Event Coordinator Salary in Columbia, MD
Event Coordinators in Columbia, MD, in 2025, earn approximately $27.40 per hour, which translates to about $1,096.00 per week, $4,749.33 per month, and $56,992.00 per year.
The demand for Event Coordinators in Columbia is growing positively at about 6% per year, indicating a healthy increase in the need for skilled professionals in event planning and coordination.
How Much Does an Event Coordinator Make in Columbia, MD?
The salary of an Event Coordinator in Columbia can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.16 | $846.40 | $3,658.13 | $43,898.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.40 | $1,096.00 | $4,749.33 | $56,992.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $40.00 | $1,600.00 | $6,933.33 | $83,200.00 |
Do Event Coordinators in Columbia Earn Tips?
Event Coordinators typically do not earn tips as their compensation is generally structured around a salary or hourly wage due to the professional nature of their responsibilities rather than direct customer interactions.
Event Coordinator Salary in Columbia vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Coordinators earn an average of around $23.62 per hour, which comes to about $49,129.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Coordinators in Columbia earn a higher wage, with approximately $27.40 per hour and $56,992 annually.
This premium reflects the regional demand and cost of living in Columbia, MD.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Columbia for Event Coordinators
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries as well:
- Bethesda: $45.64 per hour
- Rockville: $42.43 per hour
Event Coordinators seeking higher pay might explore opportunities in Bethesda or Rockville which offer notably higher compensation.
What Influences an Event Coordinator’s Salary in Columbia?
Several key factors affect how much an Event Coordinator can earn in Columbia:
- Experience: More experienced coordinators command higher salaries due to proven management and organizational skills.
- Skills and Certifications: Expertise in vendor negotiation, budgeting, and event technology enhance salary potential.
- Type of Establishment: Coordinators working for larger corporations, convention centers, or premium venues often receive better pay than those in smaller businesses or nonprofit organizations.
- Event Complexity: Managing large-scale or high-profile events usually comes with higher compensation.
- Education: Holding relevant certificates or degrees can boost earnings by demonstrating commitment and knowledge.
How To Become an Event Coordinator in Columbia
To build a successful career as an Event Coordinator in Columbia, consider these steps:
- Obtain a Relevant Certificate or Degree: Enrolling in programs like the Event Management Certificate at Howard Community College provides practical skills in event planning and coordination.
- Pursue Hospitality Education: The Hospitality Management Program at University of Maryland Eastern Shore covers key hospitality and management principles useful for this role.
- Gain Professional Certifications: Credentials such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) signify expertise and can enhance career prospects.
- Build Practical Experience: Start in entry-level event roles or internships to learn vendor relations, budgeting, and client communication.
Top Employers Hiring Event Coordinators in Columbia
If you're looking for employment as an Event Coordinator in Columbia, consider applying to these notable employers:
- Eggspectation
- American Small Business Alliance
- Main Event
Establishments That Event Coordinators in Columbia Work At
Event Coordinators in Columbia are typically employed across various types of establishments, each influencing salary levels differently.
- Hotels and Convention Centers: These venues often organize large-scale events and pay higher salaries due to the complexity and volume of work.
- Corporate Offices and Event Planning Firms: Coordinators here handle corporate meetings and professional events, usually offering moderate to high salaries.
- Nonprofit Organizations and Community Centers: Budget constraints might lead to lower salaries, but these roles provide valuable experience and opportunities to coordinate meaningful events.
- Entertainment Venues and Restaurants: These establishments employ coordinators mainly for social events and weddings, sometimes on a freelance or part-time basis.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Columbia for Event Coordinators
If you're interested in similar hospitality careers, consider these options that share related skills and work environments:
These careers include Event Manager, Event Planner, and Assistant Restaurant Manager, all of which involve event coordination, management skills, and hospitality industry knowledge.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Coordinators in Columbia
Understanding local labor laws and tax regulations is essential for Event Coordinators in Columbia to ensure compliance and optimize earnings.
- For federal labor laws and employment standards, you can visit the U.S. Department of Labor official website.
- The Maryland Department of Labor website offers resources on state-specific labor laws, licensing, and workforce development.
- For more localized information, the Howard County government website provides business regulations and community guidelines relevant to Event Coordinators.