Most NFL cheerleaders earn relatively low pay, typically a modest part-time income rather than a full salary. Exact amounts vary by team, experience, and appearances.
Typical pay range
- Many reports put average game-day pay around a few hundred dollars per game, often in the ballpark of about $150 per game for many teams.
- When adding practice time and paid public appearances, a typical cheerleader might make roughly low-to-mid five figures over a full season, with many estimates clustering around a little over $20,000 per year for an “average” NFL cheerleader.
Factors that change the salary
- Team and market: High-profile teams in big markets sometimes pay more, and some have recently increased compensation significantly.
- Experience and role: Veterans, captains, or those in leadership roles can earn more per game and more for appearances, sometimes reaching much higher seasonal totals.
- Extra appearances: Paid events, promos, and sponsor work can add a significant amount on top of base game and practice pay.
Overall, most NFL cheerleaders treat it as a side job or passion role, not a primary source of full-time income.
