Event Planner Salary in San Diego, CA
Event Planners in San Diego, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $24.60 per hour, which translates to about $984.00 per week, $4,264.00 per month, and $51,168.00 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in San Diego is growing positively at about 7% per year, indicating an expanding market with increasing opportunities in the event planning industry within this vibrant city.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in San Diego, CA?
The salary of an Event Planner in San Diego can vary depending on experience and specific employer. Below is a general overview of earnings across different 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 San Diego Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their compensation is typically salary-based, reflecting their role in managing and coordinating events rather than direct service roles where tipping is common.
Event Planner Salary in San Diego vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $24.60 per hour, which translates to about $51,168 per year.
Event Planners in San Diego earn similarly to the national average at about $24.60 per hour, with some potential for higher earnings given the city’s vibrant event scene and higher cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Diego for Event Planners
Nearby areas offer slightly varied salaries for Event Planners, as follows:
- La Jolla: $32.00 per hour
- Downtown San Diego: $30.00 per hour
Event Planners working in La Jolla can expect higher pay compared to other nearby regions, reflecting the affluent neighborhood and upscale events often hosted there.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in San Diego?
Several important factors influence how much an Event Planner can earn in San Diego:
- Experience and Expertise: More seasoned planners with a successful portfolio, including complex events, tend to earn more.
- Skills and Certifications: Strong organizational, negotiation, and communication skills, plus recognized certifications, can enhance salary potential.
- Type of Employer: Working for corporate clients, large hotels, or luxury venues usually pays more than smaller firms or nonprofit organizations.
- Event Complexity and Size: Planners managing upscale weddings, large conferences, or destination events may receive higher compensation.
- Networking and Reputation: Established planners who build a strong client base and reputation often command higher fees.
How To Become an Event Planner in San Diego
To begin and grow a career as an Event Planner in San Diego, aspiring professionals can follow these steps:
- Earn Relevant Education: Enroll in programs like the Meeting and Event Planning Certificate at San Diego State University or the Event Management Certificate from the University of San Diego to gain comprehensive event planning knowledge.
- Obtain Certifications: Consider earning recognized credentials such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) to bolster your qualifications.
- Gain Experience: Build practical experience through internships, assistant planner roles, or volunteering to plan local events.
- Develop Networking Skills: Connect with venues, vendors, and industry professionals in San Diego to establish a client base and gain referrals.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in San Diego
Several leading hospitality and event organizations in San Diego actively hire Event Planners, including:
- Hyatt
- Marriott International
- Hilton Hotels & Resorts
Establishments That Event Planners in San Diego Work At
Event Planners in San Diego work in various establishments, and the type significantly impacts earnings:
- Hotels and Resorts: High-end hotels and resorts often host weddings, conventions, and corporate events, offering higher wages and commissions.
- Catering Companies: These firms require planners to manage food and service details, sometimes offering moderate salaries but with tips being rare.
- Event Planning Agencies: Agencies may handle diverse events, with salaries varying widely based on client makeup.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Planners working here often have lower salaries but gain valuable experience organizing fundraisers and community events.
- Corporate In-House Planners: Companies hiring full-time planners for meetings and product launches typically offer competitive pay and benefits.
The establishment significantly affects the salary due to client budgets, event sizes, and prestige.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Diego for Event Planners
Those interested in similar roles to Event Planner might consider these related careers:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner positions, which have related responsibilities and varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in San Diego
Event Planners in San Diego should be informed about applicable labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and manage finances:
- Review federal labor standards and regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Understand California's specific labor laws and workplace regulations via the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Check local San Diego regulations and available resources at the City of San Diego official website.