Wedding Budget Breakdown Average US Cost 2026
📑 In this guide
The Core Formula
US avg wedding ~$30k (2024 refs); plan per 100 guests ~$5k.
All figures use 2026 published baselines: federal standard deduction $16,100 (single) / $32,200 (married filing jointly), Social Security wage base $184,500, and the FLSA 40-hour workweek (2,080 hours/year). For state-specific rates, see the State Money Data hub.
Step-by-Step: Running the Math Yourself
- Set guest count.
- Allocate: venue 40%, food 30%, rest.
- Use sinking fund.
- Avoid debt.
$30k/18mo = $1,667/mo saved.
Avg
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Total | ~$30k |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Biggest cost?
Venue + catering.
Q: Avoid debt?
Fund from savings.
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Educational estimate only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Verify with a CPA, tax professional, or state labor agency before acting. Data retrieved 2026-08-29.
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Sources & compliance. Work-hours and overtime calculators comply with official FLSA standards published by the U.S. Department of Labor, including the 40-hour workweek overtime threshold, 1.5× time-and-a-half pay, state-specific overtime regulations, and exempt/non-exempt employee criteria (29 CFR Part 541, effective May 15, 2026). All results are for educational estimation only and are not professional financial, legal, or tax advice. Updated 2026-08-29 by AllMoneyCalc Editorial.