Event Planner Salary in Gilbert, AZ
Event Planners in Gilbert, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $24.32 per hour, which translates to about $972.80 per week, $4,215.47 per month, and $50,585.60 per year.
The job market for Event Planners in Gilbert is growing positively at a rate of about 8% per year, indicating a rising demand for skilled professionals to organize and coordinate events in the area.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Gilbert, AZ?
The salary of an Event Planner in Gilbert can vary depending on experience, skills, and employer type. Below is a breakdown of earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.38 | $815.20 | $3,531.47 | $42,377.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.32 | $972.80 | $4,215.47 | $50,585.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.31 | $1,132.40 | $4,894.80 | $58,884.80 |
Do Event Planners in Gilbert Earn Tips?
Typically, Event Planners do not earn tips as their compensation comes primarily from salary or contract fees. Their work focuses on coordination and logistics rather than direct customer service where tipping is common.
Event Planner Salary in Gilbert vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $24.02 per hour, translating to approximately $49,961.60 per year.
In Gilbert, AZ, Event Planners tend to earn slightly more than the national average, with an hourly wage of about $24.32 and annual earnings near $50,585.60. This reflects the local demand and economic factors in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Gilbert for Event Planners
Nearby cities offer varying pay rates for Event Planners. Two notable areas include:
- Tempe: $36.64 per hour
- Goodyear: $30.31 per hour
Event Planners seeking higher salaries may consider these nearby cities, especially Tempe, which offers substantially higher hourly wages.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Gilbert?
Several factors affect how much an Event Planner can earn in Gilbert:
- Experience and Skills: Event Planners with substantial experience and strong organizational, communication, and negotiation skills often command higher salaries.
- Type of Events and Clients: Working on corporate or large-scale events typically pays better than smaller private functions.
- Certification and Education: Holding professional certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can enhance earning potential.
- Industry Sector: Planners in specialized industries like tech or healthcare may earn more compared to those in small nonprofits or local community events.
- Geographical Location: Living in or near cities with higher living costs and greater demand often results in higher pay.
How To Become an Event Planner in Gilbert
Steps to start and advance a career as an Event Planner in Gilbert include:
- Obtain Relevant Education: Degrees in Hospitality, Marketing, or Business can provide foundational knowledge.
- Earn Industry Certifications: Earning credentials such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can demonstrate expertise and commitment.
- Develop Practical Experience: Internships or entry-level roles at event management companies help build skills and professional networks.
- Enhance Communication and Organizational Skills: Success in this role demands strong multitasking, problem-solving, and interpersonal abilities.
- Utilize Local Educational Resources: Aspiring Event Planners can explore culinary and hospitality programs available on Arizona Commerce Authority or Town of Gilbert's official website for training opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Gilbert
Some of the notable organizations hiring Event Planners in Gilbert include:
- Varsity Spirit
- Greystar Real Estate Partners LLC
- Cardone Ventures LLC
Establishments That Event Planners in Gilbert Work At
Event Planners in Gilbert typically find roles in a range of establishments such as:
- Corporate firms: Organizing business meetings, product launches, or conferences often brings higher salaries.
- Hotels and Convention Centers: Planning weddings, banquets, or trade shows, with pay depending on venue prestige and event size.
- Entertainment and Sports Organizations: Coordinating live events or sports tournaments, which can be lucrative depending on scale.
- Non-profit organizations: Smaller budgets may mean modest pay, but valuable experience.
The type and size of the establishment can greatly influence the salary and benefits available to an Event Planner.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Gilbert for Event Planners
If you're interested in related careers, here are some positions with similar skill sets and growth potential:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner roles, each offering various responsibilities within event management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Gilbert
Event Planners should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and secure their rights:
- Check federal labor standards and employment rights on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Review state-specific employment regulations through the Arizona Department of Economic Security.
- Stay informed about local ordinances and resources at the Town of Gilbert official website.