Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners Salary 2025: $61,160 Median, 4.8% Growth
The median annual wage for Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners is $61,160, according to the latest BLS data. That works out to roughly $29 per hour. The middle 50% of planners earn between about $37,000 and $102,000, with the top 10% pulling in over $101,700. With 142,860 people employed in the occupation and a projected growth rate of 4.8% through 2034, demand remains solid for skilled planners.
How much Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners earn
The national mean salary for Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners is $66,520, with a median of $61,160. The bottom 10% earn around $36,830, while the top 10% make more than $101,700. Pay varies widely by experience, location, and industry — corporate event planners tend to earn more than those in nonprofits or government.
Typical entry-level jobs start near the lower end, but planners with 5+ years and a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) credential can command salaries above the median. Freelance planners may earn higher hourly rates but lack benefits.
Pay by state
The highest-paying state for these planners is the District of Columbia, with an average wage of $76,970. Massachusetts follows at $75,740, New York at $74,730, Hawaii at $74,460, and Vermont at $74,310. These states tend to have higher costs of living and more corporate or government event activity.
On the lower end, South Dakota averages $47,050, Mississippi $44,680, and West Virginia just $35,760. Even in these states, experienced planners can reach above the median, but starting wages may be significantly lower.
How to become a Meeting, Convention, and Event Planner
Most employers prefer a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, communications, or business, though an associate degree or certificate plus experience can suffice. Internships or work in hotels, conference centers, or other venues is the most common entry point.
Certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) boost credentials — many employers require or strongly prefer it after a few years. Planners need strong organizational, negotiation, and software skills (e.g., Cvent, social media tools). The career path often starts as a coordinator or assistant before advancing to planner or senior planner roles.
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in hospitality, business, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
- Complete internships with event venues, hotels, or planning firms.
- Gain 1–3 years of experience as a coordinator or assistant.
- Consider earning the CMP certification through the Events Industry Council.
- Build skills in budgeting, vendor management, and event tech platforms.
Job outlook
Employment for Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners is expected to grow 4.8% from 2024 to 2034 — faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 15,500 openings each year, mostly from retirements and turnover. Demand is driven by continued need for corporate events, conferences, weddings, and trade shows, though virtual and hybrid events have created new specialties. Planners with tech and digital skills will have an edge.
Frequently asked questions
How much do event planners make an hour?
The mean hourly wage is about $29, based on the BLS mean annual salary of $66,520. Hourly rates for freelancers can vary widely.
What is the starting salary for a meeting planner?
Entry-level planners typically earn around $36,000 to $40,000, near the 10th percentile of $36,830. Salaries rise quickly with experience.
Do you need a degree to become an event planner?
Most employers prefer a bachelor’s degree in hospitality, business, or communications, but relevant experience and certifications (like CMP) can substitute.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners data.