Average Cost of Weddings in 2026: (A Real Numbers Guide)

When you start researching wedding costs, you'll quickly discover that the numbers are all over the place. One source says couples spend $30,000, another claims it's closer to $50,000, and your friend swears she did everything for $15,000. The truth is that wedding costs vary dramatically based on where you live, how many people you invite, and what matters most to you as a couple.

Zola’s Wedding Cost Index

Understanding real wedding spending helps you create a budget that actually works for your celebration. Our Wedding Cost Index acts as a guide to help break down what couples truly spend across different categories, reveals the hidden costs that catch many people off guard, and shares practical ways to save money without sacrificing your vision. You'll also learn how location and guest count affect your bottom line, so you can plan with confidence from day one.

For a look inside the Zola Wedding Cost Index, you can find our data methodology & breakdown here.

The Real Average Wedding Cost: $36,000

Understanding the price tag

According to Zola’s 2026 First Look Report, the average cost of a wedding is holding steady at $36,000 for the second year in a row. While that number is high, most couples agree that gathering their favorite people to celebrate is priceless. In fact, despite the costs, the vast majority of couples say the investment is "worth it" even if it feels like a stretch.

It is important to remember that "average" doesn't mean "mandatory." This figure includes everything from backyard micro-weddings to black-tie ballroom galas. However, while the total price tag has stayed the same as last year, your purchasing power might feel different. The changing macroeconomic climate means you may get slightly less for that $36,000 than you would have a few years ago.

Wedding budgets also vary wildly based on your location, guest count, and what matters most to you. Some couples spend $100,000 or more, while others create beautiful celebrations for $10,000 or less. The key is understanding that these averages include everything from intimate 50-person gatherings to elaborate 300-guest celebrations.

What's included in that $36,000 average? This average includes everything from your venue and catering to your dress, flowers, photography, and all the little details that make your day special. It's the total amount couples pay out of pocket after any contributions from family.

The "economic anxiety" factor

If you feel nervous about the economy, you are in good company. 78% of couples worry that the economy or potential tariffs will push their final bill higher than expected. Additionally, 84% believe their wedding will cost more today than the exact same event would have cost two years ago.

The best way to handle this anxiety is to be proactive. Use a wedding budget tool early in the process to track every dollar and avoid surprises.

What Couples Actually Spend vs. Published Averages

There's often a big gap between what the wedding industry publishes and what couples really spend. Many published averages can be misleading because they use vendor marketing data rather than real spending patterns from actual couples.

Here's what makes real wedding costs different from published averages:

• “Hidden” expenses: Service charges, gratuities, and overtime fees add thousands to your final bill
• Last-minute additions: Weather contingencies, extra guests, and upgraded services
• Market variations: Published averages often don't account for local pricing differences
• Package inclusions: What's included in vendor pricing varies significantly

When we surveyed married couples, most went over their original budget. However, they also reported that the additional spending was worth it for their dream celebration.

2026 Wedding Cost Breakdown by Vendor

Where the money goes (venue, catering, & more)

Understanding how couples actually allocate their wedding budget helps you plan more effectively. The data from our Zola Wedding Cost Index suggests that certain categories consistently consume the largest portions of wedding budgets.

Here is the average spending breakdown for 2026:

Category	Average Cost	Typical Cost Range
Venue & Site Fees	$8,573	$6,900 - $10,300
Catering	$6,927	$5,500 - $8,300
Photography	$4,400	$3,500 - $5,300
Videography	$3,993	$3,200 - $4,800
Wedding Planning	$4,047	$3,200 - $4,900
Flowers & Décor	$6,345	$5,100 - $7,600
Bar Services	$5,542	$4,400 - $6,600
Music & Entertainment	$1,567	$1,300 - $1,900
Hair & Makeup	$982	$800 - $1,200
Wedding Cake & Desserts	$917	$700 - $1,100

Data based on The Zola Wedding Cost Index, with ranges provided to reflect typical price variations.

Your biggest expenses will likely be your venue and food. After that, you'll see significant costs for creative services like photography and flowers. The smaller line items, while important, represent a much smaller percentage of your total spending.

You can explore and find local vendors in your price range to get accurate quotes for your specific area.

