Feb 10, 2025
Depending on your preferences, the cost to elope may range from less than $50 for a license and simple ceremony to many thousands if you want added frills or travel.
Eloping can be an exciting way to start a new life with the person who means the most to you. And by choosing a more intimate and less complicated wedding, you may also have a more affordable wedding.
Plus, eloping can be a chance to create a special moment together without the stress that can come with a big wedding.
While you might save both time and money if you skip a big wedding, you may still need to plan for costs to ensure that the day is worry free and joyous. If eloping sounds like a great idea, here are some questions to ask yourself.
The cost to elope will depend on your situation and the decisions you make. Elopements can be expensive if you choose an exotic location, stay in a fancy hotel or resort, hire a professional photographer, or plan to travel afterward.
Typically, eloping may be more affordable than a traditional wedding. Even so, there are still a few expenses to keep in mind as you budget for your special day.1
Marriage license fees can range from $30 to $150. In some states, you might be able to use your license right away. In others, you might need to wait a few days before the ceremony.
The cost of the venue can vary a lot. A backyard or public park might cost nothing. A city hall or courthouse may charge $10 to $150 or more. If you’re dreaming of a fancy restaurant, a hotel rooftop, or a unique adventure spot, be ready to pay from $500 to $4,000.
Officiant fees depend on location, travel, and timing. On average, you can expect to pay between $300 and $600.
The cost of getting to and from your ceremony is up to you. Transportation can be as low as a ride in your car to as much as several thousand dollars for a flight to a faraway location. Depending on your destination and options, you might typically spend anywhere from $5 to $1,000, though it could be much more.
A friend or family member with a smartphone might take great photos for free. But budget about $1,500 to $5,000 if you prefer a professional to capture your special moments.
If you’re wearing an outfit you already own, it might cost less than $100 to add some accessories. A new designer outfit could be much more. You might visit thrift stores or find a great resale shop option. When deciding on your look, consider your destination—whether it’s a tropical beach, national park, or bustling city.
What’s a wedding without flowers? To keep it simple, you could pick up flowers at your local store. More formal bouquets, boutonnieres, and floral arrangements usually cost between $200 to $400.
Whether you marry locally or at a far-off location, you may choose to celebrate afterward with a honeymoon. Although not necessarily part of your elopement plans, it's a good idea to budget for the added expense.
Add it all up, and the cost of a basic U.S. elopement package may range from $1,000 to $3,000. If you prefer something more luxurious, you might expect to spend between $5,000 and $10,000.
You can elope almost anywhere. If you want to make it a trendy destination, here are a few of the current hot spots:2
Some places make eloping easy, like Las Vegas, where you can tie the knot at drive-thru chapels and be on your way. Many popular tourist destinations offer a wide range of post-wedding attractions. Or, for a more intimate experience, you might choose to celebrate at an exotic spot off the beaten path.
Eloping doesn't have to mean keeping everyone away. You might choose to invite a few close friends or family members to share the celebration. If you do, you’ll need to decide if you’re willing and able to cover their costs. If you’d rather keep it private for just the two of you, that’s fine too. It’s your special day, so the guest list—if there is one—is up to you.
Many couples elope to save money. If that’s your goal, be sure to set a budget and stick to it. Without a budget, it’s possible to spend more than you would on a traditional wedding. That’s especially true if you’re traveling somewhere far away or staying at a luxury hotel or resort.
Be honest about what you can afford. Have a conversation with your partner about your finances and how much of your savings or extra money you’re willing to spend.
Even the cost of eloping can add up. If you find that you need extra funds to cover your expenses, a personal loan might be the right option for you.
With Discover® Personal Loans, funds can be sent as soon as the next business day after your acceptance—so you’ll have the money you need, even if your ceremony is spur-of-the-moment. And with Discover, there are no fees of any kind as long as you pay on time.
It’s also good to know that, as you start your life together, Discover gives you more control over your personal information online by regularly helping you to remove it from at least 10 people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free; activate with the Discover app.*
Articles may contain information from third parties. The inclusion of such information does not imply an affiliation with the bank or bank sponsorship, endorsement, or verification regarding the third party or information.
*Online Privacy Protection is offered by Discover Bank at no cost and only available in the mobile app. About every 90 days we will scan at least 10 people-search sites for your online personal information and help you submit opt-out requests. Types of personal information found on these sites will vary.
