Event Planner Salary in Spokane, WA
Event Planners in Spokane, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $31.50 per hour, which translates to about $1,260.00 per week, $5,460.00 per month, and $65,520.00 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Spokane is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and expanding opportunities in the event management sector within the region.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Spokane, WA?
The salary of an Event Planner in Spokane varies based on their experience level, responsibilities, and the size of the organization. Below is a breakdown of hourly and annual earnings according to experience.
| 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) | $31.50 | $1,260.00 | $5,460.00 | $65,520.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.00 | $1,520.00 | $6,573.33 | $78,880.00 |
Do Event Planners in Spokane Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips. Their compensation is largely salary or hourly wage-based, reflecting their professional planning and coordination responsibilities rather than customer service roles that typically receive tipping.
Event Planner Salary in Spokane vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $23.70 per hour, which is approximately $49,296.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Spokane earn higher hourly and annual wages, with hourly pay at $31.50 and yearly compensation around $65,520.00.
This difference is likely due to local industry demand, cost of living, and the scale of event planning activities in Spokane.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Spokane for Event Planners
Considering nearby neighborhoods, the pay for Event Planners varies as follows:
- Downtown Spokane: $35.00 per hour
- South Hill: $33.00 per hour
Event Planners working in Downtown Spokane typically earn the highest pay among these areas, reflecting the concentration of large venues and corporate events there.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Spokane?
Several factors can influence how much an Event Planner earns in Spokane:
- Experience and Expertise: Those with more years in the field and a proven track record tend to command higher salaries.
- Skills and Certifications: Proficiency in budgeting, vendor management, marketing, and technology tools boosts earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Working for large corporations, conference centers, or specialized event management firms often offers better compensation than smaller organizations.
- Event Complexity: Managing large-scale or high-profile events can lead to higher pay due to increased responsibility.
- Local Market Demand: The health of Spokane's event industry and competition for talent also affect salaries.
How To Become an Event Planner in Spokane
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Spokane involves several key steps:
- Obtain Relevant Education: Consider certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) to demonstrate industry expertise.
- Complete Local Training Programs: Spokane Community College offers an Event Planning Certificate that covers budgeting, marketing, and logistics.
- Consider Hospitality Degrees: Eastern Washington University provides a Hospitality Management Program with relevant courses in event management and service operations.
- Gain Experience: Internships or entry-level positions under seasoned Event Planners help build practical skills and network connections.
- Develop Soft Skills: Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving abilities are essential in this field.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Spokane
Some top employers actively looking for skilled Event Planners in Spokane include:
- The Davenport Hotel
- Red Robin
- Twigs Bistro
- No-Li Brewhouse
- The Onion Bar & Grill
Establishments That Event Planners in Spokane Work At
Event Planners in Spokane typically work across diverse establishments such as:
- Hotels and Resorts: Large venues often host conferences and weddings, offering higher salaries due to the scale and frequency of events.
- Restaurants and Bistros: Places like Twigs Bistro or The Onion Bar & Grill may require planners for private parties, though salaries are generally moderate.
- Convention Centers and Banquet Halls: These spots focus heavily on events and tend to pay competitively.
- Breweries and Bars: Establishments like No-Li Brewhouse offer event spaces, with event planner roles often combining marketing and coordination duties.
The nature and prestige of the establishment can significantly influence Event Planner salaries, with larger, high-profile venues typically paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Spokane for Event Planners
If you are interested in roles related to Event Planning, consider these similar careers:
These include Event Manager, Event Planner, and Event Coordinator positions, all centered around organizing and executing successful events.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Spokane
Event Planners in Spokane should be aware of the following resources regarding labor laws and taxation:
- Understand professional licensing and regulations on the Washington State Department of Licensing website.
- For employment wage and labor standards, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics site.
- Information on federal taxes and related obligations can be found at the Internal Revenue Service website.