The Average Wedding Cost, According to The Knot Data

We'll cut to the chase: You're looking for the average wedding cost to see how much you're about to spend on your celebration. You'll find that number here, backed by data from The Knot 2026 Real Weddings Study, which surveyed 10,474 US couples married in 2025, but we're also breaking down the main components that contribute to the sum. Get the details below on the average wedding cost in 2026. (P.S. The Knot Budget Advisor is a tool that teaches you all about the average cost of a wedding and it has specialized cost data on where you're getting married. Available on The Knot App, The Knot Budget Advisor allows couples to make a custom budget based on their needs, while also learning how those costs stack up to other weddings in the area.)

At a Glance

• The overall average wedding cost is $34,200, according to The Knot 2026 Real Weddings Study, an annual study conducted by The Knot that recently surveyed 10,474 US couples married in 2025.
• Key cost drivers that impact the average wedding cost include where a couple gets married (whether it's a destination or local wedding as well as the city, state and region they live in), their wedding season, their guest count, their age, who's paying for the wedding and what vendors they choose to hire.

In this article: Average Wedding Cost | Factors That Impact the Wedding Cost | How The Knot Calculated the Average Cost of a Wedding

What's the Average Cost of a Wedding?

The overall average wedding cost is $34,200, according to The Knot 2026 Real Weddings Study, an annual study conducted by The Knot that recently surveyed 10,474 US couples married in 2025. Key factors driving this cost are: location, size, season, age, who's paying and the amount of vendors hired. Though, do note that this average is exactly that, simply an average based on real weddings today. There are numerous nuances and factors of influence that'll change the average price of a wedding, especially the spending bracket a couple falls into.

How much does a wedding cost? Couples with budgets in the $0–$15K range spend $8,900 on average, couples with budgets in the $15,001–$40K range spend $26,400 on average and couples with budgets over $40K spend $70,300 on average. But there's no true set amount, so the average price can feel overly high or low, depending on the specifics of your celebration. (Not to mention: The marriage license cost is the only truly required wedding expense.)

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Annie Lee, founder of PLANNIE and principal planner of Daughter of Design, raises an interesting point regarding the average price of a wedding: "It's not like a height average where there's a limited range a human can physically grow," she notes. "You can spend $50 bucks on a marriage license and call it a day, or spend $5.5 million and have Adele perform at your wedding. There's no finite range, so the average can feel so off both ways. Some will think the average sounds so high or so wildly low. It's almost better to create an average within each type of wedding in each region rather than all weddings."

Factors That Impact the Wedding Cost

Key cost drivers that impact the average wedding cost include where a couple gets married (whether it's a destination or local wedding as well as the city, state and region they live in), their wedding season, their guest count, their age, who's paying for the wedding and what vendors they choose to hire.

Desireé Dent, a Chicago-based wedding planner and the owner of Dejanae Events, says: "The idea of an average wedding cost can be misleading, because weddings are highly personal and spending varies widely based on location, guest count and priorities. The average cost can serve as a great starting point, but every couple's budget will be unique to them." Get a closer look at each of the main factors that can contribute to the cost of a wedding below.

Wedding Location

Regionality affects the cost of a wedding. If you're wondering how much a destination wedding costs, it's worth noting that these events tend to be more expensive than hometown events. While destination weddings are often smaller than hometown weddings, the cost of travel, accommodations and other expenses can drive up the total.

How much do weddings cost by location? Discover the stats, based on proprietary data from The Knot:

• Average cost for hometown wedding: $32,600
• Average cost for domestic destination wedding: $41,700
• Average cost for international destination wedding: $43,700

Notably, throwing a wedding in a densely populated, expensive destination (a big city like NYC, San Francisco or Chicago, for example) costs more than it does in a smaller or less populated location (such as little towns in Idaho, West Virginia or Wyoming). As Terrica, a renowned business coach and the owner of Georgia-based Cocktails & Details, explains: "The cost of living, sourcing, shipping, etc. will greatly vary by state. Additionally, states may also have different labor laws that may also affect pricing."