Venue and Catering Costs

The average wedding venue costs $8,573, according to The Zola Wedding Cost Index, typically ranging from $6,900 to $10,300.

What affects venue pricing:

• Location and exclusivity: Prime locations cost significantly more than suburban venues
• Day and time: Saturday evenings command the highest prices
• Included amenities: Some venues include tables, chairs, and linens while others charge separately
• Capacity requirements: Venues that are too large or small for your guest count can impact pricing

Catering adds another major expense at an average wedding catering cost of $6,927, typically ranging from $5,500 to $8,300. This cost depends heavily on your menu choices, service style, and guest count.

Bar services add an additional average of $5,542, ranging from $4,400 to $6,600. Whether you choose a full open bar or limit options to beer, wine, and signature cocktails dramatically affects this cost.

Wedding cakes and desserts represent one of the smaller expenses, averaging $917 with costs typically ranging from $700 to $1,100.

Photography, Videography, and Music Costs

Creative services represent your next tier of major expenses. Wedding photography averages $4,400 nationally, with typical costs ranging from $3,500 to $5,300, according to The Zola Wedding Cost Index.

Photography costs depend more on coverage hours and experience level than guest count. Most packages include 8 hours of coverage, digital image rights, and sometimes an engagement session.

Videography services cost an average of $3,993, typically ranging from $3,200 to $4,800. Like photography, the final deliverables and coverage hours affect pricing more than your guest count.

Music and entertainment, including bands and DJs, average $1,567, ranging from $1,300 to $1,900. Live bands with multiple members often cost more than a single DJ, but both can create amazing dance parties.

Flowers, Beauty, and Additional Services Costs

Wedding flowers and floral design average $6,345, typically ranging from $5,100 to $7,600, according to The Zola Wedding Cost Index. Seasonal flower choices and arrangement complexity significantly impact your final costs.

Factors that affect floral pricing:

• Seasonality: Out-of-season flowers require importing and cost more
• Arrangement complexity: Elaborate installations require more labor and materials
• Number of pieces: Bouquets, centerpieces, and ceremony arrangements add up quickly

Wedding planning services average $4,047, ranging from $3,200 to $4,900. Full-service planning costs more than day-of coordination, but both can save you stress and often money through vendor relationships.

Hair and makeup services are more budget-friendly, averaging $982 with typical costs between $800 and $1,200.

How Wedding Costs Vary by Location (State)

Location dramatically affects wedding costs, with some cities costing more than double others. In San Francisco, California, couples spend around $84,649 for a 150-guest wedding, while the same celebration in Milwaukee, Wisconsin costs approximately $42,571.

Several factors drive these regional differences beyond basic cost of living. Urban areas typically have higher venue rental costs and more expensive vendor services due to demand.

Here is the average wedding cost range by state:

State	Budget Range
Alabama	$25,000 - $37,600
Alaska	$29,600 - $44,300
Arizona	$28,800 - $43,300
Arkansas	$21,600 - $32,400
California	$34,500 - $51,700
Colorado	$27,000 - $40,400
Connecticut	$31,500 - $47,300
Delaware	$21,900 - $32,900
Florida	$25,200 - $37,800
Georgia	$25,500 - $38,300
Hawaii	$31,800 - $47,700
Idaho	$20,700 - $31,000
Illinois	$32,000 - $48,000
Indiana	$21,500 - $32,300
Iowa	$23,800 - $35,700
Kansas	$18,100 - $27,100
Kentucky	$24,000 - $36,000
Louisiana	$23,800 - $35,700
Maine	$30,600 - $45,900
Maryland	$29,700 - $44,500
Massachusetts	$34,100 - $51,100
Michigan	$25,500 - $38,300
Minnesota	$24,100 - $36,100
Mississippi	$20,700 - $31,100
Missouri	$23,100 - $34,700
Montana	$29,900 - $44,800
Nebraska	$22,500 - $33,800
Nevada	$36,600 - $54,800
New Hampshire	$33,300 - $49,900
New Jersey	$32,800 - $49,200
New Mexico	$20,800 - $31,300
New York	$43,400 - $65,100
North Carolina	$25,700 - $38,500
Ohio	$22,700 - $34,000
Oklahoma	$18,900 - $28,300
Oregon	$24,800 - $37,300
Pennsylvania	$25,800 - $38,700
Rhode Island	$28,600 - $42,900
South Carolina	$25,900 - $38,800
South Dakota	$20,100 - $30,100
Tennessee	$24,300 - $36,500
Texas	$25,400 - $38,100
Utah	$19,700 - $29,600
Vermont	$29,300 - $43,900
Virginia	$29,000 - $43,400
Washington	$26,100 - $39,100
West Virginia	$25,400 - $38,100
Wisconsin	$23,500 - $35,300
Wyoming	$41,000 - $61,500

