Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 15,080 umpires, referees, and other sports officials, and they earn a median of $38,820/year. The range runs from $25K to $93K. Massachusetts pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level umpires, referees, and other sports officials start around $25K. The gap between that and the median ($39K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $93K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $84K | 210 |
| Kentucky | $57K | 70 |
| South Carolina | $57K | N/A |
| Minnesota | $53K | 180 |
| New Hampshire | $53K | 40 |
| Louisiana | $52K | 260 |
| Maryland | $51K | 50 |
| Maine | $48K | 40 |
| New Jersey | $48K | 420 |
| Illinois | $47K | 820 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a umpires, referees, and other sports officials make?▼
The median umpires, referees, and other sports officials salary in the United States is $38,820 per year ($0/hour). Entry-level positions start around $25,070, while experienced professionals earn up to $93,180.
What education do you need to become a umpires, referees, and other sports officials?▼
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 umpires, referees, and other sports officials?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for umpires, referees, and other sports officials.
What are the highest paying states for umpires, referees, and other sports officials?▼
The highest paying states for umpires, referees, and other sports officials are Massachusetts ($83,570), Kentucky ($57,450), South Carolina ($57,390), Minnesota ($52,630), New Hampshire ($52,580). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.