Event Planner Salary in Charleston, WV
Event Planners in Charleston, WV, in 2026, earn approximately $27.88 per hour, which translates to about $1,115.20 per week, $4,832.53 per month, and $57,990.40 per year.
The job outlook for Event Planners in Charleston is positive, with demand expected to grow at about 6% per year, indicating a steady increase in opportunities within the local event planning industry.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Charleston, WV?
The salary for an Event Planner in Charleston can vary significantly depending on experience, specific job responsibilities, and employer type. Below is a breakdown of earnings at various experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.70 | $548.00 | $2,369.33 | $28,416.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.65 | $906.00 | $3,927.00 | $47,112.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.94 | $1,397.60 | $6,042.67 | $72,499.20 |
Do Event Planners in Charleston Earn Tips?
Generally, Event Planners do not earn tips as their compensation typically comes from salaries or consulting fees. Their work focuses on coordination and management rather than direct service that would yield gratuities.
Event Planner Salary in Charleston vs. National Average
Across the United States, Event Planners earn an average of approximately $22.76 per hour, which translates to about $47,340.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Charleston earn a higher hourly wage of $27.88 and an annual income of $57,990.40. This may be influenced by the cost of living and demand for event planning expertise in the Charleston region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Charleston for Event Planners
Nearby neighborhoods offer varied salary levels for Event Planners:
- Downtown Charleston: $28.50 per hour
- South Hills: $27.00 per hour
Event Planners working in Downtown Charleston generally earn slightly more, reflecting the area's higher concentration of businesses and event venues.
What Influences a Event Planner’s Salary in Charleston?
The salary of an Event Planner in Charleston depends on multiple factors:
- Experience: More seasoned planners command higher salaries due to extensive networks and demonstrated success.
- Skills: Proficiency in budgeting, negotiation, marketing, and use of event management software enhances earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Working for large corporations, venues, or event management firms usually offers better pay than small organizations or freelance roles.
- Event Complexity: Managing large-scale or high-profile events generally results in increased compensation.
- Certifications and Education: Holding recognized credentials can significantly impact salary prospects.
How To Become a Event Planner in Charleston
Several pathways can help you start a career as an Event Planner in Charleston:
- Education: Pursuing the Event Planning Certificate Program at West Virginia State University provides hands-on training in critical areas like logistics, budgeting, and marketing.
- Degree Programs: Enrolling in Hospitality and Tourism Management at Marshall University offers a broader understanding of the industry, beneficial for event planning roles.
- Professional Certifications: Earning a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) credential establishes expertise and improves employment opportunities.
- Experience: Gaining work experience through internships, volunteering, or entry-level roles helps develop practical skills essential in the field.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Charleston
Some of the leading employers in Charleston offering opportunities for Event Planners include:
- Charleston Civic Center
- University of Charleston
- CAMC Health System
Establishments That Event Planners in Charleston Work At
Event Planners in Charleston are often employed across a variety of establishments, each influencing salary potential:
- Convention and Civic Centers: Larger venues typically offer more complex events and higher salaries.
- Universities and Colleges: Managing campus events provides steady employment with competitive pay.
- Healthcare Systems: Planning conferences and fundraising events can be lucrative.
- Event Management Companies: These firms often provide dynamic roles with varied projects and growth opportunities.
- Corporate and Private Sector: Employers in this category may provide higher salaries reflective of the event scale.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Charleston for Event Planners
If you are interested in careers similar to Event Planning, consider exploring roles such as Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Banquet Chef, which share overlapping skills and work environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Charleston
Event Planners should stay informed of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and manage earnings effectively.
- For federal labor laws and employment guidelines, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For West Virginia-specific labor market information and employment services, refer to the WorkForce West Virginia website.