Data based on The Zola Wedding Cost Index, with ranges provided to reflect typical price variations.

Wedding costs in major metropolitan cities

If you are planning to get married in a major city center, it’s important to understand costs may be above the national or state average. High demand, labor costs, and venue premiums in these hubs often increase the budget.

Here is a look at the average cost for a wedding with 150 guests in key U.S. cities:

City	Average Cost (150 Guests)
Atlanta, GA	$48,555
Brooklyn, NY	$94,787
Dallas, TX	$48,096
Denver, CO	$48,616
Kansas City, MO	$42,135
Los Angeles, CA	$66,832
Manhattan, NY	$99,452
Miami, FL	$47,786
Philadelphia, PA	$49,725
Phoenix, AZ	$52,732
Provo, UT	$34,866
San Francisco, CA	$84,649
Tulsa, OK	$33,891
Washington, DC	$62,864

What affects regional pricing:

• Venue availability: Popular wedding destinations command premium pricing
• Vendor competition: Areas with more vendors often offer competitive rates
• Transportation costs: Remote locations may require additional travel fees
• Local regulations: Some cities require special permits or insurance

When researching costs in your area, get quotes from multiple vendors in your specific location. National averages provide a starting point, but local pricing gives you the real picture for your planning.

How Guest Count Impacts Your Total Cost

Your guest count directly affects most wedding expenses, making it one of your biggest budget decisions. Many wedding costs are calculated on a per-person basis, meaning every additional guest multiplies your expenses across multiple categories.

Guest count affects these major cost areas:

• Catering and bar service: Direct per-person costs that scale exactly with headcount
• Venue size requirements: More guests often mean larger, more expensive venues
• Rental needs: More tables, chairs, linens, and place settings
• Invitation quantities: Save-the-dates, invitations, and thank-you cards

Some expenses remain relatively fixed regardless of guest count. Photography, videography, and music costs depend more on hours of coverage and service level than the number of people attending.

Consider your guest count carefully early in planning. Reducing your list by 20 people could save you thousands of dollars that you can allocate to other priorities like better photography or upgraded catering.

“We know that economic anxiety is weighing on a lot of people right now, but for our couples, a wedding is so much more than a party. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime milestone that’s worth investing in. They aren't shying away from the day they’ve always wanted; they’re just being more intentional about their trade-offs so they can focus on what really matters.” — Samantha Kobrin, Director of Brand at Zola

Hidden Costs & Financial Trade-Offs

What couples are giving up to afford the day

To make the $36,000 budget work, couples are making some sacrifices. 59% of couples say they are delaying buying a home to pay for their wedding, and 52% are pausing other major life milestones, according to our 2026 First Look Report.

It is a tough trade-off, but for many, the wedding is viewed as a non-negotiable life experience that brings their community together.

Hidden costs that can bust your budget

Most couples encounter unexpected expenses that weren't in their original planning. Understanding these potential costs helps you budget more accurately from the start and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Common overlooked wedding expenses:

• Service charges and gratuities: Often 18-22% of vendor costs
• Delivery and setup fees: Can add $200-500 per specific vendors
• Overtime charges: When your celebration runs longer than contracted time
• Weather contingencies: Tents, heaters, or backup plans for outdoor events
• Alteration and preservation: For wedding attire after purchase
• Trial sessions: Hair, makeup, and cake tasting appointments

Tax and insurance requirements also surprise many couples. Most venues require additional liability insurance, and sales tax applies to most wedding services. These expenses typically add 10-15% to your overall budget.

