Event Planner Salary in Kent, WA
Event Planners in Kent, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $23.73 per hour, which translates to about $949.20 per week, $4,113.20 per month, and $49,358.40 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Kent is growing steadily at about 8% per year, showing an increasing need for professionals adept at organizing and managing events in the region.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Kent, WA?
The salary of an Event Planner in Kent varies depending on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.00 | $1,240.00 | $5,373.33 | $64,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,893.33 | $70,720.00 |
Do Event Planners in Kent Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips since their role focuses on event coordination and management rather than direct customer service during events. Their income primarily comes from salaries or contracted fees.
Event Planner Salary in Kent vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of about $23.70 per hour and approximately $49,296 per year.
Comparatively, Event Planners in Kent earn nearly the same with a slightly higher hourly wage of $23.73 and an annual income of $49,358.40, reflecting a competitive regional market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kent for Event Planners
Nearby cities offer varying salary levels for Event Planners:
- Bothell: $29.84 per hour
- Seattle: $27.29 per hour
Event Planners working in Bothell can expect to earn noticeably more than those in Seattle or Kent, marking it as a high-paying area in the region.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Kent?
Several important factors affect the salary an Event Planner can command in Kent:
- Experience Level: Event Planners with many years of experience or a proven track record of successful events are often paid more.
- Skills and Specialization: Expertise in corporate, wedding, or large-scale event planning can increase earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Planners working for major corporations or prestigious event venues usually earn higher salaries than those in smaller companies.
- Certifications and Education: Holding recognized credentials or relevant certificates boosts credibility and salary prospects.
- Location: Proximity to metropolitan areas like Seattle can lead to higher wages due to greater demand.
How To Become an Event Planner in Kent
Here are some practical steps to pursue a career as an Event Planner in Kent:
- Obtain Formal Education or Certificates: Programs such as the Event Management Certificate at Highline College (Des Moines, WA) offer part-time or full-time options that can be completed within months to a year.
- Take Short Courses: The One-day Event Planning Course by Mangates Seattle provides foundational skills ideal for newcomers.
- Earn Industry Certifications: Consider credentials like the Certified Live Event Planner (CLEP) through the Washington Festivals and Events Association or the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) from the Events Industry Council.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships, volunteering, or entry-level roles at event companies provide invaluable hands-on knowledge.
- Build a Professional Network: Engage with local event organizations and attend industry events to connect.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Kent
Some notable companies in the Kent area where Event Planners commonly find employment include:
- Hyatt Regency Seattle
- ABC Legal Services
- Qualtrics
Establishments That Event Planners in Kent Work At
Event Planners in Kent typically work across a variety of settings, including:
- Hotels and Resorts: These often host large conferences, weddings, and social events, generally offering higher compensation to planners.
- Catering and Event Management Companies: Salaries can vary widely depending on company size and clientele.
- Corporate Offices: In-house planners handle meetings and corporate functions, with steadier salary schedules.
- Nonprofit and Community Organizations: These roles may offer less pay but rewarding experience in cause-driven events.
The type and prestige of the establishment influence the salary range and often the benefits available to Event Planners.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kent for Event Planners
If you're considering related roles in hospitality that share skills with Event Planning, you might explore these careers:
These include Event Manager, Event Coordinator, and Event Planner—roles intertwined in managing and executing successful events.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Kent
To navigate employment conditions effectively, Event Planners should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations. Useful resources include:
- Washington State Department of Licensing's website on professional licenses and regulations: dol.wa.gov
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for national labor data: bls.gov