💍 Introduction
Weddings are evolving—and fast. While Google might tell you the average wedding budget in 2025 is somewhere between $29,000 and $35,000, that number barely scratches the surface.
Are you in California or Louisiana? Are you inviting 50 people or 150? Are you eloping in a backyard or renting a ballroom?
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all price tag. But there is a smarter way to understand where those numbers come from—and how to plan a wedding budget that actually fits your life, your income, and your priorities.
So let’s break down the real numbers, the big myths, and the tools you can use to create a budget that works.
The Average Wedding Cost in 2025 (And Why It’s Misleading)
According to recent national data, the average wedding in the U.S. in 2025 is expected to cost between $30,000 and $33,000. That includes everything from venue and catering to attire, florals, entertainment, and photography.
But here’s the problem: that number is averaged across every state, from big city luxury weddings to small-town backyard affairs. It’s also inflated by big-ticket events in major metros.
💡 Reality check: Nearly half of U.S. couples spend under $25,000—and a growing number are planning full weddings on $15,000–$20,000 or less.
📍 Want to explore weddings under $20K?
👉 See what a $20,000 wedding looks like in Louisiana
Where the Money Actually Goes (Wedding Budget Breakdown)
If you’re planning a traditional wedding, here’s how most couples allocate their spending:
| Category | % of Total Budget |
|---|---|
| Venue & Catering | 35–50% |
| Photography & Video | 10–15% |
| Attire & Beauty | 8–10% |
| Planner / Coordination | 5–8% |
| Entertainment | 7–10% |
| Décor & Florals | 6–8% |
| Stationery & Favors | 2–4% |
| Misc + Buffer | 5–10% |
📌 Want your own numbers?
👉 Use the Wedding Budget Estimator to see how your guest count and region impact the numbers instantly.
Wedding Budgets by Region (How Much It Costs by State)
The cost of a wedding is heavily tied to where you live (or where you’re getting married).
Here’s a quick look at how average wedding budgets vary in 2025:
| City / Region | Estimated Avg. Cost |
|---|---|
| New York City | $45,000+ |
| California (LA/SF) | $38,000–42,000 |
| Texas (Austin, Dallas) | $27,000–33,000 |
| Louisiana | $18,000–25,000 |
| Florida | $25,000–30,000 |
💡 In places like Lafayette or Lake Charles, couples are still pulling off full-service weddings under $20K—especially if they trim the guest list or avoid peak season.
📍 Curious how far your budget goes in Louisiana?
👉 Explore venues by city here
How to Build a Wedding Budget That Actually Works
You don’t need a giant wedding or a tiny one. You need a realistic one.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Start with Your Income & Timeline
Use your actual monthly savings potential—not vibes.
👉 Use our Wedding Savings Calculator
2. Pick Your Non-Negotiables
Love photography? Need a full dinner? Choose your top 2–3 priorities and protect that part of the budget.
3. Match the Guest Count to the Budget
This is the big one. Don’t plan for 150 if your budget says 75.
4. Build a Simple Budget Plan
👉 Use our Free Wedding Budget Calculator to assign percentages and categories with one click.
Free Tools to Build Your Budget
We’ve created a complete set of wedding budget tools to help couples just like you:
- ✅ Wedding Budget Calculator – plan by category
- ✅ Wedding Budget Estimator – plug in guests & see totals
- ✅ Wedding Savings Calculator – calculate monthly savings
- ✅ $20K Budget Breakdown for Louisiana Cities
Frequently Asked Questions About Wedding Budgets in 2025
How much does the average wedding cost in 2025?
About $30,000 nationwide—but that varies widely by state and guest count.
Can I plan a full wedding for under $20K?
Absolutely. Especially in places like Louisiana or Texas, $15–20K weddings are not only possible—they’re common.
What’s the cheapest way to cut costs?
Trim the guest list, consider off-peak seasons, and simplify décor or paper goods.
How much should I save monthly for a wedding?
Depends on your timeline. 👉 Use this calculator to get your savings target per month.
Is a wedding planner worth it on a budget?
A good day-of coordinator can actually save you money and stress. Full-service planners are best for larger budgets.
🎯 Final Thoughts + CTA
The average wedding budget in 2025 is just that—an average. Don’t let it stress you out. Use it as a baseline, then build a wedding that fits your values, your people, and your vibe.
📌 Need a plan that fits your exact numbers?
👉 Try our free wedding budget calculator or
👉 Estimate your total budget in 30 seconds
Your wedding can be unforgettable without being unaffordable.
According to The Knot’s recent survey, the average U.S. wedding cost continues to hover around $30,000, though that number varies widely by region and guest count.