How Much Does a Live Band Cost for a Wedding in 2025?

There are many factors that go into planning a successful wedding – the venue, the food, the decorations – but the element that ties them all together is the entertainment! A skilled live wedding band will help set the tone for every moment of celebration, from your walk down the aisle to your first dance. But how much does a wedding band cost?

The average cost of a live wedding band in the United States is $5,000, plus a 10% gratuity. This typically includes a band with three to six musicians. However, factors like popularity and demand, band size, geographic location, and even performance duration can influence this cost.

For over 15 years of experience, Liv Entertainment has sharpened its expertise in making weddings truly unforgettable. Our highly-skilled wedding bands for hire can turn any dull moment into a lively and engaging one. No matter your budget, we’ve got a band that suits your needs. Reach out for a free consultation and let us make your special day one to remember.

In this post, we’ll share a number of different factors and considerations when it comes to live wedding band prices. We’ll also help you weigh the pros and cons of choosing a live band or a DJ to help you make the best entertainment decision for your wedding.

How the Right Music Can Make Your Wedding Day Perfect

Think about how some movie scenes feel more intense or emotional because of the music playing in the background. The same goes for celebrations. The right music enhances the mood and makes your wedding ceremony feel even more special and memorable. Whether it’s time to exchange vows or enjoy cocktail hour, the right music makes every part of your day unforgettable.

A live band can add a layer of excitement and sophistication to your event. The musicians’ energy and presence can elevate the ambiance, making the event feel more luxurious and exclusive. Whether it’s a soulful ballad during the ceremony or an upbeat tune during the reception, live music can make each moment more impactful and memorable.

Just like choosing a great band could be the icing on the cake, the wrong one could potentially ruin your day. A bad band might have issues such as poor sound quality, lack of professionalism, or a limited repertoire. Poor performance can disrupt the flow of the event, make guests uncomfortable, and detract from the overall experience. Thus, it is best to research and select a reputable band with positive reviews and proven experience in wedding performances. This ensures that the band fits your musical tastes and the event’s style to avoid any negative impact on your special day.

How Much Does a Live Wedding Band Cost?

The average wedding band cost in the United States is $5,000 plus a 10% gratuity. The band size for this price point is three to six musicians, generally including a keyboard or piano, bass, guitar, drums, one or more horns like a saxophone or trumpet, and vocalists—but again, this varies.

Below, we’ll outline the various factors to consider so you can make an informed decision as you plan your wedding entertainment.

The Biggest Factors When It Comes to Wedding Band Costs

When it comes to wedding band prices, it typically comes down to these 5 things:

• The band’s popularity (demand) – Just like with anything else, the more demand there is for a band, the higher the value and cost. Popular bands with a strong following or extensive experience will generally charge more.

• The time of the year – Demand for bands during the summer months is typically much higher than in the winter. As a result, bands will be more expensive in the peak wedding season. Conversely, some bands might offer discounts during the off-season months.

• The number of band members – Band sizes can range from 3 to 20+ members. Extras such as a horn section or additional members like an MC will raise the price. Add-ons might be on the production side, such as additional sound equipment and sound technicians for the ceremony, lighting, video screens, and special effects.

• The geographic region – Generally, the cost of a wedding band in larger cities is greater. For example, the average wedding band in Los Angeles costs more than the average band in Palmdale. Major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago typically have higher rates due to higher demand and living costs.

• The day of the week – Weekdays are the most affordable. Friday and Saturday are typically the most expensive because of demand. If you’re looking to save money, consider booking your wedding band on a weekday.

How to Save Money When Hiring a Wedding Band

Here are some helpful tips for finding and working with your wedding band for your wedding ceremony.

Save Money With Packages

Generally, entertainment companies tend to offer packages when you are booking them. For example, there could be a package that enables you to hire a professional wedding band and a DJ at an extremely low rate. The DJ typically plays between the band’s sets, and after the band is done performing. There are also packages that offer additional services like lighting, fog machines, LEDs, staging, or effects. These can be discounted by the same group you hire a band from as well.