Wondering where the most expensive places to get married are? See the average cost of a wedding broken down by state below, sourced from The Knot 2026 Real Weddings Study. Note that this is just the cost of the ceremony and reception, and doesn't include the engagement ring.

Design: Tiana Crispino

How much does the average wedding cost in every state? Here's each one's average wedding price, according to data from The Knot 2026 Real Weddings Study:

Alabama: $27,000	Alaska: $19,000
Arizona: $27,000	Arkansas: $19,000
California: $39,000	Colorado: $31,000
Connecticut: $42,000	Delaware: $39,000
Florida: $33,000	Georgia: $29,000
Hawaii: $33,000	Idaho: $18,000
Illinois: $38,000	Indiana: $24,000
Iowa: $21,000	Kansas: $20,000
Kentucky: $23,000	Louisiana: $34,000
Maine: $37,000	Maryland: $38,000
Massachusetts: $45,000	Michigan: $29,000
Minnesota: $28,000	Mississippi: $21,000
Missouri: $26,000	Montana: $21,000
Nebraska: $22,000	Nevada: $21,000
New Hampshire: $37,000	New Jersey: $57,000
New Mexico: $22,000	New York: $49,000
North Carolina: $29,000	North Dakota: $22,000
Ohio: $28,000	Oklahoma: $19,000
Oregon: $23,000	Pennsylvania: $36,000
Rhode Island: $51,000	South Carolina: $35,000
South Dakota: $21,000	Tennessee: $24,000
Texas: $31,000	Utah: $18,000
Vermont: $47,000	Virginia: $34,000
Washington: $26,000	West Virginia: $19,000
Wisconsin: $29,000	Wyoming: $17,000

Maybe you haven't yet decided on a state in which to wed, but you know the general part of the country where you'd like to get married. Here's a look at the average wedding cost by region of the US, based on proprietary data from The Knot:

• Average cost for wedding in New England/the Northeast: $46,600
• Average cost for wedding in the Mid-Atlantic: $48,400
• Average cost for wedding in the Midwest: $29,000
• Average cost for wedding in the South/the Southeast: $31,300
• Average cost for wedding in the Southwest: $30,800
• Average cost for wedding in the West: $31,300

As noted above, hosting a wedding in a big city can be more costly than in a small town. Here's what our data (via The Knot 2026 Real Weddings Study) shows for the average wedding cost in some of the biggest cities across the US (Note: This is the cost of the ceremony and reception, excluding the engagement ring).

Discover the average cost of a wedding US couples can expect in major cities across the nation, based on proprietary data from The Knot:

• Average Wedding Cost in New York City: $88,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Los Angeles: $45,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Chicago: $54,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Houston: $33,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Phoenix: $27,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Philadelphia: $40,000
• Average Wedding Cost in San Antonio: $26,000
• Average Wedding Cost in San Diego: $38,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Dallas: $32,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Austin, TX: $37,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Jacksonville, FL: $32,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Columbus, OH: $30,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Charlotte, NC: $32,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Indianapolis: $25,000
• Average Wedding Cost in San Francisco: $51,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Seattle: $31,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Denver: $31,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Oklahoma City: $21,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Nashville, TN: $29,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Washington, DC: $42,000
• Average Wedding Cost in El Paso, TX: $20,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Las Vegas: $22,000
• Average Wedding Cost in Boston: $51,000

Guest Count

The Knot 2026 Real Weddings Study found that the average cost per wedding guest is $292 and the average wedding guest count is 117. Your guest list is one of the biggest factors in determining how much you'll spend on your wedding. It goes without saying, but the more people you invite, the more you'll spend. What's the average wedding cost for 50 guests? Typically, that'll be less than the average wedding cost for 100 guests. If you're working on cutting down on wedding expenses, one of the best actions you can take is trimming your guest list.

