Event Planner Salary in Rochester, MN
Event Planners in Rochester, MN, in 2026, earn approximately $31.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,240.00 per week, $5,373.33 per month, and $64,480.00 per year.
The career outlook for Event Planners in Rochester is positive, with a growth rate of about 7% per year, indicating increasing demand for professionals skilled in organizing and managing events across various industries.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Rochester, MN?
The salary of an Event Planner in Rochester varies based on experience, skills, and the complexity of events managed. Here's a breakdown across experience levels.
| 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) | $31.00 | $1,240.00 | $5,373.33 | $64,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,893.33 | $70,720.00 |
Do Event Planners in Rochester, MN Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips, as their compensation is typically structured around salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Event Planner Salary in Rochester, MN vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average hourly wage of about $27.36, which equals approximately $56,908.80 annually.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Rochester earn more, with around $31.00 per hour and $64,480.00 per year. This difference reflects both local economic factors and the specific demand for skilled event planners in the Rochester area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rochester for Event Planners
Nearby areas with notable Event Planner salaries include:
- Downtown Rochester: $32.00 per hour
- Northwest Rochester: $33.00 per hour
Working in these areas may offer higher pay due to concentration of events and corporate activities that require professional planning expertise.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Rochester, MN?
Several factors influence how much an Event Planner can earn in Rochester:
- Experience and Expertise: More seasoned Event Planners who manage large-scale or high-profile events command higher salaries.
- Specialized Skills: Abilities in areas like budgeting, logistics, vendor management, and customer relations enhance earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Hiring organizations range from corporate entities and healthcare institutions to educational facilities and non-profits, each offering varying pay scales.
- Event Complexity: Planners who can coordinate multi-day or multi-venue events often earn more.
How To Become an Event Planner in Rochester, MN
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Rochester involves building relevant skills and education.
Educational Programs: Consider programs like the Event Planning Certificate at Rochester Community and Technical College, which covers logistics, budgeting, and vendor coordination.
Alternatively, the Hospitality Management Program at Winona State University offers a bachelor’s degree including event management and customer service courses.
Certifications: Obtaining professional credentials such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can further validate your expertise and improve job prospects.
Practical involvement through internships or assistant positions can also provide valuable hands-on experience.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Rochester, MN
Several prominent organizations in Rochester regularly seek Event Planners, including:
- Mayo Clinic
- IBM
- University of Minnesota Rochester
Establishments That Event Planners in Rochester, MN Work At
Event Planners in Rochester commonly find employment at a diverse array of establishments:
- Corporate Offices: Regularly host meetings, conferences, and team-building events; typically offer competitive salaries due to event scale and frequency.
- Healthcare Institutions: Organize seminars, fundraisers, and community events, often providing steady work.
- Educational Institutions: Plan graduations, workshops, and galas; salaries may vary based on institution size and budget.
- Event Management Companies: Handle a variety of clients and event types, offering diverse experience and often performance-based compensation.
The type of establishment can influence salary based on budget constraints and event scale.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rochester, MN for Event Planners
Event Planners often share skills and career paths with other hospitality roles, including:
These roles include Event Manager, Event Coordinator, and Event Planner itself, reflecting a career progression and various specializations within the field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Rochester, MN
Event Planners should be aware of important labor and tax regulations that apply in Minnesota.
- Visit the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (state website) for information on employment laws, wage standards, and workplace safety.
- For federal tax guidelines and requirements, consult the Internal Revenue Service (federal website).