Event Planner Salary in Allentown, PA
Event Planners in Allentown, PA, in 2026, earn approximately $31.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,240.00 per week, $5,373.33 per month, and $64,480.00 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Allentown is currently growing positively at about 7% per year, indicating an increasing need for skilled professionals in event coordination and management in the region.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Allentown, PA?
An Event Planner's salary in Allentown can vary depending on experience, employer, and the complexity of events managed. Here's a summary of pay across different experience levels.
| 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) | $31.00 | $1,240.00 | $5,373.33 | $64,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,866.67 | $70,720.00 |
Do Event Planners in Allentown Earn Tips?
Typically, Event Planners do not earn tips as their compensation is based on salary or hourly wages. Their role involves organizing and coordinating events rather than direct service that includes tipping.
Event Planner Salary in Allentown, PA vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn about $27.37 per hour and approximately $56,929.60 annually.
Compared to this, Event Planners in Allentown earn a higher hourly rate of $31.00 and an annual salary of about $64,480.00, reflecting a relatively strong local market with competitive pay.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Allentown for Event Planners
If you're considering nearby locations for work, here are some areas with even higher pay for Event Planners:
- Downtown Allentown: $32.50 per hour
- West End Theatre District: $33.00 per hour
These areas may offer increased earning potential due to higher demand for events or more upscale venues.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Allentown?
Several factors affect how much an Event Planner can earn in Allentown:
- Experience: More experienced Event Planners tend to command higher salaries due to their expertise and proven skills.
- Event Complexity and Scale: Coordinating large, complex events or corporate functions often results in better pay compared to smaller or less demanding events.
- Skills and Certifications: Skills in project management, budgeting, negotiation, and communication, along with relevant certifications, can increase earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Working for established event planning firms, corporations, or luxury venues may offer higher salaries than smaller standalone agencies.
- Location: Areas with higher cost of living or greater event activity, such as Downtown Allentown or the West End Theatre District, can pay a premium.
How To Become an Event Planner in Allentown
To pursue a career as an Event Planner in Allentown, consider the following steps:
- Complete a Relevant Educational Program: Programs such as the Event Planning Certificate at Lehigh Carbon Community College provide comprehensive training in budgeting, marketing, and logistics.
- Gain Hospitality Experience: A background in hospitality is beneficial; programs like the Hospitality Management Program at Northampton Community College offer focused education on event planning and coordination.
- Obtain Industry Certifications: Certifications such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) increase recognition and career advancement opportunities.
- Develop Strong Organizational Skills: A successful Event Planner must be detail-oriented, able to manage multiple tasks, and adept at troubleshooting on the spot.
- Build a Professional Network: Attend industry events and join professional organizations to create connections and find job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Allentown
Some of the prominent employers in Allentown seeking Event Planners include:
- Air Products
- PPL Corporation
- Lehigh Valley Health Network
Establishments That Event Planners in Allentown Work At
Event Planners in Allentown typically work at a variety of establishments, such as:
- Hotels and Convention Centers: These venues offer opportunities to coordinate large events and often provide higher salaries.
- Catering Companies: Planners here focus on food and event coordination and may have pay scales competitive with hotels.
- Corporate Offices: Corporations require Event Planners for conferences and internal events, sometimes providing stable salaries.
- Nonprofit Organizations and Community Centers: These roles might offer lower salaries but varying experiences and networking opportunities.
The type and size of the establishment can significantly influence salary, with larger or more prestigious venues generally offering the highest pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Allentown for Event Planners
If you're considering careers similar to Event Planning, here are some related occupations you may find interesting:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Restaurant Manager roles, which have overlapping skills with Event Planning and can lead to different career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Allentown
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is essential for Event Planners working in Allentown. Here are some useful resources: