Event Planner in Costa Mesa, CA
Event Planners in Costa Mesa, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $34.40 per hour, which translates to about $1,376.00 per week, $5,962.67 per month, and $71,552.00 per year.
The job market for Event Planners in Costa Mesa is looking positive, with a growth rate of 6.6% per year, indicating a strong demand for professionals skilled in organizing and managing various events.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Costa Mesa, CA?
The salary of an Event Planner in Costa Mesa varies depending on experience, skills, and employer type. Below is an overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $26.20 | $1,048.00 | $4,533.33 | $54,496.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $34.10 | $1,364.00 | $5,889.33 | $70,928.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $45.10 | $1,804.00 | $7,816.00 | $93,808.00 |
Do Event Planners in Costa Mesa Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their compensation is primarily salary-based or hourly wage. Tips are uncommon in this profession since it revolves around coordination and planning rather than direct service.
Event Planner Salary in Costa Mesa vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average hourly wage of approximately $27.40, with an annual salary near $56,992.
Comparatively, Event Planners in Costa Mesa earn a higher hourly rate of $34.40 and annual salary of about $71,552, reflecting the region's living costs and demand for skilled planning professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Costa Mesa for Event Planners
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Event Planners:
- South Coast Metro: $35.50 per hour
- Mesa Verde: $36.00 per hour
These nearby locations provide slightly higher compensation, potentially due to their commercial hubs and event activity levels close to Costa Mesa.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Costa Mesa?
Several factors influence the salary of an Event Planner in Costa Mesa:
- Experience and Expertise: Planners with more years of professional experience and a proven track record tend to command higher salaries.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in corporate events, weddings, or large conferences can boost earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Working for upscale hotels, large event centers, or corporate clients usually results in better pay.
- Education and Certifications: Credentials like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can enhance salary prospects.
- Local Demand and Economy: Costa Mesa's event scene and cost of living affect compensation levels for planners.
How To Become an Event Planner in Costa Mesa
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Costa Mesa involves several strategic steps:
- Get Relevant Education: Programs such as the Event Management Certificate at UC Irvine or the Hospitality Management Program at Orange Coast College provide excellent foundational knowledge for aspiring planners.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Credentials like Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) are widely respected in the industry and can open doors to advanced roles.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships or entry-level positions in hotels, catering companies, or event venues help build essential skills.
- Develop Strong Organizational and Communication Skills: These are critical for coordinating multiple aspects of events successfully.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Costa Mesa
Major employers in the area offering opportunities for Event Planners include:
- Hyatt Regency
- Hilton Costa Mesa
- Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Establishments That Event Planners in Costa Mesa Work At
Event Planners in Costa Mesa typically work across a variety of establishments:
- Hotels and Resorts: These venues often host large-scale events and provide planners with opportunities for higher salaries due to the complexity and prestige of events.
- Convention Centers and Arts Venues: Institutions like the Segerstrom Center for the Arts require planners for performances and corporate functions, offering competitive compensation.
- Catering Companies: Planners here might work on smaller or specialized events with varying pay scales.
- Corporate Event Departments: Some planners are employed directly by companies for internal events, often with steady benefits and salaries.
The type and scale of the establishment heavily impact the pay and career advancement possibilities for Event Planners.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Costa Mesa for Event Planners
If you're exploring careers related to Event Planning, consider similar roles that share skills and industry knowledge:
These include Event Manager, Event Coordinator, and Event Planner positions, which require similar organizational expertise and attention to detail.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Costa Mesa
Working as an Event Planner in Costa Mesa entails understanding various labor laws and tax regulations. Helpful resource sites include: