How to Become a Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners in Illinois
Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners in Illinois earn a median salary of $59,860/year, which is 1% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a meeting, convention, and event planners takes home approximately $2,519/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a meeting, convention, and event planners can afford in Illinois
Becoming a meeting, convention, and event planners in Illinois
Meet education requirements
Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners positions in Illinois typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many meeting, convention, and event planners positions in Illinois require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Illinois licensure or certification
Illinois may require specific licensing or professional certification for meeting, convention, and event plannerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Illinois Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Illinois
Illinois employs 4,470 meeting, convention, and event planners. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Champaign-Urbana.
Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners salary by metro area in Illinois
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $62K | $29.83/hr | 3,590 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $60K | $28.63/hr | 80 |
| Bloomington | $58K | $27.8/hr | 70 |
| Peoria | $51K | $24.65/hr | 70 |
| Springfield | $51K | $24.5/hr | 70 |
| Rockford | $50K | $23.89/hr | 60 |
Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners salary range in Illinois
Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a meeting, convention, and event planners make in Illinois?▼
The median meeting, convention, and event planners salary in Illinois is $59,860 per year ($28.78/hr). This is 1% above the national median of $59,440. Salaries range from $36,560 to $89,070.
What are the requirements to become a meeting, convention, and event planners in Illinois?▼
Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners positions in Illinois typically require Bachelor's degree. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a meeting, convention, and event planners afford to live in Illinois?▼
At the median salary of $59,860, a meeting, convention, and event planners in Illinois would take home approximately $3,931/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for meeting, convention, and event planners in Illinois?▼
The highest paying metro areas for meeting, convention, and event planners in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($62,050), Champaign-Urbana ($59,540), Bloomington ($57,830). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Illinois have state income tax for meeting, convention, and event planners?▼
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $59,860 salary, this means roughly $2,963/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.