Couples in the U.S. are spending significantly more on weddings this year, with costs rising by 8.5% due to tariffs and inflation, according to a Bank of America Institute analysis. The average wedding cost reached $36,000 in 2025, up $3,000 from the previous year. This increase is partly attributed to President Trump’s tariff policies, which have raised prices for imported goods like flowers and cocoa. The study, which examined credit and debit card spending, found that wedding expenses such as venue rentals, catering, and apparel have surged. Spending growth was notably higher in the South compared to the Midwest, possibly due to regional cost differences. Additionally, weddings among Gen Z have tripled since 2019, while millennial weddings have decreased by 20%. Many couples are opting for lab-grown diamonds over natural ones, indicating a shift towards more affordable options.
QUESTION: How might the rising costs of weddings influence the way future generations approach marriage and wedding planning?
Couples are spending 8.5% more on weddings this year. Here’s why.
