Event Planner Salary in Fort-Collins, CO
Event Planners in Fort-Collins, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $25.51 per hour, which translates to about $1,020.40 per week, $4,421.73 per month, and $53,060.80 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Fort-Collins is growing steadily at about 8% per year, reflecting an increasing market for professional event coordination and management services in the area.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Fort-Collins, CO?
The salary of an Event Planner in Fort-Collins can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across different levels of expertise.
| 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 | $5,886.67 | $70,720.00 |
Do Event Planners in Fort-Collins Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation is usually salary or hourly-based, reflecting their role in planning, organizing, and managing events rather than direct customer service that involves gratuities.
Event Planner Salary in Fort-Collins vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $23.85 per hour, translating to about $49,608 annually.
In comparison, Event Planners in Fort-Collins earn a higher hourly rate of $25.51 and an annual salary of approximately $53,060.80. This suggests that Fort-Collins offers competitive wages for Event Planners, potentially due to local demand and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort-Collins for Event Planners
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay scales for Event Planners:
- Downtown Fort Collins: $27.50 per hour
- South Fort Collins: $26.80 per hour
Event Planners working in Downtown Fort Collins tend to earn the highest wages in the region, followed closely by South Fort Collins.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Fort-Collins?
Several key factors influence the salary of an Event Planner in Fort-Collins:
- Experience: More years of experience usually lead to higher pay as planners gain expertise managing diverse events.
- Skills and Certifications: Specialized skills in budgeting, marketing, or project management can increase earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Event Planners working for corporate clients or large venues often earn more than those at smaller or non-profit organizations.
- Event Complexity: Managing high-profile or complex events such as conferences or weddings usually commands higher salaries.
- Local Demand and Economy: Economic growth and event activity in Fort-Collins affect job availability and compensation.
How To Become an Event Planner in Fort-Collins
To pursue a career as an Event Planner in Fort-Collins, consider these key steps:
- Education: Enroll in hospitality or event planning related programs such as the Hospitality Management Program at Colorado State University, which offers relevant courses and skills training.
- Certificate Programs: Front Range Community College provides an Event Planning Certificate focusing on fundamentals like budgeting, marketing, and logistics, ideal for entering the field.
- Professional Certifications: Obtaining certifications such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can enhance credibility and job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships, assistant roles, or volunteering in event coordination help build practical experience required for higher positions.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Fort-Collins
Some of the leading employers seeking Event Planners in Fort-Collins include:
- Gartner
- Larimer County
- Colorado State University
Establishments That Event Planners in Fort-Collins Work At
Event Planners in Fort-Collins are typically employed in a variety of settings, such as:
- Hotels and Resorts: Manage conferences, weddings, and corporate events with generally higher salaries due to the scale.
- Convention Centers and Event Venues: Oversee diverse events, offering opportunities for competitive pay.
- Non-Profit Organizations: Plan fundraisers and community events, usually offering moderate salaries.
- Corporate Offices: Coordinate internal meetings and company events, often with stable salaries.
- Event Planning Firms: Work on multiple client projects, with salaries influenced by firm size and reputation.
The type and size of establishment can significantly affect an Event Planner’s salary in Fort-Collins, with larger corporations and venues typically paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort-Collins for Event Planners
For those interested in careers related to Event Planning, here are some similar roles that may appeal:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner roles, sharing overlapping skills and responsibilities within hospitality and event management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Fort-Collins
Event Planners should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment:
- For state-specific information, the Official website of the State of Colorado offers details on labor laws and employee rights.
- Federal labor laws and employment standards can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor's website, which provides guidance on workplace regulations and minimum wages.