Event Planner Salary in Kansas City, KS
Event Planners in Kansas City, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $22.58 per hour, which translates to about $903.20 per week, $3,913.87 per month, and $46,966.40 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Kansas City is growing positively at about 7% per year, reflecting a healthy expansion in the events and meeting planning industry in this region.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Kansas City, KS?
The salary of an Event Planner in Kansas City can vary depending on experience level, skills, and specific employer. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different experience tiers to give a clearer idea of what you can expect.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.06 | $802.40 | $3,476.27 | $41,709.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.58 | $903.20 | $3,913.87 | $46,966.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.41 | $1,016.40 | $4,393.07 | $52,852.80 |
Do Event Planners in Kansas City Earn Tips?
Typically, Event Planners do not earn tips as their compensation comes from their salary or wages structured by their employer or contract. Their role focuses on coordination and management rather than direct customer service where tipping is common.
Event Planner Salary in Kansas City vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of $22.76 per hour and about $47,340.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Kansas City earn slightly below the hourly national average but close in annual earnings, at about $22.58 per hour and $46,966.40 yearly.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Event Planners
For Event Planners exploring opportunities near Kansas City, here are some higher-paying nearby locations:
- Shawnee, KS: $29.12 per hour
- Mission, KS: $29.12 per hour
These areas offer competitive wages above the Kansas City average, making commuting a profitable option for Event Planners.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Kansas City?
A number of factors influence how much an Event Planner makes in Kansas City:
- Experience and Professional Skills: Greater expertise in event coordination, budgeting, and vendor management generally leads to higher pay.
- Type of Events Managed: Planners specializing in corporate, large-scale, or luxury events tend to command better salaries.
- Employer Type: Working for large corporations, event planning agencies, or prestigious venues may offer more lucrative compensation packages.
- Certifications and Education: Holding recognized credentials can boost earnings significantly.
- Networking and Reputation: A strong professional network and positive client feedback can lead to better opportunities and pay.
How To Become an Event Planner in Kansas City
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Kansas City can be achieved through several key steps that help build expertise and credibility.
- Earn Relevant Certificates: The University of Kansas offers an Event Management Certificate with comprehensive training in planning and executing events.
- Attend Community College Programs: Johnson County Community College provides a Meeting and Event Planning Certificate, covering essentials like budgeting, marketing, and logistics.
- Pursue Certifications: Professional designations such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) validate your expertise and can improve job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Volunteer or intern with local event companies or venues to develop real-world skills.
- Build a Professional Network: Joining local event planning associations and attending industry events can open doors.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Kansas City
Leading companies and organizations that employ Event Planners in the Kansas City area include:
- Cerner Corporation
- Hallmark Cards
- Garmin International
- Sprint Corporation
Establishments That Event Planners in Kansas City Work At
Event Planners in Kansas City find work across diverse types of establishments, such as:
- Corporate Offices and Conference Centers: These provide consistent event schedules and usually offer competitive pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large hospitality venues are major employers, often offering benefits and room for advancement.
- Non-Profit Organizations: These may offer varied experience though often with limited budgets impacting salary.
- Event Planning Agencies: Specialized firms handle a range of events and may provide higher earning potential for experienced planners.
- Wedding and Banquet Venues: Planners here often specialize in social events with fluctuating hours and income.
The type and scale of the establishment can significantly affect salary levels, with corporate and specialized agencies typically paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Event Planners
If you are considering careers similar to Event Planner, options in Kansas City include roles focusing on event coordination and management.
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner positions, each with varying levels of responsibility and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Kansas City
Understanding the relevant labor laws and tax requirements is critical for Event Planners to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Information on federal employment laws can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Kansas official website provides resources on state employment rules and labor regulations.
- For job search resources and employment services in Kansas, visit KansasWorks.com.