How Much Do Soccer Referees Earn in Kansas City?

Soccer refereeing in Kansas City can be a great way to earn extra income while staying involved in the game. Whether you're officiating youth matches, high school games, or competitive leagues, referee pay varies based on experience, game level, and league assignments.

If you're considering becoming a soccer referee, this guide will break down how much you can earn at different levels. Plus, if you’re looking for referee assignments in Kansas City, contact Christine at KC Soccer Officials to get started.

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Factors That Determine Soccer Referee Pay

Referee earnings in Kansas City depend on several key factors:

• Game Level: Youth games typically pay less than high school, college, or adult leagues.
• Experience & Certification: More experienced referees with advanced certifications earn higher pay.
• Game Duration & Competition: Longer and more competitive matches pay more.
• League & Assignor: Different leagues have varying pay scales based on their budgets.

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Youth Soccer Referee Pay in Kansas City

For those starting out, refereeing youth soccer is a great entry point. Here’s what you can expect to earn:

• Recreational Games: $20 – $40 per game
• Competitive Youth Leagues (Heartland, ECNL, NPL): $30 – $80 per game
• Assistant Referees (ARs): $20 – $50 per game

Most youth league games last 50-80 minutes, and referees can officiate multiple games in a single day.

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High School Soccer Referee Pay

High school soccer referees in Kansas City are certified through KSHSAA (Kansas State High School Activities Association). Typical pay rates include:

• Varsity Center Referee: $60 – $90 per game
• Varsity Assistant Referee: $40 – $60 per game
• JV & Freshman Games: $30 – $60 per game

High school games usually last 80 minutes, and referees are assigned by local officiating associations.

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Adult & Amateur Soccer Referee Pay

Kansas City has a thriving adult soccer scene, including recreational and competitive leagues. Pay rates for adult games generally range from:

• Recreational Leagues: $40 – $80 per game
• Competitive Adult Leagues: $60 – $120 per game
• Assistant Referees: $40 – $80 per game

Higher-level amateur leagues, such as UPSL or semi-pro leagues, offer increased pay based on competition level.

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College & Professional Soccer Referee Pay

For referees who advance through the ranks, college and professional assignments offer higher pay.

• NAIA & NCAA College Matches: $100 – $250 per game
• MLS Next & USL Academy: $75 – $150 per game
• USL & NWSL Matches: $150 – $400 per game

These matches require additional certifications and training, but they present significant earning potential.

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How to Maximize Your Soccer Referee Earnings

To increase your referee income in Kansas City, consider these tips:

1. Officiate Multiple Games Per Day – Many referees work back-to-back games on weekends.
2. Get Certified for Higher Levels – Higher-level games mean better pay.
3. Work Tournaments – Tournament weekends offer multiple games and higher payouts.
4. Stay in Shape – Being fit allows you to take on more demanding matches.

If you're looking to start refereeing or find more game assignments, connect with Christine at KC Soccer Officials to get matched with leagues and tournaments.

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‍Start Earning as a Soccer Referee in Kansas City

Refereeing soccer in Kansas City offers a flexible and rewarding way to make money. From youth leagues to professional matches, pay rates increase with experience and certification. If you're ready to start earning as a referee, contact Christine at KC Soccer Officials today to find games and begin your refereeing journey!