Event Planner Salary in Columbus, GA
Event Planners in Columbus, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $27.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,100.00 per week, $4,766.67 per month, and $57,200.00 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Columbus is growing positively at 8% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding job market for professionals in the event planning industry.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Columbus, GA?
The salary of an Event Planner in Columbus can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.80 | $992.00 | $4,293.33 | $51,584.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.50 | $1,100.00 | $4,766.67 | $57,200.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.50 | $1,220.00 | $5,266.67 | $63,440.00 |
Do Event Planners in Columbus Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation usually comes from salary or contract fees rather than gratuities from clients or guests.
Event Planner Salary in Columbus, GA vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $28.00 per hour, translating to about $58,240.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Columbus earn slightly less hourly at $27.50 per hour and annually $57,200.00. The difference can be influenced by local cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Columbus for Event Planners
When looking at nearby areas, Event Planner salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown Columbus: $28.00 per hour
- Midtown: $27.80 per hour
Event Planners working in Downtown Columbus tend to earn the highest wages compared to other nearby areas.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Columbus?
Several key factors influence the salary of an Event Planner in Columbus:
- Experience and Professional Background: Event Planners with years of experience and proven success in organizing large-scale events usually command higher salaries.
- Skill Set and Certifications: Expertise in budgeting, vendor negotiations, and event technology can boost earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Working for large corporations, universities, or specialized event planning agencies often offers better pay compared to smaller firms or freelance work.
- Event Type and Scope: Planners managing complex events such as conferences or weddings may earn more than those coordinating smaller meetings.
How To Become an Event Planner in Columbus
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Columbus involves several important steps:
- Obtain Relevant Education: Programs such as the Event Planning Certificate at Columbus State University provide comprehensive training on logistics, budgeting, and vendor management.
- Gain Hospitality Knowledge: Pursuing the Hospitality Management Program at Columbus Technical College enhances practical skills and industry insights.
- Pursue Professional Certifications: Certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) by the Events Industry Council or the Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) can differentiate you in the job market.
- Build Experience: Volunteering or interning with local event companies or nonprofit organizations helps develop necessary skills and networking opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Columbus
The following organizations are prominent employers of Event Planners in Columbus:
- Aflac
- TSYS
- Columbus State University
- Synovus Financial Corp.
Establishments That Event Planners in Columbus Work At
Event Planners in Columbus work across various establishments, each impacting salary potential differently:
- Corporate Offices and Large Companies: These settings often provide stable salaries with benefits and opportunities for advancement.
- Colleges and Universities: Event Planners here coordinate academic events and may enjoy structured pay scales.
- Event Management Agencies: Salaries vary, but these agencies may offer performance bonuses based on event success.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Sometimes earn less but provide rewarding work environments.
The scope and scale of the events handled also influence the compensation significantly.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Columbus for Event Planners
If you’re interested in careers similar to Event Planning, there are several related roles worth exploring.
These include Event Manager, Event Coordinator, and Restaurant Manager positions, all related fields within the hospitality and event industries.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Columbus
Event Planners in Columbus, GA, should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper workplace rights and financial compliance.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Georgia Department of Labor provides specific guidance related to state employment regulations.
- For local employment rules and resources, the official City of Columbus website is a valuable source.