Lacrosse continues to grow at the high school level across the U.S., and with that growth comes increased demand for qualified officials. High school lacrosse referees are responsible for keeping the game fair, safe, and within the rules. But how much do they actually make in 2025?
Referee pay for lacrosse, like most school sports, varies based on location, experience, and assignment. Here’s a clear breakdown of what officials are earning this year—and what factors affect their compensation.
In 2025, most high school lacrosse officials are paid per game, not per hour. Rates vary by region and by the level of competition, but general ranges are fairly consistent nationwide.
Doubleheaders and games requiring travel can increase total earnings for a single day, though mileage reimbursement policies differ between leagues and school districts.
Most high school lacrosse games use a two-referee system, with both officials sharing responsibilities for calling penalties, tracking game flow, and managing player safety. In some areas with larger programs or high-stakes playoff games, a three-official crew may be used.
Pay is typically equal between officials, though lead referees for playoff games may occasionally receive a slightly higher rate depending on local rules or association policy.
As with most high school sports, geography plays a major role in pay scale. Referees in states with high school lacrosse traditions—such as Maryland, New York, and parts of New England—may see higher rates due to competition levels and demand.
In growing markets like the Midwest and West Coast, rates tend to be slightly lower but are gradually increasing as lacrosse becomes more widespread.
Some school districts or private leagues also offer additional bonuses or stipends for certified referees working high volumes of games during a season.
A typical spring season for high school lacrosse runs from March through May, with officials working anywhere from 2 to 5 games per week depending on their availability and assignment level.
That puts average seasonal earnings in the range of:
Officials who are certified in both boys’ and girls’ lacrosse can also increase their number of assignments, as the two versions of the sport are governed by separate rules and schedules.
To officiate high school lacrosse games, referees must typically:
Some states or associations also require background checks or CPR certification. Returning officials are often required to attend annual update meetings to stay current on rule changes.
Certification also affects eligibility for playoff games and better-paying varsity assignments.
Like other high school sports officials, lacrosse referees are usually classified as independent contractors, not school employees. This means:
Some referee associations offer tools for managing tax records and scheduling, but each official is ultimately responsible for their own logistics.
High school lacrosse referees in 2025 are earning anywhere from $60 to $110+ per game, with higher rates for playoff matches and experienced officials. For those looking for seasonal side income, it’s a rewarding way to stay connected to the sport while contributing to its growing presence in schools across the country.
As lacrosse continues to expand, especially in emerging regions, the demand for trained and certified officials is only expected to rise.
