How Much Money Do College Softball Umpires Make

If you love the game and wonder whether officiating can also pay the bills, college softball umpiring is a real option. The short answer is that college softball umpires can earn decent part-time income, but actual pay varies a lot by division, region, and experience. This guide breaks everything down in simple, beginner-friendly language so you can see where the money comes from, how much is typical, what costs to expect, and how to move up to higher-paying assignments.

What Do College Softball Umpires Get Paid For?

The Basic Game Fee

The core of your pay is the game fee. This is a flat amount for working a game, whether you are on the plate or on the bases. In some conferences the plate pays more than the bases; in others, everyone earns the same per game.

Game fees are set by the conference, school consortiums, or local assigning groups. Division I fees are usually the highest, and lower divisions pay somewhat less. Most college softball games pay per game rather than by the hour, and the fee does not usually change for extra innings or a quicker mercy-rule game.

Travel and Mileage

Many assignments include mileage or travel reimbursement. The most common approach is a per-mile rate if you drive your own car. Typical mileage rates fall between $0.50 and $0.70 per mile, but the exact amount depends on the conference or school. Some schools pay only the driver, some split mileage among crew, and others provide a flat travel stipend. In metropolitan areas, there may be no mileage at all.

Per Diem, Lodging, and Parking

When you work tournaments or multi-day series, some conferences offer per diem (a daily meal allowance) and cover hotel rooms. Routine single games rarely include lodging. Per diem rates might range from $25 to $60 per day. Parking, tolls, and other small fees are sometimes reimbursed if you submit receipts, but policies vary.

Plate vs. Base Pay

In softball, many conferences pay the same fee to plate and base umpires. Others pay a small premium for the plate. If there is a difference, it might be $10 to $30 more for the plate. Always check the rate sheet for your specific assignment.

Typical Pay Ranges by Level (2024–2025)

NCAA Division I

Division I softball generally pays the highest. Reported game fees often range from about $220 to $350 per game in the regular season, depending on the conference and region. Power conferences and high-profile rivalry games may be at or near the top of that range. Mid-majors tend to fall closer to the middle.

Many D1 series are doubleheaders or back-to-back days. Some leagues pay the same per-game fee for both games of a doubleheader, while others pay a slightly reduced rate for the second game. Mileage is common for D1 crews, and multi-day series can include per diem and lodging when travel is required.

NCAA Division II

Division II rates usually sit in the middle tier. A common range is $160 to $240 per game. Mileage may be included if the trip is outside a set radius. Plate and base may be equal, but a few conferences still add a small plate premium.

NCAA Division III

Division III is typically a bit lower than D2. Expect around $140 to $210 per game for the regular season in many areas. D3 schools are often within driving distance, so you may see less travel pay and more local one-off assignments. Doubleheaders are common; the second game might pay the same or a little less depending on the conference.

NAIA

NAIA pay often overlaps with lower-end D2 or upper-end JUCO. A practical range is $130 to $200 per game. Mileage and per diem policies vary by league and region. Some NAIA conferences have moved closer to D2 rates in recent years, especially in regions with high demand for qualified umpires.

Junior College (NJCAA)

JUCO softball is a great entry point. Typical pay falls between $120 and $180 per game. Mileage is sometimes available for rural schools. Doubleheaders are common and can create a solid day’s pay when combined with reasonable travel.

Fall Ball, Scrimmages, and Preseason

Many colleges play fall exhibitions or spring scrimmages. These assignments often pay a bit less, such as $100 to $150 per game, but they are valuable for building experience, face time with coordinators, and game reps early in your career.

Postseason and Special Event Pay

Conference Tournaments

Conference tournament assignments usually pay more per game or provide a day rate plus per diem. Regular season D1 that pays $250 per game might rise to $300 or more for the tournament. D2 and D3 tournaments often add a modest premium and sometimes cover hotel and meals for neutral-site events.

NCAA Regionals and Super Regionals

NCAA postseason selections are competitive and prestigious. Pay structures can vary, and selection often comes with paid travel, lodging, and per diem. Reported compensation for Regionals and Super Regionals is commonly higher than regular season, with many officials noting daily stipends and covered expenses that bring the effective pay significantly above normal rates. Think in terms of a premium day rate rather than a simple per-game fee.

