Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $44,590 | $38,820 | +14.9% vs US |
| State Rank | #13 of 40 states | Top 20 state | |
| Employment | 2,830 jobs | 15,080 jobs | 18.8% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $33,420 | — |
| 25th Percentile | $35,340 | — |
| Median | $44,590 | — |
| 75th Percentile | $104,060 | — |
| 90th Percentile | $128,650 | — |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $44,590 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +47.1%, umpires, referees, and other sports officials are still in strong and growing demand.
How can umpires, referees, and other sports officials increase their salary in California?
Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: California currently ranks #13 out of 40 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Promoters of Performing Arts, Sports, and Similar Events | $108,100 |
| Elementary and Secondary Schools | $52,240 |
| Elementary and Secondary Schools | $49,340 |
How are Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials in California is $44,590, which is 14.9% above the national median of $38,820.