Be Involved

Companies like ours let couples get really involved in the process to ensure that they have a wedding band that suits their wedding venue and their and their wedding guests’ tastes. This way, couples curate a musical experience exactly according to their wishes and save money by skipping what they do not want. Couples are also encouraged to pick out specific songs for moments like the first dance, father-daughter dance, and dinner. This is your opportunity to let your personality and style shine through the music.

Book Early

The earlier you book, the better. Booking early boasts several advantages, including price and availability. On high-demand days like weekends in the summer, the most popular artists/musicians/DJs are almost always completely booked months (even up to a year) ahead of time.

Should I Hire a Wedding Band or a DJ?

If you’re torn between a live wedding band and a DJ for your big day or wedding reception, looking at the pros and cons of each will help you make your decision.

However, as you consider your options, don’t drive yourself too crazy. One is not “better” than the other; it’s a matter of preference. Wedding DJs and bands each have their own advantages and disadvantages.

For instance, live bands bring an authentic and vibrant atmosphere that recorded music simply can’t replicate. Another benefit that they bring to the table is their ability to interact with the audience during the event. However, depending on the type of live band you choose, they can get a bit pricey. On the other hand, DJ services are more cost-effective. The average wedding DJ cost is around $1,500. Plus, they allow for a more extensive range of music.

Live wedding bands offer a unique experience, as they can cater to the entire crowd and entertain everyone (even those who don’t like to dance). A DJ, on the other hand, is a much more cost-effective option.

LIV Entertainment Offers 3 to 18 Piece Wedding Bands

Our wedding bands have anywhere between three to eighteen members. As you’d expect, the more people in the band, the higher the average cost.

Our bands perform throughout the United States and Globally. See below for our different options, and contact us for a custom quote!

Each size comes with talented musicians who bring experience, knowledge, and passion to your wedding.

Pro Tip: Before booking, ask about our “rider.” The rider includes transportation and lodging expenses, as well as any other accommodations for our bands.

3-piece wedding band 

This is the smallest band size LIV Entertainment offers and is limited in availability. Our three-piece band features three vocalists performing on backing tracks (recorded musical accompaniment—a DJ).

6-piece wedding band 

Our six-piece live band includes three vocalists and three musicians. The instruments will include the keyboard, percussions, and one more, depending on availability. This is a great option for wedding music during cocktail hour.

8-piece wedding band 

Our 8-piece bands always have 6 vocalists. The 8-piece would include a keyboard and percussions, along with backing tracks.

10-piece wedding band 

A 10-piece band would have the same 6 vocalists and 4 musicians. The 4 musicians are usually keyboard, percussions, and 2 other instruments of your choice, depending on availability.

12-piece wedding band 

Six vocalists and 6 musicians, including keyboard, percussions, bass, drums, and 2 other solo instruments based on availability and type of event.

14-piece wedding band 

This band includes 6 vocalists and 8 musicians, including keyboard, percussions, bass, drums, violin, sax, and 2 other solo instruments based on availability and type of event. 

18-piece wedding band 

Our largest option. 6 vocalists and 12 musicians, including a keyboard, percussions, drums, bass, violin, viola, cello, guitar, saxophone, trumpet, trombonist, and darbuka.

Contact LIV Entertainment Group For A Wedding Band Quote

By setting the tone for each moment through your music choice, you can enjoy a truly unforgettable wedding. Whether you choose a wedding band or live DJ doesn’t matter, as both can create an atmosphere tailored to your celebration.

But we recommend that you work with a band that is experienced in performing at weddings. Doing so guarantees that you’ll be working with professionals who know what they’re doing. This will help to set your mind at ease and allow you to enjoy your special day.

For that dream-like wedding experience where every moment feels perfect, get a personal quote today. Our team at LIV Entertainment is dedicated to providing top-tier music and ensuring each moment is as magical as you imagined.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Far in Advance Should I Book a Wedding Band?

It is best to book 9–12 months in advance, especially for popular bands or peak wedding season dates.

Can I Customize the Playlist or Request Special Songs?

Yes, most bands will accommodate special requests or allow input on the playlist. However, some may charge an additional fee for learning new songs.

Is It Cheaper to Have a DJ or a Live Band?

Generally, hiring a DJ is more cost-effective than hiring a live band. DJs typically charge less than live bands, which are usually more expensive due to their size and experience.