The average cost of a wedding in the United States ranges from $14,000 to $49,000, depending on location. And the national average is $33,000 for 2024, according to Zola.
This guide explains how these costly affairs vary, depending on such factors as location, guest count, vendors, season, and personal preferences, and offers tips for managing those costs.
Key Takeaways
- Wedding costs can vary significantly based on factors such as location, guest count, venue, and season.
- The national average cost of a wedding provides a benchmark for couples to understand what others are spending.
- Wedding costs can vary by region, with average costs differing from state to state.
- Understanding the breakdown of wedding expenses helps couples allocate their budget more effectively.
- Practical tips and strategies can help couples save money and better manage the cost of their wedding.
Factors Affecting Wedding Costs
Keep in mind that the national average cost of a wedding is merely a benchmark to give you an idea of what others are spending. Depending on the factors outlined below, your overall cost may be higher or lower.
$33,000
The average cost of a wedding in the United States in 2024. The range varies from $14,000 to $49,000, depending on location and other factors.
Location
Location can have a significant impact on the cost of a wedding. For instance, if you’re looking to get married in a big city, the cost of venues, catering, and other services can be significantly higher than in a small town or rural area. Similarly, some popular wedding destinations, such as beach resorts or vineyards, may charge premium wedding prices.
Guest Count
Generally, the more guests you invite, the more you’ll need to spend on things like catering, invitations, and favors. Additionally, larger wedding parties may require a bigger venue, which can be more expensive. On the other hand, a smaller wedding can allow you to be more flexible with your budget, as you won’t need to spend as much on food, drinks, or other services.
Vendors
Some vendors may charge more for their services than others, and it’s important to research and compare prices before making your choices. Additionally, some vendors may offer packages or discounts if you book multiple services through them, which can help lower your overall costs. However, it’s crucial to remember that price isn’t the only factor to consider when choosing vendors. You’ll also want to read reviews, interview potential vendors, and make sure they fit your vision and style.
Season
Peak wedding season, typically from late spring to early fall, can be more expensive due to high demand. Getting married during the off-season, such as in winter, can be more affordable. Additionally, some vendors may offer discounts or special rates during slower times of the year. The day of the week can also affect the cost of a wedding, with weekends typically being more expensive than weekdays.
Personal Preferences
If you have your heart set on a specific venue or location, you may need to pay a premium to secure it. Similarly, if you have a particular theme or style in mind, you may need to spend more on decor or rentals to bring your vision to life. Other factors, such as the type of food or drinks you want to serve, the type of entertainment or music you want, hiring a wedding planner, and the type of jewelry and attire that you and your wedding party will wear, can also affect the wedding cost.
Average Cost of Wedding by State
In addition to the factors listed above, wedding costs can vary greatly by region or state for a variety of reasons, including the cost of living, local taxes, and the popularity of wedding venues and vendors in that area. Additionally, some states may have higher taxes on certain items like alcohol or hotel rooms, which can impact the overall cost of the wedding.
The table below shows average wedding costs in 2024 for all 50 states, plus Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. Costs range from a high of $49,207 in Rhode Island to a low of $14,444 in Alaska.
| Average Wedding Costs by State, 2024 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| State | Average Wedding Costs | State | Average Wedding Costs |
| Rhode Island | $49,207 | Michigan | $28,983 |
| Washington, D.C. | $47,917 | Tennessee | $28,625 |
| Vermont | $46,167 | Wisconsin | $27,172 |
| New Jersey | $45,486 | Ohio | $26,489 |
| New York | $45,422 | Arizona | $26,096 |
| Wyoming | $42,000 | Minnesota | $25,926 |
| Massachusetts | $41,579 | Oregon | $25,474 |
| Maine | $40,086 | North Dakota | $25,000 |
| Connecticut | $39,844 | Washington | $24,923 |
| Puerto Rico | $38,864 | Mississippi | $24,808 |
| Illinois | $38,364 | Missouri | $24,731 |
| Maryland | $37,121 | Utah | $23,750 |
| Hawaii | $36,351 | Indiana | $23,737 |
| California | $36,068 | Idaho | $22,895 |
| South Carolina | $35,846 | Kentucky | $22,378 |
| New Hampshire | $35,474 | Alabama | $22,321 |
| Louisiana | $34,375 | Kansas | $21,574 |
| Virginia | $32,815 | Nebraska | $21,200 |
| New Mexico | $32,500 | Oklahoma | $21,094 |
| Delaware | $32,381 | West Virginia | $19,688 |
| Pennsylvania | $31,892 | Montana | $18,958 |
| Colorado | $31,025 | Arkansas | $18,438 |
| Florida | $31,020 | Iowa | $17,770 |
| North Carolina | $30,928 | Nevada | $17,337 |
| Georgia | $30,127 | South Dakota | $15,625 |
| Texas | $29,432 | Alaska | $14,444 |
Breakdown of Wedding Expenses
Wedding expenses can vary depending on preferences, location, and other factors noted above. Here’s a breakdown of the range of wedding expenses from most expensive to least expensive, based on data provided by Zola and other sources as noted:
Wedding Venue
Wedding venue costs, including rental fees, decor, and lighting, can run from $6,500 to $12,000 depending on location, size, and popularity. You will probably have to put down a deposit to secure the date. The cost of the venue will also be affected by the number of tables, chairs, and linens you require.
