Event Planner Salary in Santa Ana, CA
Event Planners in Santa Ana, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $27.40 per hour, which translates to about $1,096.00 per week, $4,749.33 per month, and $56,992.00 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Santa Ana is growing positively at around 7% per year, signaling an increasing need for professional planning services across various events in the area.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Santa Ana, CA?
The salary of an Event Planner in Santa Ana varies by experience level and skill set. Below is an overview of earnings for different stages in an Event Planner’s career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.80 | $632.00 | $2,730.67 | $33,664.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $27.40 | $1,096.00 | $4,749.33 | $56,992.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.50 | $1,420.00 | $6,133.33 | $73,840.00 |
Do Event Planners in Santa Ana Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation comes from service fees and salaries rather than gratuities. Their earnings are usually fixed based on contracts or hourly wages.
Event Planner Salary in Santa Ana vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $27.40 per hour and about $56,992 per year.
In Santa Ana, their salary aligns closely with the national average, earning roughly the same hourly and yearly wages.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Ana for Event Planners
Some surrounding areas near Santa Ana offer slightly higher pay for Event Planners:
- Downtown Santa Ana: $28.50 per hour
- South Coast Metro: $29.00 per hour
Those willing to commute to these areas may find more lucrative opportunities in the event planning industry.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Santa Ana?
Several factors influence the salary of an Event Planner in Santa Ana, including:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced planners, especially those who specialize in complex or large-scale events, tend to earn higher wages.
- Skills and Certifications: Proficiency in project management, communication, and negotiation, along with recognized certifications, can boost earning potential.
- Type of Clientele and Events: Planning corporate events or high-profile weddings often offers better compensation than smaller community events.
- Company Size and Location: Working for larger event management firms or in higher-paying neighborhoods can increase salary levels.
How To Become an Event Planner in Santa Ana
To pursue a career as an Event Planner in Santa Ana, consider the following steps and educational opportunities:
- Formal Education and Certificates: Programs like the University of California, Irvine’s Event Management Certificate Program provide strong foundational knowledge in budgeting, marketing, and logistics.
- Specialized Training: California State University, Fullerton offers a Meeting and Event Planning Certificate that covers practical skills for organizing various event types.
- Professional Certifications: Earning certifications such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) validates competence and expertise in the field.
- Gain Experience: Working as an event coordinator or assistant helps develop your skills and industry connections.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Santa Ana
Several prominent organizations hire Event Planners in Santa Ana, including:
- Marriott International
- Hyatt Hotels Corporation
- The Walt Disney Company
Establishments That Event Planners in Santa Ana Work At
Event Planners in Santa Ana typically find employment in a range of establishments such as:
- Hotels and Resorts: These venues require planners for weddings, conferences, and special events, often paying competitive salaries.
- Corporate Offices and Convention Centers: Corporate events and trade shows often demand skilled planners with strong organizational skills.
- Private Event Venues: Planners coordinate social gatherings and celebrations, with compensation varying based on event scale and prestige.
The type of establishment can significantly influence salary due to the complexity and budget of the events managed.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Ana for Event Planners
If you are exploring careers similar to Event Planning, consider these related roles, which share overlapping skills and responsibilities:
These roles include Event Manager, Event Coordinator, and Event Planner positions themselves, each offering different levels of responsibility and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Santa Ana
It is important for Event Planners in Santa Ana to be familiar with labor laws and tax regulations governing their work. Key resources include:
- California’s Employment Development Department website at edd.ca.gov, offering state-specific employment and labor law information.
- The official Santa Ana government site at santa-ana.org for local regulations and services.
- The federal Bureau of Labor Statistics at bls.gov for comprehensive labor data and occupational research.