How Much Does the Average Wedding Cost in San Diego?
As photographers in San Diego, we get asked the same questions again and again — not only by our clients, but also in wedding Facebook groups and blog threads that we follow. Couples want clarity, because the numbers they hear can feel all over the place. Questions like:
How much does the average wedding cost in San Diego?
Is $10,000 a good budget for a wedding?
Is a $5,000 wedding even possible?
What is a realistic budget for a 100-person wedding?
If you’ve been asking yourself the same, you’re not alone. Let’s break down the numbers, clear up the confusion, and answer each one directly.
Average Wedding Cost in San Diego
San Diego is one of the most desirable wedding destinations in California, and costs reflect that. On average, couples spend:
$37,000 to $50,000+ for a standard wedding in San Diego.
Luxury weddings can climb to $100,000 or more depending on the venue, catering, and guest count.
Biggest Expenses
Venue & Catering: Often 40–50% of the total budget. Expect $12,000–$20,000+ depending on location and headcount.
Photography & Videography: Professional coverage ranges from $3,000–$7,000.
Florals & Décor: $3,000–$10,000 depending on scale.
Other Essentials: Attire, rentals, entertainment, and planning support quickly add up.
Is $10,000 a Good Budget for a Wedding in San Diego?
Yes — but only if you scale your expectations. A $10,000 wedding in San Diego is considered budget-conscious, and usually works best for:
Courthouse or backyard weddings.
Micro weddings with under 30 guests.
Prioritizing photography, attire, and a small dinner instead of a full banquet.
Couples who make $10,000 work typically keep the guest list small, find affordable venues, or skip extras like large floral installs and luxury rentals.
Is a $5,000 Wedding Possible?
Absolutely — but it requires major flexibility. A $5,000 budget often looks like:
An intimate ceremony at a courthouse or park (permit fees only).
A dinner at a restaurant instead of a catered reception.
DIY décor and a smaller dress or suit budget.
Hiring a photographer for just a few hours.
If your goal is intimacy and simplicity, a $5,000 San Diego wedding can be beautiful. Think quality over quantity.
What Is a Realistic Budget for a 100-Person Wedding in San Diego?
A 100-person wedding in San Diego typically costs between $30,000–$45,000.
Here’s a sample breakdown:
Venue & Catering: $20,000+ (assuming $200+ per guest with food, drinks, and service fees).
Photography: $3,000–$5,000.
Florals/Décor: $5,000+.
Entertainment, Rentals, Miscellaneous: $5,000–$10,000.
Of course, your numbers can adjust depending on whether you choose an all-inclusive venue, stick to beer and wine instead of full bar, or cut back on extras like videography.
Tips for Saving on Your San Diego Wedding
Consider weekdays or off-season dates. Venues and vendors often offer discounts outside peak weekends.
Trim your guest list. Every person adds to food, drinks, rentals, and invites.
Bundle vendors. Some venues include catering, rentals, and coordination in one package.
Prioritize what matters most. If photography and memories are your priority, save on florals or bar service.
Recap
Average San Diego wedding: $37,000–$50,000+.
$10,000 budget: Possible for micro weddings or simple venues.
$5,000 wedding: Very possible, but requires scaling back to intimate settings.
100 guests: Expect $30,000–$45,000 realistically.
Wedding budgets aren’t one-size-fits-all. Some couples want an all-out luxury weekend, while others value intimacy and simplicity. What matters most is that your budget reflects your priorities as a couple — whether that’s photography, food, music, or simply creating space to be fully present with the people you love.
What Comes Next
If you’re in the early stages of planning, start by asking yourselves a few key questions:
How many people do we truly want to share this day with?
Which parts of the wedding matter most to us?
Are we willing to trade guest count or extras for a venue or photographer we love?
Answering these honestly will give you a clear starting point for your budget — and keep you from being swept up in expectations that don’t actually fit your story.
