They’re not in the spotlight like players, but Major League Baseball umpires play a crucial role in every pitch, call, and inning. With intense scrutiny from fans, managers, and broadcast crews, the demands of being an MLB official are high — and the pay reflects that.

So how much do MLB referees (technically, umpires) make in 2025? Here's a full breakdown of earnings at the major and minor league levels, plus factors that affect salary and job longevity.

‍

MLB Umpires: Are They Full-Time Employees?

Yes. MLB umpires are full-time employees and part of a union — the Major League Baseball Umpires Association (MLBUA). They receive a salary, benefits, and are assigned to work games throughout the entire regular season and into the postseason (based on performance).

‍

How Much Do MLB Umpires Make in 2025?

As of 2025, the average salary for a full-time MLB umpire ranges from:

• Entry-level umpires: $150,000+ per year
• Veteran umpires: $250,000 to $430,000+ per year

The top-tier umpires with extensive postseason experience and seniority can earn well over $400,000 annually.

‍

Additional Compensation

On top of base salaries, MLB umpires may receive:

• Per diem stipends for meals and travel expenses
• Bonuses for postseason assignments (wild card, division series, LCS, World Series)
• First-class airfare and hotel accommodations during the season
• Retirement and pension contributions

Umpires selected to officiate playoff games can earn thousands of dollars per series, with World Series assignments offering the highest bonuses.

‍

How Many Games Do MLB Umpires Work?

A full-time MLB umpire works 120 to 140 games per season, traveling across North America as part of a rotating four-person crew. They move between home plate and bases to balance workloads.

In addition to regular-season assignments, the best-performing umpires are selected to work the All-Star Game and postseason, including the World Series.

‍

Minor League Umpire Salaries

Before making it to the majors, most umpires spend several years developing in the minors. The pay at this level is significantly lower.

2025 estimated ranges:

• Rookie/Short Season: $2,000–$2,500/month
• Class A: $2,500–$3,000/month
• Double-A: $3,000–$3,500/month
• Triple-A: $3,500–$4,500/month

Minor league umpires typically only get paid during the season (April to September), and most do not receive benefits unless contracted under special programs.

Advancing to the majors is highly competitive — only a small number of umpires make the leap each decade.

‍

How Long Is the Career of an MLB Umpire?

A successful MLB umpire can have a long-lasting career:

• Many remain active into their late 50s or early 60s
• Some officials have logged 30+ years of service behind the plate and on the bases
• Umpires are required to maintain fitness standards and pass evaluations to continue receiving assignments

Retirement packages for MLB umpires are considered strong, particularly for those with decades of service.

‍

Are Salaries Publicly Available?

While specific contracts are not typically disclosed in full detail, average umpire salaries and union-negotiated terms are often available through labor agreements and reports from trusted sports business outlets.

‍

Final Thoughts

Being a Major League Baseball umpire comes with pressure, travel, and scrutiny — but also with solid compensation and career longevity for those who reach the top.

As of 2025, MLB umpires are among the most well-compensated officials in any sport, reflecting the precision and professionalism their role demands at the highest level of baseball.