How Much Should I Charge for Catering?
Proper catering pricing is essential for building a profitable business while remaining competitive in your local market. Strategic pricing helps you attract the right clients, cover all costs, and position your catering service as a premium or value option based on your target audience.
Last updated: January 6, 2026
Average Catering Pricing in 2026
Min
$15
Max
$150
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What Affects Catering Pricing?
- 1Guest count and portion sizes required
- 2Menu complexity and ingredient quality
- 3Service style (drop-off, buffet, plated service)
- 4Event duration and staffing requirements
- 5Location, travel distance, and setup complexity
What's Typically Included in a Catering Quote?
Example Catering Cost Breakdown
Catering
Hourly vs Project-Based Catering Pricing
How far in advance should I book catering services?
Most caterers recommend booking 2-4 weeks in advance for small events and 6-8 weeks for larger gatherings or during peak seasons like holidays and wedding season.
What's typically included in catering pricing?
Basic catering usually includes food preparation and delivery. Additional services like setup, serving staff, equipment rental, and cleanup may cost extra depending on your package.
How do I estimate the right amount of food for my event?
Professional caterers typically plan for 1-1.5 pounds of food per person for a full meal, including appetizers, main course, and sides. Your caterer will help calculate portions based on your specific menu and event timing.
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