How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Tux? A Complete Guide

Tuxedo rentals can feel like a big expense when you're planning your wedding budget. Understanding how pricing works helps you make smart choices for your wedding.

This breakdown covers everything that affects tux rental costs, from basic packages to premium upgrades. You'll learn what's included in different rental options, where to find the best deals, and how to coordinate formal wear for your entire wedding party without overspending.

What Does It Cost to Rent a Tux?

Tuxedo rentals typically cost between $150 and $300 for a complete package. Basic rental packages start around $150 and include the essential pieces you need for most formal events.

Mid-range options fall between $200 and $250 and often include better fabric quality and additional accessories. Premium designer rentals can reach $300 or more, especially if you add multiple accessories or need extended rental periods.

The final tux rental cost depends on several factors you'll want to consider upfront. Your choice of style, rental duration, accessories, and even the time of year can push your total higher or lower than these averages.

Wedding tux rentals might cost slightly more due to coordination requirements and group fitting appointments. However, many companies offer group discounts that can offset these extra costs when you're outfitting an entire wedding party.

What's Included in a Tux Rental Package?

Understanding what comes with your rental helps you compare options and avoid surprise charges. Most standard packages include the tuxedo jacket and matching pants as the foundation of your formal look.

You'll also receive a formal dress shirt, typically with French cuffs or a wing-tip collar. The rental includes either a bow tie or regular necktie, depending on your event's dress code and personal preference.

Essential accessories round out most packages:

• Cummerbund or vest: Provides the polished waistline detail expected with formal wear
• Studs and cufflinks: Replace regular buttons for a more sophisticated appearance
• Garment bag: Protects your rental during transport and storage

Some rental companies include basic suspenders in their standard packages. Others charge separately for this accessory, so ask upfront if you prefer suspenders over a belt.

The dress shirt style can vary significantly between packages. Traditional pleated shirts offer a classic formal look, while flat-front options provide a more modern appearance that works well in photos.

Higher-end packages might include premium fabric options like wool instead of polyester blends. These upgrades typically add $30 to $50 to your rental cost but offer better fit and appearance.

What Affects Tux Rental Prices?

Style and design options

Classic black tuxedos in traditional cuts represent the most budget-friendly rental option. These timeless styles work for most formal events and typically cost less than contemporary or designer alternatives, making tuxedo vs. suit a key consideration.

Modern slim-fit tuxedos and peak lapel styles often carry premium pricing due to their current popularity. Expect to pay an additional $25 to $75 for these trending styles compared to traditional options.

Designer labels significantly impact rental costs. Tuxedos from recognizable fashion brands can add $75 to $150 to your total, though they often feature premium construction and fabric quality.

Color choices beyond traditional black may incur additional charges. Navy, charcoal, or white dinner jackets sometimes cost $20 to $40 more than standard black options, depending on availability and demand. If you are interested in color options, be sure to shop earlier due to more limited quantities. 

Rental duration and timing

Standard rental periods typically span four days, from Thursday pickup to Monday return. This timeframe accommodates most weekend events without additional fees.

Extended rental periods beyond the standard timeframe incur daily charges. Most companies charge $15 to $25 per additional day, so plan your pickup and return dates carefully.

Peak season timing dramatically affects pricing, especially during prom season from April through June. Wedding season from May through October also sees increased demand and higher prices.

Holiday periods like New Year's Eve command premium pricing due to high demand. Booking during off-peak months can save you $25 to $50 on the same rental package.

Last-minute bookings often carry rush fees ranging from $25 to $75. Companies charge these fees to prioritize your order and ensure timely delivery or pickup.

Accessories and add-ons

Formal shoe rentals add $25 to $45 to your total cost. Basic patent leather styles fall at the lower end, while premium Italian leather options cost more.

Many rental customers choose to purchase formal shoes instead of repeatedly paying rental fees. A quality pair of patent leather dress shoes costs $75 to $150 and serves for multiple formal events.

Specialty accessories each carry individual charges:

• Colored pocket squares: $8 to $15 each
• Premium bow ties: $12 to $20 for silk or unique patterns
• White gloves: $10 to $18 per pair
• Suspenders: $8 to $15 if not included in the base package

Damage protection fees provide peace of mind for $12 to $20. These policies cover minor damages like small tears or stains that might otherwise result in replacement charges.

Some companies offer jewelry rentals including cufflinks, watches, or tie bars. These premium accessories typically add $15 to $35 to your rental cost but can complete your formal look. Just make sure you’re not expecting any of these to be gifted to you on your wedding day. 

Where to Rent: Comparing Your Options

Traditional brick-and-mortar formalwear shops provide hands-on fitting services and immediate problem resolution. These establishments typically charge premium prices due to their physical locations and specialized staff.

The personalized service includes expert measurements, style consultation, and immediate adjustments. However, their overhead costs often result in prices $50 to $100 higher than online alternatives.

Online rental services have gained popularity by offering competitive pricing and convenient home delivery. These companies reduce costs by eliminating physical storefronts and streamlining operations.

Most online services provide detailed sizing charts and video tutorials to help ensure proper fit. They typically include prepaid return shipping and customer support, though you'll handle most of the process yourself.

Department stores and national chains fall between these extremes in both service and pricing. They offer moderate prices with some in-person support but may have limited style selections.

