Event Planners in New York City earn an average hourly wage of around $30 per hour, reflecting the city’s dynamic event industry with high client expectations and diverse venues. Their salary varies widely depending on event size, venue prestige and organizational skills.
If you’re asking, "What Restaurants Do Event Planners Make the Most Money at in NYC?", this article will walk you through some of the city's most lucrative restaurants for Planners. We’ll also explore how factors like venue type and event specialization impact earnings and share tips on finding high-paying Event Planning jobs in New York City.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Planners in New York City- 1. The Rainbow Room
- 2. Cipriani Wall Street
- 3. Daniel
- 4. The Plaza Hotel’s The Palm Court
- 5. Balthazar
- 6. Tavern on the Green
- The Impact of Restaurant Type on Event Planner Earnings in New York City
- How To Find a High Paying Event Planner Job in New York City
- What’s the Outlook for Event Planner Jobs in New York City in 2025 and Beyond?
- Is an Event Planner’s Salary Enough to Live Well in New York City?
- Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying New York City Event Planner Jobs
Top-Paying Restaurants for Event Planners in New York City
New York City’s vibrant and diverse event landscape allows Event Planners to earn substantial pay, especially when working for renowned and upscale restaurants that cater to high-profile clients and large-scale events.
Below are some top restaurants known for offering lucrative opportunities for Event Planners:
1. The Rainbow Room
Located at Rockefeller Center, The Rainbow Room is famous for its iconic skyline views and glamorous event spaces. Its reputation as a historic venue attracts upscale corporate events and private celebrations, making it an excellent opportunity for Event Planners to earn well.
2. Cipriani Wall Street
Cipriani Wall Street boasts luxurious interior spaces and a rich Italian heritage. It’s a go-to for high-end corporate dinners and weddings, offering Event Planners the chance to work with affluent clients and manage exclusive high-budget events.
3. Daniel
Known for its exquisite French cuisine and elegant dining rooms, Daniel provides upscale event experiences. Planners here coordinate sophisticated receptions and gala dinners, which often come with higher pay due to the complexity and exclusivity of events.
4. The Plaza Hotel’s The Palm Court
The legendary Palm Court inside The Plaza Hotel offers timeless grandeur with luxurious décor. It hosts various prestigious events, making it a rewarding place for Event Planners seeking high compensation aligned with refined service standards.
5. Balthazar
A lively French bistro in SoHo, Balthazar blends classic charm with a bustling atmosphere. Event Planners here manage everything from private dinners to fashion industry parties, providing a unique experience with competitive pay.
6. Tavern on the Green
Situated in Central Park, Tavern on the Green is beloved for its scenic setting and dynamic event offerings. Planners working here organize weddings, corporate functions and seasonal celebrations, often resulting in lucrative pay due to the venue's high demand.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Event Planner Earnings in New York City
The type of restaurant plays a critical role in determining an Event Planner's earning potential. Upscale and renowned venues typically offer higher wages and bonuses due to the complexity and scale of events hosted.
Casual and mid-tier restaurants may provide steadier event opportunities but generally have a lower pay scale for Event Planners. These venues tend to focus on smaller or less formal gatherings.
Certifications such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or specialized Event Management training often contribute to higher earning potential across all restaurant types.
How To Find a High Paying Event Planner Job in New York City
Build Relevant Experience
Gaining hands-on experience with upscale venues and large-scale events is key. This experience builds a strong resume that appeals to higher-paying employers.
Network Strategically
Engage with industry professionals through events, workshops and online platforms such as LinkedIn. Relationships with venue managers and vendors can open doors to exclusive job opportunities.
Obtain Certifications
Certifications like CMP or other Event Planning credentials demonstrate expertise and professionalism, often required by top-tier venues and commanding higher salaries.
Craft a Standout Application
Tailor your cover letter and resume to highlight your planning skills, event successes and ability to handle high-pressure situations. Showcase familiarity with luxury venues and client management.
Prepare for Interviews
Practice common interview questions focusing on problem-solving, event coordination and client communication. Present yourself with confidence and professionalism.
What’s the Outlook for Event Planner Jobs in New York City in 2025 and Beyond?
The outlook for Event Planner jobs in New York City remains robust through 2025 and beyond, driven by the city’s constant demand for corporate events, weddings and cultural gatherings.
According to labor market analyses, Event Planning roles are expected to grow moderately, especially in venues that blend hospitality with Event Hosting. NYC’s role as a global business and cultural hub ensures steady opportunities.
Trends influencing this growth include:
- Increased demand for hybrid and virtual events requiring Planners skilled in diverse formats
- Expansion of experiential marketing and brand activations in prominent city venues
- Popularity of luxury, bespoke events driving the need for expert Planners in prestigious restaurants
Is an Event Planner’s Salary Enough to Live Well in New York City?
An Event Planner earning around $30 per hour in New York City can potentially bring in approximately $62,400 annually, assuming full-time employment.
NYC’s high cost of living, especially for housing, utilities and transportation, can make budgeting challenging. Here’s a glance at typical expenses in 2025:
- 1-Bedroom Apartment (city center): $3,200
- Utilities (electricity, heating, water): $200
- Public Transportation (monthly MetroCard): $132
- Groceries (monthly): $450–$700
With disciplined budgeting and the potential for event bonuses or freelance opportunities, many Event Planners can live comfortably. Those securing positions in top-tier venues or specializing in high-profile events often earn enough to cover living costs and enjoy the city’s amenities.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying New York City Event Planner Jobs
Our list of top-paying restaurants for Event Planners was compiled through extensive research on job listings, industry reputation and venue prestige.
We prioritized:
- Venue Prestige: Restaurants known for hosting large-scale and luxurious events
- Pay Structure: Roles offering competitive base salaries and incentive opportunities
- Location and Clientele: Venues situated in high-demand areas with affluent client bases
- Work Environment: Places offering professional growth, strong management and positive employee feedback
These factors ensure that Planners working at these restaurants have the best chance at earning a rewarding salary while gaining valuable industry experience.
