Catering Cost Calculator
Pick a service style and guest count. Every assumption is editable, so you can plug in real quotes as they arrive.
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Default food ranges and staffing ratios are catering.broker planning assumptions, not quotes or survey averages. Food trucks often charge a minimum instead; drop-off has no staff.
How Much Does Catering Cost per Person?
As a planning range, drop-off trays run about $15–$30 per guest, a buffet about $30–$60, family-style about $40–$75 and a plated dinner about $50–$110 for food alone. Staff, rentals, a service charge of 18–25% and sales tax often add 30–60% more, so compare all-in quotes, not food prices.
Catering Cost Questions
How much does catering cost for 100 people?
With our planning ranges, food alone for 100 guests runs about $1,500–$3,000 for drop-off trays, $3,000–$6,000 for a buffet and $5,000–$11,000 for a plated dinner. Staff, rentals, a service charge of 18–25% and sales tax often add another 30–60%. Use the calculator for your own numbers.
What is a catering service charge?
A fee, usually 18–25% of the food and beverage bill, that covers the catering company’s staff and overhead. It is often not a tip. Ask in writing whether gratuity is included.
How can I lower my catering cost?
Choose a lunch or brunch, a buffet or food truck instead of a plated dinner, chicken or vegetarian mains, beer and wine instead of a full bar, and fewer guests. Drop-off trays are the cheapest option for casual events.
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