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Sports Event Planner Salary: What You Need to Know

A Promising Career: The Sports Event Planner

If you have a passion for sports and a knack for organization, a career as a sports event planner might be the perfect fit for you. Not only do sports event planners get to work in the exciting world of sports, but they also play a crucial role in ensuring that sporting events run smoothly and successfully. One important aspect to consider when pursuing a career in this field is the salary potential.

Average Salary and Determining Factors

The average salary of a sports event planner can vary depending on various factors such as experience, location, and the specific organization they work for. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for meeting, convention, and event planners, which includes sports event planners, was $50,600 as of May 2020.

The Role of Experience

Experience is a significant determinant of salary in the sports event planning industry. Entry-level event planners may start with a lower salary, but as they gain experience and expertise, their earning potential increases. Sports event planners with several years of experience and a proven track record of successful events can command higher salaries.

Location Influence

Location is another crucial factor that can impact a sports event planner’s salary. Salaries can vary significantly between different cities and regions, primarily due to differences in the cost of living and demand for event planning services.

Type of Organization and Salaries

The type of organization a sports event planner works for can also affect their salary. Sports event planners can be employed by professional sports teams, sports marketing agencies, event management companies, or even work as freelancers.

Strategies to Boost Earnings as a Sports Event Planner

In addition to these factors, there are a few strategies you can employ to increase your earning potential as a sports event planner. Firstly, investing in your education and professional development can set you apart from the competition. Consider pursuing a degree or certification program in event planning, sports management, or a related field.

Furthermore, gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions can be invaluable for your career progression and salary growth. Look for opportunities to work on sports events, even if it means starting at a lower level.

Networking is another essential aspect of the sports event planning industry. Attend industry conferences, join professional organizations, and utilize online platforms like LinkedIn to connect with others in the industry.

Lastly, consider specializing in a specific area of sports event planning. Whether it’s managing logistics, sponsorship, marketing, or operations, becoming an expert in a particular aspect of event planning can make you more valuable to employers and potentially lead to higher-paying roles.


Key Takeaways

  • The average salary for sports event planners is around $50,600, but there is potential for higher earnings based on experience, location, and the organization you work for.
  • Experience is a significant factor in determining salary, so gaining practical experience and building a successful track record can lead to higher-paying positions.
  • Location plays a role in salary differences, with major metropolitan areas often offering higher salaries compared to smaller towns or rural areas.
  • The type of organization you work for also impacts your salary, with larger and more prestigious organizations generally offering higher salaries.
  • Investing in your education and professional development, such as pursuing a degree or certification program in event planning or sports management, can enhance your skills and make you more competitive in the job market.
  • Networking and building relationships within the industry can lead to job opportunities and potentially higher salaries.
  • Specializing in a specific area of sports event planning, such as logistics, sponsorship, marketing, or operations, can make you more valuable to employers and increase your earning potential.

To further enhance your knowledge and skills in sports event planning, consider taking the NYU Fundamentals of Global Sports Management online course and certificate program offered by Yellowbrick. This comprehensive program will provide you with valuable insights and practical knowledge to excel in the field of sports event planning.

Enter your email to learn more and get a full course catalog!

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