Women’s College World Series (WCWS)

WCWS is a top-tier assignment restricted to a very small pool of umpires. Compensation typically includes travel, lodging, per diem, and an enhanced stipend that reflects both the prestige and the demands of the event. While exact numbers vary by year and contract, this is among the highest-paying softball umpire work available at the collegiate level.

How Many Games Can You Work?

In-Season Volume

College softball season runs mainly from February through May (plus tournaments and postseason). Weekday games often start in the afternoon, and weekends are prime time for doubleheaders. If you have a flexible job or live near multiple colleges, you can work more often. If you rely on weekends only, you will still find good volume, especially March to April.

Weather and Travel

Spring weather can be unpredictable. Rainouts, cold snaps, and wind can change game times, cancel, or push games into doubleheaders on a different day. Build flexibility into your schedule, and know the cancellation policies before you accept.

Sample Earnings Scenarios

Scenario 1: Local Part-Timer Building Experience

– Level: Mostly D3 and JUCO, occasional NAIA
– Games: 2 single games per week for 10 weeks (20 total)
– Pay: Average $160 per game, limited mileage

Gross: 20 x $160 = $3,200. Add in a few scrimmages (5 x $120 = $600) and a small conference tournament day ($300) and you might be near $4,100 for the spring. After gear, dues, and some fuel, your net might be closer to $3,200–$3,600.

Scenario 2: Regional Road Warrior

– Level: Mix of D2 and D1 mid-major
– Games: 2 doubleheaders per week for 12 weeks (48 games)
– Pay: Average $230 per game (some higher at D1), decent mileage

Gross: 48 x $230 = $11,040. Mileage and per diem could add another $1,000–$2,000 depending on travel. If you get a conference tournament slot, that could add $600–$1,200. Net depends on how far you drive and whether hotels are covered, but a committed official might land in the $9,000–$12,000 net range for a busy spring.

Scenario 3: High-End With Postseason

– Level: Heavier D1, selective D2, some postseason
– Games: 30–40 regular-season games, plus a conference tournament, and NCAA postseason
– Pay: Regular season averaging roughly $260–$320 per game with travel covered for many series

Gross could exceed $12,000–$18,000 in game fees alone, with postseason stipends and covered expenses boosting the effective total further. This path requires strong ratings, proven performance, availability, and the right network of coordinators.

What Is the Hourly Equivalent?

Time On Each Assignment

Pay is per game, but your time investment is more than the 7 innings. Consider drive time, pregame, field inspection, conferences, the game itself, paperwork, and the drive home. A “two-hour” game can easily take 4–6 total hours depending on distance.

Rough Hourly Math

– Single local game at $180 and 4 total hours: about $45/hour
– Single game at $250 and 6 total hours: about $41/hour
– Doubleheader day at two games x $200 with 9 total hours: about $44/hour

This quick math helps you judge whether a longer drive or lower fee still makes sense for your schedule.

Expenses You Should Expect

Uniforms and Gear

Softball umpiring requires specific uniforms and protective equipment. A practical starter list includes: plate shoes, base shoes, plate pants, base pants, shirts (several colors), ball bags, hat(s), chest protector, shin guards, mask or helmet, indicators, brush, and a quality jacket for cold or rain. Expect $600–$1,200 to get properly outfitted for college-level work, depending on what you already have and the brands you choose.

Travel Costs

Fuel, tolls, parking, snacks, and occasional hotels add up. Sometimes these are reimbursed, sometimes not. Keep receipts and log miles for tax purposes. Consider how many “unpaid miles” you are comfortable driving for specific rates.

Registration, Dues, and Background Checks

You will likely register with the NCAA Softball Umpire Program (often called the SUP), your local association, and your assigning platforms. These may involve fees. Many conferences require annual background checks and online tests. You might also pay for rule books, case books, and mechanics manuals.

Insurance

Officiating insurance is a smart investment. Some associations include it with dues; others require you to buy it separately. Liability coverage and optional supplemental accident coverage can help protect you if something goes wrong.

