Event Coordinator Salary in Tacoma, WA
Event Coordinators in Tacoma, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $24.05 per hour, which translates to about $962.00 per week, $4,168.67 per month, and $50,024.00 per year.
The demand for Event Coordinators in Tacoma is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting increased opportunities in event management and hospitality sectors in the region.
How Much Does an Event Coordinator Make in Tacoma, WA?
The salary of an Event Coordinator in Tacoma varies depending on experience, skills, and the type of organization. Here's a breakdown of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.82 | $632.80 | $2,738.93 | $32,953.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.05 | $962.00 | $4,168.67 | $50,024.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.54 | $1,461.60 | $6,314.40 | $75,763.20 |
Do Event Coordinators in Tacoma Earn Tips?
Event Coordinators generally do not earn tips since their responsibilities focus on planning, organizing, and managing events rather than direct customer service where tipping is commonplace. Their income mainly comes from their base salary or hourly wage.
Event Coordinator Salary in Tacoma vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Coordinators earn an average of around $21.47 per hour, translating to about $44,657.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Coordinators in Tacoma earn a higher hourly wage of $24.05 and an annual salary of $50,024.00. This difference may be influenced by regional costs of living, demand, and industry presence.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tacoma for Event Coordinators
The following nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Event Coordinators:
- Downtown Tacoma: $25.50 per hour
- North End: $24.75 per hour
Event Coordinators working in Downtown Tacoma enjoy the highest wages, slightly above other local areas.
What Influences an Event Coordinator’s Salary in Tacoma?
Multiple factors can affect how much an Event Coordinator earns in Tacoma. Key influences include:
- Experience: More years in the field often lead to higher salaries due to refined skills and proven success managing events.
- Skills: Proficiency in budgeting, vendor negotiation, and project management contributes to better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working for large corporations, universities, or government entities typically offers higher compensation compared to small nonprofits or local businesses.
- Event Scope and Complexity: Coordinating large-scale or specialized events can command premium wages.
- Education and Certifications: Formal training or recognized certifications strengthen credentials and salary prospects.
How To Become an Event Coordinator in Tacoma
To establish a successful career as an Event Coordinator in Tacoma, consider these steps:
- Obtain Relevant Education: Enroll in programs like the Event Planning Certificate at Tacoma Community College or the Hospitality Management Program at University of Washington Tacoma, which focus on budgeting, marketing, logistics, and hospitality management.
- Earn Certifications: Professional credentials such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) demonstrate expertise and credibility.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships or entry-level roles in event planning provide valuable hands-on exposure.
- Develop Strong Soft Skills: Communication, organization, and problem-solving abilities are essential for coordination success.
Top Employers Hiring Event Coordinators in Tacoma
Some of the prominent employers for Event Coordinators in Tacoma include:
- University of Puget Sound
- Pacific Lutheran University
- City of Tacoma
Establishments That Event Coordinators in Tacoma Work At
Event Coordinators in Tacoma typically find employment in various establishment types such as:
- Universities and Colleges: Large campuses host numerous events, offering stable careers with competitive pay.
- Corporate Offices: Companies organizing conferences and meetings often employ in-house coordinators.
- Event Planning Agencies: These specialized firms provide varied projects but may offer fluctuating wages.
- Convention Centers and Hotels: Hospitality venues require coordinators to manage weddings, trade shows, and other events, sometimes offering higher salaries due to scale and complexity.
Salary differences often relate to establishment size, event types managed, and budget levels.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tacoma for Event Coordinators
If you are interested in similar careers to Event Coordinator, here are some closely related roles you might consider:
These include Event Planner, Event Manager, and Assistant Restaurant Manager, each sharing overlapping skills and responsibilities in hospitality and event services.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Coordinators in Tacoma
Event Coordinators should be aware of the pertinent labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment in Tacoma and Washington State.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Washington State-specific labor laws and industry regulations are available on the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website.
- Local government resources can be found at the City of Tacoma's official website.