How do you calculate catering cost per person?

Add food cost + labor cost + overhead and supplies, then divide by number of guests. A typical formula: (Total Food Cost + Labor + Overhead) ÷ Guest Count = Cost Per Person. Apply your markup (usually 30–40%) to get the price per person you charge clients.

What is the average catering cost per person?

Catering cost per person varies widely: corporate lunch buffets average $25–$45/person, wedding receptions $85–$150+/person, cocktail parties $35–$65/person, and BBQ events $20–$40/person. These prices include food, basic service, and disposables.

How much profit should a caterer make?

Caterers typically aim for 25–35% net profit margin. Food cost should be 28–35% of the client price, labor 25–30%, overhead and supplies 10–15%. The remaining 20–35% is gross profit before business expenses.

How do you price a catering menu?

Calculate food cost per person first. Then add labor (number of staff × hours × rate ÷ guest count), overhead (10–15% of food cost), and apply a 30–40% markup. Always include a gratuity option (18–22%) on the final quote.

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Cost Per Person & Event Quote

Last reviewed: July 28, 2026

Enter guest count, food cost, labor, and overhead to get total event cost, price per person, and profit margin instantly.

Event Details

Number of Guests

Event Type

Labor & Overhead

Staff Count

Hours Each

Rate ($/hr)

Overhead % (supplies, rentals, transport)

15%

Your Markup %

35%

Price Per Person

$39.12

50 guests · Corporate Lunch / Buffet

Total Quote

$1956

Your Profit

$507

25.9% margin

Cost Breakdown

Food cost$900

Labor$360

Overhead$189

Your profit$507

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Catering Pricing CalculatorCost Per Person & Event Quote

Event Details

Labor & Overhead

Frequently Asked Questions

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Catering Pricing Calculator
Cost Per Person & Event Quote