If you are planning a wedding, corporate gathering, or private party in Baltimore, you might be asking yourself, “what is the going rate for catering per person?” The truth is, per-person costs can vary widely based on factors like headcount, the menu you choose, and the style of service. According to FTALA.org, catering can range from about $20 per person for a simple setup to $200 or more for an upscale event. Good news, you have plenty of options to fit different budgets without sacrificing quality.
Understand the influencing factors
Several practical elements affect your catering bill—beyond just the food itself. One major factor is headcount. Serving 400 guests might result in a lower per-person rate compared to a smaller event with just 40 attendees, because you spread many fixed costs across more people (Ask.com). Meanwhile, the complexity of your menu also matters. A gourmet spread featuring rare ingredients can push costs up, while a classic barbecue or buffet can keep it more affordable.
You will also want to think about service style. Buffet-style setups often cost less than plated or family-style meals, thanks to fewer servers needed onsite. Finally, venue rules may impact fees—some locations charge extra for outside caterers, or they might not have a proper kitchen, meaning you have to rent additional equipment. If you are organizing a smaller event and want guidance on portion sizes, consider checking these tips on how much catering to order for 20 people?.
Compare typical price ranges
Different types of events naturally fall into different cost brackets. Here are some ballpark figures:
| Event type | Approx. cost per person |
|---|---|
| Food truck catering | $20–$35 (plus setup/travel extras) |
| Traditional wedding | $70–$85 for food alone |
| Wedding with drinks | About $85 per person total |
| Casual corporate event | $20–$100, depending on the menu |
| Formal corporate event | $40–$200, covering high-end options |
Food truck catering tends to be on the lower side, as noted by FTALA.org. Traditional wedding catering falls in the moderate range. Formal business functions often inch higher, especially if you need specialized meals, full bar service, or premium linens. If you prefer to break down costs yourself and see what fits your group, take a look at how do i calculate catering costs?.
Save money with smart choices
Even if you have a sizable budget, it is always nice to trim costs without losing quality. Here are a few ways to do it:
- Pick a buffet or family-style service. You reduce staff and speed up service. (Ask.com)
- Choose seasonal ingredients. Locally sourced produce is often cheaper and tastes fresher.
- Bring your own alcohol (if allowed). This can help offset bar expenses, though some caterers still charge a setup and corkage fee.
- Avoid an overly large menu. Fewer but well-prepared dishes can be both elegant and cost-effective.
- Explore a less formal theme. Casual parties, like a backyard-style cookout, often keep the per-person rate on the lower end.
If you are curious about stretching a small budget, you might also want ideas on what is the cheapest food to cater?.
Decide what suits your event
Ultimately, you will want to balance your vision for the event with your budget. If a lavish affair makes sense for a milestone celebration, you can go the higher-end route with multiple courses and plated service. But if your goal is to keep things relaxed and let guests mingle, a more casual approach could cut costs without feeling skimpy.
Remember that a caterer’s quote often covers more than the food. Administrative fees, rentals (like tables and linens), and any special equipment can factor in. If you feel unsure about whether an in-restaurant experience might be cheaper, see is catering cheaper than a restaurant? for a breakdown of costs and benefits.
Regardless of your choice, do not be shy about asking early for a detailed quote. A transparent breakdown helps you see where each dollar goes, and it gives you room to discuss possible reductions. Good news, finding a caterer near Baltimore who respects your budget and your preferences is easier than you might think when you focus on open communication, smart negotiation, and tailor-made menus.
By weighing all these factors, you will quickly see how flexible the typical per-person rates really are. Even a modest budget can deliver an event that feels special and delicious—no compromise required.