Event Planner Salary in Rockford, IL
Event Planners in Rockford, IL, 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 demand for Event Planners in Rockford is growing steadily at about 5% per year, highlighting a positive outlook for careers in this exciting and dynamic field.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Rockford, IL?
The salary of an Event Planner in Rockford varies by experience, with entry-level, mid-level, and top earners seeing different compensation rates. These figures provide a useful benchmark:
| 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 Rockford Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation is usually a salary or hourly rate. Their professional fees or employer arrangements cover their complete earnings.
Event Planner Salary in Rockford, IL vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $24.53 per hour and about $51,022.40 annually.
Compared to this, Event Planners in Rockford, IL make considerably more, with an average hourly rate of $31.00 and an annual salary of approximately $64,480.00. This difference reflects the local market conditions and demand for skilled event management professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rockford for Event Planners
Nearby locations offer slightly higher salaries for Event Planners:
- Downtown Rockford: $32.00 per hour
- East Rockford: $33.00 per hour
These areas provide promising opportunities for Event Planners seeking higher income within close proximity to Rockford.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Rockford?
Several factors affect an Event Planner’s earnings in Rockford:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Event Planners with a proven track record usually command higher pay.
- Skills and Specializations: Mastery in budget management, vendor negotiations, and event marketing can increase salary potential.
- Type of Events Managed: Planning corporate, large-scale, or high-profile events often yields higher compensation than smaller private gatherings.
- Employer Size and Budget: Large event venues or corporations may offer higher wages compared to smaller agencies or freelance work.
- Professional Certifications: Credentials such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can positively impact salary negotiations.
How To Become an Event Planner in Rockford
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Rockford involves a combination of education, skills development, and relevant experience.
Consider these steps for success:
- Obtain Event Planning Education: Programs like the Rock Valley College Event Planning Certificate and the Northern Illinois University Hospitality and Tourism Management Program provide essential knowledge and practical skills.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Pursuing the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) credentials demonstrates expertise and commitment.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working as an assistant or coordinator on events builds valuable hands-on experience.
- Develop Strong Communication and Organizational Skills: These are critical for managing client expectations and multiple event components successfully.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Rockford
Event Planners looking for opportunities in Rockford can explore openings at:
- Giovanni's Restaurant & Convention Center
- Franchesco's Ristorante
- The Standard
- GreenFire Restaurant Bar & Bakery
- Prairie Street Brewing Company
Establishments That Event Planners in Rockford Work At
Event Planners in Rockford often find employment in various types of establishments, such as:
- Hotels and Convention Centers: Offering large-scale event management roles that tend to pay more.
- Restaurants and Banquet Halls: In charge of planning weddings, corporate dinners, and social events; salaries may vary by establishment size.
- Event Planning Agencies: Provide diverse event types with chances for career growth.
- Corporate Event Departments: Employers that typically offer stable salaries with benefits.
The choice of establishment influences salary considerably, with larger venues and corporations generally offering higher compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rockford, IL for Event Planners
Those interested in roles related to Event Planning may consider these similar careers, which involve overlapping skills and responsibilities:
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Rockford
Event Planners should stay informed about labor regulations and tax requirements affecting their profession to ensure compliance and proper financial planning.
- U.S. Department of Labor (federal website) provides comprehensive federal labor laws and guidelines.
- Illinois Department of Employment Security (state website) offers state-specific employment information.
- City of Rockford Official Website (local website) contains local government resources and regulations.