Event Planner Salary in Las Cruces, NM
Event Planners in Las Cruces, NM, in 2026, earn approximately $20.38 per hour, which translates to about $815.20 per week, $3,532.53 per month, and $42,390.40 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Las Cruces is growing moderately at about 6.6% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in this field in the area.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Las Cruces, NM?
The salary of an Event Planner in Las Cruces varies based on experience and responsibilities, but here’s an overview across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.91 | $636.40 | $2,753.87 | $33,132.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.38 | $815.20 | $3,532.53 | $42,390.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.11 | $1,044.40 | $4,516.53 | $54,308.80 |
Do Event Planners in Las Cruces Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation is generally salary or hourly wage based, reflecting the professional planning and coordination services they provide rather than direct customer service roles where tipping is common.
Event Planner Salary in Las Cruces vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Event Planners is approximately $22.41 per hour, which amounts to about $46,612.80 annually.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Las Cruces earn slightly less, with an average hourly rate of $20.38 and an annual salary of $42,390.40. This difference can be influenced by the cost of living and demand within the Las Cruces area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Las Cruces for Event Planners
Nearby cities offer varying salary opportunities for Event Planners, including:
- Albuquerque: $25.47 per hour
Event Planners considering nearby areas may find Albuquerque to be a higher-paying market compared to Las Cruces.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Las Cruces?
Several important factors can impact the earnings of Event Planners in the Las Cruces area:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Event Planners with proven success in managing large and complex events often command higher salaries.
- Type of Employer: Working for large organizations, corporations, or prestigious venues tends to offer better compensation compared to smaller companies or nonprofits.
- Certification and Education: Holding recognized certifications or a formal degree in hospitality or event management can enhance salary prospects.
- Event Scope and Complexity: Planning high-profile or large-scale events generally correlates to higher pay due to the increased responsibility.
- Local Demand and Economy: The economic climate and demand for events in Las Cruces also shape salary levels.
How To Become an Event Planner in Las Cruces
Embarking on a career as an Event Planner involves several key steps and qualifications:
- Educational Background: Pursuing a degree like the Bachelor of Science in Hospitality, Restaurant and Tourism Management at New Mexico State University provides a strong foundation in event planning and management principles.
- Professional Certifications: Obtaining certifications such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) offered by the Events Industry Council can improve employment prospects and career development. This certification requires relevant experience and passing a comprehensive exam covering essential event management topics.
- Gaining Practical Experience: Internships and entry-level roles in event coordination help build valuable skills and industry connections.
- Networking: Joining local and national event planning associations offers opportunities to stay informed and connect with potential employers.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Las Cruces
Some prominent employers offering opportunities for Event Planners in Las Cruces include:
- Las Cruces Convention Center
- New Mexico State University
- City of Las Cruces
Establishments That Event Planners in Las Cruces Work At
Event Planners find employment across various establishments, including:
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger venues offer diverse events from weddings to corporate meetings, often providing higher salaries due to complex logistical needs.
- Convention and Exhibition Centers: These require planners to manage large-scale, multi-day events and conferences, often with competitive compensation.
- Universities and Corporate Entities: Event Planners coordinate campus events, seminars, or corporate functions, where salary depends on the organization's size and budget.
- Nonprofits and Community Organizations: Work here may have lower salaries but offers opportunities to plan unique and meaningful events.
Salary levels can vary significantly based on the establishment's size, event complexity, and budget.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Las Cruces for Event Planners
If you’re interested in careers related to Event Planning, consider exploring these roles that share similar skills and industry connections.
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Concierge, roles that require strong organizational and interpersonal skills within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Las Cruces
Event Planners should stay informed about the labor laws and tax requirements that apply to their employment status in Las Cruces and New Mexico.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for information on federal employment laws including wage standards and workplace regulations.
- The New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions provides resources on state labor laws, employment assistance, and tax information relevant to workers in the state.