Catering
Catering, which consists of food, drinks, and service, can be nearly equal to the cost of the venue and run from$6,500 to $10,000 depending on the number of guests, type of food, and type of service—i.e., buffet style vs. a plated meal. Beverage service is another factor, with an open bar being the most expensive and a limited wine and beer selection less costly.
Music
Entertainment costs range from $2,000 to $7,000 and include a DJ, band, or other performers who take part in the ceremony and reception. Cost depends on the type of music you want. A live band will be more expensive than a DJ, for example. Even the size of the band is a factor—a duo, for example, may be less costly than a full band.
Photographer
A professional wedding photographer can cost $3,500 to $6,500. Most couples consider this an essential expense for capturing memories of the big day. One factor that affects price is the experience and reputation of the photographer. Another factor is time. The longer you want the photographer with you, the more costly it will be. Posed portraits are more expensive than candid shots.
Videographer
If you want video memories, the services of a videographer can run from $3,000 to $6,000. Some photographers also offer videographer services as part of a package, which may be less than hiring separately. The same cost factors that apply to a photographer also apply to a videographer.
Flowers and Decor
Flowers and decor for the ceremony and reception can cost $2,500 to $6,000 and can include centerpieces and other decorative elements. The type and amount of flowers and decor you want will be the biggest cost factor. Season is also a factor, with in-season blooms less costly than out-of-season or exotic flowers.
Wedding Gown
Factors that can affect the cost of a wedding gown include the designer, material, level of detail, and location of purchase. A well-known designer, luxurious fabrics, and intricate details all increase the price. The cost can also vary depending on where it is bought. Prices range from a few hundred or less up to thousands of dollars.
Wedding Rings
The cost of wedding rings is influenced by the type of metal used, quality and size of gemstones (if any), and design intricacy. Well-known brands or designers may also charge more for their products. As with many wedding elements, rings can range from as little as $500 to thousands of dollars each.
Wedding Planner
Wedding planners charge $1,500 to $4,750 on average. Services include planning, coordination, and design. This can be a critical expense, since a professional wedding planner has the expertise and experience that most families lack and can absorb the stress and pressure that otherwise falls on the bride and groom or their families. Some planners charge a flat fee, while others charge a percentage of the wedding budget.
Transportation
While not a major expense, it’s important to allow for transportation costs of $700 to $1,200 for a limousine or other vehicle to transport the wedding party to the reception or back to their hotel. Don’t forget to include a 15% to 20% gratuity for your driver(s).
Officiant’s Fee
The cost of a wedding officiant’s fee can depend on location, the officiant’s experience and reputation, and any additional services requested by the couple. Officiants in pricier areas or with more experience may charge more. Additional services like customized vows or premarital counseling can also increase the cost. On average, wedding officiants charge $200 to $800 for their services.
Cake
A key element at most wedding receptions, the cake can cost $600 to $900. One rule of thumb, depending on the type of cake, is to allow $6 to $10 per slice. The cake’s design can be a cost factor, too, with a multitiered cake, intricate designs, or special personalization adding to the expense.
Hair and Makeup
Hair and makeup costs range from $550 to $850 in 2024, depending on personal preferences. Much depends on the reputation and experience of the stylist, distance traveled, and time spent with the bride or wedding party. Finally, the services required can add to the cost.
Invitations
The cost of wedding invitations depends on the design complexity, printing method, paper quality, total number of invitations needed, and any extra features or customizations. Additional features like foil stamping or embossing can further increase the cost. Expect to pay $2 to $10 per invitation, not including postage.
Tuxedo Rental
The cost of renting a tuxedo for a wedding depends on the rental location, the number of pieces in the outfit, additional accessories, the designer or brand, and the quality of the fabric. Rental shops in pricier areas or well-known designers may charge more. Additional accessories and high-quality fabric can also increase the cost. Generally, tuxedo rental(s) can cost $100 to $300 per tuxedo.
Of course, these are just general estimates, and the breakdown of wedding expenses can vary depending on location, individual circ*mstances, and preferences. The graph below illustrates hypothetical costs for the listed elements. The total of these costs is more than the average wedding cost of $33,000, because your actual costs and the elements you include in your wedding will vary.
There likely will be other costs that must be fit into the budget, and the figures above will vary depending on all the factors discussed here and below.
Tips for Saving on Wedding Costs
Here are some tips on ways you can save on some or all of the costs of your wedding. Begin planning as soon as possible to allow yourself maximum time to make those all-important choices to ensure you stay on budget.
