers. And if you can find a “Rose Apothecary” tote bag, that’s the finishing touch. It’s a niche reference, but the people who get it will really get it.

5. The Wizard of Oz Cast (My Personal Favorite)

This is the one I mentioned earlier. It’s a classic for a reason. Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion. It’s a group Halloween costume for 4 that works for any age group and any size squad.

Why it works: It’s universally loved. Everyone knows who you are.
How to do it: Dorothy is easy—blue dress, ruby slippers, basket. The Scarecrow needs a flannel shirt and a hat with straw (or raffia). The Tin Man needs silver makeup and a funnel hat. The Lion needs a furry hood and a tail.
Pro Tip: The Tin Man makeup is a nightmare to get off. My friend Sarah used a specific silver body paint that stained her skin for three days. She looked like a Smurf. Buy a high-quality makeup remover or just wear a silver hoodie and call it a day. Also, the Scarecrow should not use real hay—it itches like crazy.

6. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

This is a solid choice for a group of four guys or a mixed group. You have Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael, and Michelangelo. It’s a DIY group costume that is instantly recognizable.

Why it works: It’s fun, it’s colorful, and you can wear a lot of green.
How to do it: You need green shirts or bodysuits, colored bandanas (blue, purple, red, orange), and some fake weapons. The weapons are the fun part. You can get foam nunchucks or sai on Amazon for pretty cheap.
Pro Tip: The “Michelangelo” of the group is usually the one who wants to party. Make sure they don’t lose their nunchucks. Also, if you’re going to a bar, check the weapon policy. I’ve seen foam swords get confiscated at the door. Wear a shell backpack to complete the look—it also holds your phone and wallet, which is a lifesaver.

7. The Clueless Crew (Cher, Dionne, Tai, and Josh)

This is for the group that wants to look cute and a little retro. It’s a coordinated group costume idea that is perfect for a 90s-themed party or just a general Halloween bash.

Why it works: The fashion is iconic. Plaid skirts, knee-high socks, and fuzzy pens.
How to do it: Cher needs a yellow plaid suit (or a skirt and jacket). Dionne needs a black-and-white plaid set and a big hat. Tai needs a grungy plaid shirt and a beanie. Josh needs a plaid shirt and a slightly annoyed expression (he’s the “ex-stepbrother” energy).
Pro Tip: The “Cher” costume is the most expensive. I found a yellow plaid skirt on Poshmark for $20, but the matching jacket was $60. If you’re on a budget, just do the skirt with a white sweater. It reads just as well. And don’t forget the “cell phone” from the 90s—a big, clunky brick phone. It’s a great prop.

8. The Ghostbusters

Who you gonna call? This is a great group Halloween costume for 4 because it’s comfortable and you can layer up if it’s cold.

Why it works: It’s a classic. Everyone loves the theme song.
How to do it: You need tan jumpsuits (or tan shirts and pants), a proton pack (you can make one out of a backpack and some cardboard), and a “Ghostbusters” logo patch.
Pro Tip: The proton packs are the hardest part. I tried to DIY one with a box and some spray paint. It looked like a cardboard box. If you’re not crafty, buy a pre-made one on Etsy. It’s worth the $30 to not look like you’re carrying trash on your back. Also, the “Slimer” role is a fun one for a fourth person if you don’t want to be a Ghostbuster—just wear a green morphsuit and carry a hot dog.

9. The Addams Family (Morticia, Gomez, Wednesday, and Pugsley)

This is a great family-friendly group costume or one for a group of friends who like things a little dark. It’s elegant and easy to pull off.

Why it works: It’s high-contrast and looks great in photos.
How to do it: Morticia needs a long black dress and long black hair. Gomez needs a pinstripe suit and a fake mustache. Wednesday needs a black dress with a white collar and two braids. Pugsley needs a striped shirt and a slightly deranged look.
Pro Tip: The “Wednesday” dance from the Netflix series is a must-do if you’re going to a party with a dance floor. Practice it. Also, if you have a fourth person who doesn’t want to be Pugsley, they can be “Thing” (a hand in a box) or “Lurch” (a tall person in a suit). Lurch is a great low-effort option.

10. The Scooby-Doo Gang (Fred, Daphne, Velma, and Shaggy)

This is a nostalgic group Halloween costume for 4 that is perfect for a group of friends who want to be comfortable.

