What Restaurants Do Event Coordinators Make the Most Money at in Detroit, MI?

The average hourly wage for Event Coordinators in Detroit is about $22 per hour. However, total earnings vary significantly depending on the venue, type of events handled and additional responsibilities taken on by the Coordinator.

While the hourly wage is important, many Event Coordinators earn additional income through bonuses or commissions tied to catering or event sales — often ranging from $5 to $15 per hour in supplementary earnings. This article explores which Detroit restaurants and venues tend to offer higher compensation and how factors like establishment type can affect your pay.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Coordinators in Detroit, MI

Detroit offers a unique mix of historic and modern venues where Event Coordinators can maximize their earning potential. Historic landmarks, boutique Hotels and fine dining establishments often provide higher base salaries and opportunities for commission or bonuses tied to the success of events.

Below are several top-paying Detroit restaurants and venues worth considering for Event Coordinator roles:

1. The Shinola Hotel

This luxury boutique Hotel in downtown Detroit pairs modern design with a dedicated Event team, hosting weddings, corporate gatherings and private parties. Event Coordinators here benefit from competitive pay and the chance to work on a variety of upscale events.

2. The Whitney

Housed in a historic mansion, The Whitney is known for elaborate and elegant private events. The venue’s prestige and diverse clientele often lead to attractive compensation packages for its Event Coordinators.

3. The Detroit Foundation Hotel

Located in a former firehouse, this Hotel combines character and luxury Hospitality. Their event spaces are highly sought after, providing Event Coordinators with opportunities to work on high-profile weddings and business functions.

4. San Morello

A contemporary Italian restaurant at The Shinola Hotel, San Morello hosts both intimate and large-scale events. Coordinators here are entrusted with coordinating events that emphasize authentic cuisine and a stylish ambiance.

5. Roast

Situated inside the MGM Grand Detroit, Roast specializes in farm-to-table dining and hosts various special events. Event Coordinators can expect vibrant activity and competitive pay tied to the venue’s bustling event calendar.

6. The Apparatus Room

This charming fine dining spot located in a historic firehouse offers private event spaces that attract an upscale clientele, providing Event Coordinators with great networking and earning opportunities.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Event Coordinator Earnings

The type and style of the restaurant or venue play a substantial role in determining an Event Coordinator’s compensation. Generally, upscale and historic venues with a focus on large or luxury events offer higher base pay and more opportunities for bonuses or commissions.

Casual or quick-serve restaurants typically have fewer large event bookings, which can limit earning potential beyond the base wage. However, consistent small events can still provide steady work.

• Upscale and Boutique Venues: Higher hourly wages plus bonuses tied to event sales or client satisfaction. Tips or gratuities may also contribute occasionally.
• Casual Dining and Chain Restaurants: Moderate base salaries with fewer commission opportunities. Event scope is often limited to smaller parties or local functions.
• Hotel-Based Restaurants and Event Spaces: Strong event volume and corporate bookings generally lead to higher pay and bonus structures.

Depending on the establishment, bonuses and commissions can add anywhere between $5 to $15 per hour in supplemental income, making the overall earnings for Event Coordinators quite variable but potentially lucrative at the right venues.

How To Find a High Paying Event Coordinator Job in Detroit

Build Relevant Experience

Gain experience in event planning, customer service or Hospitality to boost your resume. Volunteering for local events or internships at popular venues can be valuable.

Polish Your Application Materials

Prepare a targeted résumé and cover letter that highlight event coordination skills, past successes and knowledge of Detroit’s event scene. Showcasing software proficiency like Eventbrite or social media marketing is a plus.

Network Within The Industry

Attend industry meetups, conferences and Detroit-area Hospitality events to connect with hiring managers and industry insiders. Personal connections often open doors to top-paying gigs.

Leverage Job Search Platforms

Utilize specialized Hospitality job boards, LinkedIn and local Detroit job resources to identify open Event Coordinator roles in high-profile venues.

Prepare for Interviews

Practice responses to common interview questions, such as handling difficult clients or managing multiple events simultaneously. Demonstrate clear communication, organization skills and flexibility.

What’s the Outlook for Event Coordinator Jobs in Detroit in 2025 and Beyond?

Detroit’s Hospitality and event industry is rebounding as the city experiences economic growth, an increase in tourism and revitalization of its downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. According to industry projections, employment for Event Coordinators in Detroit is expected to grow moderately over the next five years.

Key factors contributing to growth include:

• Expansion of Hotel and Entertainment Venues: New developments increase opportunities for planners.
• Corporate and Social Events Resuming Post-Pandemic: Elevated demand for experienced Coordinators.
• Detroit’s Increasing Appeal as a Cultural Hub: More festivals and public events requiring professional management.

This stable growth outlook means ambitious Event Coordinators with strong skills and networking stand a good chance of securing well-paying positions in the coming years.

Is an Event Coordinator’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Detroit?

Averaging around $22 per hour base wage, with the potential for an additional $5 to $15 per hour through commissions or bonuses, Event Coordinators in Detroit can expect to earn approximately $50,000 to $65,000 annually when working full-time.

Detroit offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many other major U.S. cities. Below are average monthly expenses typical in 2025:

• 1-Bedroom Apartment (city center): $1,000 - $1,200
• Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage): $150 - $200
• Groceries for One Person: $300 - $450
• Transportation (public transit or gas): $80 - $150

With prudent budgeting and consistent commissions or bonuses, an Event Coordinator earning near the higher end of the pay range can live comfortably in Detroit, afford housing in central neighborhoods and enjoy the city’s cultural offerings.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Detroit Event Coordinator Jobs

We selected these prestigious restaurants and venues based on comprehensive market research, industry reputation and current job listings offering attractive compensation packages and benefits.

Our analysis focused on several key factors:

• Competitive Pay Rates: Base hourly wages above the city’s average for the position.
• Bonus and Commission Opportunities: Venues that provide additional financial incentives based on event success.
• Reputation and Location: High-profile restaurants, Hotels and event spaces popular with affluent clientele and corporate clients.
• Career Advancement: Positions offering growth potential and training in event management skills.

These criteria ensure that the venues listed provide excellent earning potential and professional development for Event Coordinators in Detroit.