Event Coordinator Salary in Charleston, SC
Event Coordinators in Charleston, SC in 2025, earn approximately $17.71 per hour, which translates to about $708.40 per week, $3,069.73 per month, and $36,836.80 per year.
The demand for Event Coordinators in Charleston is growing significantly at about 18% per year, indicating a positive and expanding job market for event planning professionals in the area.
How Much Does an Event Coordinator Make in Charleston, SC?
The salary of an Event Coordinator in Charleston can vary depending on experience and employer, but the following breakdown provides a general overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.54 | $541.60 | $2,348.27 | $28,179.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.71 | $708.40 | $3,069.73 | $36,836.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.16 | $926.40 | $4,005.07 | $48,132.80 |
Do Event Coordinators in Charleston Earn Tips?
Generally, Event Coordinators do not earn tips as their role is more administrative and organizational rather than service-oriented during events. Their compensation typically comes solely from salary or hourly wages.
Event Coordinator Salary in Charleston, SC vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Coordinators earn an average hourly wage of about $19.19, translating to roughly $39,915.20 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Event Coordinators in Charleston earn a bit less, with an average of $17.71 per hour and $36,836.80 annually. This difference may reflect the local cost of living and regional market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Charleston for Event Coordinators
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Event Coordinators, including:
- North Charleston: $24.12 per hour
- Mount Pleasant: $20.19 per hour
Those willing to commute to North Charleston can expect significantly higher hourly rates compared to Charleston itself, while Mount Pleasant also offers a modestly higher wage.
What Influences an Event Coordinator’s Salary in Charleston?
Several important factors influence how much an Event Coordinator can earn:
- Experience and Expertise: Event Coordinators with more years of experience and specialized skills in event logistics or marketing tend to command higher pay.
- Type of Employer: Working for large corporations, event management firms, or prestigious venues usually offers better compensation than smaller nonprofits or local businesses.
- Certification and Education: Holding recognized certifications like Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can enhance earning potential.
- Event Scale and Budget: Coordinating large-scale or high-budget events often comes with higher salaries or project-based bonuses.
- Location Within the Region: Salaries may vary based on the specific area within or near Charleston, due to differences in demand and local economy.
How To Become an Event Coordinator in Charleston
To start a career as an Event Coordinator in Charleston, consider these steps:
- Education: Pursue a degree or courses in hospitality or tourism management. For example, the College of Charleston offers a Hospitality and Tourism Management Program that includes event planning skills.
- Focused Certificates: Programs like the Event Management Certificate at Trident Technical College provide specialized training in event coordination, logistics, marketing, and budgeting.
- Certifications: Aim to earn professional credentials such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) to demonstrate expertise and improve job prospects.
- Gain Experience: Volunteering or interning at events, conventions, or hospitality venues in Charleston can build practical skills and networks.
Top Employers Hiring Event Coordinators in Charleston
Charleston's key employers looking for skilled Event Coordinators include:
- State of South Carolina
- Trident Technical College
- EventWorks
Establishments That Event Coordinators in Charleston Work At
Event Coordinators in Charleston typically find roles within a variety of establishments such as:
- Convention Centers and Hotels: These venues often host large events and offer higher salaries due to scale and complexity.
- Corporate Offices and Event Planning Firms: Focused on corporate or social event management, these employers may provide competitive pay and career growth.
- Nonprofit Organizations and Community Centers: While salaries might be moderate, these roles often provide meaningful opportunities to manage community-focused events.
- Weddings and Private Event Venues: Coordinators in these settings may experience variable pay depending on event frequency and budget.
The type and scale of the establishment significantly impact salaries and benefits for Event Coordinators in the Charleston area.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Charleston for Event Coordinators
If you're exploring careers related to Event Coordination, consider these similar roles that may interest you:
These include Event Manager, Event Planner, and Event Coordinator positions, each offering distinct pathways within event and hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Coordinators in Charleston
Event Coordinators should familiarize themselves with both federal and state labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- For federal labor statistics and occupational outlooks, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
- For South Carolina-specific employment laws and labor resources, consult the State of South Carolina official website.