Event Planner Salary in Orange, CA
Event Planners in Orange, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $34.13 per hour, which equates to about $1,365.20 per week, $5,915.87 per month, and $70,990.40 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Orange is growing steadily at about 7% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities for professionals in this field within the city.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Orange, CA?
The salary of an Event Planner in Orange varies based on experience and expertise, but the following breakdown gives a general idea of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $30.72 | $1,228.80 | $5,287.20 | $63,451.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $34.13 | $1,365.20 | $5,915.87 | $70,990.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.84 | $1,513.60 | $6,551.73 | $78,707.20 |
Do Event Planners in Orange Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation usually comes through salaries or hourly wages negotiated with their employers or clients. Their role is more focused on coordination and management than direct customer service involving tipping.
Event Planner Salary in Orange vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn around $27.37 per hour on average, which translates to about $56,929.60 annually.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Orange earn considerably more, with hourly wages at $34.13 and annual earnings near $70,990.40. This reflects the higher cost of living and demand in the Orange, CA area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Orange for Event Planners
Nearby areas also offer competitive pay for Event Planners:
- Orange Park Acres: $36.00 per hour
- Old Towne: $35.50 per hour
These surrounding neighborhoods provide excellent pay rates that surpass both city and national averages, making them worthwhile locations to consider for employment.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Orange?
Several factors can affect how much an Event Planner earns in Orange:
- Experience and Expertise: More skilled and experienced planners tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Employer: Large corporations, hotels, and specialized event companies often pay better than smaller local businesses.
- Event Scale and Complexity: Managing large or high-profile events can increase earning potential.
- Skills and Certifications: Specialized skills such as advanced planning software knowledge or negotiation prowess can boost pay.
- Networking and Reputation: Well-connected planners with strong client relations often have more lucrative opportunities.
How To Become an Event Planner in Orange
Building a career as an Event Planner in Orange involves a combination of education, skills development, and professional certification.
Consider enrolling in programs like the Event Planning Certificate Program at California State University, Fullerton, which covers important aspects like budgeting, marketing, and logistics.
The Meeting and Event Planning Certificate at the University of California, Irvine also offers comprehensive training for aspiring planners to gain practical skills and industry knowledge.
Obtaining industry-recognized certifications can further accelerate career growth:
- Certified Meeting Professional (CMP): A prestigious certification from the Events Industry Council, enhancing credibility.
- Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP): Provided by the International Live Events Association, certifying expertise in all aspects of event planning.
Gaining hands-on experience through internships or assistant positions is equally important to build a solid professional foundation.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Orange
The following organizations are some of the largest employers offering Event Planner roles in Orange:
- The Walt Disney Company
- Marriott International
- Hyatt Hotels Corporation
Establishments That Event Planners in Orange Work At
Event Planners in Orange find work in diverse settings such as hotels, conference centers, corporate offices, and dedicated event planning companies.
Types of establishments include:
- Hotels and Resorts: Typically offer competitive salaries due to the scale and frequency of events.
- Corporate Firms: Focused on meetings and product launches, often providing stable year-round work.
- Specialty Event Planning Agencies: These may offer higher pay linked to client budget and event size.
- Non-Profit Organizations: Often provide varied event types but may offer lower salaries.
The nature of the establishment often dictates salary ranges, with larger and more prestigious venues offering more lucrative opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Orange for Event Planners
If you are exploring careers similar to Event Planning, consider related roles that suit your interests and skills.
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner positions, which share similarities in responsibilities but differ in focus and level of management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Orange
Event Planners should stay informed about labor laws and tax obligations at both federal and state levels to ensure compliance and manage earnings wisely.
- For general labor statistics and occupational information, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- California’s Department of Industrial Relations website, DIR, provides details on state labor regulations and worker rights.
- The California Employment Development Department offers resources on wages, taxes, and employment programs.