NFL referees in 2025 earn an average base salary estimated to be between $205,000 and $250,000 per year. This salary applies particularly to head referees, who lead the officiating crew. Other officials such as line judges, back judges, and umpires make slightly less, typically between $150,000 and $200,000 annually. They are paid a flat salary for the season plus additional per-game payments, which can range roughly from $1,000 to $12,000 per game depending on experience and position. For example, head referees may earn around $12,000 per game. Referees who work in the NFL playoffs receive a significant bonus for those games, nearly double their regular game payment, with playoff bonuses in the range of $3,000 to $4,000 per game or more. Officials selected for the Super Bowl can earn an extra bonus ranging from $30,000 to $50,000. NFL referees are considered part-time employees because they officiate only during the NFL season (typically August to February), but their pay reflects the importance and pressure of their role. Most still have other jobs outside of the NFL season. In summary:
- Average base salary: $205,000 to $250,000 per year
- Head referee salary: up to $270,000 per year
- Per game pay: $1,000 to $12,000+
- Playoff game bonus: ~$3,000 to $4,000+
- Super Bowl bonus: $30,000 to $50,000
These figures are based on the NFL's collective bargaining agreement and recent salary reports for the 2025 NFL season.
