How Much Money Do Baseball Umpires Make

Baseball umpires do far more than shout “safe” and “out.” They manage game flow, enforce complex rules, keep players and coaches calm, and make split-second decisions with millions of fans watching. Because their job is so visible, one of the most common questions people ask is simple: how much money do baseball umpires make? The short answer is that it varies a lot by level. A Major League Baseball (MLB) umpire earns a comfortable full-time salary with strong benefits, while a high school or youth umpire is usually paid per game and often treats it as a side income. In this guide, you will learn how pay works across MLB, the minor leagues, college, high school, and youth baseball. You will also see the extra pieces that add up, like travel per diems, postseason bonuses, and training costs, plus example scenarios that make the numbers easy to understand.

Quick answer: how much do umpires make at each level?

If you are looking for a fast overview, here it is. A full-time MLB umpire’s yearly pay commonly runs from the low six figures into the high six figures, with top crew chiefs higher. Minor League Baseball (MiLB) umpires usually earn modest monthly pay during the season, with Triple-A being the highest. College umpires are paid per game, and the best conferences pay much more than small conferences. High school and youth baseball are also paid per game and vary by region and association.

These are typical reported ranges and estimates. Exact amounts change with union agreements, conferences, states, and even the specific crew assignment on a given day.

How MLB umpire pay works

Base salary ranges for MLB umpires

MLB umpires are full-time employees during the season and covered by a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) through the Major League Baseball Umpires Association. Reported base salaries generally start in the range of roughly 150,000 to 200,000 dollars per year for newer full-time umpires and can climb to 350,000 dollars or more with experience. Crew chiefs, who lead umpire crews and take on extra responsibility, are often reported in the upper range and can exceed 400,000 dollars and, for the most senior, approach or surpass 500,000 dollars. These numbers can change when a new CBA is signed, and some years include incremental raises.

“Call-up” umpires—minor league umpires who fill in at the MLB level—do not receive a full MLB base salary. Instead, they are typically paid a prorated major league rate only for the days they work in the big leagues. Their main income is still their minor league pay.

Per diem and travel coverage

On top of base salary, MLB umpires receive a daily per diem for meals and incidental expenses while traveling. The per diem amount can change over time through the CBA, but it generally adds thousands of dollars across a season. MLB also covers travel arrangements and hotels when crews are on the road, so umpires are not paying for airline tickets and lodging out of pocket for regular assignments.

Because MLB crews travel a lot—often city to city every few days—the per diem adds meaningful income. Over a long season, a reasonable estimate is that per diem totals can reach the tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the schedule and days on the road.

Postseason, All-Star, and special assignment pay

Umpires can earn additional money from special assignments. Working the All-Star Game, the Home Run Derby, or the postseason (Wild Card, Division Series, League Championship Series, and World Series) comes with extra pay. The exact bonus amounts are not public each year, but it is widely understood that postseason assignments provide valuable extra income and prestige. A deep postseason run, especially the World Series, can add tens of thousands of dollars on top of a veteran umpire’s salary.

Replay assignments are also part of an MLB umpire’s duties. During certain games, umpires rotate through the Replay Operations Center to review challenged calls. While the pay structure is defined in the CBA, most fans can think of replay work as part of the overall compensation for a full-time MLB umpire.

Benefits, insurance, and pension

MLB umpires receive robust benefits, which are an important piece of total compensation. Benefits typically include health insurance, retirement benefits, and provisions that reflect the travel-heavy nature of the job. The pension component, in particular, is a major reason many umpires value longevity. While the exact plan details are set by the CBA and can change over time, the overall benefits package helps make MLB umpiring one of the best-paid officiating jobs in North American sports.

How many games do MLB umpires work?

There are 2,430 regular-season MLB games each year across the league, plus several hundred in spring training and the postseason. An individual full-time umpire will usually work well over 100 regular-season games, plus spring training and potentially the postseason if selected. The schedule is busy but not every day; umpires have off days, vacations, and replay days mixed in. During the season, workdays are long—arriving hours before first pitch for meetings and prep, then working a three-hour game (give or take), then postgame duties. The result is a demanding travel schedule that keeps umpires on the road for much of the year, especially from April through September.

