How Much to Spend on an Engagement Ring? The Average Engagement Ring Cost in 2025

Before the question, "Will you marry me?" comes another, far more stressful one: How much should I spend on an engagement ring?"

When software engineer Alex proposed with a stunning $600 custom Moissanite ring, his fiancée, Sarah, burst into tears-not from sticker shock but from genuine joy. "I would have killed him if he had spent three months' salary," she later confessed.

So, don’t feel overwhelmed by outdated rules, conflicting advice, and the pressure to spend a lot. True sentiment isn't proportional to debt.

Here at Juyoyo, we've guided countless couples through this process. We believe the focus should be on finding a ring that symbolizes your unique love story. It should be about celebrating your unique love story with a beautiful, financially sensible symbol. It's not about the price tag, but the promise.

Our comprehensive guide uses global data, myth-busting insights, and ethical sourcing advice to help you invest confidently.

Global Average Engagement Ring Cost in 2025

Here’s an overview of the average cost of an engagement ring in several countries in 2025, based on data from various industry sources.

• United States: The average cost is around $5,800 to $6,500. According to a 2025 study from the Plumb Club, the average spend on bridal jewelry was approximately $5,500. However, other reports, such as one from the Faithful Platform, estimate the average at closer to $6,527. This range reflects the diversity in spending across different states.
• United Kingdom: Couples in the UK tend to spend significantly less than their American counterparts. According to a 2025 report from Bridebook, the average is approximately £2,158 (about $2,700). This highlights a different cultural approach to ring budgeting.
• Australia: Spending is robust here, with the average cost of an engagement ring around $5,300 (about $3,500). This shows a strong appreciation for quality pieces. It is similar to the U.S. but with a more moderate budget.
• European Union: Spending habits across mainland Europe are generally more conservative. In countries like France and Germany, the average spend is often in the $2,000 to $3,500 range. In some cultures, it is traditional for the engagement ring to be a simple band, with a diamond band added at the wedding.
• East & Southeast Asia: In many Asian countries, the emphasis may be on pure gold or specific local traditions. For example, the average spending amount in China is around $2,000 USD, while in Vietnam, it is closer to $850 USD.

(Sources: Data synthesized from 2,025 reports and analyses by The Plumb Club, Bridebook, World Population Review, and Faithful Platform.)

This global snapshot proves one thing: there is no universal right amount to spend. The "value and cost" of a ring are defined by local culture and, most importantly, by the couple buying it.

Why the "Three-Month Salary Rule" Is Financial Nonsense

Let's address the elephant in the room: the three-month salary rule. You've probably heard of it and even Googled it. The idea is that you should spend the equivalent of three months' income on an engagement ring.

The "three-month rule" was created in the 1930s by De Beers marketing campaigns to boost diamond sales. It was designed to make you spend more, not to reflect your circumstances.

In today's world, where couples share financial goals like buying a home, traveling, and planning a wedding, it's simply bad advice to stick to an arbitrary, 40-year-old marketing slogan. Financial planners today recommend budgeting 1-5% of your annual income for a ring, depending on your debt, savings goals, and wedding expenses.

So, How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring?

We've debunked outdated myths and examined global spending habits. By now, you know there's no magic number. When our clients ask for a direct answer—"Just tell me how much I should spend!"—we don't give them a percentage of their salary. Instead, we offer them the Juyoyo "Peace of Mind" Principle.

Here is our bottom line:

‘You should spend the amount that you can save for, pay for without accumulating stressful debt, and feel genuinely excited and proud to give. This number represents your love and commitment, not your financial limit.’

At Juyoyo, we believe that true love shouldn't come with financial stress. That's why we offer stunning engagement rings for every budget - from beautiful options under $500 to premium designs under $5,000. Whether you're looking for a delicate Moissanite ring for under $1,000 or a custom lab-grown diamond piece, our collection offers exceptional quality, ethical sourcing, and affordable pricing. Every Juyoyo ring comes with our quality guarantee, so you can be confident that you're receiving the perfect symbol of your love without compromising on craftsmanship or breaking the bank. 

💍 Shop Affordable Gemstone Rings!

How to Choose the Right Engagement Ring to Maximize Your Budget

Juyoyo's philosophy is based on smart spending to achieve incredible value. Here’s how you can get a stunning ring without breaking the bank.

Hack 1: Set Your Personalized Engagement Ring Budget

• Assess Your Financial Health: Determine the disposable income you can allocate to a ring without compromising other financial goals.
• Budget Calculators: Allocate 1-5% of your annual income. Example: If you earn $80,000 per year, a 3% budget would be $2,400.

