Event Planner Salary in Riverside, CA
Event Planners in Riverside, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $33.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,320.00 per week, $5,720.00 per month, and $68,640.00 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Riverside is growing steadily at about 7% per year, signaling a healthy increase in job opportunities within the event planning and hospitality sectors in the area.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Riverside, CA?
The salary of an Event Planner in Riverside varies with factors such as experience, skill level, and employer type. Here's a general breakdown:
| 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) | $33.00 | $1,320.00 | $5,720.00 | $68,640.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.60 | $1,464.00 | $6,320.00 | $75,888.00 |
Do Event Planners in Riverside Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their compensation is typically included in their salary or hourly wage. Their role is more focused on organizing and managing events than directly receiving gratuities from clients.
Event Planner Salary in Riverside vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $27.36 per hour, which amounts to about $56,908.80 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Event Planners in Riverside earn notably more with an average of $33.00 per hour and $68,640.00 annually.
This higher pay is likely influenced by the growing event services market and the cost of living in California.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Riverside for Event Planners
Nearby areas offer slightly varied salaries for Event Planners:
- Downtown Riverside: $34.50 per hour
- Mission Grove: $35.00 per hour
Mission Grove tends to offer the highest hourly wages among the adjacent localities, attracting planners who seek better compensation.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Riverside?
Several key factors impact the salary of an Event Planner in Riverside:
- Experience: More seasoned planners with a robust portfolio can command higher wages.
- Skill Set: Expertise in budgeting, vendor management, and marketing boosts earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Corporate event planners may earn differently than those working for nonprofits or private clients.
- Certifications: Professional certifications in event management can significantly enhance pay.
- Event Scale: Planners managing large or high-profile events often receive higher compensation.
How To Become an Event Planner in Riverside
Embarking on a career as an Event Planner in Riverside involves several meaningful steps:
- Earn Relevant Education: Consider programs like the Event Management Certificate at University of California, Riverside Extension or the Hospitality Management Program at Riverside City College for foundational knowledge.
- Gain Certification: Obtaining credentials such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can validate skills and enhance employability.
- Build Practical Experience: Internships or entry-level roles in event coordination help develop necessary expertise.
- Develop a Network: Joining local event planning associations and attending industry events can open doors.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Riverside
Major employers in Riverside seeking skilled Event Planners include:
- Amazon
- Riverside Convention Center
- University of California, Riverside
Establishments That Event Planners in Riverside Work At
Event Planners often find opportunities across various establishments:
- Convention Centers and Hotels: Often provide higher pay to planners managing large conferences or social events.
- Corporations: In-house planners may enjoy more stable salaries and benefits.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Typically offer varied event planning roles with competitive but sometimes lower pay.
- Event Planning Agencies: Agencies provide diverse experiences though pay can vary widely based on clientele.
The type of establishment heavily influences salary ranges due to differences in event scope and budget.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Riverside for Event Planners
There are a variety of related careers within hospitality and event management that share skills with Event Planners:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner roles, each involving distinct responsibilities within event operations and management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Riverside
Event Planners should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- Federal labor laws and employment standards can be found on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
- California workplace regulations and labor resources are detailed on the California Department of Industrial Relations site.
- Local regulations specific to Riverside city services and labor laws are available on the City of Riverside official website.