How Much Do College Baseball Umpires Make?

College baseball umpire pay is significantly higher than high school, reflecting the greater experience and commitment required. Here are typical pay ranges by level of college baseball:

• NCAA Division I: Center umpires often earn $250–$500 per game. Base umpires earn slightly less, typically around $150–$300 per game.
• NCAA Division II: Umpires typically earn about $150–$300 per game.
• NCAA Division III & NAIA: These levels often pay in the range of $100–$200 per game for home plate.
• Junior College (NJCAA): Fees can vary, but generally around $100–$150 per game.
• Professional (MiLB): Minor league baseball umpires earn a salary (not per-game), roughly $2,000 to $6,000 per month during the season (depending on level, from Single-A up to Triple-A).

In addition to the base fee, college umpires sometimes receive per diems or travel expenses for road games. The biggest games (conference championships, NCAA regional tournaments, College World Series) often pay top rates and may include lodging allowances. In many cases, conferences have standardized fee schedules, so pay is consistent within a conference.

For example, an experienced NCAA Division I umpire working 40 games at $300 each could earn $12,000 for the season. Working postseason tournaments can add several hundred extra dollars per weekend. Because the college season spans spring and often summer, full-time college umpires (especially those covering summer leagues) can make a substantial income compared to high school officials.

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Factors Affecting College Pay

• Division and Conference: Higher divisions and power conferences typically pay more. A D1 SEC game might pay more than a D1 small-conference game.
• Position: Home plate umpires earn the most, as they call balls and strikes. Base umpires earn about 60–80% of the plate umpire’s fee.
• Experience: Veteran college umpires with proven track records often receive high-profile game assignments and, in some cases, slightly higher fees.
• Travel: Some conferences reimburse mileage or lodging for long-distance games, effectively increasing net earnings.

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Umpiring at the College Level

College baseball umpiring is often part-time but demanding. Most college umpires have other jobs (many are teachers, coaches, or work in baseball operations). Many collegiate officials also umpire in the summer leagues (wood-bat summer college leagues or minor league spring training) to increase their income.

Because college umpiring requires extensive travel and time commitment, officials at this level must balance it with their careers. Nevertheless, the per-game pay makes college umpiring financially attractive for skilled umpires who can commit the time.

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Example Earnings

College baseball umpires often work in conferences with set fee schedules. For instance, a Big Ten conference game might pay $300 to the plate umpire, while a Division II conference might pay $200. The earning potential depends on how many games you work. An umpire working 40 college games at an average of $250 per game (both plate and bases) could earn $10,000 in a season.

Some college officials also work summer college wood-bat leagues (like the Cape Cod or Northwoods League) where games pay similarly to college rates. This can increase yearly earnings. Additionally, college umpires might be paid for attending pre-season instructional camps run by their conference or NCAA, which adds to their income.

College umpires generally travel more than high school umpires, but often get paid travel stipends. For instance, a conference might pay 50 cents per mile, which can add significantly if you are traveling far. Schools sometimes provide hotel rooms for overnight trips, saving the umpire money on lodging. All of this makes college officiating more lucrative.

Experienced college umpires may also get assignments for postseason events (conference tournaments, NCAA regionals, and the College World Series). These assignments usually come with bonus pay and are prestigious. In 2025, a College World Series umpire might earn a few hundred dollars per game plus travel expenses.

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Comparing to High School Pay

The jump from high school to college umpiring is a big leap in pay. If a high school umpire earns $60 per game, and a college umpire earns $250 per game, working one college game equals about four high school games in pay. As a result, many umpires move up to college as soon as they can to increase their income.

College baseball umpiring offers a higher level of play and compensation. If you're serious about college umpiring, focus on improving your skills and gaining experience. Associations like the Home Plate Umpires Association can advise on training and opportunities. They help new officials navigate the path to college games. Understanding these pay scales can help you set realistic goals for your umpiring career.

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Ready for the Next Level?

Becoming a college baseball umpire is a significant step that requires dedication and experience, but the financial rewards are substantial. If you're looking to break into college officiating, Home Plate Umpires Association can offer guidance and resources. They can help you find advanced training and connect with experienced officials who can mentor you. Reach out to Home Plate Umpires Association to learn more about pathways to collegiate umpiring and how to maximize your earnings at each level!