Hack 2: Value Hack the 4Cs

A diamond's price is determined by the 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, and carat weight). However, they aren't all equal.

• Prioritize Cut: The cut is the most important factor for sparkle. An exceptionally cut diamond will appear more brilliant and larger than a poorly cut diamond of a higher carat weight. Never compromise on cut.
• Be Smart on Color: For a diamond that looks white to the naked eye, you don't need a flawless D-grade. Stones in the G-H-I range offer fantastic value and appear icy white once set in a ring.
• Be Smart on Clarity: Most small imperfections (inclusions) in diamonds graded VS1, VS2, or even SI1 are not visible without magnification. Don't pay extra for clarity that can't be seen.

Pear Cut Moissanite Engagement Ring Infinity Promise Ring Pavé Diamond Ring Rose Gold

Hack 3: The "Under-Carat" Secret

Diamond prices increase significantly at the full- and half-carat milestones. A 0.90-carat diamond, for example, will look virtually identical to a 1.0-carat stone but can cost substantially less.

Hack 4: Embrace the Smart Alternatives

Diamonds aren't mandatory. Consider these stunning, wallet-friendly options that are gaining traction:

• Lab-grown Diamonds: They are 30-50% less expensive than mined diamonds of the same size and quality. This allows you to purchase a much larger or higher-quality stone for the same budget.
• Lab-Grown Gemstones: Sapphires, rubies, and emeralds are 50-70% cheaper than their mined counterparts.
• Moissanite: Near-diamond brilliance at 90% less cost. Durability: 9.25/10 on the Mohs scale.

Hack 5: Choosing Materials & Designs Within Budget

Material and design choices can dramatically impact cost. Use the table below to compare options.

Hack 6: Let the Setting Do the Work

A smart setting can make your center stone appear larger and more impressive. A "halo" setting, which consists of a ring of smaller diamonds around the center stone, adds significant sparkle and visual size for a much lower price than a larger diamond.

Juyoyo Oval Cut Moissanite Rose Gold Moonstone Engagement Ring

Hack 7: Shop Smart Online

As an online jeweler, we can confidently say that you get more for your money online. Without the overhead costs of traditional brick-and-mortar stores, we can offer better prices and a wider selection.

Hack 8: The Power of Customization

This is the ultimate value hack. Instead of searching for a pre-made ring that fits your budget, design a ring that is perfect for you. At Juyoyo, our custom design process allows you to make smart trade-offs. You can allocate your budget toward the features that matter most to you and your partner, creating a 100% unique ring optimized for value.

💍 Customize A Wedding Ring!

Once you've found the perfect ring to symbolize your commitment, the next exciting step is planning the proposal itself. For a detailed guide on creating a truly unforgettable moment, explore our comprehensive article: The Do's and Don'ts of Proposing: A Comprehensive Guide to Your Dream Proposal.

Don't Forget the Fine Print: Hidden Costs & Care

Your budget shouldn't stop at the ring. Be sure to factor in the following:

• Ring Insurance: Essential. It protects your investment against loss, theft, or damage.
• Maintenance: To ensure your ring maintains its luster and security, regular cleaning and inspections (often provided free of charge by your jeweler) are essential.

Conclusion: How Much Should an Engagement Ring Cost?

Forget the pressure and outdated rules. This decision is yours and yours alone. You can find a ring that isn't just a piece of jewelry, but a perfect and lasting symbol of your unique love story by communicating openly, budgeting smartly, and focusing on personal value.

Ready to finalize your budget and design? Explore our custom engagement ring collection!

💍 Shop Unique Engagement Rings!

Frequently Answered Questions

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real?

Yes, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. They have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural diamonds and differ only in origin.

Is $1,000 Enough for an Engagement Ring?

Yes, especially with lab-grown diamonds, Moissanite, or minimalist settings.

Is $10,000 a Lot for an Engagement Ring?

$10,000 is considered a high-end budget, often covering premium diamonds, designer settings, or custom craftsmanship.

Is $500 too Cheap for an Engagement Ring?

While $500 is a modest budget, you can still find meaningful options, such as Moissanite, alternative gemstones, or simple bands.

Is $5,000 too Much for an Engagement Ring?

$5,000 is a solid midrange budget, offering the flexibility to purchase high-quality lab-grown diamonds or smaller natural stones with premium settings.

How Much Should You Spend on a Proposal Ring?

Spend what fits your finances. Most couples allocate 1-5% of their annual income, balancing personal comfort with symbolic value.

When is the Best Time to Order Custom Rings?

The ideal timeframe is 6-8 weeks before your proposal, allowing ample time for design, production, and delivery.