Event Planner Salary in Indianapolis, IN
Event Planners in Indianapolis, IN, in 2025, earn approximately $20.69 per hour, which translates to about $827.60 per week, $3,586.27 per month, and $43,035.20 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Indianapolis is growing steadily at about 7% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the local event management industry.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Indianapolis, IN?
Event Planner salaries in Indianapolis vary based on experience and employer type. Below is a breakdown of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.70 | $748.00 | $3,234.67 | $38,784.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.69 | $827.60 | $3,586.27 | $43,035.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.89 | $915.60 | $3,946.40 | $47,611.20 |
Do Event Planners in Indianapolis Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips since their work focuses on coordinating and managing event details rather than providing direct customer-facing services where tipping is typical.
Event Planner Salary in Indianapolis vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners make around $27.37 per hour, which translates to about $56,929.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Indianapolis earn less hourly, at $20.69 per hour and around $43,035.20 annually.
The variation can be influenced by the cost of living and business demand in the Indianapolis area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Indianapolis for Event Planners
Salaries for Event Planners can vary within neighborhoods close to Indianapolis:
- Downtown Indianapolis: $21.50 per hour
- Broad Ripple: $21.00 per hour
Working in Downtown Indianapolis tends to offer slightly higher pay compared to other nearby areas.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Indianapolis?
Several factors impact how much an Event Planner can earn in Indianapolis:
- Experience and Expertise: Event Planners with more years of experience or specialized skills often command higher salaries.
- Type of Venue or Employer: Working for large corporations, high-end hotels, or major event companies typically pays more than small businesses or nonprofits.
- Event Scale and Complexity: Managing large conferences or premium events can yield higher compensation.
- Certifications and Education: Possessing professional certifications or relevant degrees can positively influence earning potential.
- Networking and Reputation: Well-connected planners with a strong professional network might attract more lucrative contracts.
How To Become an Event Planner in Indianapolis
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Indianapolis involves a combination of education, skill development, and professional preparation.
Consider pursuing educational programs offered locally such as the Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis Bachelor of Science in Tourism, Conventions, and Event Management or the Ivy Tech Community College Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality Administration with a focus on Event Management. These programs provide comprehensive knowledge of event planning principles.
Additionally, obtaining certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) credential from the Events Industry Council or the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) designation offered by the International Live Events Association can enhance credibility.
Hands-on experience through internships or assistant event coordinator roles also strengthens your résumé and practical skills, paving the way for advancement to lead Event Planner positions.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Indianapolis
Some of the major employers seeking skilled Event Planners in the Indianapolis area include:
- Eli Lilly and Company
- Salesforce
- Indiana University Health
Establishments That Event Planners in Indianapolis Work At
Event Planners in Indianapolis typically find roles across diverse establishments:
- Corporate Event Departments: Large businesses hosting conferences or employee events often have dedicated planners.
- Hotels and Convention Centers: These venues require planners to coordinate weddings, trade shows, and meetings, often providing competitive salaries.
- Event Planning Agencies: Specialized firms offering full service event management employ planners handling multiple clients.
- Nonprofits and Community Organizations: Coordinate charity galas and fundraising events, where budgets and pay may be more limited.
Salaries can differ significantly based on establishment size, event complexity, and available resources.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Indianapolis for Event Planners
If you’re interested in positions similar to Event Planner, here are some related roles that also involve coordination and management in hospitality or events.
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Restaurant Manager positions, which share related organizational and leadership responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Indianapolis
Being informed about labor laws and tax regulations is essential for Event Planners in Indianapolis to ensure compliance and protect their employment rights.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor (federal website) for federal labor standards and employment guidelines.
- Use the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (state website) for state-specific labor laws, wage requirements, and unemployment services.
- Explore the City of Indianapolis official website (local government) for local ordinances and workforce resources.