Event Planner Salary in Thousand Oaks, CA
Event Planners in Thousand Oaks, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $24.17 per hour, which translates to about $966.80 per week, $4,189.47 per month, and $50,273.60 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Thousand Oaks is looking up with a positive annual growth rate of about 7%, indicating a promising career outlook and expanding opportunities in the region.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Thousand Oaks, CA?
The salary of an Event Planner in Thousand Oaks can vary based on experience and employer, but the following breakdown provides insight into various earning levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.56 | $782.40 | $3,389.60 | $40,684.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.17 | $966.80 | $4,189.47 | $50,273.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $47.12 | $1,884.80 | $8,141.87 | $97,969.60 |
Do Event Planners in Thousand Oaks Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation is usually based on salary or contract agreements rather than gratuities.
Event Planner Salary in Thousand Oaks vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of about $27.37 per hour, amounting to roughly $56,929.60 per year.
In comparison, the average hourly wage for Event Planners in Thousand Oaks is slightly lower at $24.17 per hour, corresponding to an annual salary of just over $50,273.60. This difference may be influenced by local market conditions and cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Thousand Oaks for Event Planners
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Event Planners:
- Westlake Village: $25.50 per hour
- Newbury Park: $24.75 per hour
Event Planners in Westlake Village may enjoy slightly higher earnings compared to Newbury Park and Thousand Oaks.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Thousand Oaks?
Several key factors can influence the salary of an Event Planner in Thousand Oaks:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Event Planners with a proven track record often earn higher salaries.
- Skills and Certifications: Advanced planning skills, negotiation abilities, and professional certifications can boost earning potential.
- Type of Events Managed: Planners specializing in large corporate or high-profile social events may command higher pay.
- Size and Reputation of Employer: Working for reputable companies or in upscale venues usually provides better compensation and benefits.
- Local Market Demand: The economic environment and demand for events in Thousand Oaks affect salary levels.
How To Become an Event Planner in Thousand Oaks
Launching a career as an Event Planner in Thousand Oaks involves several steps:
- Pursue Relevant Education: Enroll in programs such as the Event Planning Certificate at California State University, Northridge, or the Meeting and Event Planning Certificate at UCLA Extension. These provide comprehensive training in budgeting, marketing, and logistics.
- Obtain Industry Certifications: Certifications like Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) from the Events Industry Council or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) from the International Live Events Association can enhance credibility and career prospects.
- Gain Hands-on Experience: Volunteering or interning with event planning companies or organizations helps build practical skills.
- Develop Networking Abilities: Building connections within the events industry in California is vital for landing opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Thousand Oaks
Notable employers in the area actively seeking Event Planners include:
- Amgen
- Teledyne Technologies
- J.D. Power
Establishments That Event Planners in Thousand Oaks Work At
Event Planners in Thousand Oaks are employed in a variety of settings such as:
- Corporate Offices and Convention Centers: Planning business conferences and meetings, often earning higher salaries due to large-scale event demands.
- Hotels and Resorts: Catering to weddings and social events; salary can vary by venue prestige.
- Event Management Firms: Offering comprehensive planning services with opportunities for advancement and varied projects.
- Nonprofits and Community Organizations: Coordinating fundraisers and public events, sometimes with smaller budgets affecting earnings.
The type of establishment can significantly affect the pay scale and benefits available to Event Planners.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Thousand Oaks for Event Planners
If you are interested in careers similar to Event Planning, here are a few related roles worth considering:
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and fellow Event Planner positions, providing opportunities to work across different event management roles.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Thousand Oaks
Event Planners should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations relevant to working in Thousand Oaks, California.
- For comprehensive labor statistics and occupation information, visit the Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- The California Department of Industrial Relations offers details on state-specific labor laws and workplace rights.
- Local regulations and resources can be found on the Ventura County official website, useful for regional compliance details.