How Much Do NFL Referees Make?

NFL referees earn an average salary of approximately $205,000 per year as of the 2025-2026 season. This figure has grown significantly over the past decade, reflecting the increasing demands and scrutiny placed on NFL officials.

NFL Referee Salary Breakdown

PositionAverage SalaryPer Game
Referee (White Hat)$250,000$14,700
Umpire$200,000$11,765
Down Judge$195,000$11,470
Line Judge$195,000$11,470
Back Judge$190,000$11,176
Side Judge$190,000$11,176
Field Judge$190,000$11,176

Super Bowl Referee Pay

Referees selected for the Super Bowl receive a significant bonus. The head referee typically earns an additional $50,000 to $60,000 for officiating the championship game. Other crew members receive bonuses ranging from $30,000 to $40,000.

How NFL Referee Pay Has Changed

Before the 2012 referee lockout and subsequent collective bargaining agreement, NFL officials earned considerably less. The new CBA brought significant salary increases and converted officials from independent contractors to employees with benefits.

NFL referees also receive a pension plan, 401(k) matching, and travel expense coverage for all away games.

Is Being an NFL Referee a Full-Time Job?

Technically, NFL referees are classified as part-time employees. However, the role demands year-round preparation including:

  • Offseason training camps and clinics
  • Film study and rules examinations
  • Physical fitness requirements
  • Preseason games (which are also compensated)

Many NFL referees maintain separate full-time careers in addition to their officiating duties. For example, several current referees are attorneys, educators, or business executives.

Playoff Referee Pay

Officials selected for playoff games receive additional per-game compensation above their regular season pay. Playoff assignments are considered prestigious and are given based on regular-season performance ratings.