How much does a magician cost?
If you are considering booking a magician, the cost plays a role.
To give you a better understanding of the prices of magicians, I will try to provide you with better insights. This can help you recognize a fair and optimal offer for you.
But please note: every magician sets their fee themselves. There is no tariff regulation or anything similar. The prices for booking a magician are mainly determined by supply and demand. Therefore, all my assessments should be taken with caution, and there may be significant deviations in individual cases.

What factors determine the price for a magician?
If you are not from the entertainment industry yourself, it may be difficult to understand why many magicians charge fees starting in the upper three-digit range and going well into the four-digit range for just a few hours of work.
Therefore, I would like to explain the factors that are relevant for pricing.
1. Supply and demand
The main factor determining the magician’s fee is supply and demand. In cities where many events take place, there is a high demand for entertainment artists. If there are only a few magicians who have the desired experience and quality, then prices go up.
2. The date of your event
Closely linked to supply and demand is the date on which you plan your event.
The most popular days for celebrations are Fridays and Saturdays. Requests often accumulate on these days. But since magicians cannot split themselves, many of them charge higher prices on these days. Some magicians offer lower prices on the less popular weekdays.
The same applies to December. Numerous Christmas parties take place, and the demand is so high that it can hardly be met. Consequently, many magicians charge higher prices for their performances in December than in other months.
3. Travel distance
The farther the travel distance and the associated time expenditure, the more the magician will charge for their performance.
4. Duration of the performance
Many magicians offer hourly rates and are paid accordingly. The longer they are there, the more they cost. I don’t do that. Instead, I always offer a fixed price for the event. I am happy to explain why I do this over the phone if you are interested.
5. Effort
The more elaborate the performance is in preparation, the higher the price will be. For example, if customers want an individual show with their products, which has to be developed and rehearsed in advance, this will increase the price. Many magicians also charge for on-site pre-talks, for which they have to travel, or they include them in the overall price.
In addition, there are certain types of magic that require more planning and work than others. A stage illusionist who brings and sets up two trucks full of equipment will generally charge a higher price than a comparably good close-up magician.
6. Sympathy
Magicians are humans and appreciate being treated kindly and respectfully. While I am not aware of any cases where a magician offered lower prices because they liked the customer, the opposite does happen.
Customers who speak condescendingly to the magician or behave disrespectfully in other ways occasionally get a small price increase in the offer. It’s a kind of “pain and suffering” compensation for the magician, who has to work with difficult people.
7. Region
The economic strength of the region in which the magician performs also plays a role. In cities with high living costs such as Munich or Stuttgart, magicians charge more money for their performances than equivalent magicians in Berlin or Hamburg. Therefore, it can happen that a magician from Berlin is booked in Munich, and it is still worthwhile for all parties involved despite the long journey.
Are there hidden costs?
When booking a magician, it is important to clarify all costs in advance to ensure transparent planning. In rare cases, providers may initially quote only the net price, with VAT of 7% or 19% only appearing on the invoice. However, this is the exception and not an issue with most professional magicians.
You should also check whether travel expenses are included in the offer or charged separately. The same applies to the use of special materials, such as personalized props or technical equipment.
If you wish for a longer performance time or additional services, it is advisable to discuss this in advance. A brief phone call to clarify all the details can help avoid misunderstandings and ensure that you receive a tailored offer without any surprises. This way, you can look forward to a magical event with peace of mind.
How much does it cost to book a magician?
In the end, the price which the magician will provide for you is determined by all of these factors. Since not all magicians are the same, I will give you the prices for several different types of magicians. All of the following price ranges are based on my experiences in the Berlin and Brandenburg region. In more economically prosperous regions, the costs may be higher than those listed here.
All the following price ranges are based on my personal experiences as well as the assessments of my magician colleagues whom I consulted for this article. However, deviations may naturally occur.
How much does a magician cost for one hour?
The cost of a magician per hour depends on the type of magic show. A close-up magician who interacts directly with guests typically charges between 300 and 900 euros per hour. A stage magician offering a 60-minute stand-up show usually costs between 900 and 3000 euros, depending on the complexity of the show and the equipment required.
How much does an event magician cost?
