Event Planner Salary in Milwaukee, WI

Event Planners in Milwaukee, WI, in 2025, earn approximately $24.93 per hour, which translates to about $997.20 per week, $4,321.20 per month, and $51,854.40 per year.

The demand for Event Planners in Milwaukee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the local event planning industry.

How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Milwaukee, WI?

The salary of an Event Planner in Milwaukee varies based on experience and skills. Below is a general breakdown of expected earnings at different levels:

Do Event Planners in Milwaukee Earn Tips?

Event Planners typically do not earn tips, as their compensation is generally structured through salaries or fees for services rather than gratuities. Their pay is based on their expertise and the scale of the events they manage.

Event Planner Salary in Milwaukee vs. National Average

The national average hourly wage for Event Planners is about $24.93 per hour, which is equal to an annual salary of around $51,854.40.

Milwaukee's Event Planner salaries align closely with the national average, reflecting a competitive market with standard wage practices for this role locally.

Highest-Paying Areas Near Milwaukee for Event Planners

Nearby cities offering competitive salaries for Event Planners include:

• West Milwaukee: $23.58 per hour
• Brookfield: $21.45 per hour

Event Planners seeking nearby job opportunities may find better pay in West Milwaukee compared to Brookfield, though Milwaukee itself remains a favorable location.

What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Milwaukee?

Several factors impact how much an Event Planner can earn in Milwaukee:

• Experience and Proven Success: More seasoned Event Planners with a track record of managing large or complex events tend to command higher salaries.
• Skill Set and Specializations: Skills in budgeting, marketing, vendor negotiations, and logistics can increase earning potential.
• Type of Employer or Sector: Planners employed by high-profile venues, corporate clients, or specialized agencies often earn more than those working for smaller organizations.
• Event Size and Complexity: Managing large-scale events or specialized gatherings typically leads to higher compensation.
• Local Market Demand: Milwaukee’s growing event industry creates opportunities but may influence pay scales depending on competition and demand.

How To Become an Event Planner in Milwaukee

Starting a career as an Event Planner involves several strategic steps:

• Obtain Relevant Education: Programs like the Event Management Certificate at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and the Hospitality Management Program at Milwaukee Area Technical College provide essential knowledge in event planning fundamentals.
• Earn Certifications: Professional certifications such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) bolster credentials and demonstrate expertise.
• Gain Practical Experience: Working as an assistant or coordinator on events builds valuable hands-on skills.
• Build a Professional Network: Connections with venues, vendors, and clients are crucial for success.

Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Milwaukee

Key organizations in Milwaukee seeking Event Planning professionals include:

• Marcus Hotels & Resorts
• Zilli Hospitality Group
• Milwaukee Art Museum

Establishments That Event Planners in Milwaukee Work At

Event Planners in Milwaukee commonly find employment in various settings, including:

• Hotels and Resorts: Large venues often require dedicated planners and offer competitive salaries.
• Convention Centers and Event Venues: These locations need professionals to coordinate corporate, social, and public events.
• Hospitality and Catering Companies: Planners here work closely with food and beverage services, sometimes impacting earnings based on event scale.
• Corporate Event Departments: In-house planners at corporations manage company meetings and functions, with pay depending on company size and event frequency.

The type of establishment often affects salary ranges, with specialized and larger-scale employers typically offering higher pay.

Related Hospitality Jobs in Milwaukee for Event Planners

Those interested in careers similar to Event Planning might explore these related roles:

These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner positions, all of which are linked by similar responsibilities and require organizational expertise.

Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Milwaukee

Event Planners in Milwaukee should be aware of labor regulations and tax requirements that impact their employment:

• Review federal labor laws and employment information on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
• For Wisconsin-specific labor laws and workforce resources, visit the State of Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development website.