Average Wedding Cost in Louisiana Hits $36,000

New Orleans couples spend more than state average, with venue costs around $12,000

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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According to a recent survey by The Knot, the average wedding cost in Louisiana is around $36,000, following the national average of $34,000. However, weddings in New Orleans tend to be more expensive, with the venue alone costing an average of $12,000. Factors like location, extras, and time of year can significantly impact the total wedding budget in Louisiana.

Why it matters

Weddings are a major financial investment for couples, and understanding the average costs in Louisiana can help them plan their dream day without going over budget. This information is particularly relevant for New Orleans, where weddings tend to be more elaborate and expensive compared to the rest of the state.

The details

The Knot surveyed over 10,000 newly married couples across the country to determine the average wedding costs by state. While the national average was around $34,000, the survey found that Louisiana couples tend to spend slightly more, with an average of $36,000. However, the survey did not specifically include data for New Orleans, which is known for its elaborate and expensive weddings. In their own research, the myneworleans.com team found that a typical 125-person wedding in New Orleans costs around $36,000, with the venue alone costing an average of $12,000. Factors like location within the city, additional extras like a second line or local band, and the time of year can all significantly impact the total wedding budget.

  • The Knot survey was conducted in 2026.

The players

The Knot

A leading wedding planning website that conducts an annual survey of newly married couples to determine average wedding costs across the United States.

myneworleans.com

A local wedding magazine that conducted its own research on average wedding costs in New Orleans, which were found to be higher than the state average.

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The takeaway

Couples planning a wedding in Louisiana, especially in New Orleans, should be prepared to budget around $36,000 on average, with venue costs alone reaching $12,000. Understanding these typical costs can help couples prioritize their must-haves and find ways to personalize their wedding within their financial means.