Event Planner Salary in Columbus, OH
In Columbus, OH, Event Planners in 2025 earn approximately $25.93 per hour, which brings in about $1,037.20 per week, $4,494.53 per month, and $53,934.40 per year.
The job demand for Event Planners is looking positive with an expected growth rate of 7% per year, reflecting increasing opportunities and demand for event coordination and management services in the Columbus area.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Columbus, OH?
The earnings of an Event Planner in Columbus vary based on their level of experience, expertise, and the complexity of events they manage. Below is a breakdown of typical pay at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.16 | $886.40 | $3,831.47 | $46,036.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.93 | $1,037.20 | $4,494.53 | $53,934.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.35 | $1,214.00 | $5,565.33 | $66,928.00 |
Do Event Planners in Columbus Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their role is focused on coordination and management rather than direct service to guests where tipping is common. Their compensation relies mostly on salary.
Event Planner Salary in Columbus vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn about $23.78 per hour, which corresponds to approximately $49,462.40 per year. Columbus Event Planners make a higher hourly wage of $25.93 and an annual salary of about $53,934.40.
This salary advantage can be attributed to local demand and the cost of living in Columbus, which supports competitive wages for skilled planners.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Columbus for Event Planners
Within and near Columbus, some areas offer higher wages for Event Planners:
- Downtown Columbus: $27.50 per hour
- Short North: $26.80 per hour
Event Planners working in Downtown Columbus tend to earn more, benefiting from the concentration of corporate events and upscale venues.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Columbus?
Several factors play a crucial role in determining the salary of an Event Planner in Columbus:
- Experience: More experienced planners command higher salaries due to proven skills in managing complex events.
- Skills and Certifications: Expertise in budgeting, vendor management, and event marketing can push salaries upward.
- Type of Events: Planning corporate, nonprofit, or large-scale public events usually pay more than private parties or smaller gatherings.
- Employer Size and Budget: Larger organizations and venues with bigger event budgets offer higher pay and benefits.
- Educational Background: Academic qualifications can influence earning potential, especially when combined with certifications.
How To Become an Event Planner in Columbus
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Columbus involves focused education and skill development.
Several educational programs can lay the foundation for this role:
- The Event Planning Certificate at Columbus State Community College provides comprehensive training in logistics, budgeting, and vendor coordination.
- The Hospitality Management Program at The Ohio State University offers a bachelor's degree including courses in event management and hospitality.
Beyond education, obtaining industry certifications can enhance credentials and career prospects:
- Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) from the Events Industry Council is highly regarded and sometimes necessary for advancement.
- Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) from the International Live Events Association validates expertise in special event planning.
Gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level roles is also essential to develop event management skills and build a professional network.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Columbus
The Columbus area features several major employers known for hiring Event Planners:
- Cardinal Health
- Nationwide Insurance
- The Ohio State University
- American Electric Power
- Huntington Bancshares
Establishments That Event Planners in Columbus Work At
Event Planners in Columbus typically work across a diverse range of establishments, each influencing salary potential:
- Corporate Offices and Conferences: These roles often provide higher salaries working with business events and large meetings.
- Colleges and Universities: Planning campus events may offer stable employment with good benefits but sometimes lower pay scales.
- Catering and Event Management Companies: These provide varied experiences and salaries depending on client base and event size.
- Hotels and Convention Centers: Event Planners here manage large-scale gatherings, boosting earning opportunities.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Salaries can vary widely but often include opportunities for growth and community involvement.
The setting heavily influences the complexity of events and thus the pay scale for Event Planners.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Columbus for Event Planners
For those interested in similar career paths to Event Planning, there are multiple related roles worth considering.
These similar careers include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Restaurant Manager, each involving overlapping skills in hospitality and operations management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Columbus
Event Planners should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax requirements that apply to their employment in Columbus.
- Federal employment standards and labor laws can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific employment regulations are available through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services website.
- Local employment information and resources are provided by the City of Columbus official website.