Event Planner Salary in St. Louis, MO
Event Planners in St. Louis, MO, 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 St. Louis is growing at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook in the job market for those skilled in coordinating and managing events of all sizes.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in St. Louis, MO?
The salary of an Event Planner in St. Louis varies based on experience and the complexity of events coordinated, but below is a general breakdown of earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $23.68 | $947.20 | $4,088.53 | $49,225.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $33.34 | $1,333.60 | $5,778.93 | $69,347.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $46.95 | $1,878.00 | $8,090.00 | $97,656.00 |
Do Event Planners in St. Louis Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation is primarily salary or wages for their coordination and organizational efforts.
Event Planner Salary in St. Louis vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners make an average of around $23.68 per hour, which is about $49,254.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in St. Louis earn a significantly higher hourly wage of $33.34, corresponding to an annual salary of $69,347.20. This higher pay reflects the cost of living and demand for experienced planners in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Louis for Event Planners
Nearby areas offer varied pay for Event Planners:
- Eureka: $45.74 per hour
- Martin City: $29.12 per hour
Planners in Eureka earn considerably more, reflecting perhaps a niche demand or specialized clientele, while Martin City offers a wage closer to the city average.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in St. Louis?
Several key factors influence an Event Planner's salary in St. Louis:
- Experience Level: More seasoned planners with extensive portfolios earn higher wages than entry-level coordinators.
- Specialized Skills: Expertise in corporate, wedding, or large-scale public event planning can command superior pay.
- Type of Employer: Working for large event management companies or prestigious venues generally pays more than small firms or non-profits.
- Event Size and Complexity: Managing high-profile or large events often comes with increased responsibilities and compensation.
- Certifications and Education: Credentials such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can enhance salary potential.
How To Become an Event Planner in St. Louis
To pursue a career as an Event Planner in St. Louis, consider the following steps:
- Formal Education: Programs like the Event Planning Certificate Program at St. Louis Community College provide comprehensive training in budgeting, marketing, and logistics.
- Bachelor's Degree: Enrolling in the Hospitality Management Program at University of Missouri-St. Louis offers focused education in event and hospitality management.
- Obtain Certifications: Internationally recognized credentials such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) validate expertise.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships or assistant roles with event management companies help build portfolios and professional networks.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in St. Louis
Some of the prominent organizations hiring Event Planners in the region include:
- Maritz
- St. Louis Union Station Hotel
- Anheuser-Busch
- Washington University in St. Louis
- Saint Louis Zoo
Establishments That Event Planners in St. Louis Work At
Event Planners commonly work at various types of establishments, each influencing salary differently:
- Hotels and Resorts: Large hotels often have dedicated event planning teams with competitive salaries.
- Corporate Companies: In-house planners manage conference and corporate events, frequently with higher compensation.
- Catering and Event Management Firms: These specialized companies may offer commissions based on event success.
- Universities and Non-Profits: Salaries can vary widely and are sometimes lower compared to commercial sectors.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Louis for Event Planners
If you are interested in careers related to Event Planning, here are some similar jobs you might consider exploring:
These careers—Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner—share many overlapping skills and responsibilities in the hospitality and events sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in St. Louis
Event Planners in St. Louis should be conscious of labor laws and tax requirements relevant to their position:
- Information about federal labor standards can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Missouri-specific labor regulations and employment resources, visit the Missouri Department of Labor website.
- Local employment information and regulations are available at the City of St. Louis official website.