Minor League Baseball umpire pay

Seasonal salaries by level

Minor league umpires are paid seasonal salaries that vary by classification. The season typically runs for about five to six months. Reported monthly pay commonly increases with each level:

At the lower levels (Complex and Rookie leagues), monthly pay has historically been modest—often just a couple of thousand dollars per month during the season. Single-A (Low-A and High-A) is somewhat higher but still limited. Double-A umpires usually earn more than A-ball, and Triple-A umpires earn the most of any minor leaguers, often several thousand dollars per month for the season. Across a full minor league season, a Triple-A umpire’s salary often totals in the mid five figures before per diem, while lower levels may total in the low to mid five figures.

Unlike MLB, minor league pay does not include a full 12-month salary. Off-season income is typically up to the umpire, unless they pick up additional baseball work like winter leagues or instruction.

Per diem and travel in the minors

Minor league umpires usually receive a daily per diem on road trips to cover meals and incidentals. The amount varies by league and year, but it is typically much smaller than the MLB per diem. Housing policies can change, and in recent years, minor league players have seen improvements to their housing arrangements. Umpire housing policies vary by level and league. The general rule in the minors is that umpires travel frequently by car or short flights, share rooms more often than MLB umpires do, and rely on per diem to make ends meet on the road.

Advancement and “call-up” opportunities

Triple-A umpires are on the doorstep of MLB and may receive “call-up” assignments to the majors when needed. On those days, they are paid at an MLB prorated rate, which is significantly higher than their minor league daily rate. However, call-ups can be sporadic and are not guaranteed. To become a full-time MLB umpire, a Triple-A umpire must be hired into a permanent opening, which does not happen every year and is highly competitive.

Off-season work for minor league umpires

Because minor league salaries are seasonal, many umpires supplement their income in the off-season. Common options include winter ball in the Caribbean, independent leagues, college fall ball, instructional leagues, youth tournaments, private camps, clinics, and unrelated part-time or full-time jobs. Building a well-rounded income often means piecing together multiple sources during the year, especially before reaching Triple-A.

College, high school, and youth umpire pay

NCAA Division I game fees

College umpires are not salaried; they are paid per game, and rates depend heavily on the conference and region. In Division I, mid-major conferences typically pay a few hundred dollars per game, while Power Five conferences and top-tier leagues often pay more. Some marquee weekend series can pay significantly higher rates, especially for plate assignments. In many conferences, the plate umpire earns a bit more than base umpires due to the extra physical wear and the responsibility of calling balls and strikes.

College crews often receive mileage or travel stipends when driving long distances. Hotels can be covered for certain assignments, or a per diem may be provided. Payment timing varies; some conferences pay promptly by direct deposit, while others take several weeks.

NCAA Division II, Division III, NAIA, and JUCO

Division II and Division III typically pay less than Division I but still offer solid per-game rates for experienced officials. NAIA and junior college (JUCO) games tend to pay similarly to lower D-II or D-III rates, though some strong programs and regions pay better. Some conferences use three-umpire crews for conference games and two-umpire crews for midweek games; the number of umpires affects individual pay because the game fee is split by assignment, not always evenly.

High school varsity and sub-varsity pay

High school umpire pay is set by state associations or local chapters and varies widely. Varsity games commonly pay from around 60 to 120 dollars per game in many areas, with some higher-cost regions paying 130 to 175 dollars or more. Sub-varsity (JV and freshman) games usually pay less than varsity. Some states add mileage or a travel stipend if the game is farther than a set distance. Tournament days can pay more if you work multiple games back to back.

Youth leagues, travel ball, and tournaments

Youth and recreational leagues often pay per game, commonly from around 30 to 80 dollars depending on age level, region, and whether you are behind the plate or on the bases. Travel ball tournaments can pay higher day rates because you may work several games in a row, sometimes with a “plate premium” for the tougher assignment. Weekend tournaments in the spring and summer can be a solid side income for a new umpire building experience.