However, it's important to note that not all wedding costs are variable based on the number of guests attending. Some expenses are fixed (meaning: they'll cost the same for a 100-person wedding and for a 200-person wedding). "A DJ's or photographer's costs will be the same regardless of the number of guests you have, whereas a caterer's, baker's or rental pro's will not," says Terrica. Keep in mind that, even within variable costs, there's a lot of room for customization and cost differences. Wedding planner Jennifer Price, owner of Event Shopper Chicago, explains: "A five-course tapas-style meal for 60 people won't cost the same as a plain chicken dinner for 125 guests."

Here are some helpful statistics from The Knot that show how guest count affects the average cost of a wedding in the US:

• How much does a wedding cost for 1–50 guests? $17,100
• How much does a wedding cost for 51–100 guests? $27,200
• How much does a wedding cost for over 100 guests? $43,300

Vendor Selection

The number and types of vendors hired is one of the most important factors in determining your wedding budget breakdown. According to proprietary data from The Knot, couples hire 13 wedding vendors on average. But not all 13 vendors will have the same prices, so understanding the why behind wedding costs is critical to seeing the full picture with these numbers. It's always best to research wedding vendors near you and ask them about their specific rates (and what those rates include). This The Knot data reveals exactly what couples spent on different wedding vendors last year on average.

Terrica advises couples to "know your hierarchy of needs versus wants and find strategic ways to allocate your money in those categories." Work with your partner to figure out what's most important. This may be having amazing food and a killer band, or going over the top on flowers and decor. This list of priorities will help you make decisions and decide where to splurge and save. And by the way, a wedding planner will ensure that you stay on track throughout the planning process and source vendors that are within your price range. Yes, a planner may be an additional expense, but it's well worth it. "A wedding planner can help couples maximize their budgets by finding out what their hierarchy of needs are and identifying cost-saving measures," says Terrica.

How much is a wedding when broken down by vendors hired? Discover the average cost of wedding vendors, according to data from The Knot 2026 Real Weddings Study:

• Average cost of wedding reception venue: $12,900
• Average cost of wedding photographer: $3,000
• Average cost of wedding/event planner: $2,100
• Average cost of reception live band: $4,500
• Average cost of reception DJ: $1,800
• Average cost of flowers: $2,800
• Average cost of videographer: $2,300
• Average cost of wedding dress: $2,100
• Average cost of wedding cake: $540
• Average cost of catering (per person): $80
• Average cost of transportation: $1,100
• Average cost of favors: $480
• Average cost of wedding invitations and stationery: $510
• Average cost of hairstylist (price for one to-be-wed): $150
• Average cost of makeup artist (price for one to-be-wed): $150
• Average cost of officiant: $260
• Average cost of alcohol: $2,800
• Average cost of additional jewelry: $390
• Average cost of additional, non-musical entertainment: $1,500
• Average cost of event rentals: $2,000
• Average cost of lighting and decor: $1,900
• Average cost of wedding rings: $3,000

Additionally, some costs that you'll likely incur during planning are typically excluded from the main price when asking: "How much is the average wedding?" Here are additional costs to consider beyond the scope of the average cost of a wedding, according to proprietary data from The Knot:

• Average cost of rehearsal dinner: $2,800
• Average cost of engagement ring: $4,600
• Average cost of honeymoon: $5,500

With the higher costs and shortages hitting the wedding industry, flexibility is key—and your vendors can and will help guide you. Yes, you may be obsessed with peonies, but if your florist suggests less-expensive blooms as a cheap wedding idea to help you save, be open. Listening to your vendors and trusting their expertise is especially important right now—remember, they're here to help.

