Athletes, Coaches, Umpires, and Related Workers Salary 2025: $47,320 Median
The median annual pay for athletes, coaches, umpires, and related workers in the U.S. is $47,320, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $23 per hour. The middle 50% earn between $28,600 and $100,710, meaning top performers can pull in six figures while those just starting or in part‑time roles earn less than $29,000.
How much Athletes, Coaches, Umpires, and Related Workers earn
The BLS reports a mean annual wage of $67,610 for this broad group, which includes professional athletes, coaches, scouts, umpires, and other sports officials. The big spread between median ($47,320) and mean ($67,610) shows that a relatively small number of high‑paid professionals — think NBA or NFL players — pull the average way up.
Salaries vary widely by role and level. Head coaches in professional sports typically earn well over $100,000; umpires in Major League Baseball start around $150,000 and can exceed $400,000. By contrast, many youth coaches, high school officials, and minor‑league staff earn under $40,000. The 10th percentile is $28,600, reflecting part‑time or seasonal work common in this field.
Pay by state
Some states pay considerably more than others, but the BLS doesn't publish state‑level data for this broad category as a whole. However, separate data for coaches and scouts shows that the highest average salaries are in California, New York, and Texas, where major professional teams and large school systems are concentrated. Lower‑paying states tend to be rural areas like Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia, where fewer high‑level sports jobs exist. Wages also depend heavily on whether you work for a major league team, a university, or a local school district.
How to become Athletes, Coaches, Umpires, and Related Worker
Paths differ by specialty. To become a professional athlete, you typically need extraordinary talent, years of training, and often exposure through college or amateur competitions. Most pro athletes start very young and compete at high levels through high school and college. College athletes may go on to the pros, but only a tiny fraction make it.
Coaches usually need at least a bachelor’s degree in sports science, physical education, or a related field. Many start as assistant coaches or in youth leagues and work up. Certification is often required for high school coaching positions through state education boards. For umpires and referees, training programs and certification from organizations like the National Association of Sports Officials are typical; many start in youth or amateur leagues and advance to college and pro levels. Licensing requirements vary by state and sport.
Overall, this occupation is highly competitive, and many jobs are seasonal or part‑time. Networking and a willingness to relocate can be crucial for advancement.
Job outlook
The BLS does not project growth for this specific occupation, so long‑term trends are uncertain. However, growth is likely tied to the expansion of professional and college sports leagues, as well as youth and recreational sports participation. Competition will remain very strong for high‑paying roles in professional sports. Many positions, especially at the amateur level, depend on school budgets and local economic conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for athletes, coaches, umpires, and related workers?
The mean annual wage is $67,610, but the median is $47,320. Half earn between $28,600 and $100,710.
Do professional athletes make more than coaches?
Top professional athletes can earn millions, but the BLS median includes many lower‑paid workers. Coaches at major universities and pro teams often earn more than the median, while youth coaches earn less.
How do I become an umpire?
Typically, you need training through a recognized umpire school or association, and certification from a national or state body. Many start at youth and amateur levels before advancing.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Athletes, Coaches, Umpires, and Related Workers data.