Extra fees and plate premiums

In many amateur settings, the plate umpire earns a small premium (for example, an extra 5 to 20 dollars) because working the plate is more physically demanding. Associations may also pay an extra fee if a game goes into extra innings or if you are asked to work a solo game due to a partner’s no-show. Always check your local assigner’s rules and pay scales, since these details vary a lot by area.

What factors change an umpire’s pay?

Seniority and role

At the MLB level, seniority matters. A newly hired full-time umpire starts lower on the salary scale and moves up over time, while crew chiefs (the leaders on each four-person crew) earn more due to added responsibilities. In conferences and high school associations, senior officials often receive the best-paying assignments and postseason opportunities.

League and market size

The league you work in shapes your pay. MLB is the top of the pyramid. In college baseball, major conferences tend to pay more than small ones. For high school and youth baseball, big metropolitan areas sometimes pay more than rural areas, but this is not a rule—some rural states or regions with long travel distances also pay well because of mileage and time commitments.

Assignment type and postseason selections

Special events and postseason add income. MLB postseason selections come with bonuses. In college, conference tournaments and NCAA regionals or super regionals pay more than regular-season games. In high school, state playoff games usually pay more than a regular-season game and may include travel coverage.

Performance and evaluations

Umpires are constantly evaluated, formally or informally. In MLB, every call is reviewed internally, and postseason crews are chosen based on performance, rules knowledge, positioning, and professionalism. In college and high school, assigners notice punctuality, handling of difficult situations, and coach feedback. Strong performance tends to bring better assignments and, over time, higher pay.

Union agreements and policy changes

MLB umpire pay is set by a CBA, and shifts in the agreement can adjust base salary, per diem, travel class, replay procedures, and more. In the minor leagues, league policies have changed in recent years, including improvements in conditions, though pay is still far below MLB. College conferences and state associations also make policy updates that can affect fees and mileage.

Comparing umpire pay to other sports

NFL officials

NFL officials are part-time during the season but earn high pay per game due to the small number of games. Reported averages for experienced NFL officials are well into the six figures for the season, with playoff bonuses on top. The NFL season is much shorter than MLB, so the per-game rate is extremely high compared to baseball, but the total number of workdays is lower.

NBA referees

NBA referees are full-time. Reported salaries range from roughly the low to mid six figures for newer refs up to the high six figures for veterans, with additional income for playoffs and the NBA Finals. Travel is heavy during the season, similar to MLB in terms of life on the road.

NHL officials

NHL referees and linesmen also travel widely and work many games. Reported pay generally ranges from the low six figures for newer officials into the mid to high six figures for veterans, plus playoff bonuses. The workload is comparable to MLB in its day-to-day grind and travel demands.

Soccer referees

In Major League Soccer (MLS), referees are paid a combination of base salary and match fees, with experienced referees earning solid five-figure to six-figure totals across a season. International leagues vary widely, with top European leagues paying much more than lower divisions. Compared to baseball, soccer pay is less standardized across countries.

The costs of being an umpire

Gear, uniforms, and upkeep

Umpiring requires gear that must be bought, maintained, and replaced. At minimum, you need masks, chest protectors, shin guards, plate shoes, base shoes, ball bags, a brush, a plate counter, and multiple uniforms. Professional-grade plate gear can be expensive, especially if you want lighter and more protective materials. Over a few seasons, the cost of upkeep adds up. MLB umpires receive uniform allowances and support, but amateur officials often cover most or all of their own gear costs.

Travel time and family impact

At every level, umpiring takes time away from home. MLB umpires are on the road a lot of the year. College umpires spend many weekends on the road during the spring. Even high school and youth umpires can lose many afternoons and weekends to assignments. Time is money, and the family impact is real. This is not a nine-to-five job, and the schedule can sometimes change quickly due to weather postponements and makeup games.

Taxes and multi-state filing

Umpires are paid like other workers, and taxes apply. MLB umpires often file taxes in multiple states due to work performed around the country, similar to professional athletes. At the amateur level, many associations issue tax forms for your total game fees. It is smart to track mileage, gear purchases, and other expenses and to speak with a tax professional about what is deductible in your situation.

