Wedding budget calculator
Start with the total you can spend, divide it by your guest count to get your cost per guest, then split the total across categories. The average U.S. wedding in 2025 cost $34,000 with 117 guests, about $292 per guest, according to The Knot's 2026 Real Weddings Study. This calculator shows your numbers next to those.
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Your wedding budget
Example numbers are filled in. Replace them with yours.
Cost per guest
$278
Still to save
$17,000
Months to goal
15
Your cost per guest is $14 below the national average of $292 (The Knot 2026 Real Weddings Study (couples married in 2025)).
| Category | Share | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Venue, food and drinks | 45% | $11,250 |
| Photography and video | 12% | $3,000 |
| Attire, hair and makeup | 8% | $2,000 |
| Flowers and decor | 8% | $2,000 |
| Music and entertainment | 7% | $1,750 |
| Planner or coordinator | 5% | $1,250 |
| Transportation | 3% | $750 |
| Invitations and stationery | 2% | $500 |
| Favors and gifts | 2% | $500 |
| Contingency (tips, fees, surprises) | 8% | $2,000 |
How much does the average wedding cost?
The Knot's 2026 Real Weddings Study, based on more than 10,000 U.S. couples married in 2025, puts the average ceremony and reception cost at $34,000. The average guest count was 117, and the average cost per guest was $292.
An average hides a wide range. Treat it as a reference point, not a target.
| Measure | Average |
|---|---|
| Ceremony and reception cost | $34,000 |
| Guest count | 117 |
| Cost per guest | $292 |
How should I split my wedding budget?
Venue, food and drinks usually take the largest share because they scale with every guest. The calculator starts with the split below and shows the dollar amount for each line. Change the total or the guest count and every line updates.
Keep a contingency line. Tips, overtime fees, alterations and delivery charges are the costs that most often push couples over budget.
Why cost per guest matters most
Most wedding costs grow with the guest list: seats, meals, drinks, invitations and often the size of the venue. Cutting ten guests usually saves more than cutting a whole category like favors. Your cost per guest is the fastest way to see what each name on the list really costs.
Frequently asked questions
Does the budget include the engagement ring or honeymoon?
No. Like The Knot's average, this calculator covers the ceremony and reception. Plan the ring and the honeymoon as separate budgets.
How do I figure out how long to save?
Enter what you have already saved and what you can put aside each month. The calculator divides the amount still needed by your monthly savings and rounds up.
Is my data saved?
No. Everything runs in your browser and nothing is sent to us.