If you’ve started shopping for an engagement ring, you’ve probably asked yourself the same question millions of couples do: “How much should I spend?”
It sounds like it should be simple—but it isn’t. You’ll hear advice everywhere: spend two months’ salary, spend three, spend whatever your best friend did. The truth? Those “rules” don’t mean much anymore. The right budget depends on you—your relationship, your finances, and your priorities as a couple.
So, instead of chasing outdated formulas, let’s look at what people are really spending in 2025, what factors actually matter, and how to get a ring you’ll both love—without breaking the bank.
Forget the Salary Rule
The idea of spending two or three months’ salary on a ring didn’t come from tradition—it came from an old marketing campaign in the 1930s. Back then, De Beers wanted to sell more diamonds, so they came up with a catchy “rule.” Clever, yes. But relevant today? Not really.
Couples today are smarter about money. They know a ring should celebrate love, not cause financial stress. Whether you spend $1,000 or $10,000, the number doesn’t define your commitment. What matters is that the ring feels meaningful to both of you.
What People Are Spending in 2025
Surveys show that the average cost of an engagement ring in the U.S. falls between $5,000 and $7,500. But remember—that’s just an average. Many couples happily spend less, while others splurge.
Here’s a general breakdown:
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Budget rings: $1,000 – $3,000
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Mid-range rings: $3,000 – $7,500
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Luxury rings: $7,500+
The truth is, there’s no right or wrong. If you’re comfortable spending $2,500 and find a stunning ring your partner adores, that’s perfect.
How to Decide What’s Right for You
Instead of focusing on what “people” say you should spend, ask yourself these questions:
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What can I realistically afford without debt or stress?
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Do I (or my partner) care more about diamond size, or quality and sparkle?
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Am I also budgeting for wedding bands, the wedding itself, or other big life expenses?
Many couples are now choosing the ring together. It takes away the guesswork and ensures both budget and style expectations line up.
Not sure where to start? Browse our Engagement Rings collection to get a feel for pricing across different designs.
Ways to Get More for Your Money
The best part about ring shopping today is that you have more options than ever. You can still find a beautiful, high-quality ring even on a smaller budget. Here’s how:
1. Consider Lab-Grown Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds are chemically identical to mined diamonds, but they’re often 30–50% less expensive. That means you could afford a bigger stone—or save money without sacrificing sparkle.
Take a look at our Lab-Grown Diamond Rings to see the difference yourself.
2. Explore Alternative Stones
Not every engagement ring has to be a diamond. Sapphires, emeralds, and moissanite are growing in popularity because they’re unique and affordable. Plus, they make a bold statement.
Find your perfect style in our Gemstone Jewelry collection.
3. Choose the Right Setting
The setting can change everything about how a ring looks.
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A halo setting makes the center stone look larger.
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A thin band makes the diamond appear more prominent.
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A bezel setting offers modern style and extra durability.
See more in our Engagement Ring Settings.
4. Shop Online
Online jewelers usually have less overhead, which means better prices. As long as you shop with a reputable store, you can save thousands compared to a traditional retailer.
What Does a Ring Really Cost?
Here are some real-world examples to help you picture it:
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A 1-carat mined diamond solitaire: $4,000 – $6,000
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A 1-carat lab-grown diamond ring: $2,000 – $3,000
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A moissanite ring: often under $1,500
These price ranges prove one thing—you don’t need to overspend to find something breathtaking.
At the end of the day, your engagement ring budget should be about love, not pressure. Spend what makes sense for your life, and choose a ring that makes your partner light up.
When you’re ready to explore, we’ve got collections for every taste and budget:
Because in the end, the perfect ring isn’t about how much you spend—it’s about the story it tells.
FAQs
Do I need to follow the salary rule?
Not at all. It’s outdated marketing.
What’s the average cost today?
Around $5,000 – $7,500, but plenty of couples spend far less.
Are lab-grown diamonds real?
Yes. They’re identical to mined diamonds—just more affordable.
Is it safe to buy a ring online?
Yes—if you choose a trusted jeweler with certified stones.