Training and Clinics

Veteran umpires often attend clinics or evaluation camps. These can help you get noticed by coordinators for higher-level assignments and postseason opportunities. Clinics have fees and may involve travel. Good training can pay for itself if it moves you up a pay tier.

Taxes

Most college umpires are independent contractors. You will typically receive 1099 forms from conferences, schools, or payment platforms. Set aside money for taxes throughout the season, track mileage, and keep expense records. A simple spreadsheet or bookkeeping app reduces stress at tax time.

What Affects How Much You Make?

Region and Supply

Urban areas with many officials may have tighter rates but lots of local games. Rural regions may pay more mileage or higher game fees to attract crews. Cost of living also influences rates. Where you live has a big impact on your yearly total.

Experience and Ratings

Coordinators look for rules knowledge, game management, hustle, and consistency. Strong evaluations bring better games and more volume. Certifications, test scores, and clinic performance can all help. The more confidence coordinators have in you, the more opportunities you get.

Crew Size and Level

Division I uses three-umpire crews as standard. Many D2 and D3 games still use two-umpire crews, though three is becoming more common for higher-stakes games. Per-umpire pay typically reflects the level and the crew size agreed upon by the conference.

Schedule Type

Single games, doubleheaders, multi-day series, and tournaments all pay differently. A doubleheader can be a great value if travel is short. Postseason events bring premiums and often cover expenses. Balancing distance, time, and fee structure helps you maximize your income.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

Every conference has rules about when you get paid if a game is canceled or suspended. Some pay a “show-up” fee if you arrive and the game is rained out. Others pay the full fee only if the game starts. Know the policy before you drive two hours in the rain.

How to Get Hired and Move Up

Register and Learn the System

Start by registering with the NCAA softball program and any local college assigning groups in your area. Complete required rules exams, video modules, and background checks. Read the rule book and mechanics manual. Learn how assignments are offered and accepted in your region.

Join a Local Association

Local and regional associations provide training, meetings, scrimmages, and a path to varsity high school and then college. This network is where coordinators look for new talent. Show up, ask questions, and be coachable.

Use Assigning Platforms Well

Most coordinators use online platforms for schedules and payments. Keep your calendar updated, block dates you cannot work, and respond promptly to offers. Late cancellations or no-shows can damage your reputation fast. Reliability is a big part of getting more games.

Seek Feedback

After games, ask partners or evaluators for one thing you did well and one thing to improve. Apply feedback immediately. Professional growth is obvious to coordinators, and it leads to better assignments and pay.

Attend Clinics and Camps

Clinics give you mechanics reps and a chance to be seen by assigners. Pick events known for placing umpires into the levels you want. If you aim for D1, invest in higher-level clinics when you are ready.

Negotiation and Money Tips

Know the Rate Sheet

Before you accept a game or series, ask for the written rates and policies. Look for: per-game fee, plate/base difference (if any), doubleheader structure, mileage, per diem, hotel coverage, cancellation rules, and payment method/timeline. Having the facts helps you compare offers and plan your season.

Confirm Travel Details in Writing

If you are driving a long distance, confirm who gets mileage and at what rate. If lodging is promised, ask how it is booked and whether you share a room. If there is per diem, clarify the amount and whether it is paid upfront or reimbursed.

Track Everything

Keep a simple log for each assignment: date, teams, location, partners, plate or base, fee, mileage, and when you were paid. Good records prevent missed payments and help at tax time. You can use a spreadsheet, notes app, or an officiating-specific tool.

Protect Your Calendar

Back-to-back long trips can drain you and reduce performance. Build in rest days if needed. A smaller number of well-paid, close assignments can pay the same as a scattered set of long drives when you factor in fuel and time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do college softball umpires get paid if a game is canceled?

It depends. Some conferences pay a show-up fee or partial fee if you arrive and the game is canceled due to weather. Others pay the full fee only if the first pitch is thrown. Always confirm the cancellation policy before accepting.

Do plate umpires make more than base umpires?