Training and continuing education

At the top of the ladder, umpires attend formal schools and evaluations. Even at the amateur level, clinics, certification courses, and camps may cost money. These are worth it for skill development, networking, and moving up, but budget for these fees if you plan to grow in the craft.

Path to becoming an MLB umpire (and what you might earn along the way)

Umpire school and first steps

The traditional path to MLB begins with a professional umpire school. Graduates are evaluated, and top students may receive assignments to the lowest levels of the minor leagues. Umpire school tuition, travel, and lodging are your responsibility, though some scholarships or assistance programs may exist. While you can start umpiring youth or high school games with local training, anyone aiming for MLB should plan on formal schooling.

Climbing the minor league ladder

From the Rookie/Complex level to Single-A, then Double-A, and finally Triple-A, umpires are evaluated constantly on accuracy, mechanics, positioning, game management, and professionalism. Promotions are not automatic and depend on performance and available openings. Many umpires spend years at each level, and not everyone reaches Triple-A. The time from first minor league assignment to an MLB job can easily be seven to ten years or more, and most never make it that far. Financially, this means several years of modest seasonal pay before you have a chance at MLB-level income.

Getting the call to MLB

Even after reaching Triple-A, you must wait for openings in MLB. Retirements, expansions of the umpire staff, and performance-based opportunities can create spots. During this period, you may receive occasional MLB call-ups. Those days pay well compared to the minor leagues, but full-time MLB hiring is still the goal.

Realistic odds and lifestyle

It is important to be honest about the odds. MLB umpiring jobs are extremely limited, and competition is intense. If your dream is to reach the top, go for it—but also understand the lifestyle. You will travel constantly, be away from family, and work many nights, weekends, and holidays. For many people, college or high school umpiring offers a healthier balance of income, time commitment, and family life.

Example income scenarios

Veteran MLB crew chief example

Imagine a veteran MLB crew chief. Their base salary might be in the neighborhood of 400,000 to 500,000 dollars. Add a season’s worth of per diem from extensive travel, which could reasonably add tens of thousands more. If selected for the League Championship Series or World Series, postseason bonuses could add another meaningful amount. In a strong year, total compensation can push well past the base salary thanks to these extras, plus benefits and pension that increase the long-term value of the job.

First-year full-time MLB umpire example

Consider a newly hired full-time MLB umpire starting somewhere around the lower end of the MLB scale, roughly in the 150,000 to 200,000 dollar range. Add per diem for a long season of road trips, and possibly a small All-Star or limited postseason assignment if selected. The total might land in the low to mid 200,000s depending on schedule and extras. Even for a first-year full-timer, this is a strong income with major professional benefits.

Triple-A minor league umpire example

Now picture a Triple-A umpire working a five-to-six-month season. A reasonable seasonal salary might end up in the mid five figures. Add per diem for road trips across the league, which could add a few thousand more for the season. If this umpire receives a handful of MLB call-up days, those specific days are paid at a much higher rate, which helps. Still, the year might total somewhere around the low to mid five figures without steady MLB call-ups, which is why many Triple-A umpires also seek winter assignments or off-season work.

College side income example

Suppose a college umpire works 35 to 45 games in a season, mixing midweek games and weekend series across several conferences. If their average pay per game is, for example, 300 to 450 dollars, the gross total might reach 12,000 to 18,000 dollars for the spring, plus some mileage reimbursements. If they secure a few postseason assignments or high-profile series, the total could be higher. This kind of schedule is common for experienced umpires who balance other careers with college baseball work.

Frequently asked questions

Do MLB umpires get paid year-round?

MLB umpires receive a full-time salary that covers the year, though the heaviest work is during the season. Their per diem and travel-related pay are tied to in-season travel and assignments, and postseason bonuses are paid only if selected for those rounds.

How much do minor league umpires make?

Minor league umpires are paid monthly during the season, with Triple-A making the most and Rookie/Complex levels the least. Seasonal totals for Triple-A commonly land in the mid five figures, while lower levels are lower. Per diem helps but is smaller than MLB.

What do college umpires earn per game?

