Event Planner Salary in Providence, RI
Event Planners in Providence, RI, in 2026, earn approximately $21.16 per hour, which translates to about $846.40 per week, $3,667.73 per month, and $44,012.80 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Providence is growing positively at about 6% per year, indicating an expanding job market and increased opportunities in event coordination and management within the region.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Providence, RI?
The salary of an Event Planner in Providence varies depending on their experience level and the scope of events they manage. The table below outlines typical earnings at different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.87 | $754.80 | $3,269.20 | $39,177.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.16 | $846.40 | $3,667.73 | $44,012.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.73 | $949.20 | $4,099.20 | $49,358.40 |
Do Event Planners in Providence Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their compensation is mostly salary-based or project-based, reflecting the professional and organizational nature of their work rather than direct customer service where tipping is common.
Event Planner Salary in Providence vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average hourly wage of about $23.77 per hour, which translates to roughly $49,441.60 annually.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Providence earn slightly less, at an average of $21.16 per hour and $44,012.80 annually. This difference can be influenced by local market size, cost of living, and event industry demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Providence for Event Planners
Event Planner salaries vary slightly in surrounding neighborhoods and districts:
- Downtown Providence: $22.50 per hour
- Federal Hill: $21.80 per hour
Those working in Downtown Providence may enjoy higher pay, reflecting the area's business hubs and frequent large-scale events.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Providence?
Several factors can impact how much an Event Planner earns in Providence:
- Experience and Professional Skills: More experienced Event Planners with expertise in large or complex events tend to secure higher salaries.
- Type and Size of Events: Planning corporate events, weddings, or large public gatherings usually commands better pay than smaller private events.
- Employer Type: Working for prestigious event planning firms, venues, or as in-house planners at large corporations or hotels often offers better remuneration.
- Certifications and Education: Holding credentials like Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can enhance salary prospects.
- Networking and Reputation: A strong professional network and positive reputation in the local event planning community may lead to higher-paying contracts or salaried positions.
How To Become an Event Planner in Providence
Building a career as an Event Planner in Providence involves several key steps and educational opportunities.
Start by pursuing relevant formal education such as the Event Management Certificate at Rhode Island School of Design, which covers event planning fundamentals, design, and project management.
You can also consider the Hospitality Management Program at Johnson & Wales University, which offers specialized courses in event planning, hospitality operations, and business management.
Achieving professional certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) credential can further validate your expertise and improve job opportunities.
Gaining practical experience by working in event coordination roles, internships, or assisting experienced planners is also crucial to building a solid foundation.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Providence
Several well-known establishments frequently seek skilled Event Planners in Providence, including:
- The Dorrance
- Waterman Grille
- Gracie's
- Al Forno
Establishments That Event Planners in Providence Work At
Event Planners in Providence typically find opportunities across a variety of establishments, such as:
- Hotels and Event Venues: Often have higher budgets and more complex event requirements, leading to higher pay.
- Restaurants and Catering Companies: Smaller-scale events here may offer lower but steady compensation.
- Corporate Offices and Convention Centers: These employers manage large conferences and professional gatherings, usually resulting in elevated salaries.
- Nonprofit Organizations and Community Centers: Events are often smaller scale with lower budgets, which can affect pay.
The type of establishment affects not only salary but also the scope and nature of event planning work.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Providence for Event Planners
If you are considering careers related to Event Planning, here are some similar roles that share overlapping skills and responsibilities.
These include Event Manager, Event Coordinator, and Food and Beverage Manager positions, all of which involve event, hospitality, and management skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Providence
Event Planners should be familiar with state and federal labor laws to ensure compliance and proper handling of employment matters.
- Learn about Rhode Island's labor laws and employment guidelines from the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training.
- For federal tax information and employer regulations, consult the Internal Revenue Service.