How Much Is a DJ for 5 Hours UK – DJ Cost, Wedding DJ Cost, Disco, DJ Hire & DJs in London

If you’re planning a party, wedding, or corporate event, one big question is: How much does a DJ cost? Hiring a DJ can really make your event special, but understanding the DJ price and what affects the overall cost can be tricky. In this guide, we’ll break down everything about DJ hire for 5 hours in the UK, including DJ rates, what you get, and tips to book a DJ the right way.

Current Trends in DJ Hire (UK-Wide): Factors to Consider When Hiring DJs

When you hire a DJ in the UK, it’s important to know what type of event they usually play for and what’s popular right now. Weddings, corporate events, and birthdays are the main occasions where people want DJs.

Many local DJs and mobile DJs now offer full-service packages, which means they don’t just play music but also bring their own sound system and lighting, set up everything, and tailor the playlist to your event. This trend means DJs are more than just someone who plays a DJ set — they often act as an MC or host, helping the party flow smoothly.

DJs usually need to be versatile, with a good knowledge of different genres to read the room and keep everyone dancing. Experienced DJs are in demand, especially those who can play well in advance and know how to make a first dance or wedding reception really special.

Average UK Rates: DJ Cost, Hourly Rate, and Booking Prices

So, how much does it cost to hire a DJ for 5 hours? The average cost of hiring a DJ across the UK usually ranges from £250 to £600 for standard bookings. This is a typical DJ package including performance time and basic equipment.

If you want a professional DJ with lots of experience or a specialist DJ who can do something unique, like a percussionist DJ or someone who spins rare vinyl, expect to pay £700 or more.

DJs may charge a fixed rate for the 5 hours, but some charge an hourly rate or per set. For example, a DJ’s hourly rate could be around £150 to £200, depending on their level of experience and popularity.

Factors that affect the DJ cost include the type of event, location, and what extra equipment or services you want. DJs with high demand or who are well-known or celebrity DJs will usually charge more for their services.

London Pricing vs. Rest of UK: How Much Does a DJ Cost and Average Prices

Where you are in the UK makes a big difference in DJ hire cost. For example, DJs in London are often more expensive than those in smaller towns or rural areas.

In London, you can expect to pay between £400 and £800 for 5 hours of DJing. This is because the city has a higher cost of living and more competition, plus travel costs if the DJ comes from outside the city.

In smaller towns, the average price for the same service is usually between £250 and £500. Many local DJs charge less as they have lower overheads and less travel time.

When considering London or any city, remember that some DJs may also charge travel costs if your venue is far away or difficult to reach, which will impact the overall cost.

What’s Typically Included in a DJ Set and Playlist

When you book a DJ, it’s important to know what you’re actually paying for. Most 5-hour DJ packages will include:

• A sound system capable of handling your venue size
• Basic lighting or sound systems such as disco lights or uplighting
• The DJ’s time for setup and teardown, usually counted within the 5 hours or sometimes additional
• A playlist tailored to your event needs, from classic party tunes to modern hits
• The DJ’s expertise in reading the room and adjusting music to keep the vibe right

Some DJs offer extra services like an MC, taking requests, or hosting games. These may or may not be included in the standard price, so always check quotes from local DJs to compare.

Add-On Services: Extra DJ Rates and Costs

Many DJs offer add-ons that can increase the hire cost but make your event even better:

• Ceremony music or background music during formal parts of a wedding
• Extra uplighting, additional speakers, or special effects
• MC services or hosting duties to keep the event moving
• Extra hours if your party runs longer than planned

These extra services come with an additional cost, usually charged per additional hour or as a package deal.

If you want your DJ to cover the wedding day fully—from ceremony to reception—expect to pay more, often £700+ for full coverage.

Example London Packages: Wedding DJs and Private Party Booking Prices

To give you an idea of what you might expect to pay in London:

• £550: A 5-hour package including lights, a DJ booth, and a sound system suitable for a medium-sized venue.
• £700+: Full wedding day coverage including ceremony music, wedding reception, and extra hire hours, plus advanced lighting and sound setups.

These prices usually reflect experienced DJs with a good reputation and a solid track record in corporate events and weddings.

Booking Advice: How to Find and Hire a DJ

If you’re ready to find a DJ and book, here are some things to consider:

• Always check for included VAT and travel fees. Some DJs quote a price that doesn’t include these, which will increase your hire cost.
• Ask about backup plans in case your DJ gets ill or something unexpected happens. Good DJs usually have a backup or can recommend a colleague.
• Make sure to sign a contract that outlines all the services, times, and fees so you’re clear on what you’re paying for.
• Book your DJ well in advance to secure the date, especially for popular times like summer weddings or holiday parties.
• Ask about the DJ’s level of experience and if they have references or reviews. This helps avoid surprises on your event day.
• Find out if the DJ can cater the music to your specific event needs and if they can bring equipment that suits the venue.

Conclusion

In the UK—especially in London—you’ll likely pay between £400 and £700 for a quality 5-hour DJ. The DJ cost depends on the DJ’s level, what services they provide, and your type of event. Whether you’re hosting a private party, a corporate event, or a wedding, it’s important to check what’s included in the DJ package and ensure your quote matches your event needs.

If you need your DJ to do more than just play music—like providing lighting or sound systems, or staying for extra hours—expect to pay a bit more. With these tips and a clear understanding of DJ hire costs, you’ll be ready to get in touch with professional DJs and make your event one to remember.