Division I ranges widely by conference. Many mid-majors pay a few hundred dollars per game, while Power Five and top leagues pay more. Division II, Division III, NAIA, and JUCO usually pay less than top D-I but still offer solid game fees for experienced officials.

Do high school umpires make good money?

High school umpiring is often a solid side income. Varsity games in many areas pay between about 60 and 120 dollars, with some regions paying more. Working multiple games per week during the spring can add up, especially with tournament weekends.

Do umpires get paid extra for the playoffs?

Yes. MLB umpires who work postseason rounds receive additional pay. College and high school postseason assignments also usually pay more than regular-season games.

Who pays for umpires’ travel?

In MLB, league travel is arranged and covered, and umpires receive a per diem for meals and incidentals. In college and high school, policies vary. Some assignments include mileage or a travel stipend, while others do not. Always check local guidelines.

Is there a union for MLB umpires?

Yes. MLB umpires are represented by the Major League Baseball Umpires Association, which negotiates pay, benefits, and working conditions through a collective bargaining agreement.

How do you become an MLB umpire?

The typical path is to attend a professional umpire school, get selected for the minor leagues, progress through each level over several years, and hope to receive MLB call-ups and, eventually, a full-time MLB spot. The odds are long, and the journey takes time.

Do umpires pay for their own gear?

Amateur umpires usually buy their own gear. MLB umpires receive allowances and support, but they still manage their own equipment. Quality protective gear is a necessary expense at all levels.

Are there opportunities outside the U.S.?

Yes. Professional leagues in Japan, Korea, Mexico, and winter leagues in the Caribbean employ umpires. Pay varies by league, with top leagues offering stronger compensation and benefits. These jobs, like MLB jobs, are highly competitive.

Practical tips if you want to start umpiring

Begin locally and build reps

Start with youth and high school games through your local association. Work a mix of plate and base to build comfort and stamina. Ask for feedback and use every game as a learning opportunity.

Invest in safety and comfort

Buy reliable plate gear and comfortable shoes. Being well-protected keeps you safer and more confident. Comfortable, moisture-wicking uniforms help you perform better in heat and long doubleheaders.

Find mentors and take clinics

Experienced umpires can accelerate your growth. Clinics and camps provide hands-on mechanics help and rules refreshers. If your goal is college games, ask assigners which clinics they respect and how to get on evaluation lists.

Track your finances

Keep simple records of your game fees, mileage, and gear expenses. Set aside money for taxes if you are paid as an independent contractor. A little organization reduces stress at tax time.

Putting it all together: what to expect financially

For MLB umpires

MLB offers high base salaries, meaningful per diems, and postseason bonuses, plus strong benefits and pension. It is a demanding lifestyle built on decades of training and thousands of games of experience. For those who reach it, MLB umpiring can be both financially rewarding and personally fulfilling.

For minor league umpires

The minors are about development and evaluation. Pay is seasonal and modest, but Triple-A can approach a livable income when combined with per diem and occasional MLB call-ups. Many umpires in the minors supplement with off-season work and winter leagues.

For college, high school, and youth umpires

Per-game fees make umpiring a flexible side income. The more you work—and the more you advance to higher levels and postseason—the more you can earn. Many officials appreciate the balance of keeping a day job while earning several thousand dollars each spring on the field.

Conclusion

How much money baseball umpires make depends on where they work. At the very top, MLB umpires earn six-figure salaries, collect per diems, and can add significant postseason bonuses, all with strong benefits and pension plans. Minor league umpires earn seasonal pay that climbs with each level, with Triple-A offering the best chance at call-ups and higher daily rates for those days in the big leagues. College, high school, and youth baseball pay by the game, and while the fees vary, consistent work can add up to a steady side income each season.

If you are new to umpiring, start small, learn from mentors, and build experience. If your goal is to make the big leagues, understand that the path is long, competitive, and demanding—but also that there are many rewarding levels along the way. From a Saturday youth doubleheader to the World Series, umpires keep the game fair, safe, and moving. The pay reflects the level, the responsibility, and the commitment it takes to do one of the toughest jobs in sports.