An event magician offers a versatile program, often consisting of a mix of close-up magic and stage performances, ideal for larger events such as corporate parties, gala evenings, or even birthday celebrations. The prices for an event magician usually range between 1200 and 2500 euros for an evening. Some magicians also offer hourly billing, with rates typically between 300 and 900 euros per hour. The costs often include props, program preparation, and the performance itself.
Example: For a corporate summer party, you might pay 1900 euros plus VAT. This price would include close-up magic for the guests, a stand-up show as the highlight, the magician’s travel expenses, and the materials used.
How much does a wedding magician cost?
A wedding magician not only provides entertainment but also helps guests get to know each other and connect. Through their magic, they playfully bridge barriers between the two families coming together. The prices for a wedding magician typically range between 1500 and 3000 euros for the evening, depending on the duration of the performance and the scope of the program.
Example: For a wedding, you might pay 2200 euros including VAT. This price would include close-up magic for the guests, a magic show as the highlight, the magician’s travel expenses, and the materials used.
How much does a trade show magician cost?
A trade show magician makes a lasting impression at trade shows and product presentations. Through eye-catching performances, they can creatively showcase products and increase guest engagement. The prices for trade show magicians vary depending on the scope and duration of the performance, typically ranging from 1600 to 8000 euros for the day.
Example: For a product launch at a trade show, you might pay 3800 euros plus VAT. This price would include close-up magic at the booth, making small goodies appear for the guests, a stage show tailored to your products as the highlight, the magician’s travel expenses, and the materials used.
How much does a close-up magician cost?
A close-up magician performs directly under the eyes of the guests, creating fascinating moments in small groups. As they move from table to table, they facilitate networking and encourage interaction among the guests. The prices for close-up magicians who do not offer a stage show typically range between 300 and 900 euros net per hour.
Example: For a two-hour event with close-up magic, you might pay 1100 euros plus VAT. This price would include the magic tricks, the magician’s travel expenses, and the materials used.
How much does an illusionist / stage magician cost?
An illusionist or stage magician offers spectacular shows with elaborate equipment and large illusions (such as floating people or disappearing cars). This type of magician is perfect for large stages and special events. Due to the extensive materials, transportation, and preparation, prices typically start at 4000 euros and can rise to high five-figure amounts.
Example: For a large stage illusion show, you could expect a price of 12,000 euros plus VAT, which would also include travel expenses and the necessary equipment.
How much does a children's magician cost?
A professional children’s magician offers a program specifically designed for kids, often consisting of a mix of magic tricks, interactive elements, and small surprises. The prices for a children’s magician typically range between 250 and 650 euros, depending on factors such as location, duration, and additional services.
Possible extras, such as balloon animal modeling, a personalized trick for the birthday child, or a magic workshop, can sometimes be added for an additional fee.
Example: For a 45-minute magic program, including small gifts for the children, you might pay 450 euros including VAT. This price would include travel costs and material costs (e.g., balloons, magic kits, small gifts).
How can I get the most for my money?
If you know the price-determining factors for magicians, it will be easier for you to get a good deal through careful planning.
Please remember that a high price does not automatically guarantee high quality.
You can also pay a lot of money and still only get a mediocre or embarrassing magician. Similarly, sometimes you can find a magician who can do much more than their price suggests.
Therefore, it is important that, regardless of price, you pay attention to certain indicators that tell you whether a magician is worth their money. Your personal impression on the phone is particularly important, but videos, photos, and reviews are also important. I have summarized more detailed information on how to find the best magician for your event in a post: How to recognize a good magician?
With the help of all this information, it will be easier for you to find and book the right magician for your party.
Fabian Schneekind
I have been dedicated to the art of magic for over 19 years, 10 of which have been full-time. My work takes me to various events both nationally and internationally. I’ve performed for renowned companies such as Lufthansa, Siemens, Deutsche Bank, Adobe, Würth, Pfizer, and Deutsche Telekom. International highlights include an exclusive birthday party in Los Angeles and my performances at major networking events.
My performances take me to ships, grand castles at weddings, and prominent audiences – from top models at Fashion Week to bands like Rammstein. But I also enjoy performing at your grandmother’s 80th birthday. For me, magic is the best way to bring people together and momentarily forget about topics like status and wealth.
In my blog, I share this valuable experience to offer useful tips to event planners and aspiring magicians. Whether it’s about booking a magician or organizing successful events, I bring solid knowledge and enthusiasm.