Why it works: Everyone knows the characters. The color palette is fun (blue, purple, orange, green).
How to do it: Fred needs a white sweater and a blue ascot. Daphne needs a purple dress and a red wig. Velma needs an orange sweater, a red skirt, and glasses. Shaggy needs a green shirt and brown pants.
Pro Tip: The “Shaggy” of the group needs to commit to the voice. It’s annoying if they don’t. Also, carry a box of Scooby Snacks (or just regular dog treats, but maybe don’t eat them). If you have a dog, you have a fifth member. Just make sure the dog doesn’t eat the costume.

11. The Power Rangers

This is a classic for a reason. It’s a group Halloween costume for 4 that is instantly recognizable and comes in a variety of colors.

Why it works: It’s simple. You just need a colored shirt and some white gloves.
How to do it: You can go as the original five (Red, Blue, Black, Yellow, Pink) or just pick four. The “Mighty Morphin” look is the most popular.
Pro Tip: The helmets are the expensive part. I’ve seen people make them out of paper mache, but they look a little lumpy. If you’re on a budget, just wear a colored bandana over your face or go helmet-less. It’s still recognizable. Also, the “Black Ranger” is often left out—don’t be that group. Include the Black Ranger.

12. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse (The Edgy Choice)

This is for the group that wants to be a little bit scary and a little bit clever. It’s a coordinated group costume idea that is perfect for a Halloween party.

Why it works: It’s dramatic and you can get creative with it.
How to do it: You have Conquest, War, Famine, and Death.

• War: Wear camo or red, carry a fake sword.
• Famine: Wear tattered clothes, maybe some fake dirt on your face, carry an empty bowl.
• Death: Wear a black cloak and carry a scythe.
• Conquest: Wear a white outfit and a crown (or a bow).
  Pro Tip: The “Death” costume is the easiest. You can just wear a black hoodie and carry a scythe. The “Famine” costume is the hardest because you have to look “hungry” without actually being uncomfortable. Don’t overdo the dirt makeup. You’ll just look like you fell in a mud puddle.

13. The Golden Girls (For the Group with a Sense of Humor)

This is one of my favorite group Halloween costume for 4 ideas for older millennials. It’s funny, it’s nostalgic, and it’s comfortable.

Why it works: The characters are iconic. Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, and Sophia.
How to do it: You need four women (or men who are confident) and some gray wigs. You can find “Golden Girls” costumes online, but it’s more fun to thrift it. Look for floral prints, shoulder pads, and cardigans.
Pro Tip: The “Sophia” character is the funniest. If you have a short friend, they are Sophia. If not, just roll with it. Also, carry a purse with a “handgun” (fake, obviously) if you’re Sophia. It’s a great prop. And practice your “Thank you for being a friend” sing-along.

14. The Mario Kart Racers (Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Toad)

This is a great group Halloween costume for 4 for a group that loves video games. It’s colorful and fun.

Why it works: It’s a recognizable theme and you can have fun with the props (like the karts).
How to do it: Mario needs a red shirt and overalls. Luigi needs green. Peach needs a pink dress and a crown. Toad needs a mushroom hat.
Pro Tip: The “karts” are the best part. You can make them out of cardboard boxes and paint them. It’s a bit of work, but it’s a great photo op. If you’re going to a bar, the karts might be a hassle. You can also just carry a “banana peel” or a “red shell” as a prop. It’s lighter and easier to manage.

15. The Alice in Wonderland Characters (Alice, Mad Hatter, Queen of Hearts, Cheshire Cat)

This is a whimsical group Halloween costume for 4 that is great for a group that likes to dress up.

Why it works: The costumes are elaborate and fun. It’s a great DIY group costume if you’re crafty.
How to do it: Alice needs a blue dress and a white apron. The Mad Hatter needs a crazy hat and a colorful suit. The Queen of Hearts needs a red dress and a crown. The Cheshire Cat needs a purple or pink striped outfit and a big smile.
Pro Tip: The “Mad Hatter” hat is the key. You can buy one or make one. I made one with a top hat from a thrift store and a lot of ribbons. It looked a bit messy, but it worked. Also, the “Queen of Hearts” should carry a fake heart. It’s a good prop for yelling “Off with their heads!”

16. The Incredibles

This is a classic group Halloween costume for 4 for a family or a group of friends. It’s simple, comfortable, and instantly recognizable.

Why it works: It’s a great last-minute group costume because you just need red shirts and black pants.
How to do it: You need red shirts, black pants, and a black eye mask. You can buy the “Incredibles” logo shirts online or make them with iron-on transfer paper.
Pro Tip: The “Jack-Jack” role is the best. If you have a baby, they are Jack-Jack. If not, just carry a doll. Also, the “Edna Mode” role is a fun option for a fourth person—just wear a black bob wig and a black dress. It’s a great “fifth” character if you have a group of 4 and one extra.

