Event Planner Salary in Fullerton, CA
Event Planners in Fullerton, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $34.13 per hour, which translates to about $1,365.20 per week, $5,915.87 per month, and $70,990.40 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Fullerton is growing steadily at about 7% per year, indicating a positive outlook in the hospitality and event management industry in the area.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Fullerton, CA?
The salary of an Event Planner in Fullerton varies with experience, but below is an overview across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $30.77 | $1,230.80 | $5,330.13 | $63,964.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $34.13 | $1,365.20 | $5,915.87 | $70,990.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.84 | $1,513.60 | $6,554.13 | $78,707.20 |
Do Event Planners in Fullerton Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their compensation usually comes from their salary or contract fees. Their professional work focuses on organizing and managing events rather than direct customer service where tipping is common.
Event Planner Salary in Fullerton vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of about $27.37 per hour and approximately $56,929.60 annually.
Compared to this national average, Event Planners in Fullerton make significantly more, earning around $34.13 per hour and $70,990.40 per year. This difference reflects the local market demands and cost of living in the Fullerton area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fullerton for Event Planners
Salary prospects for Event Planners vary in nearby areas:
- Downtown Fullerton: $35.00 per hour
- Fullerton Hills: $36.50 per hour
These areas offer slightly higher wages compared to the city average, potentially due to higher living costs and demand for event planning expertise.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Fullerton?
Several factors impact the salary an Event Planner can earn in Fullerton. These include:
- Experience and Education: More experienced planners who have managed large or multiple events tend to command higher salaries.
- Skills and Certifications: Expertise in budgeting, marketing, logistics, and client management can boost earnings.
- Type of Employer: Working for large hotels, resorts, or corporate clients typically offers better pay than smaller event coordinators or freelance roles.
- Event Size and Complexity: Planners handling large-scale or highly specialized events may receive higher compensation.
- Networking and Reputation: Establishing a strong professional reputation within the Fullerton event industry can lead to more lucrative opportunities.
How To Become an Event Planner in Fullerton
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Fullerton involves several key steps:
- Education: Enroll in specialized programs such as the Event Management Certificate at California State University, Fullerton, which covers essential areas like budgeting, marketing, and logistics.
- Hospitality Training: Consider the Hospitality Management Program at Fullerton College to gain broad knowledge in event and hospitality management.
- Certifications: Pursue credentials like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) offered by the Events Industry Council or the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) available through the International Live Events Association to enhance your credibility.
- Practical Experience: Internships or entry-level event coordinator roles can provide valuable hands-on experience.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Fullerton
Several well-known companies and institutions in Fullerton regularly seek skilled Event Planners, such as:
- Disneyland Resort
- Marriott International
- Hyatt Regency
- Hilton Hotels & Resorts
Establishments That Event Planners in Fullerton Work At
Event Planners typically find employment at diverse establishments including:
- Hotels and Resorts: These venues host numerous events year-round, leading to more steady salaries and benefits.
- Corporate Offices: Many companies hire planners for conferences, meetings, and corporate parties.
- Event Management Companies: Specialized firms offer consulting, planning, and execution services for all kinds of events.
- Non-Profit and Community Organizations: These can provide opportunities, though sometimes with lower pay scales compared to commercial sectors.
The salary potential often varies depending on the scale and prestige of the establishment as well as the complexity of the events managed.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fullerton for Event Planners
If you're exploring roles related to Event Planning, consider these similar careers that also operate within the hospitality and event sectors:
These include Event Manager, Event Coordinator, and Event Planner roles, which involve overlapping responsibilities and skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Fullerton
As an Event Planner working in Fullerton, it’s important to be informed about relevant labor laws and tax regulations.
- For federal labor statistics and job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- The California Employment Development Department provides state-specific employment data and labor market information.
- Local resources and business regulations can be found on the Fullerton city official website.