Event Coordinator Salary in Santa Monica, CA
Event Coordinators in Santa Monica, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $27.59 per hour, which translates to about $1,103.60 per week, $4,782.27 per month, and $57,387.20 per year.
The demand for Event Coordinators in Santa Monica is growing positively at about 8% per year, indicating expanding opportunities and a healthy job market in the event planning sector.
How Much Does an Event Coordinator Make in Santa Monica, CA?
The salary of an Event Coordinator in Santa Monica varies depending on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of average hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly pay at different experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $21.76 | $870.40 | $3,767.47 | $45,244.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.59 | $1,103.60 | $4,782.27 | $57,387.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.00 | $1,400.00 | $6,066.67 | $72,800.00 |
Do Event Coordinators in Santa Monica Earn Tips?
Event Coordinators generally do not earn tips as their role primarily involves planning and coordination behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is typically based on salaried or hourly wages without tip income.
Event Coordinator Salary in Santa Monica, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Coordinators earn about $21.76 per hour, or around $45,260.80 per year. In Santa Monica, however, Event Coordinators earn significantly more, with an average hourly wage of $27.59 and an annual salary of about $57,387.20.
This difference reflects Santa Monica’s higher cost of living and the demand for skilled professionals in its vibrant event and hospitality industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Monica for Event Coordinators
Nearby neighborhoods offer the following hourly wages for Event Coordinators:
- Downtown Santa Monica: $28.50 per hour
- Ocean Park: $27.75 per hour
Event Coordinators working in Downtown Santa Monica tend to earn slightly more compared to those in Ocean Park, though both locations offer competitive salaries within the region.
What Influences an Event Coordinator’s Salary in Santa Monica?
Several factors impact how much an Event Coordinator can earn in Santa Monica:
- Experience: Those with more years coordinating events tend to command higher salaries.
- Skills and Certifications: Expertise in project management, vendor relations, and certifications can boost earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working for luxury hotels, large event venues, or corporate clients often pays better than smaller or nonprofit organizations.
- Event Complexity: Coordinating large-scale or high-profile events generally comes with higher pay.
- Networking: Strong industry connections can lead to better job opportunities and compensation.
How To Become an Event Coordinator in Santa Monica
To start a career as an Event Coordinator in Santa Monica, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Relevant Education: Enroll in programs such as the UCLA Extension Event Planning Certificate or the Santa Monica College Hospitality and Tourism Management Program, which offer valuable training in event planning and management.
- Pursue Certifications: Credentials like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or the Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) demonstrate expertise and may enhance employment prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships or entry-level roles in event planning firms or hospitality venues help build skills and a professional network.
- Develop Communication and Organizational Skills: These are essential for managing multiple vendors and client expectations effectively.
Top Employers Hiring Event Coordinators in Santa Monica
Some of the prominent organizations and venues hiring Event Coordinators in Santa Monica include:
- City of Santa Monica
- Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows
- Shutters on the Beach
Establishments That Event Coordinators in Santa Monica Work At
Event Coordinators typically find employment in a variety of establishments such as:
- Hotels and Resorts: Upscale hotels like the Fairmont Miramar or Shutters on the Beach have higher budgets and often offer better pay.
- Conference Centers and Event Venues: Corporate or large social event venues pay competitive wages reflecting the scale of events.
- Nonprofit and Community Organizations: These may offer lower salaries but provide valuable experience.
- Wedding and Party Planning Companies: Smaller firms may pay less, but offer diverse event opportunities.
The type and size of the establishment can significantly affect an Event Coordinator’s salary, with high-profile venues typically providing the most lucrative compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Monica for Event Coordinators
If you are considering roles related to Event Coordination, you might explore similar careers such as:
These positions include Event Planner, Event Manager, and Event Coordinator itself, all involving skills in event logistics and client relations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Coordinators in Santa Monica
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Event Coordinators working in Santa Monica.
- For federal labor statistics and regulations, visit bls.gov.
- California state employment information and labor market data can be found at edd.ca.gov.
- Local resources for Santa Monica residents and businesses are available on the santamonica.gov website.