Event Planner Salary in Mesa, AZ
In Mesa, AZ, Event Planners in 2025 earn approximately $30.58 per hour, which equates to about $1,223.20 per week, $5,300.53 per month, and $63,606.40 per year.
The job market for Event Planners in Mesa is experiencing positive growth of around 8% per year, indicating increasing demand for professionals skilled in organizing and managing events across the region.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Mesa, AZ?
Event Planners’ salaries in Mesa vary depending on factors like experience, education, and employer. Below is a breakdown of earnings based on experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $27.50 | $1,100.00 | $4,766.67 | $57,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.58 | $1,223.20 | $5,300.53 | $63,606.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.17 | $1,326.80 | $5,710.93 | $68,960.00 |
Do Event Planners in Mesa Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their compensation typically comes from a salary or hourly wage. Their role focuses on coordinating events rather than direct service roles where tipping is common.
Event Planner Salary in Mesa vs. National Average
The national average salary for Event Planners is around $23.71 per hour, which is approximately $49,316.80 per year.
Comparatively, Event Planners in Mesa earn notably more with an average of $30.58 hourly and $63,606.40 annually, reflecting the local market's demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Mesa for Event Planners
Nearby Mesa areas offer competitive salaries for Event Planners:
- Downtown Mesa: $31.50 per hour
- East Mesa: $32.00 per hour
Professionals considering roles just outside central Mesa may find attractive pay rates in these neighborhoods.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Mesa?
Several key factors impact how much an Event Planner can earn in Mesa:
- Experience and Expertise: Those with more years organizing events or specializing in certain event types generally command higher salaries.
- Skills: Strong communication, budgeting, and negotiation skills contribute to better compensation.
- Type of Establishment: Work in larger venues, corporate firms, or premium event centers may pay more than smaller or nonprofit organizations.
- Event Scale and Complexity: Managing large-scale or high-profile events can lead to salary bonuses or higher base pay.
- Certifications and Education: Holding recognized certifications or completing related education often helps increase earnings.
How To Become an Event Planner in Mesa
To pursue a career as an Event Planner in Mesa, you can take several important steps:
- Earn Relevant Certifications or Education: Programs like the Event Management Certificate from Arizona State University help build essential planning and coordination skills.
- Consider Local Educational Programs: Mesa Community College offers a Hospitality and Tourism Program that provides foundational knowledge relevant to event planning.
- Gain Experience: Start with assistant roles or internships to develop practical skills.
- Pursue Professional Certifications: Certifications such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) demonstrate advanced expertise and can boost job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Mesa
Some of the notable employers where Event Planners can find opportunities in Mesa include:
- The GALVAN Event Center
- Red Mountain Ranch Golf Course
- The Buttes Event Center
Establishments That Event Planners in Mesa Work At
Event Planners in Mesa typically find employment at a variety of establishment types:
- Event Centers and Banquet Halls: Larger venues often offer higher salaries due to the scale of events managed.
- Hotels and Resorts: These employers may offer benefits and higher pay, especially for planners managing large conferences or weddings.
- Catering Companies: Often work in fast-paced environments where versatility is valued.
- Corporate Firms and Agencies: Event Planners working in marketing or specialized event agencies can command higher wages based on client portfolios.
The establishment’s size, prestige, and clientele significantly influence an Event Planner’s salary.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Mesa for Event Planners
If you’re considering related roles within the hospitality and event planning field, the following positions share similar responsibilities or skills:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner roles, providing pathways to develop expertise and advance in event management careers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Mesa
Event Planners should be aware of several resources regarding labor laws and taxes applicable to their employment in Mesa and the state of Arizona.
- Information on employment standards and resources can be found at the Arizona Commerce Authority.
- The Arizona Department of Revenue oversees state taxation and provides guidance on tax compliance for workers.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor website is an essential resource.