Planning an outdoor event often starts with imagining the perfect day. But once the details come into focus, one big question usually follows: what if the weather does not cooperate? Whether it is rain, high winds, or intense sun, having a tent in place can make all the difference. It provides peace of mind and creates a comfortable, inviting space for your guests to gather.
Tent rentals are a popular choice for weddings, graduations, corporate events, and backyard celebrations. They are flexible, accessible, and easy to arrange when you need a one-time solution.
However, if you are hosting events more regularly, like seasonal dining, recurring festivals, or frequent private functions, purchasing a tent could be the smarter investment. In many cases, a tent pays for itself after just five uses.
In this guide, we will break down what goes into event tent rental pricing, offer average cost ranges, and help you decide whether renting or buying is the right move for your next event and beyond.
6 Factors That Can Drastically Affect Party Tent Rental Costs
If you're considering renting a tent for your event, you’ve likely noticed that prices of tents range widely. That’s because a number of factors influence how much you’ll pay. Understanding what goes into the cost of an event tent rental can help you budget more effectively and avoid surprises.
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Tent Size and Style: The size of the tent is one of the most obvious factors in pricing. Larger party tents require more materials, more crew members, and often more setup time, which all increase the rental cost. The tent style also matters. A high-peak frame tent or clear top tent will typically cost more than a basic pop-up or standard pole tent because of the design complexity, required labor, and visual appeal.
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Time of Year and Demand: The season can significantly affect pricing. Spring through early fall is considered peak event season in most areas, especially for weddings, graduations, and festivals. During these months, demand is higher, which can drive prices up. Booking well in advance for popular dates—like Saturdays in June—can help you lock in better availability and potentially lower rates.
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Location and Delivery: Where your event is located can also impact pricing. Event rentals in or near major cities often come with higher delivery fees, labor costs, and logistical challenges like permits or limited setup windows. On the other hand, rural areas may have lower base rates, but longer distances could mean higher transportation costs.
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Tent Condition and Quality: Not all tents are created equal, and rental costs reflect that. A pristine, white tent with clean lines and a high-end finish may come at a premium. More heavily used tents, such as those commonly used for fairs or festivals, might be less expensive. Always ask about the condition of the tent being rented, especially for important occasions.
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Crew Experience and Setup Complexity: The quality and experience of the crew setting up your tent can also affect the price. A more experienced team may cost a bit more but will likely provide faster, safer, and more professional setup, which can be especially valuable for large or complex events.
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Add-Ons and Extras: Tent rental pricing usually covers just the tent itself. Additional features, such as: sidewalls, lighting, draping, heaters, fans, flooring, or event furniture, will increase the total cost. These items not only enhance comfort and aesthetics but also contribute to the overall function and atmosphere of your event. Be sure to review your quote closely to see what is and is not included.
Cost Comparison: Renting vs. Buying
Let’s do the math. If you plan to use a tent for multiple events each year, owning could save you money quickly.
For example, renting a 20x40 frame tent typically costs around $900 per event. After five uses, you will have spent approximately $4,500 on rentals.
In comparison, purchasing a high-quality 20x40 frame tent costs about $5,600. After your sixth use, the tent will have already paid for itself and will continue saving you money for every future event.
Here is a breakdown of average rental prices versus purchase price of common tent styles so you can decide which option makes the most sense for your needs:
Average Pole Tent Rental Prices
Pole tents offer a classic, elegant look that remains a popular choice for weddings, festivals, and community events. Supported by center poles, these tents create a beautiful peaked silhouette that adds visual appeal to any outdoor space.
Pole tents rely on tension for a crisp, professional installation, which requires proper staking. Because of this, they are best suited for grassy or soft surfaces where stakes can be securely anchored.
