Sports Management Salary: How Much Can You Make?

Sports managers oversee the business side of the sports industry, managing budgets, scheduling events, hiring players and staff, and overseeing facilities. It can be a well-paying career, especially if you build strong industry connections or work with major agencies.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that sports managers earned a median annual salary of $84,900 as of May 2023, but top earners make significantly more based on experience, employer, and location.

Your salary can also be heavily influenced by what level of education you achieve. A bachelor’s degree in sports management and experience from an entry-level job can set you up for success. However, a master’s degree, such as a master of business administration (MBA), may open your doors to higher-paying leadership positions.

Read on for more information on how much you can earn as a sports manager and how to earn a raise.

Sports management salaries vary widely. According to the BLS, the lowest earners in this field make around $47,000 per year, while top earners bring in well over $200,000. However, the median salary hovers closer to $85,000.

The BLS projects that the number of management roles will grow faster than average for all occupations from 2023 to 2033 due to an increased number of new opportunities and professionals who leave the field. This suggests many opportunities for both new and experienced professionals.

Still, keep in mind that factors such as education and professional accomplishments play a significant role in salary potential.

Even if you have fewer years of experience compared to other candidates, having an advanced degree or hands-on experience can help you stand out amongst the pool of applicants. You can also increase your earning potential by specializing in high-demand areas, such as athletic administration or sports marketing.

Many factors can affect your salary as a sports manager, such as your employer, years of experience, and geographic location. BLS data shows that sports managers in Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey earn the highest average salaries in the nation. In Connecticut, for example, managers make an average of over $190,000 per year.

New and experienced professionals can raise their sports management salary potential by earning a graduate degree, gaining experience, developing soft skills, and getting certified.

Consider pursuing a master’s in sports management. This degree can help you increase your salary potential and widen your career opportunities.

Besides sports manager, some other jobs you can get with a master’s degree include athletic director and operations manager.

Gaining industry experience through and building a solid client base is key.

Start by landing an entry-level job. Your day-to-day responsibilities will teach you how to gain new clients, use social media effectively, and interact with sports communities.

With these experiences, you’ll acquire successful networking skills that will help you develop a reliable client base. Depending on your experience and interests, your clients may include individual athletes, teams, or leagues.

Soft skills such as communication, negotiation, critical thinking, and conflict resolution can impact your earning potential as much as your education and experience. These can help you network with potential clients and maintain important business relationships.

You can develop soft skills in online bachelor’s programs or graduate certificates. You’ll have the opportunity to put these skills into practice in class or during networking events and internship opportunities.

If you’re looking to level up your career, consider a professional certification, such as the one offered by the Global Association for Quality Management.

Additionally, if you want to be an agent for an organization such as FIFA or NFL, you might need to pass an industry-specific exam.

Sports agents are responsible for maintaining their athlete’s positive public image and maximizing their salary potential. Their duties include contract negotiation and press interaction, which requires exceptional communication and networking skills.

Secondary and postsecondary schools hire athletic directors to plan and organize athletic activities. Other responsibilities include budget planning, hiring staff, marketing events, and buying equipment. Top positions may require a master’s in sports management or many years of relevant experience.

Public relations specialists build and maintain a positive public image for individual athletes, teams, or athletic leagues. This role requires interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills that can be learned with a bachelor’s in public relations, communications, or a related field.