Marriage license fees and officiant costs are legal requirements that couples sometimes forget when budgeting. While these aren't huge expenses, they're necessary for making your marriage official.

How to fund the wedding (cash funds & savings)

While family often helps, 88% of couples are contributing their own money, either fully (29%) or partially (59%). So, how are couples paying for it?

• Savings: 47% of couples are relying on a combination of long-term savings and monthly income to pay for their big day.
• Credit Cards: 31% of couples are optimizing credit cards to manage expenses and earn rewards or cash back on large purchases.
• Registry: 25% of couples are now adding cash funds to their registry to help cover wedding costs or honeymoon expenses.

The "social media tax": why you might spend more

Social media is a huge source of inspiration, but it also comes with a price tag. 48% of couples admit they increased their budget specifically to achieve a "look" or trend they saw online.

This "Social Media Tax" is most obvious in the floral and decor category. The average spend on flowers is now $6,345, driven by visuals like elaborate arches and floral installations seen on TikTok and Instagram. If staying on budget is your priority, try to separate "must-haves" from "viral trends."

Smart Ways to Save Without Sacrificing Your Vision

Strategic planning can significantly reduce your wedding costs without compromising the celebration you envision. The key is making informed choices about where to spend and where to save based on your personal priorities.

Timing offers some of the biggest saving opportunities. Weekend dates in winter or weekday celebrations can save 20-30% on most vendor costs. Many venues and vendors offer significant discounts for off-peak dates.

Money-saving strategies that work:

• Guest list management: Each guest typically costs $150-300 in combined expenses
• Venue selection: Choose locations with built-in ambiance to reduce decoration needs
• Seasonal choices: In-season flowers and foods cost significantly less
• Package deals: Many vendors offer discounts for bundled services
• Payment timing: Some vendors offer early booking discounts

DIY opportunities work best for items that don't require professional expertise. Consider handling your own wedding favors, welcome bags, or simple centerpieces. However, avoid DIY for complex items like wedding cakes or technical services where mistakes could be costly.

Vendor negotiations can yield surprising savings when approached professionally. Ask about payment plan options, off-season discounts, or package upgrades.

Your Wedding Budget Roadmap

Creating a realistic wedding budget starts with understanding what couples actually spend, not just industry estimates. Use the cost breakdowns provided as your starting point, then adjust based on your specific priorities and local market conditions.

Your next step is to track your spending with our budget tool to monitor expenses throughout the planning process. This prevents surprises and helps you make informed decisions when unexpected costs arise.

Start by getting quotes from vendors in your area to understand your local market. Focus first on your biggest expenses like venue and catering, which will consume the largest portion of your budget. Once you lock in these major costs, you can allocate the remaining budget to other categories.

Remember that going slightly over budget is normal and often worth it for your dream celebration. The key is making intentional choices about where those extra dollars go.

Ready to start planning? Explore wedding venues in your area to get accurate pricing for your specific location and guest count.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do most couples actually spend on their wedding venue?

Wedding venues cost an average of $8,573, typically ranging from $6,900 to $10,300, according to The Zola Wedding Cost Index. This represents about 17% of your total wedding budget and is usually your single largest expense.

What percentage of couples go over their original wedding budget?

Most couples (69%) exceed their initial wedding budget, with the majority reporting the additional spending was worthwhile for their celebration. Budget overruns typically occur due to hidden costs like service charges, gratuities, and last-minute additions.

How much should I expect to spend per wedding guest?

Budget approximately $150-300 per guest for a typical wedding, though this varies by location and service level. This estimate includes food, beverages, rentals, and other guest-dependent costs but doesn't cover fixed expenses like photography or music.

Which wedding vendors typically cost the most?

Your venue, catering, and bar services represent the largest expenses, often accounting for 40-45% of your total budget. Photography, videography, flowers, and wedding planning services make up the next tier of major costs, while items like cakes and hair/makeup represent smaller budget percentages.

How much more expensive are weddings in major cities?

Wedding costs vary significantly by location, with major metropolitan areas often costing double smaller cities. For example, a 150-guest wedding in San Francisco costs around $84,649 compared to $42,571 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, representing a difference of over $42,000 for identical guest counts.