Event Planner Salary in Raleigh, NC
Event Planners in Raleigh, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $40.44 per hour, which translates to about $1,617.60 per week, $7,009.60 per month, and $84,115.20 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Raleigh is growing steadily at about 7% per year, reflecting an expanding market with increasing opportunities in event management and coordination in the area.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Raleigh, NC?
The salary of an Event Planner in Raleigh can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $33.62 | $1,344.80 | $5,827.73 | $69,933.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $40.44 | $1,617.60 | $7,009.60 | $84,115.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $48.66 | $1,946.40 | $8,408.00 | $100,172.80 |
Do Event Planners in Raleigh Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their work is typically project-based and salaried or contracted. Their earnings consist primarily of their agreed salary or fees rather than tips.
Event Planner Salary in Raleigh, NC vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $27.00 per hour, translating to about $56,160 per year.
When compared to the national average, Event Planners in Raleigh earn significantly more, at about $40.44 per hour and $84,115.20 annually.
This increase may be due to Raleigh's growing event management industry and regional demand for skilled coordinators and planners.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Raleigh for Event Planners
When looking at nearby areas, Event Planner salaries are:
- Research Triangle Park: $37.67 per hour
- Durham: $37.47 per hour
These nearby regions offer competitive salaries for Event Planners that are slightly lower than Raleigh, indicating Raleigh as a high-paying locale.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Raleigh?
Several key factors influence the salary of an Event Planner in Raleigh:
- Experience and Skill Level: Those with more years managing diverse and large-scale events typically command higher salaries.
- Type of Events Managed: Planning corporate, large weddings, or specialized events often yields higher pay than smaller or social-only events.
- Location and Employer: Working for larger corporations, event planning agencies, or prestigious venues can increase compensation.
- Certifications and Education: Holding professional certifications or a degree in hospitality or event management can boost salary potential.
How To Become an Event Planner in Raleigh
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Raleigh involves several practical steps:
- Consider earning an Event Planning Certificate at Wake Technical Community College, which offers comprehensive training in budgeting, marketing, and logistics.
- Pursue higher education through programs like the Hospitality Management Program at North Carolina State University, which includes courses in event management and hospitality law.
- Obtain professional certifications such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) to demonstrate industry expertise.
- Gain practical experience through internships or entry-level positions to build a network and real-world skills.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Raleigh
Some prominent employers seeking skilled Event Planners in Raleigh include:
- Marriott International
- The Special Event Company
- CE Rental, Inc.
- Southern Bride & Groom
Establishments That Event Planners in Raleigh Work At
Event Planners in Raleigh typically find employment in a variety of settings such as:
- Hotels and Resort Venues: These establishments often pay higher salaries due to the scale and prestige of events.
- Event Planning Agencies: Salary depends on agency size and client portfolio but can offer commission-based earnings.
- Nonprofit Organizations and Corporate Offices: Typically offer stable pay, focused on organizational and promotional events.
- Wedding and Special Event Venues: Can vary widely, with some offering lucrative packages particularly for high-end celebrations.
The type of establishment strongly influences overall compensation, benefits, and career advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Raleigh for Event Planners
If you're interested in careers similar to Event Planning, here are a few related roles you might consider:
These include Event Manager, Event Coordinator, and Event Planner positions, which involve similar skills in managing and coordinating events.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Raleigh
Event Planners should be aware of local and federal labor laws and tax requirements to navigate their employment contracts and financial responsibilities effectively.
- You can find North Carolina's employment resources and labor regulations on the North Carolina Commerce website.
- For federal labor statistics and job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.