Catering Cost Calculator
Estimate your total catering bill including food, service, tax, and gratuity based on guest count, service style, and menu complexity.
Results
Visualization
How It Works
Wedding catering averages $75-$150 per person for a plated dinner. Always ask if quotes include service charges (18-22%) and tax (6-10%), which can add 30% to the base price.
The Formula
Grand Total = (Food Per Person + Bar Per Person) x (1 + Service% + Tax%) x Guests
Variables
- Food PP — Base per-person food cost by service style
- Service Charge — Typically 18-22%, goes to catering company (not a tip)
- Tax — Sales tax varies by state (6-10%)
Example
150 guests, plated mid-range + open bar: $75 food + $45 bar = $120. With 22% service + 8% tax: $156/person. Grand total: $23,400.
Tips
- Service charges are NOT tips — budget additional gratuity for servers
- Buffets cost 20-30% less than plated service
- Ask about minimum guarantees and overage policies
- Late-night snacks (pizza, tacos) are a crowd favorite for $5-10/person
- Request a tasting before signing the contract