Wedding Season

How much does a normal wedding cost? Another element that impacts the average US wedding cost is the time of year you choose to say "I do," both the month and the season. In the same way that a trip to the beach is going to cost more during the summer than the winter, a wedding that takes place during prime wedding season will cost more than an off-season wedding. This is how average wedding cost varies by time of year, according to proprietary data from The Knot:

• Average cost for January–March wedding: $33,200
• Average cost for April–June wedding: $34,300
• Average cost for July–September wedding: $35,400
• Average cost for October–December wedding: $33,200

Regardless of what wedding month you select, the earlier you can start to plan, the better. You'll have your pick of venues and wedding pros that fit your budget, rather than scrambling to find someone that works within your desired price range. You'll also be able to lock in prices for certain products and services now, so that even if inflation drives rates up, your contract will stay the same. Additionally, tighter planning timelines mean rush fees and other last-minute charges that bring costs up.

Age of Couple

The data from The Knot 2026 Real Weddings Study reveals that generation is one key differentiating factor when it comes to how much a wedding costs. Which makes sense—different generations have varied priorities that affect how they want their celebrations to come to life. And income levels definitely vary widely between age groups. Here's a look at the average wedding cost by generation, according to proprietary data from The Knot:

• Average wedding cost for Gen Z: $30,000
• Average wedding cost for millennials: $39,600
• Average wedding cost for Gen X: $23,000

If the Couple Is Paying

Another factor that carries weight in the average wedding cost conversation: the party paying for the wedding. "When it comes to who's paying, it's clear that couples contributing more of their own funds are being more mindful of spending," notes Dent. "This aligns with what I see in my own experience with couples that are paying for their entire wedding. Those couples tend to be more selective about what they splurge on versus where they cut costs." Discover how the average wedding cost shifts based on who's paying the bill, according to proprietary data from The Knot:

• Couples pays for the minority: $39,600
• Couple pays for the majority: $29,700
• Couple pays for all: $25,500

Whether you're splitting costs with another party or not, sit down with your partner and any financial contributors (family members, etc.) to create a realistic total wedding spending plan. You can utilize a wedding budget planner to help the process run smoothly. The Knot Budget Advisor makes it easy to learn about what couples typically spend in the area where you're marrying. Plus, you can edit and customize the numbers to fit your needs. Pro tip: If possible, reserve 5% of your budget as a "just in case" fund to help avoid overspending (which is very common, btw).

How The Knot Calculated the Average Cost of a Wedding

The Knot calculated the average cost of a wedding using The Knot 2026 Real Wedding Study. The Knot Real Weddings Study captured responses from 10,474 US couples married between January 1 and December 31, 2025; respondents were recruited via email invitation from The Knot and/or WeddingWire membership throughout the year 2025. Respondents represent adult couples from all over the country within various ethnicities, income levels, races, ages (18+), sexual orientations and gender identities. To provide the most comprehensive view of 2025 wedding industry trends, this report also includes statistics on weddings from ad-hoc studies conducted throughout the year, among both engaged and newlywed couples. In a typical year, The Knot Worldwide conducts research with more than 100,000 couples, guests and wedding professionals globally.

Addressing the discussion of how The Knot calculated the average cost of a wedding today may leave you wondering how much weddings cost in years past. Overall, the cost has increased: "The cost of items—such as consumables and hard goods have gone up universally, so for some vendors, performing a service or providing a product may not be as cost effective as it once was," explains Terrica. "Additionally, providing staff with a livable and competitive wage also plays a role in final costs necessary to produce an event."

Here's a look at the average US wedding cost over the last few years, according to proprietary data from The Knot:

• Average wedding cost 2024: $33,000
• Average wedding cost 2023: $35,000
• Average wedding cost 2022: $30,000
• Average wedding cost 2021: $28,000
• Average wedding cost 2020: $19,000
• Average wedding cost 2019: $28,000

So, how much does a wedding cost? As we've shown above, that answer varies greatly as you work with expert wedding pros to plan a wedding that's uniquely your own. Dent imparts this advice on to-be-weds: "Couples should remember there are tons of ways to create a stunning and memorable wedding celebration without breaking the bank. Planning ahead will allow you to do the research."

Additional reporting by Cathryn Haight.