What is the average percent of invited people that actually show up to a party?

I am planning a party and I believe I can fit 40-45 people in my house. Other people involved in the party planning have compiled an invitation list of 89 people. If we invite 89 I believe more than 45 will show. I told them it is crazy to invite so many when we can only fit 45 maximum. How many would you invite?


Possibly your feedback can show them that they need to cut the list down to a reasonable number. I feel I am being pressured into something I know is not going to work out.
What is the average percent of invited people that actually show up to a party?
60-70%
Reply:Ehh... it's really hard to guess sometimes. Whenever I throw a party, I usually check informally with people to see whether or not they're coming, and who they'll bring. that way, I don't waste money buying too much or end up looking like a cheapskate if too many people show up.





It also depends on how many attended your previous parties, and how well "received" your party was. Did people have a really good time? If so, count on a lot of people showing up.





Other factors include the time, day, and weather that day.





BUT - the biggest factor of all is whether there will be free booze! If you're gonna provide lots of drinks, and people know this, count on a lot of people showing up.





For me, typically 75-90% of the people who are invited attend my parties. I'm very generous with food and beverages, plus people always have a good time.





EDIT: I agree with Dawn B.
Reply:If you are throwing a party, you can expect at least 90% of those invited to attend.





At least that has been my experience -- your friends my know better.
Reply:If 45 people is the max you are comfortable hosting, then maybe 50ish should be the max you invite. 89 is way too high. You just don't know if all 89 wouldn't be available to accept and on the other hand you ask 40 or 50 and only 25 come. It's a crap shoot. But if you invite, you have to be able to accommodate. I would stay with what you are comfortable entertaining and stay with that. Less is more.
Reply:This is subjective to the time of day year, etc. If it is a busy travel weekend, you can assume that it will be on the high end of 20% or even more that would not show. You should also consider the 6 degrees of separation. If the 46-89 people are connected somehow, there is a good liklihood that they will show up because they know others that are invited. If 45 is really your max, and your party would be ruined if you physically have more, invite 70. It's your place and having hosted a party with 60, I can tell you it's hard to be a GOOD host to all guests when the number gets that large, and seeing as you are putting time, effort, and money into it, you should be able to enjoy yourself as well.