Set a Budget and Stick to It
Be realistic about what you can afford, and create a budget that outlines how much you can spend on each aspect of your wedding. This may include taking out a personal loan to pay for it. But once you set a budget, stick to it to avoid overspending. Prioritize wedding elements, choosing two or three must-haves and spending less on other elements to help balance the budget.
Choose an Off-season or Weekday Wedding
Wedding venues and vendors often charge less for weddings that take place during the off-season or on a weekday. If you can be flexible with your wedding date, you can find significant savings on the most expensive elements of a wedding.
Consider a Nontraditional Venue
Instead of a traditional wedding venue, consider a nontraditional location like a park, beach, or backyard for a more affordable location. These kinds of options can also be unique, helping you make your wedding even more memorable.
DIY Where You Can
Consider making your own centerpieces, wedding favors, or even wedding invitations to save on costs. DIY also offers a way to personalize your wedding while staying within your budget. Consider the amount of time it will take and the cost of materials. Enlist the help of family and friends to make preparing for the wedding part of the experience.
Limit the Guest List
The more guests you invite, the more expensive your wedding will be. Consider limiting your guest list to close family and friends. It’s a challenge to limit who you invite to your wedding, but doing so is essential to keep costs under control. A smaller guest list lets you spend more time with each guest, making it more meaningful for those who are there. When planning, communicate with your respective families so they understand that you plan to limit the number of guests to help contain costs, not for personal reasons.
Opt for a Buffet or Family-Style Meal
Serving a buffet or family-style meal can be more affordable than a plated dinner. A buffet-style meal eliminates the need for servers, and staffing costs can be considerable. A family-style meal with large platters on each table also reduces staff costs. Neither of these options affects the quality of the food. Be sure to consider special dietary needs when offering these options.
Skip the Open Bar
Open bars can be expensive. Consider offering a signature drink, punch, or a limited selection of beer and wine instead. Spirits are expensive, and so is a professional bartender. The most expensive way to serve drinks is an open bar, and the least expensive is self-serve. A happy medium may be to offer spirits as part of a cash bar with beer and wine on an open basis. Don’t forget nonalcoholic options for those who do not imbibe.
Use Seasonal Flowers
Choosing flowers that are in season can be more affordable than choosing out-of-season blooms. It makes sense because in-season flowers are more readily available. Consider using more greenery, which is also less expensive. If flowers are part of your ceremony, don’t waste them. Instead, transport them to the reception and let them serve double duty.
What Is the Most Expensive and the Cheapest Wedding Feature?
The cost of a wedding can vary greatly depending on location, number of guests, and level of extravagance. In almost all cases, the most expensive wedding feature is the venue, which can account for a significant portion of the budget. On the other hand, the least expensive features include wedding favors and gifts, the cost of the officiant, and additional jewelry, each of which takes up 1% or less of your wedding budget on average.
Who Pays for What on a Wedding?
Traditionally, the bride’s family is expected to pay for most of the wedding costs, including the ceremony and reception venues, catering, and decorations. The rehearsal dinner and related costs, along with the cost of alcohol at the wedding reception and the honeymoon, traditionally fall to the groom’s family. However, modern weddings often involve contributions from both families and the couple themselves.
How Has the Cost of Weddings Changed Over the Years?
In the past, weddings were often simple affairs held in a church or at home, with minimal decorations and catering. However, as the wedding industry has grown, so have the expectations for what a wedding should look like. One major factor contributing to the rising cost of weddings is the venue. Many couples now opt for more elaborate and expensive venues, such as country clubs, hotels, and wineries, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars to rent.
How Has COVID-19 Affected the Cost of a Wedding?
Many couples postponed their weddings during the pandemic or opted for smaller, more intimate ceremonies. Before the pandemic, there had already been a shift from traditional, large-scale weddings with high price tags. Currently, weddings seem to have moved toward one extreme or the other: small affairs, fewer guests, a lower budget on one end, and larger, more extravagant, expensive ceremonies on the other.
What Is the Cheapest Time of the Year to Get Married?
The cheapest time of year to get married can vary depending on location, but typically, the off-season months are the most affordable. In general, the most popular months for weddings tend to be May through October, while the winter months of December to February are slower for weddings.
The Bottom Line
Despite a move toward smaller, more intimate weddings in general, costs continue to rise. That’s why budgeting and planning for your wedding is crucial. Without careful planning and budgeting, it’s easy to overspend and end up with a financial burden that can affect your future.
It’s also important to plan ahead and book vendors and venues well in advance, as prices tend to go up closer to the wedding date. Finally, flexibility is key to success. Both partners need to be willing to compromise to avoid conflict and financial disaster.
By prioritizing what’s most important to you as a couple and finding ways to celebrate that within your budget, you can have a beautiful and meaningful wedding without breaking the bank.
