You can legally marry in New York City for $60, or spend six figures on a Manhattan reception. This guide covers the official fees and what each wedding style really costs. The calculator builds a full budget from guest count, venue level and vendors.
Official costs to get married in NYC
| Item | Fee | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Marriage license (NYC Clerk) | $35 | Both partners apply together, valid ID required |
| City Hall civil ceremony | $25 | Book online; bring one witness 18+ |
| Certificate of Marriage Registration | Free first copy | Additional copies $15 (needed for name changes) |
| Extended marriage record (for some visas) | $35 | Plus possible apostille fees |
The license must be used after a 24-hour waiting period and within 60 days. You can apply in person at any of the five borough clerk offices or through Project Cupid online.
NYC wedding costs by style (2026)
| Style | Guests | Typical total |
|---|---|---|
| City Hall only | 2–10 | $60–$2,500 |
| City Hall + restaurant dinner | 10–30 | $3,000–$15,000 |
| Micro-wedding (loft, restaurant buyout) | 30–60 | $15,000–$40,000 |
| Full wedding, mid-range venue | 100 | $45,000–$70,000 |
| Full wedding, Manhattan hotel or luxury venue | 150+ | $100,000–$250,000+ |
Where the money goes in a full NYC wedding
| Category | Share | Typical NYC cost (100 guests) |
|---|---|---|
| Venue, food & drink (incl. service charge + tax) | 45–55% | $22,000–$45,000 |
| Photography & video | 8–12% | $4,000–$10,000 |
| Music (DJ or band) | 5–12% | $2,500–$12,000 |
| Flowers & decor | 7–12% | $3,000–$12,000 |
| Attire & beauty | 5–8% | $2,500–$8,000 |
| Planner / coordinator | 5–10% | $2,500–$10,000 |
| Stationery, officiant, favors, misc. | 3–5% | $1,500–$4,000 |
How to save on an NYC wedding
- Get married on a Friday or Sunday, or between November and March. Venues discount 15–30%.
- Do City Hall for the legal ceremony and host a relaxed dinner or party afterward.
- Consider Brooklyn, Queens or Hudson Valley venues instead of Manhattan.
- Cut the guest list: every guest adds $200–$450 in NYC.
- Book a City Hall photographer for 1–2 hours instead of a full-day package.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to get married at NYC City Hall?
$60 total: $35 for the marriage license and $25 for the civil ceremony at the Office of the City Clerk. Payment is by credit or debit card or money order.
How much is a marriage license in New York?
A marriage license costs $35 at the NYC Office of the City Clerk and $40 at most town and city clerks elsewhere in New York State.
How long do you have to wait after getting a marriage license in New York?
You must wait 24 hours after the license is issued before the ceremony, and the license is valid for 60 days. A judge can waive the waiting period in some circumstances.
What is the average cost of a wedding in NYC?
Most full NYC weddings with about 100 guests cost $45,000–$90,000 in 2026, and Manhattan hotel or luxury venue weddings often exceed $100,000. Venue, food and drink usually make up 45–55% of the total.
How much does a City Hall photographer cost in NYC?
A 1–2 hour City Hall photography session typically costs $600–$1,800.
Can I get married online in New York?
Yes. Project Cupid lets couples apply for a license and hold a virtual ceremony with the NYC Clerk. Fees are the same $35 license and $25 ceremony.
Sources & methodology
Prices are compiled from published provider price lists, government fee schedules and quotes, then adjusted for 2026. See how we price.