Event Planner Salary in Tucson, AZ
Event Planners in Tucson, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $25.75 per hour, which translates to about $1,030.00 per week, $4,463.33 per month, and $53,560.00 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Tucson is growing at a healthy rate of 8% per year, indicating a positive job market and increasing opportunities in the event management sector.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Tucson, AZ?
The salary of an Event Planner in Tucson varies based on experience and skills. Here is an overview of earnings across different experience levels to give you a clear understanding.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.89 | $915.60 | $3,967.20 | $47,606.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.75 | $1,030.00 | $4,463.33 | $53,560.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.97 | $1,158.80 | $5,010.93 | $60,152.00 |
Do Event Planners in Tucson Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation is usually structured as a salary or hourly wage. Their earnings come from managing and coordinating events rather than direct customer-facing service roles that receive gratuities.
Event Planner Salary in Tucson vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn about $24.02 per hour, which equates to approximately $49,961.60 annually.
Compared to the national average, Event Planners in Tucson earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $25.75 and a yearly salary around $53,560.00.
This difference can be influenced by the local economy, cost of living, and demand for Event Planning professionals in Tucson.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tucson for Event Planners
Nearby cities offer competitive salaries for Event Planners, which may be appealing for those willing to commute or relocate:
- Tempe: $30.94 per hour
- Goodyear: $30.31 per hour
These areas tend to offer higher wages possibly due to larger event venues, corporate hubs, and special events industries.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Tucson?
A variety of factors can influence how much an Event Planner earns in Tucson, including:
- Experience Level: More experienced Event Planners tend to earn higher salaries due to their proven track record and ability to manage complex events.
- Skill Set: Proficiency with event management software, negotiation, vendor relations, and budgeting skills enhance earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Event Planners working for large corporations or luxury venues generally earn more than those working with smaller businesses or nonprofits.
- Event Scope and Size: Managing large conferences or high-profile events often commands higher pay than small-scale events.
- Certifications and Education: Holding recognized certifications can significantly boost credibility and salary.
How To Become an Event Planner in Tucson
Becoming an Event Planner requires a combination of education, skills development, and experience. Here are some steps to pursue this career:
- Obtain Relevant Education: Consider programs like the University of Arizona's Eller College of Management's Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Marketing major, which includes valuable courses for event planning.
- Gain Hospitality Knowledge: Pima Community College offers a Hospitality Leadership program that covers event planning and management essentials.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Certifications such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) demonstrate expertise and can improve job prospects.
- Develop Practical Experience: Internships or entry-level positions with event companies or venues offer hands-on experience.
- Network in the Industry: Connecting with fellow Event Planners and attending local industry events can lead to opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Tucson
Several prominent organizations in Tucson are frequently on the lookout for skilled Event Planners:
- University of Arizona
- Jacobs
- Tohono Chul
- Saguaro Buttes
Establishments That Event Planners in Tucson Work At
Event Planners in Tucson find employment in a variety of establishments, each impacting salary potential differently:
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger resorts hosting conferences and weddings often provide higher salaries and benefits.
- Corporate Firms: In-house Event Planners for corporations organize product launches and meetings, usually with competitive pay.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Planning fundraisers and community events may offer lower salaries but valuable experience.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: These often hire Event Planners for specialized event management, sometimes with variable pay depending on event size.
Each establishment type offers unique challenges and rewards that influence compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tucson for Event Planners
If you are exploring careers similar to Event Planning, you might consider roles such as:
These include Event Manager, Event Coordinator, and Food and Beverage Manager positions, which share related skills in organizing and managing events and hospitality services.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Tucson
Event Planners should familiarize themselves with employment regulations and tax obligations to ensure compliance and personal financial management.
- For federal labor statistics and job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov).
- For state-specific employment and labor laws, resources are available at the State of Arizona official website (az.gov).