17. The Riverdale Core Four (Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead)

This is a group Halloween costume for 4 for the younger crowd or anyone who loves the show. It’s a preppy, dark take on the Archie comics.

Why it works: It’s a popular reference and the costumes are fairly easy to put together.
How to do it: Archie needs a letterman jacket. Betty needs a ponytail and a pastel sweater. Veronica needs a dark wig and a pearl necklace. Jughead needs a beanie and a flannel.
Pro Tip: The “Jughead” beanie is the most important part. Don’t wear a regular beanie; wear a “crown” beanie if you can find one. Also, the “Betty” ponytail should be high and tight. If you have a blonde friend, they are Betty. If not, a wig works.

18. The Four Stages of Matter (Solid, Liquid, Gas, Plasma)

This is the ultimate nerdy group costume for 4. It’s clever, it’s cheap, and it’s a great conversation starter.

Why it works: It’s an abstract concept that you can interpret in fun ways.
How to do it:

• Solid: Wear a box covered in aluminum foil (or just a very stiff outfit).
• Liquid: Wear a blue outfit with a water bottle attached.
• Gas: Wear a clear poncho and carry a fan (or just act floaty).
• Plasma: Wear a glowing outfit or a “sun” headband.
  Pro Tip: The “Solid” costume is the most uncomfortable. Don’t use a cardboard box that is too small. Also, the “Plasma” person should be the most outgoing—they have to explain the joke. If you want to be really clever, you can do “The Four States of Matter” with a “Bose-Einstein Condensate” instead of Plasma, but nobody will get that. Stick with Plasma.

What to Buy: A Quick Cost & Logistics Guide

If you’re looking for where to buy group Halloween costumes, here’s my honest breakdown based on my own shopping experiences.

• Amazon: Best for last-minute. You can get a full group Halloween costume for 4 kit (like Ghostbusters or Power Rangers) for around $50-$80 total. The quality is hit-or-miss, but it’s fast.
• Etsy: Best for DIY kits. If you want a specific patch or a custom prop (like a proton pack), Etsy is great. It’s more expensive, but the quality is usually better.
• Thrift Stores (Goodwill, Salvation Army): Best for DIY group costume pieces. I’ve found amazing blazers for a Clueless costume and flannels for a Stranger Things look. Go early—October is a madhouse.
• Party City: Best for accessories. Wigs, makeup, and props. Don’t buy the full costume here unless you’re desperate. The fabric is usually itchy and thin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best group Halloween costume for 4 people who are on a budget?
A: The Four Seasons or the Stranger Things kids. Both can be done with items you already own or can find at a thrift store for under $20 per person. The Four Seasons is the cheapest because it’s mostly just a color palette.

Q: How do I get my friends to agree on a group costume?
A: I’ve learned that you should present three options and let them vote. Don’t ask “What do you want to be?”—that leads to chaos. Say, “We can be the Sanderson Sisters, the Stranger Things kids, or the Four Seasons. Pick one.” It’s much easier.

Q: What if one person in the group doesn’t want to dress up?
A: Give them a “low-effort” role. In Ghostbusters, they can be “Slimer” in a green morphsuit. In The Wizard of Oz, they can be “Toto” in a brown hoodie. In the Four Seasons, they can be “Fall” and just wear a flannel. There’s always a way to include them without forcing them into a full costume.

Q: Are group Halloween costumes for 4 people still popular?
A: Absolutely. I’ve seen a huge spike in “core four” costumes on my Pinterest feed this year. The Stranger Things kids and the Schitt’s Creek Roses are getting a lot of saves. People love a group costume because it’s more fun to take photos together.

The Wrap-Up: What I’d Do First

If I were starting over with a group of four this year, I’d pick the Schitt’s Creek Roses. It’s comfortable, it’s funny, and it works for two couples or four friends. But here’s the thing: the best costume is the one you don’t have to stress about.

Don’t spend three weeks arguing in a group chat. Pick a theme that lets you wear clothes you already own, add one or two statement pieces, and focus on the fun part—the party. I’ve had the most fun in costumes that cost $15 and involved a thrift store run, not the ones that cost $100 and required a wig cap.

So, text your group. Send them this list. Pick one. And if all else fails, just wear all black and tell everyone you’re “The Void.” It’s a vibe. Happy Halloween.