Event Planner Salary in Cary, NC
Event Planners in Cary, NC, in 2025, 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 is growing steadily at about 7% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding job market in Cary and the surrounding areas.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Cary, NC?
The salary of an Event Planner in Cary, NC varies based on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown by experience level:
| 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 | $5,920.00 | $71,680.00 |
Do Event Planners in Cary Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation is usually structured around salaries or contractual fees rather than gratuities.
Event Planner Salary in Cary vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $27.37 per hour, equating to approximately $56,929.60 per year.
In Cary, NC, Event Planners earn a higher average wage of $31.00 per hour and $64,480 annually, reflecting the local demand and economic factors influencing pay rates.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cary for Event Planners
When considering locations near Cary, certain areas provide even higher pay for Event Planners:
- Downtown Cary: $32.00 per hour
- Preston: $33.00 per hour
Choosing to work in these neighborhoods could offer better earning potential for Event Planners living in or near Cary.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Cary?
The salary of an Event Planner in Cary can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Skills: Event Planners with more years of experience and specialized skills in logistics or marketing tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working for larger corporations, hotels, or dedicated event management companies may offer higher pay compared to smaller firms or freelance roles.
- Certifications and Training: Credentials such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can increase salary prospects.
- Event Size and Complexity: Managing large-scale or corporate events often results in better compensation than smaller, local gatherings.
- Networking and Reputation: Being well-connected within the community or industry improves job opportunities and earning potential.
How To Become an Event Planner in Cary
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Cary typically involves these key steps:
- Complete Relevant Education: Programs like the Event Planning Certificate at Wake Technical Community College offer comprehensive training covering budgeting, marketing, and logistics.
- Pursue Higher Education in Hospitality: A bachelor's degree program such as the Hospitality Management Program at North Carolina State University includes courses in event management and hospitality law.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Consider certifications such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) to demonstrate expertise and enhance credibility.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships or entry-level roles in event coordination help develop the necessary skills and industry knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Cary
Cary hosts notable companies that frequently hire Event Planners, including:
- SAS Institute
- Epic Games
- MetLife
Establishments That Event Planners in Cary Work At
Event Planners in Cary typically work across a variety of establishments, including:
- Corporate Offices and Firms: These employers often require Event Planners for conferences, meetings, and large corporate functions, typically offering competitive salaries.
- Hotels and Convention Centers: These venues employ Event Planners to coordinate weddings, banquets, and corporate events, usually with higher pay scales.
- Event Planning Companies: Specialized agencies provide opportunities for planners to handle diverse event types with variable compensation dependent on contract size.
- Non-Profit Organizations: Event Planners in this sector may focus on fundraising and community events, where salaries can vary widely.
The type of establishment and scale of events managed often affect an Event Planner’s salary in Cary.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cary for Event Planners
If you are exploring careers related to Event Planning, consider these similar roles that may align with your interests and skills:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner, all involving event management responsibilities in various capacities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Cary
Event Planners in Cary should be aware of specific labor laws and tax regulations that apply to their employment:
- Federal labor standards and regulations can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The North Carolina Department of Commerce provides state-specific labor laws and employment resources.
- Local employment rules and resources are available from the Town of Cary official website.