How Much Do Youth Baseball Umpires Get Paid?

Baseball is one of the most popular youth sports in the United States, and with thousands of games played each season, umpires are essential to keeping the game fair and organized. For many people, umpiring youth baseball is not only a way to give back to the sport but also a solid way to earn extra income.

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The Role of a Youth Baseball Umpire

Youth umpires are tasked with calling balls and strikes, monitoring plays in the field, enforcing rules, and ensuring that games are conducted in a safe, fair, and enjoyable manner. Beyond the mechanics of the game, youth umpires are also expected to manage young athletes, communicate with coaches and parents, and maintain composure under pressure.

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Average Pay Per Game

The amount youth baseball umpires earn depends on several factors, but most can expect to make $25 to $60 per game at the recreational level. Factors like age group and league rules influence whether the game requires a single umpire or a two-umpire crew, which also affects the pay.

• Lower age divisions (t-ball through coach pitch) often pay closer to $25–$35 per game, as games are shorter and less complex.
• Older age groups (majors, juniors, travel ball) may pay $40–$60 or more per game, especially when two umpires are on the field.

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Opportunities for Additional Income

Youth baseball umpires can also earn more by working weekend tournaments, where multiple games are played in a single day. These events can provide opportunities to officiate three to six games daily, making for a more lucrative weekend. Higher-level travel ball tournaments may offer rates above the local recreational scale, depending on the demand for officials.

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What Influences Umpire Pay?

Several factors play a role in determining how much a youth baseball umpire earns:

• Location – Umpires in major metropolitan areas or regions with higher costs of living tend to earn more.
• Experience – Veteran umpires with a reputation for fairness and accuracy often receive priority for higher-paying assignments.
• League or tournament type – Recreational leagues may pay less than competitive travel programs.

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Why Umpiring Youth Baseball Can Be Rewarding

While pay is important, many umpires emphasize the other benefits of officiating youth baseball. It’s a way to stay active, be part of the community, and contribute to the development of young athletes. For teenagers, it can also serve as a flexible first job, while adults may see it as a meaningful side income that keeps them connected to the sport.

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Final Thoughts

On average, youth baseball umpires earn $25 to $60 per game, with opportunities to earn more through tournaments and competitive leagues. The pay scale varies by region, age group, and experience, but for many, the rewards of being on the field go far beyond just the paycheck.

For those in Southern California interested in becoming part of the umpiring community, Orange Coast Baseball Group (OCBG) provides opportunities and support for new and experienced umpires alike.