Event Managers in El Paso typically earn an average hourly wage of around $22 per hour. However, much like other hospitality roles, their total earnings can be significantly boosted by bonuses and commissions tied to the successful execution of events. These additional earnings can range widely, generally between $5 and $15 per hour equivalent in bonuses or incentives depending on the event type and restaurant.
If you’re asking, “What Restaurants Do Event Managers Make the Most Money at in El Paso?” this article has you covered. We’ll explore some of the city’s top establishments known for their event hosting and discuss how various factors impact overall pay, including base salary, tips or commissions and other perks.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Managers in El Paso, TX
El Paso offers a variety of venues that provide excellent opportunities for Event Managers aiming to maximize their income. These restaurants and event spaces stand out for their volume of hosted events, reputation and client base that can provide solid bonuses and commissions.
Here are some of the top paying options in El Paso:
1. Cattleman’s Steakhouse
A local favorite known for celebrating the West Texas cowboy culture, this steakhouse is famous for its large event spaces and frequent private parties. Their emphasis on weddings and corporate events creates excellent earning potential for Event Managers through event-driven bonuses.
2. The H&C Juice Company & Kitchen
Blending health-conscious cuisine with event hosting, this modern venue has been expanding its event bookings from corporate wellness days to social gatherings, offering a fresh option for Event Managers looking for steady, consistent event management work with a focus on client satisfaction incentives.
3. Anson11 Steak & Sea
Housed in a sleek, contemporary setting, this restaurant is popular for upscale events and private dinners. The clientele tends to spend generously, boosting an Event Manager’s potential earnings through commissions on high-ticket bookings.
4. Table 10
Known for farm-to-table cuisine and an elegant ambiance, Table 10 draws a crowd for intimate celebrations and full-scale events. Event Managers here benefit from both a reliable base salary and performance-related bonuses tied to event success rates.
5. Local Restaurant & Bar
Popular among locals for its vibrant bar and restaurant scene, this venue also hosts regular events ranging from casual gatherings to themed parties, providing Event Managers with opportunities for both fixed pay and event-based incentives depending on the event size and client type.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Event Manager Earnings
The type of restaurant or venue greatly influences how much Event Managers earn. Upscale restaurants or those with large banquet facilities often provide higher base salaries and more lucrative bonuses tied to the size and success of events.
In contrast, smaller or casual dining venues might offer solid hourly rates but fewer opportunities for event bonuses and commissions. These positions still provide steady income and are great for Event Managers early in their careers or seeking more predictable schedules.
Here are a few factors that shape Event Manager earnings:
- Venue Size: Larger venues with extensive event spaces often have higher budgets for event planning and therefore better pay.
- Type of Events: Corporate and wedding events generally yield larger bonuses compared to smaller social events or daily restaurant specials.
- Skill Certifications: Holding certifications in event planning or hospitality management can increase both hourly wages and bonuses.
- Location: Restaurants in or near upscale neighborhoods or centralized business districts in El Paso tend to generate more revenue per event.
Event Managers at casual venues typically see $5 to $8 extra per hour in bonuses or incentives, while upscale or specialized venues can offer $10 to $15 or more per hour in additional compensation related directly to event profits.
How To Find a High Paying Event Manager Job in El Paso, TX
Securing a well-paying Event Manager position requires strategic steps to stand out and maximize your opportunities in El Paso’s hospitality market.
Build a Strong Professional Profile
Ensure your resume highlights previous event management successes, especially any experience with high-profile or large-scale events. Include any certifications like CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) or CSEP (Certified Special Events Professional) to bolster credibility.
Network Within the Industry
Attend local hospitality and event planning meetups, join professional Event Manager groups, and connect with restaurant owners or managers. Personal references and relationships often open doors faster than online applications alone.
Research and Target Upscale Venues
Focus your job search on El Paso venues known for hosting larger weddings, corporate events or upscale social functions. These places generally offer greater earning potential through bonuses and incentives.
Prepare Thoroughly for Interviews
Be ready to discuss how you’ve successfully managed budgets, handled client relations and navigated logistics for past events. Demonstrate flexibility and the ability to handle high-stress situations with professionalism.
Keep Flexibility in Your Schedule
Many high-paying event management opportunities require availability on weekends or evenings. Emphasizing your ability to work during peak event times can increase your attractiveness to potential employers.
What’s the Outlook for Event Manager Jobs in El Paso, TX in 2025 and Beyond?
The outlook for Event Manager jobs in El Paso remains positive through 2025 and beyond, driven by the city’s growing event industry and increased tourism.
According to employment forecasts, the demand for skilled event coordinators and managers is expected to grow by approximately 6% over the next five years in Texas, aligning with national trends. El Paso’s expanding business district and renewed interest in hosting conventions and large social events bolster these prospects locally.
Additionally, as El Paso’s hospitality venues upgrade their event spaces to attract diverse clienteles — from weddings to corporate retreats — the need for experienced professional Event Managers continues to rise.
Is an Event Manager’s Salary Enough to Live Well in El Paso?
Combining the base average hourly rate of $22 with potential bonuses and commissions, Event Managers in El Paso can earn roughly $35,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on experience and venue.
Compared to many larger metropolitan areas, El Paso remains an affordable city to live in. Here’s a snapshot of common monthly expenses in 2025:
- 1-Bedroom Apartment (city center): Approximately $850
- Utilities (electricity, water, internet): Around $150
- Groceries: Roughly $300 to $400
- Transportation (gas/public transit): About $100 to $150
Given these costs, an Event Manager earning at the higher end of the spectrum can live comfortably in El Paso, covering essential expenses and having discretionary income for savings or leisure. Those at entry-level pay rates may need to budget more carefully but still maintain a decent quality of life.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying El Paso, TX Event Manager Jobs
The restaurants and venues selected for this list were carefully reviewed based on several important factors to ensure they offer the most compelling earning opportunities for Event Managers.
- Competitive Pay: Base wages and histories of bonuses and commissions relative to event revenues.
- Benefits and Perks: Consideration was given to employers offering health benefits, paid time off and professional development support.
- Event Volume and Diversity: Places with steady bookings across weddings, corporate events and private parties that enable managers to leverage their skills effectively.
- Reputation and Location: Well-regarded venues in central or upscale El Paso neighborhoods, attractive to clients with higher spending potential.
These criteria combined create environments where Event Managers can maximize their income and career growth in El Paso’s increasingly vibrant hospitality sector.