Event Planner Salary in Chico, CA
Event Planners in Chico, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $25.98 per hour, which translates to about $1,039.20 per week, $4,503.20 per month, and $54,038.40 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Chico is growing at a rate of 7% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities and the importance of this role within the community.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Chico, CA?
The salary of an Event Planner in Chico varies by experience and skills. Below is a general breakdown of earnings across different experience levels in this role.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.65 | $626.00 | $2,700.67 | $32,520.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.81 | $912.40 | $3,912.53 | $46,924.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.28 | $1,251.20 | $5,422.13 | $65,062.40 |
Do Event Planners in Chico Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their compensation is typically salary-based or hourly wages. Tips are uncommon since their services are professional and often contract-based rather than customer-facing with tipping norms.
Event Planner Salary in Chico vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $27.37 per hour, translating to about $56,929.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Chico earn slightly less hourly ($25.98 vs. $27.37) and yearly ($54,038.40 vs. $56,929.60), which may reflect local cost of living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chico for Event Planners
Nearby locations with higher salaries for Event Planners include:
- Downtown Chico: $27.50 per hour
- California Park: $26.80 per hour
Those willing to commute to these areas might find marginally better pay compared to other parts of Chico.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Chico?
Several key factors influence the salary of an Event Planner:
- Experience and Reputation: More experienced Event Planners with proven track records generally command higher pay.
- Skills and Certifications: Expertise in project management, vendor relations, and negotiation enhances earning potential.
- Type and Size of Events: Handling large corporate or high-profile events often leads to better compensation.
- Employer or Client Type: Working for high-end venues, event management companies, or exclusive clients can increase salary.
- Local Market Demand: Areas with higher event activity or demand tend to offer more competitive pay.
How To Become an Event Planner in Chico
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Chico involves several steps to build the necessary skills and credentials.
- Enroll in Local Educational Programs: Consider California State University, Chico’s Event Management Program, which offers comprehensive training in planning, coordination, and execution.
- Gain Related Hospitality Experience: Butte College’s Hospitality Management program includes courses in event planning and catering that provide foundational knowledge.
- Obtain Industry Certifications: Credentials like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) demonstrate expertise and can improve career advancement.
- Build a Portfolio: Practical experience from internships, volunteering at events, or working with local event companies is crucial.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Chico
Several prominent employers currently seek skilled Event Planners in Chico:
- Enloe Medical Center
- Chico State University
- Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
Establishments That Event Planners in Chico Work At
Event Planners in Chico typically work at a variety of establishments, including:
- Corporate Venues: Organizing conferences, meetings, and corporate retreats.
- Hotels and Resorts: Managing weddings, banquets, and social gatherings which may provide higher salaries due to event scale.
- Event Planning Agencies: Coordinating multiple client projects, often offering steady work and benefits.
- Nonprofits and Community Organizations: Planning fundraisers and local events, sometimes with variable salary ranges.
- Entertainment and Sports Venues: Overseeing large-scale productions or sporting event coordination which may increase earning potential.
The type and size of the establishment influence salary levels, with larger or commercial venues typically offering more lucrative compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chico for Event Planners
If you’re considering alternative career paths in the hospitality event domain, here are some roles with similarities to Event Planner:
These are Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner roles, respectively, covering a range of responsibilities and salary potential in event-related careers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Chico
Event Planners should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and effective financial management.
- Refer to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov) for labor statistics and job outlook.
- The Employment Development Department, California (edd.ca.gov) provides state labor market information.
- The City of Chico official website offers resources and information for businesses and workers in the community.