Updated November 2026
Short answer: A women's wedding band costs about $1,200 on average and a men's band about $600, so a pair comes to roughly $1,800, according to The Knot. Couples who buy pricier rings spend more: The Knot's 2026 study puts average total spending on wedding rings at about $3,000. Gold has more than doubled in price since 2023, so gold bands cost noticeably more than a few years ago. Alternative metals aren't tied to the gold price: our tungsten bands start at about $85.
Wedding bands are a symbol of love and commitment, so you want to find the perfect ones for you and your partner. But they can be quite a financial burden if you're not careful. Here's what wedding bands cost on average, what drives the price, and how to save without compromising.
Average cost of wedding bands
Women's band: about $1,200
Both bands together: about $1,800
Our tungsten bands: about $150 on average
Women's and men's bands: The Knot 2023 Jewelry and Engagement Study. Our figure is the average price of our tungsten bands.
In The Knot's Jewelry and Engagement Study, a women's wedding band averaged $1,200 and a men's band $600, up from $510 for men in 2019. Together, that's about $1,800 for a pair.
The Knot's newer 2026 Real Weddings Study puts the average total spent on wedding rings higher, at about $3,000, out of an average wedding cost of $34,000. The two figures come from different surveys and years, and gold prices have risen sharply since 2023, which pushes up the cost of gold and platinum bands. Either way, these are national averages, and your cost could be much lower depending on the metal and the design.
Don't feel you have to match the national average or any other estimate. Balance your dream band with what you can realistically afford. There's a wide range of prices, so you can find a beautiful, meaningful band that suits your style and your budget. Research different jewelers, and watch for sales and discounts.
Why gold wedding bands cost more now
2023 average: about $1,941 an ounce
November 2026: about $4,045 an ounce
Gold price per troy ounce in U.S. dollars. Sources: MetalCharts (2023 average), PriceGold.net (November 5, 2026).
The price of a gold or platinum band depends heavily on the metal inside it. Gold averaged about $1,941 an ounce in 2023 and passed $4,000 an ounce in 2026, so the same gold band now costs noticeably more. Heavier and wider men's gold bands are affected the most, because they contain more metal.
Alternative metals like tungsten, titanium and ceramic aren't priced by the ounce like gold, so their prices have stayed far more stable. That's one reason more couples now choose an alternative metal, or a gold-plated tungsten band, for a gold look at a lower price.
What wedding bands cost by material
| Material |
Price range |
Notes |
| Platinum |
Highest |
Rare, durable, prestigious |
| Gold |
High |
Higher karat costs more |
| Sterling silver |
Lower |
Tarnishes and wears faster |
| Tungsten |
From about $85 |
Highly scratch-resistant |
| Titanium |
From about $80 |
Light and strong |
| Ceramic |
From about $60 |
Light, scratch-resistant |
Alternative-metal prices are starting prices in our store.
Factors that influence the cost
Metal
-
Gold: comes in yellow, white and rose. The price depends on the karat; a higher karat means a more expensive ring.
-
Platinum: often considered the most prestigious metal; it costs more than gold because of its rarity and durability.
-
Sterling silver: an affordable alternative to gold and platinum, but less resistant to tarnish and wear.
Alternative metals like tungsten, titanium and stainless steel cost less and still offer unique styles and long-lasting quality. See Why Tungsten Is Popular for Affordable Wedding Rings.
Gemstones
-
Diamonds: the most popular choice for their brilliance and durability. Price depends on carat weight, clarity, cut and color.
-
Lab-grown diamonds: almost identical to natural diamonds but significantly cheaper.
-
Other gemstones: rubies, emeralds and sapphires add a unique touch.
Design
Simple band
No stones or intricate details. The most affordable option.
$
Solitaire
A single stone, usually a diamond. Price depends on its size and quality.
$$
Pavé, halo or channel
Multiple stones raise the total carat weight and the cost.
$$$
Custom or intricate
Milgrain, engraving or filigree take more time and skill.
$$$
How to save on wedding bands
✓ Think about lifestyle and width: a narrower or simpler band can be both practical and cost-effective.
✓ Look for sales and deals: watch for sales, especially in off-season months, and ask about discounts, promotions or bundles.
✓ Consider a family heirloom: it saves money and adds sentimental value. Make sure it's in good condition and fits comfortably.
✓ Compare and read reviews: research retailers, compare prices and service, and read customer reviews.
✓ Think about an eternity band: a continuous line of identical stones costs more up front but can offer better long-term value, as resizing or upgrading may be needed less.
✓ Consider a matching set: buying both bands together is a simple way to coordinate. Our sets have averaged about $270 for both rings.
Narrower bands usually cost less; compare sizes in our band widths guide.
Affordable wedding bands from our store
Shop Wedding BandsShop Ring Sets
Frequently asked questions
Do men's and women's wedding bands differ in cost?
Yes. On average, women's bands cost more: around $1,200, compared with about $600 for men's bands, according to The Knot. The difference comes from material and design preferences. Women often prefer white gold, while men tend to opt for tungsten.
How much should you spend on a wedding band?
There's no strict rule. It depends on your budget and preferences. The average women's band costs about $1,200 and the average men's band about $600, or about $1,800 for both. You can spend far less, especially with alternative metals. Prioritize your financial well-being and choose bands that suit your taste and budget.
How does metal choice affect the cost?
Significantly. Gold is popular and timeless but can be expensive, especially now that it costs more than $4,000 an ounce. Platinum costs even more, but it's highly durable and hypoallergenic. Tungsten, titanium and stainless steel are more budget-friendly and still offer unique styles and long-lasting quality.
Do custom wedding bands cost much more?
It depends on the level of customization and the materials. Custom doesn't always mean more expensive; some jewelers can create a unique design at a price comparable to a standard one. Specific materials or highly intricate designs can raise the price, so work closely with your jeweler to stay on budget.
