Event Planner Salary in Denver, CO
Event Planners in Denver, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $24.47 per hour, which translates to about $978.80 per week, $4,241.47 per month, and $50,897.60 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Denver is showing positive growth at about 6% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for event planning services in the region.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Denver, CO?
The salary of an Event Planner in Denver varies based on experience and expertise. Here’s a breakdown of earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.74 | $749.60 | $3,246.93 | $38,963.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.75 | $1,270.00 | $5,483.33 | $65,960.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $46.00 | $1,840.00 | $7,946.67 | $95,680.00 |
Do Event Planners in Denver Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips since their role focuses on organizing and coordinating events behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their income mainly comes from their salary or fees charged.
Event Planner Salary in Denver vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $24.47 per hour, translating to approximately $50,897.60 per year.
Event Planners in Denver earn roughly the same as the national average, indicating that Denver’s market rates are aligned with broader national salary norms.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Denver for Event Planners
Exploring nearby cities, salary differences exist for Event Planners:
- Westminster: $39.18 per hour
- Longmont: $33.25 per hour
- Lakewood: $32.38 per hour
Westminster offers the highest hourly rates near Denver, presenting attractive opportunities for Event Planners willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Denver?
Several key factors influence the salary of an Event Planner in Denver:
- Experience Level: More experienced planners typically command higher salaries, reflecting their ability to manage larger or more complex events.
- Skills and Certifications: Expertise in negotiation, budgeting, and vendor relationships enhance earning potential. Professional certifications can also boost salaries.
- Type of Employer: Event Planners working for large corporations, hotels, or specialized event management firms tend to earn more than those in smaller companies or freelance roles.
- Event Scale and Complexity: Managing large-scale, high-profile events often results in better compensation compared to smaller gatherings.
- Local Market Demand: Denver’s growing event industry supports steady opportunities and competitive wages.
How To Become an Event Planner in Denver
Becoming a successful Event Planner in Denver involves several steps:
- Education and Training: Enroll in specialized programs such as the University of Denver’s Event Management Certificate or the Hospitality, Tourism, and Events program at Metropolitan State University of Denver to gain foundational knowledge.
- Certification: Obtaining credentials like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) demonstrates advanced expertise and can improve career prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting as an Event Coordinator or assistant helps develop organizational and communication skills essential for planning successful events.
- Networking: Building relationships within Denver’s hospitality and event industries can open doors to job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Denver
Some of the prominent companies and venues actively hiring Event Planners in Denver include:
- The Brown Palace Hotel
- Four Seasons Hotel Denver
- Denver Botanic Gardens
Establishments That Event Planners in Denver Work At
Event Planners in Denver typically find employment across a wide spectrum of establishments including:
- Hotels and Resorts: These venues offer consistent event planning opportunities, often with higher salaries due to clientele expectations.
- Convention Centers: Planners here work large-scale corporate and public events which may enhance earning potential.
- Non-Profit Organizations: Event Planners coordinate fundraising events and socials, sometimes with modest pay scales.
- Corporate Event Departments: Planning internal and external events for businesses can provide stable and well-compensated positions.
- Freelance and Consulting: Independent planners have flexibility but income varies widely based on reputation and client base.
The type of establishment often affects salary, with corporate and luxury hotel environments generally offering the best pay packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Denver for Event Planners
If you're exploring careers similar to being an Event Planner, consider these options:
These include Event Manager, Event Coordinator, and fellow Event Planner roles that share similar skills and industry focus.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Denver
Event Planners in Denver should be knowledgeable about relevant labor laws and tax rules to ensure compliance and manage their careers effectively.
- For state regulations and resources, visit the Official website of the State of Colorado.
- Local information and government services can be found on the City and County of Denver official website.
- Federal labor laws and guidance are available through the U.S. Department of Labor.