Event Coordinator Salary in Portland, OR
Event Coordinators in Portland, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $23.58 per hour, which translates to about $943.20 per week, $4,087.20 per month, and $49,046.40 per year.
The employment outlook for Event Coordinators in Portland is promising, with a 5% growth rate per year, indicating a steadily increasing demand for skilled professionals in event management across the city and surrounding areas.
How Much Does an Event Coordinator Make in Portland, OR?
The salary of an Event Coordinator in Portland varies based on experience and role complexity. Here’s a breakdown of earnings at various career stages in this city.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.58 | $943.20 | $4,072.80 | $48,993.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.00 | $1,080.00 | $4,680.00 | $56,160.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.76 | $1,350.40 | $5,857.07 | $70,220.80 |
Do Event Coordinators in Portland Earn Tips?
Event Coordinators generally do not earn tips as their compensation is primarily salary-based. Their role focuses on planning and managing rather than direct customer service transactions that typically generate tips.
Event Coordinator Salary in Portland vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Coordinators earn about $21.73 per hour, which amounts to roughly $45,198.40 annually.
Compared to the national figures, Event Coordinators in Portland earn slightly more, with an average hourly rate of $23.58 and annual pay of approximately $49,046.40.
This differential reflects Portland’s growing event industry and associated costs of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Portland for Event Coordinators
Exploring salaries in nearby cities reveals the following:
- Hillsboro: $40.33 per hour
- Eugene: $27.30 per hour
Event Coordinators in Hillsboro enjoy significantly higher pay, which may attract professionals willing to commute or relocate for better salaries.
What Influences an Event Coordinator’s Salary in Portland?
Several critical factors influence how much an Event Coordinator earns in Portland:
- Experience: More experienced coordinators managing larger or more complex events tend to command higher salaries.
- Skills and Certifications: Proficiency in project management, negotiation, and communication skills, alongside credentials like Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP), can boost earnings.
- Type of Employer: Working for high-profile venues, corporate clients, or specialized event firms usually offers better pay than smaller agencies or nonprofit organizations.
- Event Size and Type: Coordinators handling large-scale or frequent events, such as weddings, conferences, or sports events, often earn more.
- Local Demand and Competition: Portland’s vibrant event scene can create competitive salary offers due to demand for talented coordinators.
How To Become an Event Coordinator in Portland
To pursue a career as an Event Coordinator in Portland, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in education programs like the Portland State University Event Planning Certificate or the University of Oregon Sports Product Management Program to gain foundational knowledge in event logistics and management.
- Obtain professional certifications such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) to demonstrate industry expertise.
- Gain practical experience through internships or entry-level roles at event venues, catering companies, or corporate event departments.
- Develop strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills which are essential for this role.
Top Employers Hiring Event Coordinators in Portland
Some of the prominent Portland employers seeking qualified Event Coordinators include:
- Soho House & Co.
- Jake's Grill
- Multnomah Athletic Club
Establishments That Event Coordinators in Portland Work At
Event Coordinators find opportunities across a range of establishments in Portland, such as:
- Hotels and Convention Centers: Managing business conferences and social events, often providing more substantial salaries.
- Corporate Events and Marketing Firms: Handling branded events, product launches, and large-scale meetings with competitive pay.
- Nonprofits and Community Organizations: Coordinating fundraisers and awareness events, sometimes with more limited budgets and salaries.
- Venues and Banquet Halls: Overseeing diverse types of events; earnings vary with venue prestige and event complexity.
The type of establishment greatly affects salary, with corporate and luxury venues typically offering higher compensation due to the scope and demand of their events.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Portland for Event Coordinators
If you are interested in exploring careers similar to Event Coordinator, here are a few related roles to consider:
These include Event Manager, Event Planner, and Event Coordinator positions, showcasing related responsibilities in hospitality and event management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Coordinators in Portland
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is important for Event Coordinators working in Portland.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor (federal website) for comprehensive federal labor regulations and worker rights.
- The Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (state website) provides guidance on state-specific worker protections and wage laws.
- For local employment ordinances and business resources, visit the City of Portland official website (local government).