Major League Umpire Salaries

As one of the most scrutinized groups of professional sports officials, Major League Baseball umpires receive impressive compensation compared to other on-field officials. MLB umpires, however, have to pay their dues before making the high-income salaries in the majors.

  1. Minor League Compensation

    • Before reaching the majors, all umpires spend an average of 10 to 12 years calling games in the minors. An umpire's salary in the minors ranges from $1,800 to $3,400 per month, with no benefits, and they have to stay in extremely economical hotels when on the road.

    The Call-up

    • Before officially reaching the majors, umpires receive Major League experience by filling in for MLB umpires on vacation. Some umpires have worked more than 1,000 games as a replacement before officially joining the MLB umpire roster, comprised of 68 full-time umpires.

    Salary

    • The salary for a full-time, MLB umpire ranges from $120,000 as a rookie to about $350,000 for the most experienced umpires. Based on their 162-game schedules, the most experienced umpires average $2,160 per game in salary compensation.

    Benefits

    • Major League umpires receive full health benefits, as well as per diem for first-class air travel, hotels and meals.

    Comparison to Other Sports Officials

    • Major League umpires trump their counterparts in other sports. NBA referees typically earn $90,000 to $225,000. NHL referee salaries range from $115,000 to about $220,000. NFL referees have it the worst. Considered part-time officials, their salary ranges from $25,000 to $70,000 per season.