Event Planner Salary in Boston, MA
Event Planners in Boston, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $25.81 per hour, which translates to about $1,032.40 per week, $4,473.73 per month, and $53,684.80 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Boston is growing steadily at about 7% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and career advancement in this field.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Boston, MA?
The salary of an Event Planner in Boston can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general overview across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.23 | $769.20 | $3,310.80 | $40,022.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.81 | $1,032.40 | $4,473.73 | $53,684.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.64 | $1,385.60 | $5,986.13 | $71,971.20 |
Do Event Planners in Boston Earn Tips?
Generally, Event Planners do not earn tips as their compensation is usually salary-based or includes commission in some cases rather than gratuities. Their earnings primarily depend on contracts and employer policies.
Event Planner Salary in Boston vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of about $23.68 per hour, or approximately $49,254.40 per year.
Compared to this, Event Planners in Boston earn slightly higher, around $25.81 per hour or $53,684.80 annually, reflecting the city's higher cost of living and demand for skilled planners.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boston for Event Planners
Nearby cities with higher average pay for Event Planners include:
- Lowell: $37.42 per hour
- Waltham: $34.53 per hour
- Springfield: $34.13 per hour
- Cambridge: $33.03 per hour
- Worcester: $30.54 per hour
Commuting or relocating to these areas could offer higher salary prospects for experienced Event Planners.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Boston?
Several factors can impact the salary of an Event Planner in Boston:
- Experience: Planners with more years of practice generally command higher wages.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in corporate events, weddings, or large-scale conventions can increase earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Working for larger firms, luxury venues, or event management companies may provide higher pay.
- Certifications: Credentials and continuous education can enhance salary possibilities.
- Networking: Established local connections can lead to better job offers or freelance opportunities.
How To Become an Event Planner in Boston
Becoming a successful Event Planner in Boston involves several steps to acquire the necessary knowledge and credentials.
Education and certification programs include:
- Boston University Certificate in Meeting and Event Planning: Offers comprehensive training in budgeting, marketing, and logistics for event planning.
- Suffolk University Event Planning and Management Certificate: Provides practical skills for organizing various events such as corporate meetings and social gatherings.
- Certified Meeting Professional (CMP): A globally recognized certification demonstrating expertise in meeting management.
- Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP): Signifies proficiency in overseeing all aspects of special events planning.
Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level roles also significantly increases career prospects in event planning.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Boston
Notable companies and venues currently hiring Event Planners in Boston include:
- Boston Event Solutions
- Seaport Hotel & World Trade Center
- Fenway Park Events
- The Catered Affair
- Corinthian Events
Establishments That Event Planners in Boston Work At
Event Planners in Boston often find employment at a range of venues and organizations such as:
- Hotels and conference centers: These venues typically plan large-scale corporate and social events with competitive salaries.
- Wedding and Banquet Halls: Focused on personal and celebratory events, these may offer variable pay based on event scale.
- Event Planning Companies: Professionals here often coordinate diverse client events and may work on retainer or commissions.
- Corporate Employers: Some companies maintain in-house planners for meetings and promotional events, typically offering steady salaries.
The type and size of the establishment can greatly influence compensation and benefits for Event Planners.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boston for Event Planners
If you are interested in careers related to Event Planning, here are a few similar roles worth considering:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner roles, each with overlapping skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Boston
Event Planners in Boston should familiarize themselves with key labor regulations and tax requirements to protect their rights and manage finances effectively.
- Visit the Official website of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for detailed state labor laws and resources.
- For federal regulations, consult the U.S. Department of Labor's website covering federal labor standards and workers' rights.