Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 134,670 meeting, convention, and event planners, and they earn a median of $59,440/year. The range runs from $36K to $101K. Maine pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level meeting, convention, and event planners start around $36K. The gap between that and the median ($59K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $101K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Maine | $127K | N/A |
| New York | $73K | 11,720 |
| Massachusetts | $73K | 4,100 |
| District of Columbia | $72K | 2,400 |
| Hawaii | $68K | 460 |
| California | $67K | 17,800 |
| Washington | $66K | 3,720 |
| New Jersey | $65K | 2,360 |
| Connecticut | $64K | 940 |
| Rhode Island | $61K | 730 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a meeting, convention, and event planners make?▼
The median meeting, convention, and event planners salary in the United States is $59,440 per year ($29/hour). Entry-level positions start around $35,990, while experienced professionals earn up to $101,310.
What education do you need to become a meeting, convention, and event planners?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for meeting, convention, and event planners?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for meeting, convention, and event planners.
What are the highest paying states for meeting, convention, and event planners?▼
The highest paying states for meeting, convention, and event planners are Maine ($127,160), New York ($73,230), Massachusetts ($72,840), District of Columbia ($72,010), Hawaii ($67,660). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.