Event Planner Salary in Huntsville, AL
Event Planners in Huntsville, AL, in 2025, earn approximately $20.54 per hour, which translates to about $821.60 per week, $3,560.27 per month, and $42,723.20 per year.
The job demand for Event Planners in Huntsville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for those entering or advancing within this dynamic field.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Huntsville, AL?
The salary of an Event Planner in Huntsville varies depending on experience and other factors. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.54 | $701.60 | $3,037.07 | $36,483.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.54 | $821.60 | $3,560.27 | $42,723.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.05 | $962.00 | $4,160.67 | $49,984.00 |
Do Event Planners in Huntsville Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation mainly comes from a salary or hourly wage rather than customer gratuities. Their focus is on managing and coordinating events rather than direct service roles that usually generate tips.
Event Planner Salary in Huntsville vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of about $22.77 per hour and approximately $47,361.60 yearly.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Huntsville earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $20.54 and an annual salary of $42,723.20. This difference can be influenced by the local cost of living and demand in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntsville for Event Planners
When considering surrounding areas, Event Planners may find higher pay opportunities nearby:
- Research Park: $22.00 per hour
- Downtown Huntsville: $21.50 per hour
These areas often have a concentration of businesses and event venues that contribute to slightly higher wages for Event Planners.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Huntsville?
Several factors significantly influence the salary of an Event Planner in Huntsville:
- Experience Level: More experienced Event Planners with years of coordinating successful events generally command higher salaries.
- Skills and Specializations: Expertise in areas like budgeting, marketing, vendor negotiation, or technology tools can increase earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Salaries can vary widely whether working for corporate companies, non-profits, event planning agencies, or government entities.
- Size and Complexity of Events: Planners handling large-scale or high-profile events are often compensated better.
- Certification and Education: Credentials such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can lead to higher pay.
How To Become an Event Planner in Huntsville
To pursue a career as an Event Planner in Huntsville, consider the following steps:
- Gain Formal Education: Enroll in programs like the Event Planning Certificate Program at University of Alabama in Huntsville or Hospitality and Tourism Management Program at Calhoun Community College for foundational knowledge.
- Obtain Professional Certifications: Earning worldwide recognized credentials, such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP), enhances your qualifications and credibility.
- Acquire Relevant Experience: Practical experience in coordination, customer service, or related roles is invaluable.
- Build a Network: Joining event planning associations and attending industry events can open doors to job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Huntsville
Some of the notable employers seeking skilled Event Planners in Huntsville include:
- Boeing
- Dynetics
- Redstone Federal Credit Union
Establishments That Event Planners in Huntsville Work At
Event Planners in Huntsville find roles in a variety of establishments, each impacting salary prospects:
- Corporate Offices: Often providing stable salaries with chances for bonuses tied to successful events.
- Event Planning Companies and Agencies: These may offer diverse project experiences and variable pay based on commissions or event size.
- Hotels and Convention Centers: Typically offer competitive salaries because of the regular demand for large-scale event management.
- Non-profit Organizations: While meaningful, these might offer lower salaries compared to corporate sectors.
The type of establishment and event size strongly influence earnings and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntsville for Event Planners
If you are exploring fields closely related to Event Planning, here are some similar career options to consider:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner roles, all of which offer opportunities to work in event-related industries with varying responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Huntsville
Understanding local and federal labor laws is critical for Event Planners to navigate their employment rights and tax obligations effectively.
- You can find detailed information on federal labor laws and regulations at the U.S. Department of Labor official website.
- For specifics on state laws and employment resources, the Alabama Department of Labor website offers valuable guidance.