If you are considering a pole tent for your next event, take a look at this pole tent price comparison before deciding whether to rent tents or buy:
|
Tent Size |
1 Rental |
3 Rentals |
5 Rentals |
10 Rentals |
Purchase |
|
20x20 |
$450 |
$1,350 |
$2,250 |
$4,500 |
$2,700 |
|
20x30 |
$600 |
$1,800 |
$3,000 |
$6,000 |
$3,500 |
|
20x40 |
$750 |
$2,250 |
$3,750 |
$7,500 |
$4,500 |
|
20x60 |
$1,050 |
$3,150 |
$5,250 |
$10,500 |
$6,900 |
|
20x80 |
$1,250 |
$3,750 |
$6,250 |
$12,500 |
$9,000 |
|
30x30 |
$900 |
$2,700 |
$4,500 |
$9,000 |
$5,900 |
|
30x45 |
$1,100 |
$3,300 |
$5,500 |
$11,000 |
$8,300 |
|
30x60 |
$1,350 |
$4,050 |
$6,750 |
$13,500 |
$10,500 |
|
30x75 |
$1,500 |
$4,500 |
$7,500 |
$15,000 |
$12,800 |
|
30x90 |
$2,025 |
$6,075 |
$10,125 |
$20,250 |
$15,100 |
|
40x40 |
$1,400 |
$4,200 |
$7,000 |
$14,000 |
$7,500 |
|
40x60 |
$2,100 |
$6,300 |
$10,500 |
$21,000 |
$10,500 |
|
40x80 |
$2,400 |
$7,200 |
$12,000 |
$24,000 |
$13,500 |
|
40x100 |
$3,000 |
$9,000 |
$15,000 |
$30,000 |
$16,500 |
Average Rental Prices for Frame Tents
Frame tents have an open interior with no center poles, making them popular for events that need flexible layouts and unobstructed space. They can be set up on almost any surface whether you’re staking into grass or using a tent ballasting system on concrete or asphalt.
Here’s the breakdown between renting and buying a frame tent:
|
Tent Size |
1 Rental |
3 Rentals |
5 Rentals |
10 Rentals |
Purchase |
|
20x20 |
$600 |
$1,800 |
$3,000 |
$6,000 |
$3,600 |
|
20x30 |
$675 |
$2,025 |
$3,375 |
$6,750 |
$4,600 |
|
20x40 |
$900 |
$2,700 |
$4,500 |
$9,000 |
$5,600 |
|
20x60 |
$1,350 |
$4,050 |
$6,750 |
$13,500 |
$8,300 |
|
20x80 |
$1,800 |
$5,400 |
$9,000 |
$18,000 |
$10,500 |
|
30x30 |
$1,050 |
$3,150 |
$5,250 |
$10,500 |
$6,100 |
|
30x45 |
$1,500 |
$4,500 |
$7,500 |
$15,000 |
$8,300 |
|
30x60 |
$2,025 |
$6,075 |
$10,125 |
$20,250 |
$10,500 |
|
30x75 |
$2,300 |
$6,900 |
$11,500 |
$23,000 |
$12,800 |
|
30x90 |
$2,550 |
$7,650 |
$12,750 |
$25,500 |
$15,100 |
|
40x40 |
$1,800 |
$5,400 |
$9,000 |
$18,000 |
$10,900 |
|
40x60 |
$2,700 |
$8,100 |
$13,500 |
$27,000 |
$15,000 |
|
40x80 |
$3,600 |
$10,800 |
$18,000 |
$36,000 |
$19,100 |
|
40x100 |
$4,500 |
$13,500 |
$22,500 |
$45,000 |
$23,300 |
Whether you are a venue, a party tent rental company, or an organization that hosts large events each year needing multiple tents, buying your own tent can offer significant savings and greater flexibility over time.
Interested in Purchasing a Tent? Call Us!
Enhance your outdoor events with a heavy-duty tent and the right accessories. Call us today and let our experienced team guide you to find the perfect shelter and sidewalls that will transform your special day into an unforgettable celebration.
Discover the many options we offer by calling us: 920-431-0938
When Renting Makes Sense
Renting a tent is the perfect choice when you only need it for a one-time event. Whether you are hosting your own wedding, a child’s birthday party, or a retirement celebration for a family member, renting is a convenient and stress-free option.
