Event Planner Salary in Tempe, AZ
Event Planners in Tempe, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $30.94 per hour, which translates to about $1,237.60 per week, $5,362.93 per month, and $64,355.20 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Tempe is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the event management industry.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Tempe, AZ?
The salary of an Event Planner in Tempe varies depending on experience and employer, but here is a general overview across different levels.
| 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) | $31.00 | $1,240.00 | $5,373.33 | $64,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,893.33 | $70,720.00 |
Do Event Planners in Tempe Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips since their compensation is usually salaried or hourly based, reflecting the professional nature of their role and responsibilities behind the scenes.
Event Planner Salary in Tempe vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn about $24.02 per hour, translating to approximately $49,961.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Tempe earn significantly more—approximately $30.94 per hour and $64,355.20 annually. This reflects local market conditions and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tempe for Event Planners
Salaries can vary slightly in nearby areas:
- Downtown Tempe: $32.00 per hour
- North Tempe: $31.50 per hour
Event Planners working in Downtown Tempe earn the highest rates in the region.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Tempe?
Several factors impact how much an Event Planner earns in Tempe:
- Experience and Skill Level: Event Planners with several years of experience and advanced organizational skills tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Event and Clientele: Planners working with high-profile clients or large-scale corporate events generally earn more.
- Education and Certifications: Holding relevant certificates or degrees in event management or hospitality enhances earning potential.
- Employer Sector: Salaries differ between nonprofits, private corporations, resorts, and universities.
- Local Market Demand: The high demand in Tempe and surrounding areas helps keep salaries competitive.
How To Become an Event Planner in Tempe
Here are key steps to enter the Event Planning profession in Tempe:
- Earn a Certificate or Degree: Programs like the Event Management Certificate at Arizona State University offer comprehensive training in logistics, budgeting, and marketing strategies.
- Consider a Hospitality Management Program: Maricopa Community Colleges provide foundational knowledge useful for event and hospitality career paths.
- Obtain Industry Certifications: Credentials like Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) demonstrate expertise and can boost job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Volunteering or interning at local events helps build skills and networking connections.
- Develop Strong Organizational and Communication Skills: Mastering these will greatly enhance effectiveness and employability.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Tempe
Many prestigious organizations in Tempe seek qualified Event Planners, including:
- Marriott International
- Arizona State University
- Hyatt Hotels Corporation
Establishments That Event Planners in Tempe Work At
Event Planners in Tempe typically work across multiple types of establishments such as:
- Hotels and Resorts: These often offer high salaries and opportunities to manage large-scale events.
- Convention Centers and Conference Halls: Typically pay well due to the complex coordination involved.
- Corporate Offices: Internal event planners may earn steady salaries organizing company meetings, conferences, and celebrations.
- Nonprofits and Universities: Salaries may be moderate but offer diverse event planning experiences.
The type of establishment significantly affects the salary level, with private sector venues usually offering the most competitive pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tempe for Event Planners
If you’re considering alternative or related hospitality positions similar to Event Planner, here are some roles you might explore:
These include Event Planner, Event Manager, and Event Coordinator positions, which share related skills yet offer different responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Tempe
Event Planners should familiarize themselves with labor regulations and tax policies applicable in Arizona and federally to ensure compliance and manage their career effectively.
- Visit the Arizona Commerce Authority for business and workforce resources.
- The Arizona Department of Economic Security provides employment services and labor market information.
- For federal labor laws and employment statistics, consult the U.S. Department of Labor.