Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. According to a 2025 study by The Knot, the average cost of a wedding in the United States is around $33,000, with the venue taking up almost 37% of that budget. That’s a whopping ~$12,000 just on the venue alone! Yikes! So, whether you’re dreaming of a grand ballroom or a charming barn, understanding venue costs early on will help you plan your perfect day while still keeping it budget-friendly.
Understanding wedding venue costs
When it comes to wedding venues, costs can vary widely based on location, type of venue, and time of year. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to be aware of.
- Location Matters: Venues in major cities like New York or San Francisco will typically cost more than those in rural areas or smaller towns. (Even though there are some dreamy small towns, like Mendocino, California, that have become popular wedding venue locations, thanks to Instagram, and then those prices hike up.)
- Type of Venue: Luxury hotels and historic estates tend to be more expensive than community centers or public parks.
- Season: Peak wedding season (usually late spring through early fall) will generally have higher costs than, say, the dead of winter.
- Day of the Week: Yes, the day of the week matters. I mean, who wants to get married on a Wednesday? To no one’s surprise, Saturdays are the most expensive times to book a venue.
Understanding these variables can help you decide what’s most important for your wedding and where you might be able to save.
Average cost by venue type
Hometown venues were 23% of couples’ venues of choice in 2025, current location weddings were 6 in 10, and destination venues were at about 18%. Interestingly, 82% of couples reported that they hired the venue vendor first. And, obviously, different venues come with different price tags. Here’s a look at the average costs for some popular options:
- Hotel Ballrooms: $5,000 – $15,000
- Barns and Farms: $2,000 – $10,000
- Historic Estates: $4,000 – $20,000
- Beachfront Venues: $3,000 – $12,000
- Community Centers: $500 – $3,000
Choosing a venue type that fits your budget is crucial. However, if you’re looking to save, think outside the wedding box and consider less traditional options. Think: Your friend who has a really awesome backyard, a local garden, a beach, or even a park.
Additional venue costs to consider
Booking the venue is just the beginning. Here are some additional costs that can add up quickly and are easily overlooked:
- Catering: Some venues require you to use their in-house catering services, which can be costly. Get the numbers required per guest and be aware of extras, such as tips, taxes, or other hidden fees related to catering.
- Rentals: Don’t forget about tables, chairs, linens, and other rentals that might not be included in the venue fee.
- Decorations and Lighting: Personalizing your space with flowers, lighting, and other decor can significantly increase your costs. Be sure to check what’s involved and the timing for when this can be done.
Make sure to budget for these extras when planning your venue costs to avoid any eye-opening surprises.
Tips for saving on venue costs
Weddings are expensive, but there are ways to cut costs without sacrificing your dream day. Here are some tips:
- Off-Peak Discounts: Consider getting married in the off-season or on a weekday for potential discounts. Hey, maybe getting married on a Wednesday isn’t so bad if you can book it the Wednesday before a holiday or another time when many of your guests will be able to take off.
- All-Inclusive Packages: Some venues offer packages that include everything from catering to decor, which can be more cost-effective.
- Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate with your venue for a better rate or additional perks. Heck, some smaller or newer venues may even hike up the prices, knowing that the guests will negotiate them down a bit.
With a little flexibility and savvy planning, you can find ways to reduce your venue costs. The other harsh truth is that numbers matter, and the bigger the guest list, the bigger your budget will need to be. Weigh up what’s most important to you.
A real-life example of a couple’s budget-friendly wedding venue
Meet Sienna and Corey, a couple who managed to have their dream wedding on a budget by utilizing several of the cost-saving tips above. For example, choosing a local park for their ceremony and a community center for their reception. They saved thousands by marrying on a Friday in October and using DIY decor inspired by Pinterest.
Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the costs:
- Venue Cost: $1,500 for both locations (the local park and community center)
- Catering: $3,000 (a local BBQ joint)
- Decor: $500 (DIY)
Sarah and John’s story shows that with creativity and smart choices, you can have a beautiful wedding without overspending.
The bottom line on the average wedding venue costs
Planning a wedding venue within your budget is possible with a little research and flexibility. It may not be your Hollywood remake, but it’s your special day to celebrate your commitment to each other. Above all else, that should be what matters most. By understanding the factors that influence costs and being open to exploring various options, you will find the perfect place to say “I do” without added financial stress. Remember, your wedding day is about celebrating love and commitment, and the perfect venue is the one that makes you feel special.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about wedding venue costs
Here are some more deets on wedding costs.
Q: What is the most expensive part of a wedding?
A: The venue is often the most expensive part of a wedding, accounting for a significant portion of the overall budget.
Q: Can you negotiate wedding venue prices?
A: Yes, many venues are open to negotiation, especially if you’re booking during the off-season or on a less popular day of the week.
Q: How far in advance should you book your wedding venue?
A: It’s advisable to book your venue at least a year in advance to ensure you get your desired date and location, or at least 6-9 months if you’re going off-season.
Q: Are there hidden fees to watch out for?
A: Yes! Be sure to ask about service charges, taxes, and any additional fees for setup, cleanup, or overtime.
Q: What questions should you ask when touring a venue?
A: First, have a clear understanding of what your non-negotiables are for your venue and what your budget is. Then find out:
- What is included in the venue rental fee?
- What’s provided in-house and what needs to be outsourced?
- Are there any restrictions on decor or vendors?
- What is the backup plan in case of bad weather?
- What happens to your deposit if another lockdown were to happen?
Asking the right questions and reading the fine print can help you avoid unexpected costs and ensure your day goes smoothly without any unnecessary stress.
Laura Tynan is the founder of The Witch of Wall Street, a personal finance and investing community, where women are shown how to manage, multiply and manifest money, using simple strategies. Laura holds a BSc Hons in Finance, is a Chartered Accountant, and is certified in EFT Tapping, Breathwork, and RRT. She has been recognized by the Financial Times as a Top 20 Future Female Leader and by Yahoo! Finance as a Global Champion of Women in Business. She is a multi-award-winning speaker who has spoken at, and been featured in, Forbes. Laura hosts The Witch of Wall Street podcast and is the author of the personal finance and investing book for women, by the same name, which is available now on Amazon.
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