🧮 Free Catering Cost Calculator

How much will your
event catering actually cost?

Adjust your event details below and get an instant cost estimate — per person and total budget — in real time.

Your Event Details

10 guests 500 guests
Your Estimate
Live
Estimated total cost
$1,875 – $3,375
$25–$45 per person  ·  75 guests
  • Service style Buffet
  • Event type Corporate
  • Base price range $25–$45/pp
  • Dietary additions None
  • Adjusted per-person $25–$45/pp
  • Guest count 75 guests
Typically included at this price
  • Setup and breakdown by catering staff
  • Chafing dishes and serving equipment
  • Plates, utensils, and napkins
  • 1 server per 50 guests
  • Basic table linen for food stations
Budget Tips
  • Buffet saves $20–40/pp vs. plated service
  • Off-season dates (Jan–Mar) run 10–15% less
  • Combine dietary needs into one flexible menu
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Reference Data

Catering pricing by service style

Service Style Per-Person Range Best For Staffing
Buffet $25–$45 Corporate, casual social, large events 1 per 50 guests
Plated Service $45–$85 Weddings, formal dinners, galas 1 per 10–15 guests
Food Stations $35–$65 Cocktail receptions, networking, mixed crowds 1–2 per station
Cocktail-Style $30–$55 Happy hours, launch parties, receptions 1 per 25–30 guests

Pricing reflects 2026 national averages. Regional costs vary — major metro areas typically run 15–25% above these ranges. Alcohol, venue fees, cake, and florals are not included. Full pricing breakdown →

Frequently Asked

Catering cost questions

What's not included in per-person catering costs?
Alcohol and bar service ($15–$45/pp), wedding cake ($4–$12/pp), venue rental, floral arrangements, valet, and AV equipment are typically separate line items not included in standard catering quotes.
How much more does wedding catering cost than corporate?
Wedding catering typically costs 10–20% more due to higher service expectations, formal presentation requirements, and longer service windows. A buffet that costs $35/pp for a corporate event may run $40–42/pp for a wedding reception.
Does guest count significantly affect per-person price?
Yes. Larger events (200+) often get volume discounts of 5–15% as fixed setup costs are spread across more guests. Small events under 50 people sometimes carry a minimum spend requirement or higher per-person rate.
How do I get an accurate catering quote?
The fastest way is to submit a detailed inquiry to a caterer with your event type, date, guest count, venue address, and service preferences. PlateRunner generates AI-powered proposals in under 30 seconds — try it free.
When is the cheapest time to book catering?
January through March is typically off-peak, with discounts of 10–15% common. Avoid May–June and September–October (peak wedding season). Weekday events also run 10–20% less than weekend events.
Are gratuity and service fees included in catering costs?
Not always. Many caterers add an 18–22% service charge on top of the quoted per-person rate. Always ask whether the quote includes gratuity, service charges, and delivery fees to avoid billing surprises.

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