How to Become a Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials in California
Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials in California earn a median salary of $44,590/year, which is 15% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~2.2%. After taxes and rent, a umpires, referees, and other sports officials takes home approximately $1,663/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a umpires, referees, and other sports officials can afford in California
Becoming a umpires, referees, and other sports officials in California
Meet education requirements
Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many umpires, referees, and other sports officials positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for umpires, referees, and other sports officialss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 2,830 umpires, referees, and other sports officials. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and Santa Rosa-Petaluma.
Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $54K | $/hr | 480 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $49K | $/hr | 40 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $48K | $/hr | 800 |
| Chico | $45K | $/hr | 30 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $40K | $/hr | 170 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $40K | $/hr | 170 |
| Salinas | $38K | $/hr | 80 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $37K | $/hr | 100 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $35K | $/hr | 80 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $33K | $/hr | — |
Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials salary range in California
Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a umpires, referees, and other sports officials make in California?▼
The median umpires, referees, and other sports officials salary in California is $44,590 per year ($null/hr). This is 15% above the national median of $38,820. Salaries range from $33,420 to $128,650.
What are the requirements to become a umpires, referees, and other sports officials in California?▼
Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a umpires, referees, and other sports officials afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $44,590, a umpires, referees, and other sports officials in California would take home approximately $3,075/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 45.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for umpires, referees, and other sports officials in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for umpires, referees, and other sports officials in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($53,560), Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($49,360), Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($48,320). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for umpires, referees, and other sports officials?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.2%. On a $44,590 salary, this means roughly $966/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.