Event Planner Salary in San Francisco, CA
Event Planners in San Francisco, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $33.34 per hour, which translates to about $1,333.60 per week, $5,778.93 per month, and $69,347.20 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in San Francisco is growing positively at around 18% per year, signaling a strong and expanding market for event management services within the city and nearby areas.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in San Francisco, CA?
The salary of an Event Planner in San Francisco varies based on experience and responsibility level. Below is a breakdown of typical salaries across various experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.18 | $767.20 | $3,308.53 | $39,886.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $33.34 | $1,333.60 | $5,778.93 | $69,347.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $67.41 | $2,696.40 | $11,684.40 | $140,232.80 |
Do Event Planners in San Francisco Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips as their compensation is typically included in their salary or contractual fees. Their earnings rely mainly on agreed-upon pay rates rather than gratuities from clients or attendees.
Event Planner Salary in San Francisco vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average hourly wage of about $23.64 per hour, which amounts to approximately $49,171.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in San Francisco earn significantly more, with an average hourly wage of $33.34 and an annual salary of $69,347.20. This reflects the city's higher cost of living and robust event industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Francisco for Event Planners
Nearby cities offer competitive salaries for Event Planners, some even exceeding San Francisco's average:
- Foster City: $40.09 per hour
- Stanford: $38.66 per hour
Event Planners commuting to Foster City may find higher pay opportunities, though San Francisco remains a central hub with ample job options.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in San Francisco?
Several factors affect an Event Planner's salary in San Francisco:
- Experience and Reputation: Skilled planners with proven track records and years of experience typically command higher wages.
- Event Size and Complexity: Managing larger or more complex events generally results in higher pay.
- Type of Employer: Working for high-profile companies or luxury event venues can increase salary potential.
- Networking and Client Base: Strong industry connections and repeat clients often translate to better compensation.
- Certifications and Education: Possessing certifications such as CMP or CSEP can enhance credibility and salary prospects.
How To Become an Event Planner in San Francisco
To embark on a career as an Event Planner in San Francisco, consider these steps:
- Educational Programs: Enroll in courses like the San Francisco State University Event Planning Certificate Program or the University of San Francisco Hospitality Management Program to build foundational knowledge.
- Professional Certifications: Obtain certifications such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) to showcase expertise.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Volunteer or intern at local events to develop practical skills and industry contacts.
- Develop Strong Organizational and Communication Skills: These are crucial for success in planning and managing events.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in San Francisco
San Francisco's dynamic event industry features leading companies actively recruiting Event Planners, including:
- Apple
- Salesforce
Establishments That Event Planners in San Francisco Work At
Event Planners in San Francisco find employment in a variety of settings including:
- Corporate Event Venues: Larger corporations hosting conferences and product launches often offer competitive salaries.
- Hotels and Convention Centers: These venues require skilled planners for weddings, conventions, and social events.
- Non-Profit Organizations: While pay may vary, these roles can offer valuable experience in managing fundraising and community events.
- Event Planning Firms: Specialized agencies often provide diverse client work with potential for higher earnings based on skills and client portfolio.
The establishment type has a significant impact on salary, with luxury venues and corporate clients generally offering higher pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Francisco for Event Planners
If you're interested in careers similar to Event Planning, consider exploring related roles that use similar skills.
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Restaurant Manager positions—all involving coordination, management, and logistics skills relevant to Event Planners.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in San Francisco
Event Planners should be aware of regulations that impact work conditions and tax responsibilities:
- Consult the Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics for labor trends and national job outlook data.
- California labor regulations are essential knowledge; visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for workplace laws and rights.
- For local ordinances and employment standards, San Francisco's official site at sfgov.org offers valuable resources.