Location significantly impacts rental pricing across all service types. In major metropolitan areas like Chicago, Illinois, average complete tux rental packages range from $280 to $380. Smaller markets like St. Louis, Missouri, typically have lower prices, with comparable options ranging from $190 to $290.

Rural areas often have fewer rental options but may offer lower prices due to reduced overhead costs. However, limited selection might mean fewer style choices or longer lead times for special orders.

Tux Rental Costs for Weddings

Wedding tux rentals involve coordination between the groom and multiple groomsmen, creating unique cost considerations. Group rentals typically qualify for discounts, though minimum order requirements apply.

Most rental companies offer the groom's tux for free when four to six groomsmen rent from the same location, which helps clarify who pays for the groomsmen suits. This promotion can save $150 to $300 on the groom's formal wear costs and allow for more wiggle room to purchase investment pieces such as the shoes or personalized cufflinks.

Wedding packages often include additional services that individual rentals don't require:

• Group fittings: Coordinated appointments for the entire wedding party
• Color matching: Ensuring consistent vest, tie, and accessory colors
• Extended coordination time: Extra consultations to perfect the group look
• Delivery coordination: Ensuring all rentals arrive at the same location

The groom's package sometimes includes complimentary upgrades like premium accessories or designer label options. These perks recognize the special nature of the occasion and can add significant value.

Wedding party coordination requires longer lead times, typically 8 to 12 weeks before the event. This extended timeline allows for proper fittings and any necessary adjustments across multiple people.

Return logistics for wedding rentals can be more complex when groomsmen live in different cities. Some companies offer individual return shipping for an additional fee, typically $15 to $25 per person.

How to Save on Tux Rentals

Book your rental well in advance to access early bird discounts and ensure availability. Many companies offer 10 to 15 percent discounts for bookings made several months ahead. Early booking provides more time to address sizing or style concerns without rush charges. You'll also have first choice of styles and accessories rather than settling for what's available.

Choose classic styles over trendy options that carry premium pricing. Traditional black tuxedos in standard cuts offer the best value and photograph beautifully for any formal event.

Consider your event timing carefully to avoid peak pricing periods. Weekday events or off-season celebrations can qualify for significant discounts.

Limit add-on accessories to only essential items for your specific event. Focus on core pieces like the tuxedo, shirt, and bow tie rather than every available accessory.

Compare package deals versus individual item pricing across multiple rental companies. Some offer better value by bundling accessories, while others provide competitive à la carte pricing.

Purchase formal shoes instead of repeatedly renting if you attend multiple formal events. Quality patent leather dress shoes cost $75 to $150 and serve for many occasions.

Look for promotional offers during slower periods or through group affiliations. Wedding expos, student organizations, or military discounts can provide meaningful savings.

Planning Your Wedding Attire Budget

Formal wear represents a significant portion of wedding expenses when accounting for the groom and entire wedding party, so consider using a budget tool to track costs. Budget 8 to 10 percent of your total wedding costs for all formal wear needs.

This allocation covers rental fees, accessories, and any purchased items like shoes or cufflinks. Planning this percentage early ensures adequate funds for quality options.

Wedding party formal wear costs scale quickly with group size. Outfitting six groomsmen typically costs $1,200 to $1,800 even with group discounts applied.

Consider the total investment beyond just rental fees:

• Formal shoes: $75 to $150 per person if purchasing
• Transportation to fittings: Gas and time costs for multiple appointments
• Accessories not included: Pocket squares, tie bars, or specialty items

Balance formal wear investments against other wedding priorities to ensure the best allocation of your budget. Quality rentals that photograph well can justify slightly higher costs for this special occasion.

Get the Perfect Look for Your Wedding Day

Tux rental costs vary based on style, timing, location, and accessories, but understanding these factors helps you make smart decisions. The key is finding the right balance between quality, cost, and the specific needs of your event.

Focus on the essentials first, then add accessories that enhance your overall look. Remember that confidence comes from feeling comfortable and appropriately dressed, not from having every available accessory.

Ready to complete your wedding style? Explore our selection of accessories & more on our Wedding Boutique to find everything you need for your perfect look.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long before my wedding should I book tux rentals?

Book wedding tux rentals 2 to 3 months in advance to ensure availability and secure group discounts. This timeline allows for proper fittings and any necessary adjustments while avoiding rush fees that can add $25 to $75 per rental.

Do rental companies offer discounts for wedding parties?

Most rental companies provide group discounts when renting multiple tuxedos together, typically requiring 4 to 6 rentals minimum. Many offer the groom's rental free or significantly discounted as part of these group packages.

What happens if my rental doesn't fit properly when I pick it up?

Reputable rental companies offer exchange policies for sizing issues, usually allowing exchanges up to 48 hours before your event. Most can quickly order replacement items in the correct size.

Can I return my rental to a different location than where I picked it up?

Many national chains allow returns to any location, while local shops typically require returns to the same store. Online rental services usually include prepaid return shipping labels for convenient mail-back returns.

Are basic alterations included in tux rental prices?

Most rental packages include minor non-permanent alterations like hemming pants to the proper length. More extensive alterations such as taking in the jacket or adjusting sleeve length typically cost $15 to $40 extra.

How do I know what size to order for an online tux rental?

Online rental companies provide detailed measurement guides and sizing charts to help determine the correct size. Many also offer customer service support via phone or chat to help with sizing questions and provide fitting advice.