Event Coordinator Salary in Lafayette, LA
Event Coordinators in Lafayette, LA, in 2026, earn approximately $31.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,260.00 per week, $5,460.00 per month, and $65,520.00 per year.
The demand for Event Coordinators in Lafayette is growing at a healthy rate of 6% per year, signaling a positive outlook for job opportunities and career growth in this field.
How Much Does an Event Coordinator Make in Lafayette, LA?
The salary of an Event Coordinator in Lafayette varies based on experience, skills, and employer, but the following table outlines typical earnings by level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.50 | $1,260.00 | $5,460.00 | $65,520.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,893.33 | $70,720.00 |
Do Event Coordinators in Lafayette Earn Tips?
Event Coordinators typically do not earn tips as their role focuses on planning and executing events rather than direct customer service or sales where tipping is common.
Event Coordinator Salary in Lafayette vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Coordinators earn about $32.00 per hour, or roughly $66,560.00 per year.
In comparison, Lafayette’s average hourly wage of $31.50 and annual salary of $65,520.00 are slightly below the national average, reflecting regional cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lafayette for Event Coordinators
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Event Coordinators, including:
- Downtown Lafayette: $32.50 per hour
- River Ranch: $33.00 per hour
These neighborhoods provide slightly higher compensation, likely due to demand from businesses and venues hosting larger or more frequent events.
What Influences an Event Coordinator’s Salary in Lafayette?
Several key factors impact how much an Event Coordinator can earn in Lafayette:
- Experience and Education: More experienced coordinators with proven success in managing diverse events tend to command higher wages.
- Skills and Certifications: Expertise in areas such as vendor management, contract negotiation, and event marketing, plus certifications like Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), boost earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Coordinators working for large venues or established event firms often earn more than those in smaller companies or nonprofit organizations.
- Event Complexity and Size: Handling large conferences or corporate events can lead to higher pay compared to smaller social or local events.
- Local Demand and Economy: The economic environment and event industry activity in Lafayette affect salary levels accordingly.
How To Become an Event Coordinator in Lafayette
To pursue a career as an Event Coordinator in Lafayette, consider these steps:
- Obtain relevant education from programs such as the University of Louisiana at Lafayette's Hospitality Management Program or the South Louisiana Community College's Business Administration Program, which offer event planning and business courses.
- Earn industry certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) to validate your skills and knowledge.
- Gain hands-on experience through internships or assistant roles with event planning companies or venues.
- Build strong organizational, communication, and multitasking skills critical for managing events successfully.
Top Employers Hiring Event Coordinators in Lafayette
Several prominent organizations frequently hire Event Coordinators in Lafayette, including:
- Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commission
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center
Establishments That Event Coordinators in Lafayette Work At
Event Coordinators in Lafayette typically work across a range of establishments such as:
- Conference and Convention Centers: Offering organized event spaces that require skilled coordinators for smooth operation and execution.
- Hotels and Resorts: Coordinators here manage weddings, corporate events, and large social gatherings, often receiving higher pay linked to upscale venues.
- Nonprofit Organizations and Educational Institutions: Focus may be on fundraising events or educational conferences, with varying salary structures based on budgets.
- Event Planning Firms: Coordinators may manage multiple clients and events, with salaries reflecting industry experience and firm size.
The setting can significantly influence salary; for example, luxury hotels or large conference centers typically offer higher compensation than smaller companies.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lafayette for Event Coordinators
If you’re exploring careers related to Event Coordination, consider these similar roles that share important skills:
These include Event Manager, Event Planner, and Assistant Restaurant Manager roles, which involve similar organizational and management responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Coordinators in Lafayette
Event Coordinators working in Lafayette should stay informed about employment and labor regulations. Helpful resources include:
- Federal labor laws and employment information can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Louisiana-specific workforce development and labor laws, visit the Louisiana Workforce Commission website.