Event Planner Salary in Charleston, SC
Event Planners in Charleston, SC, in 2025, earn approximately $27.05 per hour, which translates to about $1,082.00 per week, $4,688.67 per month, and $56,264.00 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Charleston is growing at a rate of 8% per year, indicating a positive outlook and an expanding need for skilled professionals in the event management industry.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Charleston, SC?
The salary of an Event Planner in Charleston can vary depending on experience and other factors. Below is an overview of pay ranges across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.33 | $773.20 | $3,344.53 | $40,134.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.05 | $1,082.00 | $4,688.67 | $56,264.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.86 | $1,514.40 | $6,541.60 | $78,748.80 |
Do Event Planners in Charleston Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their compensation is typically included in their salary or contract fees. Their earnings mostly come from their professional services rather than gratuities.
Event Planner Salary in Charleston vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn around $23.72 per hour, which equates to about $49,337.60 annually.
In comparison, Event Planners in Charleston, SC, earn a higher average hourly wage of $27.05 and make approximately $56,264.00 per year. This suggests Charleston offers competitive pay within the event planning field.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Charleston for Event Planners
Nearby areas provide varied pay for Event Planners. Here’s a quick look:
- Downtown Charleston: $28.50 per hour
- Mount Pleasant: $21.63 per hour
Event Planners working in Downtown Charleston can expect significantly higher pay compared to Mount Pleasant, reflecting location-based market differences.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Charleston?
Experience and skills are major factors, with more seasoned planners commanding higher salaries.
Specialization areas such as corporate events, weddings, or large-scale festivals can impact pay rates.
The size and prestige of the employer, including luxury resorts or event management companies, often influence salaries.
Networking and reputation in Charleston’s hospitality and tourism-heavy economy can open doors to higher-paying opportunities.
How To Become an Event Planner in Charleston
Becoming an Event Planner in Charleston involves several strategic steps and educational opportunities.
Obtaining formal education through programs like the College of Charleston - Hospitality and Tourism Management Program provides foundational knowledge and skills.
Specialized training such as the Trident Technical College - Event Management Certificate offers practical insights into logistics, marketing, and financial management of events.
Professional certification helps build credibility. The Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) certifications are recognized worldwide and enhance job prospects.
Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level event coordination roles is also key to career development.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Charleston
Charleston’s hospitality industry offers many opportunities for Event Planners. Notable employers include:
- Charleston Place Hotel
- Wild Dunes Resort
- The Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Establishments That Event Planners in Charleston Work At
Event Planners in Charleston work in a variety of settings, including:
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: These frequently pay higher salaries due to the scale and prestige of events managed.
- Wedding and Banquet Venues: Often require detailed coordination and creativity, impacting compensation levels.
- Corporate Event Companies: These may offer competitive pay and opportunities for large-scale events.
- Nonprofits and Community Centers: Usually provide entry points into the industry with moderate pay.
The type of employer greatly affects salary, with larger and higher-profile venues tending to offer greater compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Charleston for Event Planners
Several related careers share overlapping skills and duties with Event Planners. Here are some alternatives to consider:
This includes Event Manager, Event Coordinator, and Food and Beverage Manager roles, each requiring skills closely related to Event Planning and enjoyed in the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Charleston
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is crucial for Event Planners working in Charleston.
- For federal labor laws, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor.
- State-specific labor laws and licensing information can be found on the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation website.
- Local regulations and business resources are available at the City of Charleston Official Website.