If you’ve ever spent a Saturday morning on the sidelines of a youth soccer game, you’ve probably noticed the person in the middle of the action: the referee.
Whistle in their hand, they’re always running up and down the field, keeping the game fair, and sometimes dodging a bit of sideline drama from parents or coaches.
Maybe you’ve thought, I could do that! Or perhaps, How much would I earn even if I wanted to?
Officiating youth soccer is not just about enforcing the game’s rules. It’s a unique side hustle that lets you stay connected to the beautiful game, be part of your community, and for you to also make some decent money while you’re at it.
Now that you are having a thought over it or just in need of flexible weekend work, becoming a youth soccer referee might be the perfect gig for you.
But how much does a soccer referee make?
Can you cover your weekend coffee habit for it, or could it make a dent in your monthly expenses?
Let’s break it down.
The Average Pay of a Youth Soccer Referee
As of December 2024, the average hourly pay for a youth soccer referee in the United States is $17.66. This rate can shift differently based on factors such as location, experience, league level, and even the age group you want to officiate.
Referees earn hourly wages ranging from as low as $7.21 to as high as $28.12. However, the majority fall between $14.90 (25 %) and $18.75 (75th %).
What does this mean for you?
If you’re just starting, you might earn closer to $14.90 an hour, but with experience and certifications, you could push toward the higher end of the scale.
To put this into perspective, most youth soccer games last between 60 to 90 minutes. With pre-game preparation and post-game activities (reporting scores), each game might effectively translate to about 2 hours of work.
That means a youth soccer referee, could earn anywhere from $30 to $56 per game depending on their hourly rate.
SEE ALSO | How Much Do College Soccer Referees Make?
Factors That Influence Referee Pay
As I mentioned earlier, not all youth soccer referee jobs are the same or earn the same. Your pay per game can fluctuate based on several key factors.
Location
Geography plays a huge role in determining pay. Some areas offer huge higher rates due to demand, cost of living, and league budgets.
For example, in Nome, Alaska, youth soccer referees earn an impressive $21.90 an hour, compared to the national average of $17.66.
Experience
Referees with years of experience or higher-level certifications can command better pay.
Entry-level referees might earn closer to the lower end of the range, while experienced referees could earn closer to $28 an hour.
Game Level and Age Group
Officiating a high-stakes tournament game for older players usually pays more than refereeing a recreational match for young children.
Older age groups often require more advanced refereeing skills, which leagues are willing to pay a premium for.
Game Duration
Some leagues may prorate pay based on game duration. Shorter games might pay less, while tournaments with multiple back-to-back games might pay a flat daily rate.
SEE ALSO | Best Youth Soccer Clubs In Miami, Florida
Top Cities for Youth Soccer Referee Salaries
If you’re looking to maximize your earnings, location matters as you’ve just read above.
Some cities pay above the national average, making them hotspots for youth soccer referees. Here are the top-paying cities for this job:
| City | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Nome, AK | $21.90 | $45,561 |
| Cupertino, CA | $21.79 | $45,313 |
| Mercer Island, WA | $21.63 | $44,981 |
| Berkeley, CA | $21.62 | $44,971 |
| Belmont, CA | $21.36 | $44,420 |
These cities offer higher wages, but you should know that the cost of living in places like California and Alaska can offset those gains.
If you’re considering a move to maximize your earnings, weigh the higher pay against the local cost of living, so you know where to tilt your choice to.
SEE ALSO | 10 Best Female Referees In Soccer History
How Do You Become a Youth Soccer Referee?
It starts with a hunch, maybe a spark of curiosity or a lingering thought.
Now you’re seriously considering it, wondering how you can step onto the field as a youth soccer referee. Before you grab that whistle and take charge of the game, here are a few things you’ll need to get started.
Certifications
Most youth soccer leagues require referees to be certified. The U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) offers referee training courses for different levels.
As a beginner, you’d start with the Grassroots Referee Certification, which covers the basics of the game and referee mechanics.
Physical Fitness
Soccer is a fast-paced game, and referees are expected to keep up with the action.
A good level of fitness is VITAL, as you’ll be running alongside players for the entire match.
Game Knowledge
Understanding the rules of soccer is non-negotiable. Beyond knowing the laws, you’ll need to apply them quickly and confidently during high-pressure moments.
Join Local Leagues
Contact local soccer organizations to find job opportunities. Many leagues are constantly looking for referees, especially during peak soccer seasons.
Climb the Ladder
With time and experience, you can work your way up to officiating more competitive games, which usually come with higher pay rates.
Is Youth Soccer Referee Worth It?
I am sure you’re wondering if officiating youth games as a side hustle is worth your time and effort.
Does it pay off, or will it just feel like another chore?
What I’d say is, as with everything in life, it’s all about passion. If you truly enjoy being out on the field, making calls, and being part of the game, it won’t feel like work at all, it’ll feel like something you genuinely love.
With that in mind, let me share a little of what you can expect.
The Pros:
- Flexible Schedule: Refereeing offers the flexibility to pick games that fit your schedule. It’s an ideal side hustle for students, teachers, or anyone with a passion for the sport.
- Stay Active: Instead of sitting behind a desk, referees stay on their feet and engage in a physically active role.
- Community Impact: Youth referees play a big role in encouraging sportsmanship and ensuring a positive experience for young athletes.
- Decent Pay for Part-Time Work: Earning $30 to $56 per game adds up quickly if you officiate multiple games over a weekend.
The Cons:
- Dealing with Pressure: Referees often face criticism from players, coaches, and spectators. It takes a thick skin to handle heated moments on the field.
- Physical Demands: Officiating multiple games in a day can be physically taxing, especially for those new to the role.
- Weather Conditions: Referees work rain or shine. Be prepared to officiate games in less-than-ideal conditions.
Can Refereeing Lead to Bigger Opportunities?
Officiating youth soccer can open doors to more lucrative opportunities in the world of sports. Here are some related roles and their potential earnings:
| Job Title | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Gym Supervisor | $26.90 | $55,952 |
| Sports Paramedic | $26.36 | $54,832 |
| Dodgeball Professional | $23.74 | $49,375 |
| Volleyball Referee | $20.93 | $43,539 |
| Professional Soccer Referee | $17.66 | $36,728 |
Some referees transition to officiating higher-level games or pursue roles like sports paramedics or gym supervisors, leveraging their sports experience for career growth.
SEE ALSO | Is Complaining to a Referee Legal in Soccer? The Basic Guide
How To Maximizing Your Earnings As a Referee
Want to make the most of your time on the field? Here are some practical tips:
Take Advantage of Tournament Days
Tournaments often require referees to officiate multiple games in a single day. These events are a great way to boost your earnings in a short time.
Network with League Coordinators
Building strong relationships with league organizers can lead to more game assignments and even higher-paying opportunities.
Invest in Professional Development
Attending advanced referee training or obtaining additional certifications can make you eligible for better-paying games.
Consider Travel Opportunities
If you’re willing to travel, some leagues in high-demand areas might offer travel stipends or higher pay rates to attract referees.
Conclusion
Refereeing youth soccer can be a fulfilling and financially rewarding part-time gig.
With hourly pay ranging from $14.90 to $28.12, referees can earn anywhere between $30 to $56 per game, depending on their experience and location.