One of the biggest benefits of renting is that it takes the responsibility off your plate. Tent rental companies will typically handle delivery, professional installation, takedown, and storage so you can focus on planning the rest of your event.
Many rental companies also offer more than just tents. If you need round tables and chairs for a wedding reception, a stage for a performance, string lights, a tent heater for a winter event, or specialty tent flooring for dance floors, most rental companies can provide those items as well. Renting a tent allows you to bundle everything you need for your event and work with one experienced provider to help bring your vision to life.
When Buying a Tent Is the Smarter Choice
Owning your own tent gives you flexibility, peace of mind, and can save you money in the long run. If you plan to rent a tent five to seven times, purchasing your own is often the more cost-effective option. You avoid recurring rental fees, delivery charges, and setup costs for every event.
Think about it. If you are a restaurant owner offering outdoor dining, owning your own tent is far more affordable than paying for long-term rentals season after season. For outdoor event venues, owning your tent eliminates the stress and expense of keeping a rental tent on standby. You can create a better, more reliable experience for your clients without relying on the availability or pricing of rental companies.
Owning your own tent also gives you the freedom to host events on your schedule. There is no need to worry about whether a tent is available during busy seasons or whether prices have gone up unexpectedly. You will always have what you need on hand.
And best of all, you can customize your tent to fit your needs. Whether you want a custom size for your restaurant patio, specific colors (other than solid white) to complement your venue, or printed branding to help promote your business, we can help you create the perfect tent.
If you host frequent events, buying your own tent can be one of the smartest investments you make.
Looking for a Customized Tent? Contact Us!
Looking to enhance your outdoor celebration with an elegant tent and the right equipment? Your search ends here! Call us today and let our team of experts guide you to find the perfect canopy and accessories that will transform your special day into an unforgettable celebration.
Discover the many options we offer by calling us: 920-431-0938
4 Important Features to Look for in a Tent You Plan to Buy
Not all party tents are built the same. While you might find a low-cost canopy at a big box store that could seem like a bargain, those products are not designed for the durability or performance needed for multiple events. It may only last one or two uses — especially when unexpected weather conditions come into play.
If you are looking to invest in a tent that will last for years of reliable use, here are the key factors to watch for:
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Durability and material strength: Look for commercial-grade vinyl, typically 16 oz. blockout vinyl that provides shade and blocks sunlight. Check the denier strength of the material. 1000D is the strongest available and offers superior durability
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Frame structure: Prioritize anodized aluminum frames, which resist rust, are lighter than steel, and make setup and takedown easier. For large frame tents, look for models with double-tube rafter poles. These are 300% stronger than single-tube options and deliver greater wind resistance
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UV resistance: UV-resistant coatings are critical. As they break down, so does your tent fabric. American-made, domestic fabrics typically outlast imported vinyl by more than three times — giving you far more value and longevity
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ISO-certified suppliers: Work with manufacturers who source materials from ISO-certified suppliers. This ensures third-party testing and consistent quality with every order.
When you are making an investment in a tent, buying with quality in mind will save you frustration, replacement costs, and help you deliver a professional event experience time and again.
Still Deciding on The Best Tent for Your Event? We Can Help
Tent rental prices can vary quite a bit, and for one-time events, renting often makes perfect sense. But if you plan to host multiple events, owning your own tent is usually the smarter investment. You save money, gain flexibility, and always have your tent ready when you need it.
Still deciding if renting or buying is right for you? We are here to help. Our friendly Midwest-based team can walk you through your options and answer any questions about customization, installation, or event prep. Every tent is made to order, built just for you, and quickly delivered in time for your next big event.
We want to make sure you feel fully prepared, which is why we provide helpful resources like planning guides, setup instructions, and video tutorials. And if you ever need extra support, you can always call us at 920-431-0938 and speak with someone right here.
If you are still weighing your options, reach out today. We would love to help you find the perfect tent and get ready for your best events yet.
