Event Planner Salary in Oak-Park, IL
Event Planners in Oak-Park, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $31.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,240.00 per week, $5,373.33 per month, and $64,480.00 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Oak-Park is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a promising and expanding market for event management services in the region.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Oak-Park, IL?
The salary of an Event Planner in Oak-Park varies depending on experience level and employer, but below is a general breakdown of earnings across different experience stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.00 | $1,240.00 | $5,373.33 | $64,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,893.33 | $70,720.00 |
Do Event Planners in Oak-Park Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips since their primary role involves organizing and coordinating events behind the scenes. Their earnings are typically salary-based or hourly without additional tipping income.
Event Planner Salary in Oak-Park vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $30.00 per hour, which translates to approximately $62,400 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Oak-Park earn slightly more, making about $31.00 per hour and $64,480 annually. This reflects a competitive market and local demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oak-Park for Event Planners
Nearby neighborhoods and districts can offer varying salaries for Event Planners:
- Downtown Oak Park: $32.00 per hour
- Frank Lloyd Wright Historic District: $33.00 per hour
Those working in the Frank Lloyd Wright Historic District tend to earn the highest wages, possibly due to the area's prominence and upscale clientele.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Oak-Park?
Several factors affect how much an Event Planner can earn in Oak-Park:
- Experience and Expertise: Event Planners with more years of professional experience or specialized skills command higher pay.
- Type of Events Planned: Planners focusing on high-profile corporate or luxury events typically earn more than those working mainly on smaller or private events.
- Educational Background and Certifications: Holding recognized certifications like Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can improve salary prospects.
- Employer Size and Reputation: Larger event management companies or prestigious venues tend to offer better compensation packages.
- Networking and Clientele: An extensive professional network and high-value client base can lead to increased earning opportunities.
How To Become an Event Planner in Oak-Park
Becoming an Event Planner in Oak-Park involves several important steps:
- Obtain Relevant Education and Training: Consider programs like the Certified Master Wedding and Event Planner at University of Illinois at Springfield, an online program offering comprehensive training, or the Corporate Event Planner course at Illinois Valley Community College designed to prepare for corporate events.
- Earn Recognized Certifications: Certifications such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) highlight your expertise and can increase job opportunities.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships or entry-level roles in event coordination or management provide valuable hands-on experience.
- Develop Strong Organizational and Communication Skills: Success as an Event Planner depends heavily on coordinating multiple aspects of events smoothly and effectively.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Oak-Park
Several well-known establishments in Oak-Park actively seek skilled Event Planners, including:
- Maya Del Sol
- Citrine Cafe
- MORA Asian Kitchen - Oak Park
- Rustico
- La Notte Ristorante Italiano - Oak Park
Establishments That Event Planners in Oak-Park Work At
Event Planners typically find employment in a range of establishments, including:
- Hotels and Banquet Halls: These are common workplaces for Event Planners organizing weddings, conferences, and large social gatherings.
- Restaurants and Catering Companies: Coordinating special events and private parties is frequent in these settings.
- Corporate Offices: Planning business meetings, product launches, and conferences.
- Event Management Firms: Specialized companies that handle events for various clients and sectors offer opportunities and higher earning potential.
Salary tends to vary by establishment type, with event management firms and high-end venues generally providing better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oak-Park for Event Planners
If you are interested in similar roles related to Event Planning, consider these positions which blend hospitality and organizational skills:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Food and Beverage Manager—roles that share similar responsibilities or work environments with Event Planners.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Oak-Park
Event Planners should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations at the federal, state, and local levels for smooth compliance.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor (federal website) for federal employment standards and regulations.
- Check the Illinois Department of Employment Security (state website) for state-specific labor and unemployment guidelines.
- Use the Village of Oak Park official website (local government) for local laws, permits, and tax information.