Event Planner Salary in Elgin, IL
Event Planners in Elgin, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $24.45 per hour, which translates to about $978.00 per week, $4,238.00 per month, and $50,856.00 per year.
The job market for Event Planners is showing positive momentum with a projected growth rate of 8% per year, indicating increasing demand for skilled professionals in this field in Elgin and beyond.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Elgin, IL?
The salary of an Event Planner in Elgin varies based on experience, with earnings improving as skills and expertise develop. Below is a breakdown of salaries by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.00 | $1,240.00 | $5,373.33 | $64,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,893.33 | $70,720.00 |
Do Event Planners in Elgin Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation is based on salary or contract agreements rather than on gratuities. Their earnings come primarily from their professional services rather than customer tipping.
Event Planner Salary in Elgin vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn about $24.78 per hour, which translates to approximately $51,542.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Elgin earn a similar hourly wage of $24.45 and an annual salary slightly lower at around $50,856. This close alignment reflects the regional market trends and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Elgin for Event Planners
Nearby areas offer competing salary ranges for Event Planners:
- North Chicago: $38.04 per hour
- Chicago: $30.51 per hour
Event Planners seeking higher pay might consider opportunities in North Chicago, which offers significantly higher hourly wages, or Chicago, which also provides a competitive salary scale.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Elgin?
The salary of an Event Planner in Elgin can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Expertise: More seasoned Event Planners typically command higher salaries due to their portfolio and client network.
- Skills and Certifications: Specialized skills in areas such as corporate events, weddings, or large-scale conferences can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Employers range from event planning agencies to corporate firms. Working in larger companies or specialized agencies may offer higher compensation.
- Event Size and Complexity: Organizing bigger or more complex events may increase earning opportunities through bonuses or higher contract fees.
- Networking and Reputation: Established reputations and strong industry connections often translate into better-paying clients and contracts.
How To Become an Event Planner in Elgin
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Elgin involves a combination of education, experience, and formal credentials.
Key steps to becoming an Event Planner include:
- Earn Relevant Certifications: Pursue certificates such as the Event Planner Certification in Chicago which offers hands-on training and expert guidance.
- Consider the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) Credential: This globally recognized certification demonstrates your comprehensive knowledge in meeting and event management.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships or entry-level roles with event companies provide essential skills and industry insight.
- Develop Strong Organizational and Communication Skills: These core competencies are crucial and often sought after by employers.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Elgin
Several notable companies in and near Elgin hire for Event Planner roles:
- CARS.COM
- Amazon
- Cloudera
- Booz Allen Hamilton
- HP Inc.
Establishments That Event Planners in Elgin Work At
Event Planners find employment across a variety of establishments, including:
- Corporate Businesses: Planning meetings, conferences, and corporate events, often with more predictable schedules and salaries.
- Wedding and Banquet Venues: Specializing in private celebrations which can provide lucrative contract opportunities.
- Event Planning Agencies: Offering diverse experience and sometimes commission-based incomes.
- Nonprofit Organizations and Community Events: These roles may offer less pay but valuable experience and networking.
The type of establishment impacts not only job duties but also salary, with corporate and agency roles generally paying higher than nonprofit or community event positions.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Elgin for Event Planners
If you are interested in similar career paths, consider these related hospitality roles:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Restaurant Manager positions, which share overlapping skills and responsibilities with Event Planners.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Elgin
It is important for Event Planners to understand applicable labor laws and tax requirements at the federal, state, and local levels.
- Information on federal labor laws can be found on the official U.S. Department of Labor site.
- Details about Illinois state labor regulations are available on the State of Illinois website.
- The City of Elgin website provides local employment policies and resources.