Event Planner Salary in Oklahoma City, OK
Event Planners in Oklahoma City, OK, earn approximately $28.21 per hour, which translates to about $1,128.40 per week, $4,889.73 per month, and $58,676.80 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Oklahoma City is growing steadily at around 6% per year, indicating positive job prospects and an expanding market for professionals skilled in organizing events and conferences.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Oklahoma City, OK?
The salary of an Event Planner in Oklahoma City can vary depending on experience and employer. Here’s a detailed look at earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.38 | $1,015.20 | $4,403.07 | $52,582.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.21 | $1,128.40 | $4,889.73 | $58,676.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.10 | $1,404.00 | $6,080.00 | $72,960.00 |
Do Event Planners in Oklahoma City Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their work focuses on organizing and coordinating events rather than direct customer service involving gratuities. Their earnings mainly come from salaries or hourly wages.
Event Planner Salary in Oklahoma City vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $28.21 per hour, which equates to about $58,676.80 annually.
Oklahoma City Event Planners earn close to the national average, reflecting a competitive local pay scale aligned with national standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oklahoma City for Event Planners
Event Planners can expect varying pay rates depending on their specific location within the vicinity of Oklahoma City:
- Downtown Oklahoma City: $30 per hour
- Bricktown: $29.50 per hour
Choosing to work in these high-paying areas near the city center may offer better salary opportunities compared to other parts.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Oklahoma City?
Several factors can influence the salary of an Event Planner in Oklahoma City:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced planners with specialized skills or a successful track record tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Employer: Salaries vary depending on whether the Event Planner works for corporate firms, event management companies, nonprofit organizations, or government agencies.
- Education and Certifications: Credentials such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can increase earning potential.
- Event Scale and Complexity: Organizing larger or more complex events generally leads to higher compensation.
- Local Market Demand: Being in a market with higher event activity, such as Oklahoma City’s downtown or entertainment districts, often results in better pay.
How To Become an Event Planner in Oklahoma City
Starting a career as an Event Planner involves several key steps that can enhance your qualifications and appeal to employers:
- Education: Pursuing specialized programs such as the University of Central Oklahoma - Event Management Program, which offers a comprehensive curriculum covering event planning, marketing, and management.
- Additional Coursework: The Oklahoma State University - Hospitality and Tourism Management program includes courses relevant to event planning within its broader hospitality education.
- Certification: Obtaining certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can validate expertise and improve job prospects.
- Gaining Experience: Entry-level roles or internships in event coordination can provide valuable hands-on experience.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Oklahoma City
Some of the prominent companies in the area currently employing Event Planners include:
- Chesapeake Energy
- Devon Energy
- Love's Travel Stops & Country Stores
Establishments That Event Planners in Oklahoma City Work At
Event Planners work in a variety of establishments that influence their responsibilities and salary levels:
- Corporate Offices: Organizing meetings and company events often comes with competitive pay and benefits.
- Hotels and Convention Centers: These venues offer opportunities to plan various large-scale events, often resulting in higher salaries due to the scale.
- Event Planning Agencies: Specialized firms may provide diverse experiences and commission-based earnings.
- Nonprofit and Government Organizations: These may have fixed salary structures but provide stable employment.
The type and size of the establishment directly affect the salary and career advancement potential for Event Planners.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oklahoma City for Event Planners
If you are interested in roles similar to Event Planner, consider related positions that offer overlapping skills and responsibilities:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner roles, which share many job functions and offer pathways for growth within the event management field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Oklahoma City
Event Planners should be well informed about labor laws and tax regulations applicable in Oklahoma City to ensure compliance and protect their employment rights.
- Information about state-specific employment laws can be found on the Official website of the State of Oklahoma, offering comprehensive guidance on labor and employment regulations.
- Federal labor laws and regulations are available through the U.S. Department of Labor's official website, which provides resources on wages, hours, and workplace standards.