The compensation for soccer referees varies depending on the level of competition and the governing body.
How Much Do Soccer Referees Make? (Pro, College, HS, Youth)
- Pro: Varies widely, can range from $300 to over $1,000 per game, depending on the league and experience.
- College: Approximately $200 – $300 per game, but can vary based on the league and location.
- High School (HS): Generally around $50 – $100 per game, depending on the region and level of competition.
- Youth: Usually about $20 – $50 per game, often depending on local league standards and the age group being refereed. Some might be on a volunteer basis.
Below we look in more detail how much soccer referees make at the professional, college, high school, and youth levels.
Professional Soccer Referees
Professional soccer referees officiate matches in top-tier leagues around the world, such as the English Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, Serie A, and Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States.
These referees undergo rigorous training and are required to maintain a high level of fitness and knowledge of the game.
The compensation for professional soccer referees is significantly higher compared to other levels.
In top leagues like the English Premier League, referees can earn an annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $200,000.
Additionally, they receive match fees for each game they officiate, which can range from $1,500 to $3,000 per match.
It’s important to note that the salaries and match fees for professional soccer referees can vary based on factors such as experience, reputation, and the league they officiate in.
Referees who officiate in international competitions like the FIFA World Cup or UEFA Champions League can earn even higher salaries and match fees.
College Soccer Referees
College soccer referees officiate matches in various collegiate athletic associations, including the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) in the United States.
These referees are responsible for ensuring fair play and enforcing the rules in college-level soccer matches.
The compensation for college soccer referees varies depending on the conference and level of competition.
On average, college soccer referees can earn between $200 and $500 per match.
However, this amount can increase for high-profile matches or postseason tournaments.
College soccer referees may also receive additional compensation for travel expenses, accommodation, and meals when officiating away games or tournaments.
The exact compensation package for college soccer referees can vary between conferences and institutions.
High School Soccer Referees
High school soccer referees officiate matches at the high school level, overseeing games between local schools and participating in regional or state tournaments.
These referees play a vital role in ensuring fair play and maintaining the spirit of the game among young athletes.
The compensation for high school soccer referees varies depending on the state, region, and level of competition.
On average, high school soccer referees can earn between $40 and $100 per match.
However, this amount can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the importance of the match.
High school soccer referees may also receive additional compensation for travel expenses, especially when officiating games in distant locations.
Some states or associations may have standardized rates for high school soccer referees, while others may allow individual schools or districts to determine the compensation.
Youth Soccer Referees
Youth soccer referees officiate matches at the grassroots level, overseeing games for young players in local leagues and tournaments.
These referees play a crucial role in introducing young athletes to the rules and principles of the game.
The compensation for youth soccer referees varies significantly depending on the region, league, and age group they officiate.
On average, youth soccer referees can earn between $20 and $50 per match.
However, this amount can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the duration of the match.
It’s important to note that youth soccer referees often start at a lower compensation level and gradually increase their earnings as they gain experience and officiate higher-level matches.
Some youth soccer leagues or associations may also provide additional benefits such as training opportunities or mentorship programs for referees.
Q&A – How Much Do Soccer Referees Make? (Pro, College, HS, Youth)
1. How much do professional soccer referees make?
Professional soccer referees can earn an annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $200,000, depending on the league and their experience.
They also receive match fees ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 per game.
2. Do professional soccer referees receive any additional benefits?
Yes, professional soccer referees may receive additional benefits such as travel expenses, accommodation, and meals when officiating away games or tournaments.
3. How much do college soccer referees make?
On average, college soccer referees can earn between $200 and $500 per match.
The exact compensation can vary depending on the conference and level of competition.
4. Are there any additional benefits for college soccer referees?
College soccer referees may receive additional compensation for travel expenses, accommodation, and meals when officiating away games or tournaments.
5. How much do high school soccer referees make?
High school soccer referees can earn between $40 and $100 per match on average.
The compensation may vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the importance of the match.
6. Do high school soccer referees receive any additional benefits?
High school soccer referees may receive additional compensation for travel expenses, especially when officiating games in distant locations.
7. How much do youth soccer referees make?
On average, youth soccer referees can earn between $20 and $50 per match.
The compensation may vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the duration of the match.
8. Do youth soccer referees receive any additional benefits?
Some youth soccer leagues or associations may provide additional benefits such as training opportunities or mentorship programs for referees.
9. Can soccer referees make a full-time career out of officiating?
While it is possible for some professional soccer referees to make a full-time career out of officiating, it is more common for referees at lower levels to have officiating as a part-time or supplemental income.
10. How can someone become a professional soccer referee?
To become a professional soccer referee, individuals must undergo extensive training, pass certification exams, and gain experience by officiating matches at lower levels.
They can then progress through the ranks and be considered for higher-level competitions.
11. Are there any age restrictions for becoming a soccer referee?
Age restrictions for becoming a soccer referee can vary depending on the governing body and the level of competition.
In some cases, individuals can start officiating at a young age, while in others, there may be minimum age requirements.
12. Can referees earn more by officiating multiple matches in a day?
Yes, referees can earn more by officiating multiple matches in a day, as they receive match fees for each game they officiate.
However, there may be physical and mental limitations to consider when officiating multiple matches in a short period.
13. Do referees receive any compensation for training or attending workshops?
Referees may receive compensation for attending training sessions or workshops, especially at higher levels of competition.
This compensation can vary depending on the governing body or association.
14. Are there any financial incentives for referees who officiate in prestigious tournaments?
Yes, referees who officiate in prestigious tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup or UEFA Champions League can earn higher salaries and match fees compared to regular league matches.
15. Can referees negotiate their compensation?
The ability to negotiate compensation can vary depending on the governing body and the level of competition.
In some cases, referees may have limited negotiation power, while in others, there may be room for discussion.
Summary
Soccer referees at different levels of competition receive varying compensation for their services.
Professional soccer referees earn the highest salaries and match fees, ranging from $70,000 to $200,000 annually.
College soccer referees earn between $200 and $500 per match, while high school and youth soccer referees earn between $40 and $100, and $20 and $50 per match, respectively.
Additional benefits such as travel expenses and accommodation may also be provided depending on the level of competition.
Becoming a professional soccer referee requires extensive training, certification, and experience.
While officiating can be a part-time or supplemental income for many referees, some professionals can make a full-time career out of it.
