Event Planner Salary in Knoxville, TN
Event Planners in Knoxville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $20.15 per hour, which amounts to about $806.00 per week, $3,492.67 per month, and $41,912.00 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Knoxville is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities in this dynamic field.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Knoxville, TN?
The salary of an Event Planner in Knoxville varies depending on experience and expertise. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.04 | $761.60 | $3,297.07 | $39,603.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.15 | $806.00 | $3,492.67 | $41,912.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.33 | $853.20 | $3,923.87 | $47,062.40 |
Do Event Planners in Knoxville Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips since their compensation is usually salary or hourly wage-based, reflecting their professional planning and coordination services rather than direct customer service roles.
Event Planner Salary in Knoxville vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $23.44 per hour, which equals about $48,755.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Knoxville earn slightly less on average, with a rate of $20.15 per hour and $41,912.00 annually. This can be influenced by cost of living differences and local market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Knoxville for Event Planners
When exploring nearby areas within Knoxville, salary variations reflect the local business climate and demand:
- Downtown Knoxville: $21.50 per hour
- West Knoxville: $20.80 per hour
Event Planners working in Downtown Knoxville tend to earn the highest wages due to the concentration of venues and business events.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Knoxville?
Several key factors impact how much an Event Planner can earn in Knoxville:
- Experience and Expertise: More seasoned Event Planners with proven track records tend to command higher salaries.
- Industry and Type of Events: Planning corporate events, weddings, or large-scale conventions may offer higher pay than smaller, local events.
- Certifications and Education: Holding certifications like Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can boost earning potential.
- Networking and Reputation: Strong industry connections and a good reputation often lead to higher-paying opportunities.
- Size of Employer or Agency: Larger event planning firms or established venues generally offer better compensation packages.
How To Become an Event Planner in Knoxville
To build a successful career as an Event Planner in Knoxville, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Relevant Education: Certificates such as the University of Tennessee Event Planning Certificate or programs like Pellissippi State Community College Hospitality Management Program offer essential knowledge in event design, budgeting, and marketing.
- Gain Industry Certifications: Pursuing credentials like Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) demonstrates proficiency and professionalism.
- Develop Practical Experience: Internships or entry-level roles with event companies provide valuable on-the-job training and networking.
- Build Strong Organizational Skills: Mastering time management, communication, and vendor coordination enhances job performance.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Knoxville
Several prominent organizations in Knoxville hire Event Planners, including:
- City of Knoxville
- University of Tennessee
- Visit Knoxville
Establishments That Event Planners in Knoxville Work At
Event Planners in Knoxville are employed across a broad range of establishments:
- Corporate Venues: Large meetings and conferences can offer higher salaries and bonuses.
- Hotels and Convention Centers: These provide stable opportunities often with benefits.
- Wedding and Banquet Halls: Demand may fluctuate seasonally, impacting income.
- Event Planning Agencies: Diverse client portfolios can provide variable pay scales.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary, with corporate and large-scale event venues often offering the highest compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Knoxville for Event Planners
If you're interested in careers similar to Event Planning, consider the following related roles:
Related careers include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Restaurant Manager positions, which share overlapping skills and industry connections.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Knoxville
It is important for Event Planners in Knoxville to be aware of local labor laws and taxation rules to ensure compliance and proper financial planning.
- Visit the official State of Tennessee website for comprehensive information on labor laws, minimum wage, and regulations.
- The City of Knoxville's official website provides valuable resources about local business regulations and employment opportunities.