Event Planner Salary in Tampa, FL

Event Planners in Tampa, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $20.94 per hour, which translates to about $837.60 per week, $3,629.60 per month, and $43,555.20 per year.

The demand for Event Planners in Tampa is increasing steadily with a 17% growth rate per year, signaling a promising career outlook in the area.

How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Tampa, FL?

The salary of an Event Planner in Tampa can vary based on experience and specific employer, but here is a breakdown across various experience levels.

Experience level	Hourly pay	Weekly pay	Monthly pay	Yearly pay
Entry-level (~25th percentile)	$18.43	$737.20	$3,186.93	$38,246.40
Mid-level (average)	$20.94	$837.60	$3,629.60	$43,555.20
Top earners (90th percentile)	$23.79	$951.60	$4,111.73	$49,483.20

Do Event Planners in Tampa Earn Tips?

Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation is primarily based on salaried or hourly wages due to the nature of their coordination and management roles.

Event Planner Salary in Tampa vs. National Average

On average, Event Planners across the United States earn about $23.73 per hour, or roughly $49,358.40 per year.

Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Tampa earn slightly less at $20.94 per hour and $43,555.20 annually. This difference can relate to the cost of living and local market demand.

Highest-Paying Areas Near Tampa for Event Planners

Nearby areas offer different salary ranges for Event Planners:

Weston: $40.37 per hour
Miami: $28.12 per hour

Event Planners working in Weston have the potential to earn significantly more than those in Tampa, reflecting regional differences in demand and industry concentration.

High-Paying Cities for Event Planners

The table below showcases four of the best cities to work in as a Event Planner. You can see the average annual wage for a Event Planner in each of these cities.

City	Avg Salary	Avg Hourly Wage
Chicago, IL	$65,060	$28.38
Los Angeles, CA	$67,360	$32.38
Miami, FL	$69,240	$33.29
NYC, NY	$87,310	$41.98

What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Tampa?

Several key factors can influence an Event Planner’s earnings in Tampa:

Experience and Expertise: Higher experience levels typically command higher salaries owing to proven success in managing diverse events.
Skill Set: Strong organizational, negotiation, and communication skills enhance earning potential significantly.
Type of Employer: Working for top-tier venues, corporations, or high-profile event companies often translates to better pay than smaller firms or nonprofits.
Industry Sector: Specializing in corporate, wedding, or large convention events can affect income based on demand.
Local Networking and Reputation: Building strong local connections and delivering quality results can lead to repeat business and higher compensation.

How To Become an Event Planner in Tampa

To start a career as an Event Planner in Tampa, consider these important steps:

Complete Formal Education: Enroll in programs like the University of South Florida's Event Management Certificate Program, offering comprehensive training in event design, budgeting, and marketing strategies.
Pursue Hospitality Studies: Hillsborough Community College's Hospitality and Tourism Management Program provides a solid foundation for entering the event-planning industry.
Obtain Certifications: Professional credentials such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can enhance credibility and career prospects.
Gain Practical Experience: Internships or assistant roles at event companies help build essential skills and industry contacts.

Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Tampa

Major organizations recruiting Event Planners in Tampa include:

Marriott International
Event Solutions
Tampa Convention Center
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Establishments That Event Planners in Tampa Work At

Event Planners in Tampa find employment in a variety of establishments, such as:

Hotels and Resorts: Larger hotels often host conventions and weddings, offering steady work and competitive salaries.
Convention Centers: These venues require skilled coordinators to manage large corporate and social events.
Event Planning Firms: Specialized companies that focus on diverse event types offer opportunities with variable pay depending on project scale.
Catering and Banquet Services: Some Event Planners work closely with catering companies, where salary can vary based on event size and client budgets.

The type and prestige of the establishment significantly affect earning potential and career growth.

Related Hospitality Jobs in Tampa for Event Planners

If you're exploring careers similar to Event Planning, here are a few related roles worth considering:

Job Title	Avg Salary
Event Manager	$78,729
Event Planner	$62,280

These positions include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Event Planner, sharing overlapping skills and responsibilities.

Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Tampa

Event Planners should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax regulations applicable to their work in Tampa.

Check the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on labor laws and employment standards.
The State of Florida's official employment site offers additional guidance on labor market data and regulations.
Visit the City of Tampa's official website for local business and labor resources.