What Is the Average Cost of a Wedding on Long Island? A Complete Budget Guide for Couples

Jan 24, 2026 01:17 PM Back

Planning a wedding on Long Island is an exciting experience, but one of the first questions most couples ask is: “How much does a wedding on Long Island actually cost?” With its iconic waterfront venues, elegant Gold Coast estates, and all-inclusive catering halls, Long Island offers incredible options — at a range of price points.

Here’s a realistic breakdown of what couples can expect when budgeting for a Long Island wedding.

The Average Cost of a Long Island Wedding

The average wedding on Long Island typically costs between $60,000 and $85,000, though this number can go higher or lower depending on guest count, season, and overall style. Weddings with 150–250 guests are common, and many venues offer per-person pricing rather than à la carte rentals.

Most Long Island catering halls and wedding venues charge between $150 and $300+ per guest, which often includes far more than just food.

What’s Usually Included in Long Island Wedding Venues

One of the biggest advantages of hosting a wedding on Long Island is the availability of all-inclusive wedding packages. These often include:

Cocktail hour and reception catering
Open bar packages
Wedding cake or dessert options
Tables, chairs, linens, and basic décor
Professional waitstaff and event coordination
Bridal suite access and photo-friendly grounds

These packages simplify planning and help couples avoid surprise expenses that are common in blank-slate venues.

Typical Wedding Budget Breakdown

While every wedding is different, here’s how many Long Island couples allocate their budget:

Venue & Catering: 40–50%
Entertainment (DJ or Band): 10–15%
Photography & Videography: 10–15%
Flowers & Décor: 8–12%
Attire, Beauty & Accessories: 5–8%
Transportation & Extras: 5–10%

Choosing experienced Long Island wedding vendors often saves time, stress, and money — especially vendors familiar with your venue.

Ways to Save on a Long Island Wedding

Couples looking to manage costs without sacrificing style may consider:

Off-peak dates, such as January through March
Friday or Sunday weddings, which often come with reduced pricing
Winter weddings, which are growing in popularity on Long Island
Smaller guest lists or micro-weddings
Prioritizing what matters most (food, music, photos) and trimming extras

Many venues also offer seasonal promotions or incentives for booking early.

Is a Long Island Wedding Worth the Cost?

For many couples, the answer is yes. Long Island weddings are known for exceptional hospitality, high-quality cuisine, and stunning locations — all within close proximity to New York City. The combination of experienced vendors, all-inclusive options, and beautiful backdrops makes planning easier and results in a polished, memorable celebration.

Whether you envision a grand ballroom affair, a waterfront ceremony, or an intimate estate wedding, Long Island offers options to suit a wide range of budgets and styles.

The cost of a wedding on Long Island reflects the level of service, convenience, and elegance the region is known for. With thoughtful planning and the right team of vendors, couples can create a wedding day that feels luxurious, personal, and truly unforgettable.

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