Sometimes. Many college softball conferences pay the same fee for plate and bases. A few still pay a small premium for plate. Check the specific rate sheet for your assignment.

Is softball pay lower than college baseball?

In many places, yes, but the gap has narrowed. Some conferences now pay similar rates for softball and baseball, especially at D1. Differences still exist by region and league.

Can I make a full-time living as a college softball umpire?

For most officials, college softball alone is part-time, seasonal income. The busiest umpires combine college with high school, travel ball, and other sports to create a larger officiating income. Only a very small group near the top with extensive travel and postseason opportunities approaches full-time earnings from officiating alone.

How fast can I move up to higher-paying levels?

It depends on your skill, availability, and evaluations. Some umpires rise quickly by investing in training and saying yes to tough assignments. Others take a few seasons to build trust. Focus on consistency, rules knowledge, communication, and fitness.

How long is a typical college softball workday?

A single game often consumes 4–6 hours door-to-door. A doubleheader can take 8–10 hours including travel. Build extra time for traffic, weather, and postgame duties.

Pros and Cons of College Softball Umpiring

Pros

– Meaningful part-time income in a sport you love
– Clear pathway to higher levels and postseason
– Travel opportunities and camaraderie with crews
– Skills that carry over to other sports and levels

Cons

– Seasonal income with weather risk
– Upfront costs for gear and training
– Nights, weekends, and travel away from family
– Independent contractor taxes and paperwork

Quick Ways to Increase Your Earnings

Work Doubleheaders and Short Trips

Two games in one location is a great way to boost income without doubling your drive time. Look for clusters of games you can string together over a weekend near home.

Be Available for Weekdays

Weekday afternoon games are hard to staff. If you can leave work early or have a flexible schedule, you will pick up more assignments and sometimes better rates.

Invest in Mechanics and Presence

Clinics and targeted feedback make you smoother and more confident. Coordinators notice. Strong mechanics and presence help you earn trust and premium assignments.

Network Professionally

Arrive early, communicate clearly, and support your crew. Respond quickly to coordinators and be a problem-solver. Reliability often leads to more games and higher-level opportunities.

Putting It All Together: What Can You Realistically Make?

Single-Game Only, Local Focus

If you pick up one local college game per week for 10–12 weeks at $150–$180 per game, you might gross $1,500–$2,100 for the spring, plus a bit more from scrimmages. This is a low-stress way to stay involved and earn supplemental income.

Weekend Warrior With Doubleheaders

If you hit 10–12 weekends with doubleheaders, averaging $160–$220 per game, your gross can land in the $3,200–$5,300 range, plus possible mileage. This is common for umpires balancing a full-time job and family.

High-Availability, Mixed Divisions

With weekday flexibility, a car ready to travel, and good evaluations, you could reach 40–60 games in a season with an average well above $200 per game. Many umpires in this category gross $8,000–$15,000 in the spring, before expenses and taxes. Postseason selections can push this higher.

Final Pointers Before You Start

Do a Personal Budget

Write down your likely game fees, expected mileage, gear costs, and clinic plans. Decide how far you will drive for a single game at a given rate. Make sure the math works for your goals.

Set Professional Standards

Have a crisp uniform, arrive early, and know the rules. Treat every game like an audition. Your reputation is your resume in college softball.

Stay Healthy

College softball is fast. Good fitness prevents injury and keeps your mind sharp late in games and long days. Hydration, stretching, and recovery matter more than people think.

Conclusion

So, how much money do college softball umpires make? For most, it is solid part-time income that ranges from a few thousand dollars to well into five figures over a season, with the best opportunities at Division I and in postseason play. Your actual number depends on where you live, how often you work, your experience, and how far you are willing to travel. Game fees are only part of the picture; travel pay, per diem, and covered lodging can make a big difference, and so can the costs of gear, training, and taxes.

If you are new, start with local college assignments, learn the policies, and build your reputation. If you aim higher, invest in clinics, ask for feedback, and be available for series that require travel. Over time, the combination of skill, reliability, and relationships will move you up the ladder. Whether you want a few games a month or a packed spring schedule, college softball umpiring can match your goals and pay you to stay close to a sport you love.