DJs have everything you need to set the mood for a successful party. Whether you want something classic, soulful, celebratory or some combination of these, a DJ will play tunes that will help keep your guests entertained and happy.
Most people usually hire a DJ who has their own equipment and plays songs during an event, such as a wedding or a birthday party. However, you can hire a DJ for any type of event, including birthdays, corporate events, school events, family reunions, anniversary parties, engagement parties or any other party where music is needed.
The allure of a famous DJs performance can elevate any event to an unforgettable experience. However, this level of entertainment comes at a price. The cost to hire a famous DJ can vary greatly based on factors such as their global recognition, discography, and demand. A-list DJs like Calvin Harris or Martin Garrix may command six to seven-figure sums for a single performance.
But there are more options.
DJ costs in 2023
One of the most frequently asked questions is how much does hiring a DJ cost? The answer should not surprise you: it depends.
When hiring a DJ it is possible to find professionals DJs with very different rates. Although it is true that one of the main aspects to set the price is the number of hours of performance, there are also other factors that influence the final figure.
The price of hiring a DJ can vary according to things like:
- The length of your event.
- The number of guests.
- The amount of speakers or lights the DJ will need to bring (in case the DJ has to perform at the venue).
- Any additional services such as a dance floor or smoke machines.
Depending on the type of event you are throwing, you could request a specific type of music such as pop/rock, hip-hop/rap, reggaeton/dance, electronic music and more. With the amount of songs available today, DJs can work with the beat of your choice and create playlists that fit your event.
DJ Rates per hour
DJing may seem like a dream profession, but it also involves a great deal of work. DJs work on their feet, keeping an eye on the crowd and managing the overall atmosphere of the event, they must stay one step ahead and work hand in hand with the host or event organizer to meet the event’s schedule.
This is why the number of hours usually affects the overall price of the service. Many DJs offer packages that include a set number of hours, with flexible pricing for additional hours.
DJs may charge an hourly rate that fluctuates according to the type of event. Other DJs may have hourly rates that decrease based on the amount of time you hire them. The initial amount takes into account their operating expenses, the time and effort required to prepare for your event, travel to your location and setting everything up.
Some DJs offer fixed prices for their services, with no time limit. This means that whether you hire them for two or seven hours, the price per hour will be the same. For example, you can find DJs that charge from $20-$1000 per hour.
Additionally, consider expenses beyond the DJ’s fee, including travel, accommodation, and technical setup. These costs can significantly impact the overall budget, making it essential for event planners to collaborate closely with the DJ’s team to ensure a seamless experience.
Do you need to pay for the DJ transfer?
Depending on where your party is, you may have to pay more. Traveling to and from the site of the event can result in transfer fees, increasing the total price of the service. Usually, DJ’s transfer fees take into account the time it takes him/her to travel to you. This fee can vary depending on distance, traffic, tolls and parking fees.
One option to save the extra transfer charge is to have a streaming DJ, so they can always play from any part of the world in your place.
Wavezoo is a streaming platform that allows you to book DJs from all over the world to play live at your party. The DJs stream their sets from their own homes, so you don’t have to worry about transportation or accommodation costs. This makes Wavezoo a much more affordable option than hiring a DJ to come to your home or venue.
Additional Services of a DJ
How fabulous do you want your party to be? The services of a professional DJ can transform your party from a conference room party to a spectacular club party with the right equipment.
In addition to mixing music, many DJs offer a range of additional services. For example, for indoor and outdoor events, you can choose different lighting. Lighting can include anything from dance floor lights to a glowing disco ball. Many professional DJs have packages that include portable dance floors for outdoor events.
Other fun add-on services include smoke or bubble machines, microphones, screens and more. Of course, all of these services come at an additional price.
How much does it cost to hire a famous DJ?
Obviously, a well-known and reputable DJ will charge a higher price than a DJ who is just starting out in the industry and is not known. DJs with local fame are not too expensive, but you can expect an average price of $200 per hour.
Professional DJs include in the price, the creation of personalized playlists. When you hire a DJ, explain clearly the styles of music you like, specific songs you want to listen to, those you don’t want to listen to and the musical rhythm of the event.
On the other hand, when it comes to hiring famous DJs, budget considerations take center stage. The fees for booking a renowned DJ can range from a symphony of zeros to a breathtaking crescendo. Factors such as the DJ’s global recognition, demand, and their latest hits can sway the financial scale.