How much should you spend on a DJ in 2026

According to public data, the average cost for a wedding in Montana for 2025 is estimated between approximately $29,201 and $35,691, with some estimates suggesting a slightly lower statewide average of around $20,050 to $31,502 depending on the source, while popular areas like Bozeman may hit the higher end. For example, based on data from The Wedding Report, the average cost for a wedding in Montana in 2025 is estimated at $31,502. Specific, popular, higher-end, or destination-focused areas within Central and Western Montana, such as Bozeman and Big Sky, can see averages range from $35,000 to over $100,000.

But how much of the wedding budget should be spent on a DJ? A February 2026 search of available public information revealed the following factors influencing price:

• Service Packages: Basic 4-hour reception-only sets often start at $1,000, while full-day coverage (ceremony sound through the reception) typically reaches $2,000+.
• Travel Fees: Many Montana DJs charge extra for travel outside their home city. For example, some vendors charge flat fees of $130–$400 to travel to locations like Big Sky, Billings, or Red Lodge.
• Experience Level: Entry-level or newer DJs in Montana may offer services starting at $500, while high-end, high-demand entertainers can charge upwards of $5,000 to $8,000.

Based on 2026 industry projections and regional data for Central Montana (including Helena, Great Falls, and Bozeman), the average price for a wedding DJ is approximately $1,500 to $3,000, with many couples spending around $2,500–$3,000 for high-quality, experienced services.

Here is a breakdown of 2026 DJ pricing for Central Montana:

Average Costs by Package (2026 Estimates)

• Basic/Entry-Level (4 hours): ~$1,500
• Mid-Tier/Standard (6–8 hours): ~$2,000–$3,000
• Premium/All-Day (Experienced Specialist): $3,500–$4,500+

Regional Pricing Factors

• Bozeman/Helena Market: Due to higher demand, prices in this area often trend higher, with established, full-time DJs commanding $3,000+.
• Travel Fees: While some services include travel, others may charge extra, such as $100–$400 for locations outside of the immediate Bozeman/Helena area.
• Hours of Service: The standard contract is usually 4 to 6 hours, with additional hours often costing around $175–$250+ per hour.

What is Included?

Most professional 2026 packages in Montana include:

• Pre-wedding consultations and MC services.
• Sound systems for both ceremony and reception.
• Basic dance floor lighting.

Add-Ons

While many DJ's offer add-on services such as photo booth, uplighting, drapery, monogram lights, video displays, etc...I've kept pricing simple for weddings in 2026 and provide my add-ons at no additional charge. These include uplighting and an optional personalized video display which brings snapshots from childhood to the moment you said “yes” alive as your memories are woven into a heartfelt story your guests will feel the moment it begins to play.

Many DJs also charge extra hourly fees. My price is for your full event and has no hourly limit. When it comes to bringing your vision to reality, hours are not important. You have the entire day reserved.

In Closing

I hope this helps you determine how much you want to budget for your wedding DJ. If you’re looking for someone to simply play music for 4 hours, you shouldn’t expect to pay a lot. If you’re looking for the utmost in personalized service, a professional event Emcee, perfectly detailed planning, and a DJ/Emcee that is devoted to bringing your vision to life, then contact me.