Event Coordinator Salary in Columbia, SC
Event Coordinators in Columbia, SC, in 2026, earn approximately $19.12 per hour, which translates to about $764.80 per week, $3,314.13 per month, and $39,769.60 per year.
The demand for Event Coordinators in Columbia is growing at a steady rate of about 8% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding job market for professionals skilled in organizing and managing events in the region.
How Much Does an Event Coordinator Make in Columbia, SC?
The salary of an Event Coordinator in Columbia can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.53 | $581.20 | $2,512.93 | $30,134.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.12 | $764.80 | $3,314.13 | $39,769.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.15 | $1,006.00 | $4,348.67 | $52,312.00 |
Do Event Coordinators in Columbia Earn Tips?
Event Coordinators typically do not earn tips as their roles focus on organizing and managing events rather than direct customer service where gratuities are customary. Their income is generally based on salary or hourly wages without an additional tip component.
Event Coordinator Salary in Columbia vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Coordinators earn about $22.00 per hour, translating to approximately $45,760 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Coordinators in Columbia earn slightly less, at $19.12 per hour and $39,769.60 annually. This difference can be due to regional cost of living and market demand variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Columbia for Event Coordinators
Nearby areas offer different salary prospects for Event Coordinators:
- Greer: $44.86 per hour
- Spartanburg: $20.98 per hour
Event Coordinators working in Greer can expect significantly higher earnings compared to Columbia, while Spartanburg offers slightly higher hourly wages than Columbia as well.
What Influences an Event Coordinator’s Salary in Columbia?
Several factors contribute to the salary variations for Event Coordinators in Columbia:
- Experience Level: Coordinators with more years in event planning or management tend to earn higher salaries due to refined skills and industry contacts.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in areas such as corporate events, weddings, or conventions can command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working for large corporations, event management firms, or prestigious venues may offer better compensation than smaller or nonprofit organizations.
- Educational Background and Certifications: Holding relevant degrees or certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Scope and Scale of Events Managed: Coordinating larger or more complex events typically results in higher salaries.
How To Become an Event Coordinator in Columbia
Becoming an Event Coordinator in Columbia involves gaining relevant education and experience along with industry certifications.
Key steps include:
- Enrolling in Hospitality or Event Planning Programs: Institutions like University of South Carolina offer the Hospitality Management Program, covering event planning and management fundamentals. Midlands Technical College also provides an Event Planning Certificate focusing on logistics, budgeting, and marketing.
- Obtaining Professional Certifications: Certifications such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) by the Events Industry Council or Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) tailored for government-related event planning can improve job prospects and salaries.
- Gaining Practical Experience: Internships, volunteer work, or entry-level jobs in event management provide valuable hands-on learning.
- Networking Within the Industry: Joining local professional organizations and attending industry events can open doors to career opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Event Coordinators in Columbia
Prominent employers seeking skilled Event Coordinators in Columbia include:
- University of South Carolina
- A3 Communications
- Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
Establishments That Event Coordinators in Columbia Work At
Event Coordinators typically find employment in a variety of settings:
- Hotels and Conference Centers: These venues offer opportunities to coordinate weddings, business conferences, and private parties, often providing higher salaries due to event size and client budget.
- Corporate Offices and Convention Centers: Coordinators in these settings manage large-scale corporate events and trade shows, often resulting in competitive pay.
- Nonprofits and Community Organizations: These roles may pay less but offer meaningful experience and networking in diverse event types.
- Event Planning Firms: Agencies specializing in event management provide dynamic work environments and opportunities for specialization.
The type of establishment substantially impacts earning potential, with larger and more prestigious organizations typically offering better compensation and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Columbia for Event Coordinators
If you're interested in similar roles within the hospitality and events sector, you might consider the following careers:
These include Event Manager, Event Planner, and Event Coordinator roles, each focusing on different aspects and responsibilities within event management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Coordinators in Columbia
Event Coordinators in Columbia should be aware of pertinent labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Comprehensive federal labor statistics and occupational outlooks are available on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
- South Carolina state-specific employment laws and resources can be found on the official state government website.
- Local employment information, labor regulations, and business resources are accessible at Columbia city government website.