Event Planner Salary in Trenton, NJ
Event Planners in Trenton, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $26.89 per hour, which amounts to about $1,075.60 per week, $4,660.93 per month, and $55,931.20 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Trenton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in the event planning industry in this area.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Trenton, NJ?
The salary of an Event Planner in Trenton varies based on experience and employer, but below is a general breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.72 | $748.80 | $3,246.40 | $38,937.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.89 | $1,075.60 | $4,660.93 | $55,931.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.08 | $1,523.20 | $6,574.13 | $78,998.40 |
Do Event Planners in Trenton Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips because their compensation mainly comes from their salary or wages for organizing and managing events rather than direct customer service roles where tipping is common.
Event Planner Salary in Trenton vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of around $23.38 per hour or about $48,630.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Trenton earn a higher wage, approximately $26.89 hourly and $55,931.20 annually, reflecting the regional demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Trenton for Event Planners
Nearby areas with higher pay for Event Planners include:
- Downtown Trenton: $28.75 per hour
- Ewing Township: $27.50 per hour
Event Planners working in Downtown Trenton earn the highest hourly rates compared to other local areas.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Trenton?
Several factors can influence how much an Event Planner earns in Trenton:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Event Planners tend to command higher salaries due to their proven skills and networking abilities.
- Type of Events Managed: Planning large corporate events, weddings, or conventions can offer higher pay than smaller or less complex gatherings.
- Employer Type: Working with universities, large corporations, or event planning firms often pays better than smaller businesses or nonprofits.
- Certifications and Education: Having specialized certifications or a degree in hospitality or event management can boost salary prospects.
- Local Market Demand: Trenton’s growing event industry supports competitive salaries due to increasing demand.
How To Become an Event Planner in Trenton
To pursue a career as an Event Planner in Trenton, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Relevant Education: Programs like the Event Planning Certificate at Mercer County Community College offer comprehensive training covering budgeting, marketing, and logistics.
- Pursue Hospitality Degrees: Broader programs such as the Hospitality Management Program at Rutgers University incorporate event planning skills alongside hospitality industry training.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Credentials like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) demonstrate expertise and can improve job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships or assistant roles in event planning help build hands-on skills and industry contacts.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Trenton
Several prominent employers in Trenton actively seek skilled Event Planners, including:
- Princeton University
- Bristol-Myers Squibb
- Capital Health
Establishments That Event Planners in Trenton Work At
Event Planners in Trenton typically find opportunities across various types of establishments:
- Conference Centers and Hotels: Often offer higher salaries due to large-scale events and client demands.
- Corporate Firms and Universities: These organizations regularly hold seminars, meetings, and social functions requiring expert planning.
- Wedding and Banquet Venues: Smaller venues provide consistent work but may pay less compared to corporate events.
- Nonprofits and Cultural Organizations: May offer lower salaries but rewarding work with community impact.
The kind of establishment affects salary levels, with corporate and large venues generally offering more lucrative pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Trenton for Event Planners
If you're considering similar careers to Event Planner, the following roles may be of interest:
These include Event Manager, Event Coordinator, and Event Planner positions, each with overlapping skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Trenton
Event Planners should stay informed about labor laws and taxation relevant to their work in Trenton and New Jersey.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for comprehensive guidance on workplace rights.
- Check out the State of New Jersey's Department of Labor and Workforce Development website for local regulations and resources.
- For local government resources, refer to the Official website of the City of Trenton.