Event Planner Salary in Madison, WI
Event Planners in Madison, WI, in 2026, earn approximately $30.72 per hour, which translates to about $1,228.80 per week, $5,324.80 per month, and $63,897.60 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Madison is growing at a rate of about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook as organizations increasingly rely on professional Event Planners to manage their events effectively.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Madison, WI?
The salary of an Event Planner in Madison can vary depending on experience and specific employer, but the following table offers an overview of typical earnings at different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $27.41 | $1,096.40 | $4,753.73 | $57,676.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.72 | $1,228.80 | $5,324.80 | $63,897.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.84 | $1,353.60 | $5,865.60 | $70,387.20 |
Do Event Planners in Madison Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation comes predominantly from their salary or contracts with clients and organizations managing events.
Event Planner Salary in Madison vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of about $28.85 per hour, which equates to approximately $60,008 per year.
Comparatively, Event Planners in Madison earn a slightly higher hourly rate and annual salary, at about $30.72 per hour and $63,897.60 annually, reflecting regional employment market conditions and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Madison for Event Planners
When considering specific neighborhoods or areas near Madison, salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown Madison: $32.00 per hour
- Capitol Square: $31.50 per hour
Event Planners working in Downtown Madison tend to earn the highest wages, followed closely by those in Capitol Square, reflecting the concentration of businesses and event venues in these areas.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Madison?
Several factors influence the salary potential of an Event Planner in Madison:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Event Planners with skills in budgeting, marketing, and logistics command higher salaries.
- Type of Employer: Working for large corporations, universities, or specialized event management firms typically offers better compensation than smaller organizations.
- Event Size and Complexity: Managing large-scale or high-profile events often results in higher pay.
- Education and Certification: Holding relevant degrees or certifications can boost earnings.
- Networking and Reputation: Strong professional networks and a solid reputation in the industry may lead to premium contracts or job offers.
How To Become an Event Planner in Madison
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Madison involves several steps:
- Earn relevant education: Programs like the Event Management Certificate at Madison Area Technical College provide comprehensive training on budgeting, marketing, and logistics.
- Pursue a degree: A bachelor's degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management at University of Wisconsin-Madison includes coursework relevant to event planning, hospitality management, and tourism.
- Obtain certifications: Earning credentials such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can demonstrate expertise and enhance career prospects.
- Gain practical experience: Internships or assistant roles with event planning companies or departments provide valuable hands-on experience.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Madison
Noteworthy employers in Madison regularly seeking talented Event Planners include:
- The Edgewater
- UW Health
- The Madison Club
- L'Etoile
- Graze
Establishments That Event Planners in Madison Work At
Event Planners typically find opportunities across various types of venues and organizations, such as:
- Hotels and Resorts: Higher-end venues often pay more and offer complex event planning tasks.
- Convention Centers: Large-scale event planning with potentially higher salaries.
- Corporate Offices: Corporate event teams can provide stable employment but may offer moderate salaries relative to the industry.
- Nonprofits and Universities: These sectors often need event expertise but may offer lower pay compared to commercial venues.
- Event Planning Firms: Specialized companies focusing solely on events can offer diverse projects and competitive wages.
Salary can vary significantly depending on the establishment's size, prestige, and the complexity of events managed.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Madison for Event Planners
If you are interested in careers related to Event Planning, consider exploring similar roles such as Event Coordinator, Event Manager, or Banquet Chef.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Madison
Event Planners should remain informed about labor laws and tax requirements applicable in Madison and Wisconsin.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific employment laws and workforce resources, refer to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development website.