Event Planner Salary in Clearwater, FL
Event Planners in Clearwater, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $16.11 per hour, which translates to about $644.40 per week, $2,792.40 per month, and $33,508.80 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Clearwater is growing moderately at about 8% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and the expanding need for event management services in the area.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Clearwater, FL?
The salary of an Event Planner in Clearwater varies based on experience, skills, and employer type. Here’s a breakdown of earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.11 | $644.40 | $2,792.40 | $33,508.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.09 | $763.60 | $3,296.53 | $39,627.20 |
Do Event Planners in Clearwater Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their role focuses on coordinating and managing events behind the scenes. Their compensation is typically salary or hourly-based without tips included.
Event Planner Salary in Clearwater vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $23.73 per hour, or about $49,358.40 annually.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Clearwater earn lower hourly and yearly wages — approximately $16.11 per hour and $33,508.80 annually. This difference reflects local economic factors and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Clearwater for Event Planners
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay rates for Event Planners:
- Downtown Clearwater: $17.50 per hour
- Clearwater Beach: $18.00 per hour
Working in these locations may provide better earning potential relative to other parts of Clearwater.
What Influences a Event Planner’s Salary in Clearwater?
Several factors influence how much an Event Planner can earn in Clearwater:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced planners commanding complex or large-scale events generally earn more.
- Specialized Skills: Knowledge in budgeting, vendor negotiation, and digital event technologies adds value.
- Type of Events Managed: Corporate and high-profile social events often pay better than smaller community or private events.
- Size and Reputation of the Employer: Working for established agencies or large hospitality companies usually offers higher salaries.
- Certifications and Training: Holding industry certifications or relevant education can boost salary prospects.
How To Become an Event Planner in Clearwater
To establish a career as an Event Planner in Clearwater, you can take these steps:
- Education and Certificate Programs: Consider pursuing the Event Planning Certificate Program at St. Petersburg College for comprehensive training in budgeting, marketing, and logistics.
- Hospitality & Tourism Studies: The Hospitality and Tourism Management Program at University of South Florida offers foundational skills with a focus on event coordination.
- Professional Certifications: Earning credentials like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can demonstrate expertise.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Internship or assistant roles in local event companies help build practical know-how.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Clearwater
Some notable companies hiring Event Planners in Clearwater include:
- Tech Data
- TD SYNNEX
- AmeriLife
Establishments That Event Planners in Clearwater Work At
Event Planners may be employed by a variety of establishments in Clearwater, including:
- Corporate Firms and Convention Centers: Typically offering higher salaries due to large-scale event planning needs.
- Hotels and Resorts: These establishments often host weddings and conferences with competitive pay structures.
- Event Management Companies and Agencies: Providing diverse experiences but varied salary ranges depending on company size.
- Non-Profit and Community Organizations: Simpler events may lead to relatively lower wages.
The setting can significantly impact the salary and job responsibilities of an Event Planner.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Clearwater for Event Planners
If you are considering roles related to Event Planning, these similar careers might interest you:
This includes Event Planner, Event Manager, and Event Coordinator, which share many skills and responsibilities with varying career paths and salaries.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Clearwater
Event Planners should be familiar with labor laws and tax requirements relevant to their work environment:
- Check the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for federal regulations.
- Refer to the State of Florida's official website for state-specific employment guidelines and tax information.
- For local regulations and resources, visit the City of Clearwater's official website.