Guides
How much to charge as a DJ: getting to your fee
A DJ fee starts from three numbers: what it costs you to play, how many tickets your name sells in that city, and the size of the event. Add up your costs, set the minimum you won't go below, and adjust upwards for crowd size and set length. Apply the same rule every time.
Answering “what's your budget?” usually leaves you worse off. Promoters respect a DJ who knows their value and explains what's included.
Start with your costs
List what each gig costs you: travel both ways, food, hours preparing the set, wear on your gear and, if relevant, anyone you bring along.
That total is your floor. Below it you're paying to play. Review it whenever you change home city or equipment.
Adjust to the event and your crowd
A two-hour warm-up in a bar isn't worth the same as peak time at a packed club. Length, time slot, venue capacity and whether you're on the flyer all change the price.
The crowd you bring matters. If you have numbers to show — EPK visits, followers in the city, sold-out dates — use them to back up your fee.
How to present your fee
Reply with a fixed amount and what it includes: set length, time slot, technical rider and what the promoter covers (travel, accommodation, food). Make clear what changes the price, such as a second set or a long trip.
Fee checklist
- Costs per gig added up
- Minimum fee set
- Price list by set length and event type
- What's included written into the offer
- Audience numbers to back the fee
Put your rider and the numbers behind your fee on your EPK, and promoters understand your value before they ask the price.
Frequently asked questions
Should I put my fee on my public EPK?
Usually not. The fee changes with the event, city and season. Show what justifies the price on your EPK and send the amount when a promoter asks for a date.
Should I play for free for exposure?
It can be worth it occasionally, with a clear agreement on promotion. As a rule, playing below your costs teaches the market not to pay you.
How do I raise my fee without losing bookings?
Raise it gradually at the start of each season and show what changed: bigger crowds, bigger dates, new releases. Keep the old rate for dates already booked.
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