Baseball Umpire Salary

Baseball umpire salary is not as high as the salaries of a professional player, but it’s still a nice living for those who can stand on their feet for three or more hours each night and be constantly on alert for blazing fastballs that could strike them in the head. Becoming an MLB umpire requires years of rigorous training, including attending the MiLB Umpire Training Academy in Vero Beach, Fla. The academy is run by former Major and Minor League umpires who teach students the rules of the game, how to properly perform on-field drills and how to work a live game. Only a handful of trainees will eventually be selected to begin their career in the minors.

For those who are fortunate enough to make it all the way to the big leagues, the pay is even better. The MLB minimum starting salary is $120,000, while seasoned umpires can earn up to $350,000 in total compensation, including benefits, according to Career Trend. The top umpires in the league also get first choice when it comes to crew assignments and schedule selection during the regular season. Seasoned umps also receive bonuses for working the World Series and other postseason events.

As if that’s not enough, umpires in the big leagues enjoy nice per diems and first-class airfare from one location to the next for each of their games, according to the MiLB. This makes up for the long drives and nights in questionable motels many have to endure when they work a full 162 game season.