Event Planner Salary in Topeka, KS
Event Planners in Topeka, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $31.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,240.00 per week, $5,373.33 per month, and $64,480.00 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Topeka is growing positively at about 8% per year, signaling a healthy job market and increasing opportunities in the event management sector locally.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Topeka, KS?
The salary of an Event Planner in Topeka varies based on experience and skills. Below is an overview across different levels of expertise reflecting typical hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly pay.
| 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 | $5,866.67 | $70,720.00 |
Do Event Planners in Topeka Earn Tips?
Event Planners generally do not earn tips. Their compensation is typically salary or hourly wage-based, reflecting their professional coordination and management role rather than gratuity-based earnings.
Event Planner Salary in Topeka vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $31.00 per hour, roughly equaling $64,480.00 per year.
In Topeka, KS, the average earnings for Event Planners mirror the national average, indicating that local salaries are competitive with industry standards across the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Topeka for Event Planners
Salary levels for Event Planners in nearby areas to Topeka show slight variations:
- Downtown Topeka: $32.00 per hour
- Westboro: $33.00 per hour
Those working in Westboro could expect to earn a bit more compared to Downtown Topeka, reflecting local market conditions and employer types.
What Influences a Event Planner’s Salary in Topeka?
A variety of factors can influence how much an Event Planner earns in Topeka, including:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced planners commanding successful large-scale events typically receive higher compensation.
- Skill Set: Expertise in budgeting, vendor negotiation, and event marketing can boost earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working for large hotels, convention centers, or corporate clients often offers better salaries compared to smaller nonprofits or local venues.
- Certifications and Credentials: Holding recognized certifications can enhance career prospects and salary potential.
- Local Demand: Increased event activities and available budgets in Topeka can drive up salaries.
How To Become an Event Planner in Topeka
Building a career as an Event Planner in Topeka involves several important steps:
- Obtain Relevant Education: Programs like the Event Planning Certificate at Washburn University provide valuable foundational knowledge including event coordination, budgeting, and marketing.
- Consider Hospitality Management Studies: The Hospitality Management Program at Kansas State University offers comprehensive coverage including event management, useful for broadening career opportunities.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Designations such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) are widely respected and may boost advancement chances.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships or entry-level roles with local event management companies or venues can provide hands-on skills.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Topeka
Several prominent organizations in Topeka are known to hire Event Planners, including:
- Capitol Plaza Hotel
- Prairie Band Casino & Resort
- Kansas Expocentre
Establishments That Event Planners in Topeka Work At
Event Planners in Topeka typically find employment in a range of establishments, such as:
- Hotels and Resorts: These often offer the highest salaries due to the scale and complexity of events managed.
- Convention and Expo Centers: Busy venues with frequent large-scale events may provide competitive pay.
- Corporate Offices: Planning internal and client events for corporate companies can provide steady work and varied experiences.
- Nonprofits and Community Organizations: Often smaller budgets, which can result in lower pay but valuable experience.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in salary, with high-profile venues generally offering higher incomes.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Topeka for Event Planners
Those interested in Event Planning may also consider similar hospitality roles, which include various coordination and management responsibilities.
Similar positions include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Food and Beverage Manager, offering alternative pathways within the hospitality and event sectors.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Topeka
Event Planners in Topeka should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and proper financial management.
- Details on employment laws within Kansas can be found at the Kansas Department of Labor (state website).
- Federal tax obligations and guidelines can be reviewed through the Internal Revenue Service (federal website).