Coaches and Scouts Salary Guide 2025: $47,320 Median, 6.4% Growth
The median salary for Coaches and Scouts in the U.S. is $47,320 per year, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That translates to roughly $23 an hour. The bottom 10% earn around $28,790, while the top 10% pull in $98,860 or more. With 248,950 jobs nationwide and a faster-than-average growth rate, this occupation offers a clear path for sports-minded professionals.
How much Coaches and Scouts earn
The national average (mean) wage for Coaches and Scouts is $60,160, but the median—the midpoint where half earn more and half earn less—is $47,320. Most salaries fall between $28,790 (10th percentile) and $98,860 (90th percentile). Pay varies widely by level: high school coaches typically earn less than college or professional scouts. Experience, sport popularity, and employer type also move the needle.
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. New Jersey tops the list with an average salary of $76,700, followed by Washington D.C. ($65,360), Louisiana ($60,960), Vermont ($59,990), and New York ($59,920). On the flip side, the lowest-paying states include Texas ($36,510), South Dakota ($36,360), and Kentucky ($35,570). That's a spread of more than $40,000 between the highest and lowest states.
- Highest: New Jersey ($76,700)
- District of Columbia ($65,360)
- Louisiana ($60,960)
- Lowest: Kentucky ($35,570)
- South Dakota ($36,360)
- Texas ($36,510)
How to become a Coach or Scout
Most coaching and scouting jobs require at least a bachelor's degree, often in sports science, physical education, or a related field. For high school positions, state teaching certification may also be needed. At the college or pro level, playing experience and a network of industry contacts are critical. Many coaches start as assistant coaches or graduate assistants. Scouts often begin as interns or entry-level evaluators. Certifications—like those from the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) or the United States Sports Academy—can boost credibility. Soft skills: communication, leadership, and the ability to evaluate talent under pressure.
- Earn a bachelor's degree (common fields: sports management, physical education, kinesiology)
- Gain experience through internships, volunteer coaching, or graduate assistantships
- Obtain state teaching license if coaching in public schools
- Build a network; many openings come through referrals
- Pursue optional certifications (e.g., NFHS Coach Certification)
Job outlook
Employment for Coaches and Scouts is projected to grow 6.4% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 41,800 job openings each year over the decade. Most openings will come from replacing workers who retire or leave the field. Growth is driven by expanding sports programs at all levels—high school, college, and professional—as well as increasing participation in youth sports.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for Coaches and Scouts in 2025?
The national median salary is $47,320 per year as of May 2023 BLS data. The mean wage is $60,160, or about $23 per hour.
Which state pays Coaches and Scouts the most?
New Jersey pays the highest average at $76,700, followed by Washington D.C. ($65,360) and Louisiana ($60,960).
What education do I need to become a Coach or Scout?
Most positions require a bachelor's degree, often in sports science, physical education, or a related field. High school coaches may need a teaching license. Playing experience and internships are highly valued.
Is the job outlook good for Coaches and Scouts?
Yes, projection shows 6.4% growth from 2024-2034, faster than average, with about 41,800 openings per year due to growth and replacement needs.
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 Coaches and Scouts data.