Event Planner Salary in Boulder, CO
Event Planners in Boulder, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $21.30 per hour, which translates to about $852.00 per week, $3,692.00 per month, and $44,304.00 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Boulder is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in this field regionally.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Boulder, CO?
The salary of an Event Planner in Boulder varies depending on experience and employer, but the following breakdown provides insight into typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.44 | $657.60 | $2,844.80 | $34,195.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.30 | $852.00 | $3,692.00 | $44,304.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.60 | $1,104.00 | $4,784.00 | $57,408.00 |
Do Event Planners in Boulder Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation is generally salary-based and derived from contracts or salaried positions rather than direct customer gratuities.
Event Planner Salary in Boulder vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of about $23.40 per hour, translating to roughly $48,672 per year.
In comparison, Event Planners in Boulder earn around $21.30 per hour and $44,304 annually, which is slightly below the national average. This may reflect local market conditions, cost of living, or employer types.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boulder for Event Planners
Nearby cities offer varied salary opportunities for Event Planners, including:
- Westminster: $39.18 per hour
- Lakewood: $29.59 per hour
Westminster offers significantly higher hourly wages than Boulder, making it a lucrative nearby option for Event Planners willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Boulder?
Several factors influence the salary potential of an Event Planner in Boulder:
- Experience: More experienced planners with established client networks tend to command higher pay.
- Skills: Expertise in budgeting, vendor negotiation, and marketing can increase earnings.
- Type of Employer: Working for corporate clients or large venues usually pays better than smaller nonprofits or startups.
- Event Complexity and Scope: Planning large, high-profile events can result in higher compensation.
- Certification and Education: Holding relevant certifications or formal training can enhance credibility and pay.
How To Become an Event Planner in Boulder
To pursue a career as an Event Planner in Boulder, consider several educational and professional steps to enhance your qualifications and job prospects.
Enroll in relevant programs like the University of Colorado Boulder - Event Planning Certificate, which offers comprehensive training in logistics, budgeting, and marketing strategies focused on events.
Another valuable program is the Front Range Community College - Hospitality and Event Planning Program, which prepares students with foundational knowledge in hospitality management and event coordination.
Obtaining professional certifications strengthens credentials:
- Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) - A globally recognized certification showing expertise in meeting management.
- Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) - Demonstrates proficiency in all aspects of event planning and execution.
Additionally, gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level roles in event coordination is essential.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Boulder
Several notable organizations in Boulder offer career opportunities for Event Planners, including:
- University of Colorado Boulder
- Boulder Convention and Visitors Bureau
- The St. Julien Hotel & Spa
Establishments That Event Planners in Boulder Work At
Event Planners in Boulder typically find employment across diverse establishments:
- Hotels and Resorts: These venues often host conferences and weddings, offering higher salaries due to event scale and complexity.
- Corporate Offices and Meeting Centers: Positions here may focus on business meetings and seminars, often with consistent scheduling.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Event Planners manage fundraising galas and community events; salaries can vary widely depending on organization size.
- Event Planning Agencies: Agencies serve multiple clients and can provide diverse experience but sometimes offer variable compensation.
The type of establishment can significantly influence an Event Planner’s earnings and job stability.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boulder for Event Planners
If you are considering careers similar to Event Planning, here are several related roles that may interest you:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner roles which share overlapping skills and responsibilities in the hospitality and event management sectors.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Boulder
Event Planners working in Boulder should be informed about local and federal labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and proper compensation.
- For Colorado’s statewide employment regulations and business licensing, visit the Official Colorado government website.
- The City of Boulder’s official website provides information on local permits and community resources relevant to employment.
- For federal labor laws, including wage and hour standards, check the U.S. Department of Labor’s website.