Event Planner Salary in Gary, IN
Event Planners in Gary, IN, in 2026, earn approximately $17.10 per hour, which translates to about $684.00 per week, $2,964.00 per month, and $35,568.00 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Gary is growing positively at about 7% per year, indicating a strong and expanding market for event management services in the region.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Gary, IN?
The salary of an Event Planner in Gary varies depending on experience and the employer, but here is an overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.65 | $346.00 | $1,495.33 | $17,992.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.10 | $684.00 | $2,940.00 | $35,568.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.57 | $1,022.80 | $4,422.67 | $53,165.60 |
Do Event Planners in Gary Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their work is based on contracts and project management fees rather than direct customer interactions involving gratuities.
Event Planner Salary in Gary vs. National Average
The national average hourly pay for Event Planners is approximately $27.36 per hour, with an annual salary of about $56,908.80.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Gary earn less, with an average hourly rate of $17.10 and yearly salary of $35,568.00.
This difference reflects variations in local market demand, cost of living, and regional economic factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Gary for Event Planners
Nearby areas offer slightly higher salaries for Event Planners:
- Downtown Gary: $18.50 per hour
- Miller Beach: $19.00 per hour
These surrounding locations provide opportunities for Event Planners seeking higher pay within close proximity to Gary.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Gary?
Several factors impact how much an Event Planner in Gary can earn:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Event Planners with a proven track record command higher salaries.
- Skills and Specializations: Skills in negotiation, vendor management, and marketing can significantly impact earnings.
- Type and Size of Events: Planning large weddings, corporate conferences, or festivals can offer better compensation.
- Employer Type: Working for large venues or agencies typically pays more than smaller companies or freelance roles.
- Certifications and Education: Holding recognized certifications or a degree in hospitality or tourism management often leads to higher salaries.
How To Become an Event Planner in Gary
Building a career as an Event Planner in Gary involves several important steps.
Consider enrolling in academic programs such as Purdue University Northwest Hospitality and Tourism Management Program which offers courses on event planning and management, providing valuable skills.
Indiana University Northwest Business Administration Program also offers concentrations in marketing and event planning focusing on the business side of organizing events.
Obtaining professional certifications can boost your credentials and salary potential. The Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) certification is globally recognized and demonstrates your expertise in meeting management.
Alternatively, the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) credential acknowledges comprehensive knowledge and skills essential to special events planning.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Gary
Some of the key employers in Gary looking for Event Planners include:
- Eventful Planning
- Gary Convention Center
- Lakefront Events
Establishments That Event Planners in Gary Work At
Event Planners in Gary typically work across a variety of establishments such as:
- Convention Centers: These can offer competitive pay and opportunities to manage large, high-profile events.
- Event Planning Agencies: Agencies provide diverse event projects with varied compensation depending on the client and event scale.
- Corporate Offices: Companies that frequently host internal or external events employ planners who may receive consistent salaries.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often employ Event Planners for weddings and conferences, sometimes providing higher pay due to event complexity.
The type of establishment influences earning potential, with larger, well-funded venues typically offering better salaries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Gary for Event Planners
If you are exploring career options similar to Event Planner, consider these related roles:
These include Event Manager, Event Coordinator, and Bar Manager, which involve related event planning and hospitality management duties.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Gary
Event Planners should familiarize themselves with local and federal labor regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the Indiana Department of Workforce Development for detailed information on employment and labor laws in the state.
- For federal guidance, the U.S. Department of Labor website provides comprehensive resources on workplace regulations.