Key Wedding Budget Statistics
- Average US wedding cost: $35,000
- Most expensive state: New York ($58,000)
- Most affordable state: Mississippi ($21,000)
- Venue & catering: 40% of budget
Budget Allocation Tips
- Keep 5-10% as a contingency buffer
- Prioritize what matters most to you
- Book vendors at least 9-12 months ahead
- Remember: tips for vendors add 15-20%
Frequently Asked Questions
Our calculator uses industry-standard budget percentages based on data from thousands of weddings. The state-by-state cost data is updated annually using surveys from wedding industry sources. While your actual costs may vary based on specific vendors and choices, this provides an excellent starting framework.
Wedding costs vary by state due to differences in cost of living, venue availability, vendor competition, and local market demand. Major metropolitan areas like New York City, San Francisco, and Boston typically have higher costs, while rural areas and states with lower costs of living offer more affordable options.
The average US wedding cost in 2024-2025 is approximately $35,000, though this varies significantly by location. This average includes all wedding-related expenses like venue, catering, photography, attire, and entertainment.
These percentages are guidelines based on typical weddings. Feel free to adjust based on your priorities. If photography is most important to you, allocate more there. If you're having a backyard wedding, you might spend less on venue and more on decor.
This calculator covers the main wedding day expenses. Additional costs to consider include engagement ring, honeymoon, wedding party gifts, marriage license, and post-wedding celebrations like a next-day brunch.