Event Planner Salary in Spokane-Valley, WA
Event Planners in Spokane-Valley, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $24.20 per hour, which translates to about $968.00 per week, $4,194.67 per month, and $50,336.00 per year.
The job demand for Event Planners is growing positively at around 7% per year, indicating increasing opportunities and a healthy outlook for this profession in the region.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Spokane-Valley, WA?
The earnings of an Event Planner in Spokane-Valley can vary based on experience, skills, and employer differences. Here is an overview of typical salaries across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.35 | $734.00 | $3,174.67 | $38,096.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.70 | $948.00 | $4,106.00 | $49,296.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.62 | $1,224.80 | $5,292.53 | $63,689.60 |
Do Event Planners in Spokane-Valley Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation is mainly salary or wages based, without direct customer tipping.
Event Planner Salary in Spokane-Valley vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn about $24.20 per hour or approximately $50,336 per year.
In Spokane-Valley, the average salary aligns closely with the national average at $24.20 hourly and $50,336 annually, indicating competitive compensation in this market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Spokane-Valley for Event Planners
Nearby locations offer varying compensation rates for Event Planners:
- Richland, WA: $43.97 per hour
- Redmond, WA: $37.52 per hour
These areas provide substantially higher hourly wages than Spokane-Valley, reflecting different market demands and cost of living.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Spokane-Valley?
Experience and professional skills are primary factors affecting salary, with seasoned planners commanding higher pay.
Type of events managed also matters, as large corporate or high-profile events usually offer better compensation than small private functions.
Certifications and education can enhance earning potential by demonstrating expertise and credibility.
Networking and client base influence opportunities for higher-paying contracts and repeat business.
Local industry demand and cost of living in Spokane-Valley shape salary norms as well.
How To Become an Event Planner in Spokane-Valley
To secure a role as an Event Planner in Spokane-Valley, consider these steps:
- Complete specialized training such as the Event Planning Certificate Program at Spokane Community College, which covers budgeting, marketing, and logistics.
- A bachelor's degree in hospitality or related fields is beneficial, such as the Hospitality Management Program at Eastern Washington University, including event management courses.
- Earn recognized certifications such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) to showcase proficiency in event planning.
- Gain practical experience by volunteering or working in entry-level roles related to event coordination or planning.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Spokane-Valley
Leading organizations employing Event Planners in the area include:
- Red Lion Hotels Corporation
- Visit Spokane
- Spokane Convention Center
Establishments That Event Planners in Spokane-Valley Work At
Event Planners typically find roles in a variety of settings:
- Hotels and resorts: These venues often require planners for conferences, weddings, and large social events, usually offering competitive salaries.
- Convention centers and event venues: Demand for planners is steady here, with income varying based on event scale and frequency.
- Catering companies and special event firms: These settings may offer varying pay based on client portfolios and event budgets.
- Nonprofit organizations and corporations: Event Planners here handle fundraising or corporate functions, which can impact salary based on organization size and funding.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Spokane-Valley for Event Planners
If you’re interested in roles related to Event Planning, consider these similar careers that may offer alternative entry points or parallel opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Spokane-Valley
Event Planners should stay informed about employment regulations and tax policies affecting their work in Spokane-Valley.
- For federal labor statistics and job outlook information, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Washington State’s employment laws and resources are available on the Employment Security Department website.
- Local business regulations and related information can be found on the City of Spokane official site.