What Does an AHL Referee Make? Exploring the World of Hockey Officiating

Welcome to our blog post where we dive into the exciting world of professional hockey and take a closer look at the earning potential of AHL referees. If you’ve ever wondered about the financial side of being a referee in one of the most popular sports in North America, you’ve come to the right place. Along the way, we’ll also touch upon interesting topics like NHL pensions, Zamboni drivers’ salaries, and more!

Hockey referees play a critical role in ensuring fair play and maintaining the integrity of the game. But how much do they actually make for their efforts on the ice? In this post, we’ll not only answer that burning question but also explore the income of NHL referees, NBA refs, and even delve into the salaries of ECHL players. Plus, we’ll shed some light on the earnings of other officials involved in hockey, such as off-ice officials and scorekeepers. So, let’s get started and uncover the world of hockey officiating economics!

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What does an AHL referee make?

Being an AHL referee is no easy task. These unsung heroes of the hockey world play a crucial role in ensuring fair play and maintaining order on the ice. But have you ever wondered what they make for their efforts? Well, you’ve come to the right place. In this subsection, we’ll explore the intriguing world of AHL referee salaries and shed some light on what these zebras earn.

A Peek Behind the Stripes

You might be surprised to learn that AHL referees don’t make millions of dollars like their NHL counterparts. In fact, the average AHL referee salary usually falls in the range of $45,000 to $80,000 per year. Now, before you start picturing them living a life of luxury on a private island, it’s important to note that this figure can vary based on factors such as experience, skill level, and seniority.

Climbing the Ranks

Refereeing in the AHL is often seen as a stepping stone to the big leagues – the National Hockey League (NHL). As referees gain experience and prove their abilities, they may be promoted to work NHL games where the stakes are higher, both in terms of competition and paycheck. So while AHL salaries may not be sky-high, it’s worth considering the potential for growth and advancement in the officiating world.

Perks of the Job

While the AHL referee salary may not make them the next Jeff Bezos, there are some perks that come with the job. First off, let’s not forget the incredible opportunity to be a part of the exciting, fast-paced world of professional hockey. Referees get a front-row seat to all the action, witnessing jaw-dropping plays and the immense skill of the players firsthand.

But wait, there’s more! AHL referees also receive various benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and travel expenses. Plus, they get to interact with players, coaches, and other officials, forging connections and creating memories that last a lifetime. So, while their paycheck may not be on par with professional athletes, they do get to experience the thrill of the game up close and personal.

Putting It All into Perspective

While it’s natural to be curious about how much AHL referees make, it’s important to remember that money isn’t the sole motivation for their work. These individuals are passionate about the sport and genuinely enjoy being a part of the action. They strive to ensure fair play and contribute to the overall integrity of the game. So, let’s take a moment to appreciate the dedication and hard work of these zebras, even if their bank accounts don’t rival those of superstars.

So there you have it, a glimpse into the world of AHL referee salaries. While they may not be rolling in dough, these zebras play a vital role in the game we all love. So the next time you’re watching a thrilling AHL match, take a moment to appreciate the men and women in stripes who keep the game fair and make it all possible.

FAQ: What does an AHL referee make?

In this FAQ-style section, we’ll delve into some of the most burning questions related to AHL referee salaries and other intriguing tidbits in the world of hockey officiating. From the income of NHL referees to the glamorous life of Zamboni drivers, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s drop the puck on these FAQs and get into the nitty-gritty!

How much do AHL refs get paid

You might think that AHL referees have it made in the shade, but the reality is a bit more nuanced. As of 2023, AHL referees can expect to earn an average salary between $45,000 to $70,000 per season. Keep in mind that these figures can vary depending on factors such as experience, performance, and the specific league policies. It’s certainly not a small chunk of change, but don’t go quitting your day job just yet.

How much do ECHL refs make

If you’re curious about the salaries of ECHL referees, prepare yourself for some minor-league numbers. ECHL referees typically earn between $350 to $400 per game, which may not sound as impressive as the big leagues but still offers a decent paycheck for their efforts. Remember, everyone starts somewhere, and these zebras are the backbone of the lower professional hockey divisions.

How much do NHL refs make per game

Ah, the big leagues! NHL referees have the honor of officiating the most prestigious ice hockey games in North America, but how much bling do they bring to the rink? As of 2023, NHL referees earn an average rate of around $2,500 to $3,500 per game. With an 82-game regular season plus playoffs, those checks can pile up nicely. It just goes to show that blowing the whistle and skating backwards can be quite lucrative!

Do NHL referees get a pension

You bet they do! NHL referees are eligible to receive a pension plan, ensuring that their hard work on the ice pays off in the long run. The specifics of the NHL referee pension plan are not disclosed publicly, but it provides financial security and a retirement cushion for these dedicated officials. So, fear not, dear ref, your zebras will keep you comfortable in your golden years.

How much do NHL referees travel

As NHL referees crisscross the continent to officiate games, they become quite the seasoned travelers. During a regular season, NHL referees can log thousands of miles as they jet-set from city to city, bringing their whistle-blowing expertise to arenas across North America. Talk about the ultimate road trip!

What sport do refs get paid the most

When it comes to hefty paychecks for referees, it’s hard to beat the world of American football. NFL referees reign supreme in terms of compensation, with salaries ranging anywhere from $200,000 to $500,000 per season. It seems like those yellow flags are made out of pure gold!

Who is the richest hockey player of all time

If we’re talking about the wealthiest skaters to ever lace up their skates, none other than “The Great One” takes the crown. Wayne Gretzky, a living legend in the hockey world, has amassed a mind-boggling fortune throughout his career. His estimated net worth stands tall at an impressive $250 million. That’s a whole lot of Zambonis!

How much do NHL refs make during playoffs

The NHL playoffs are the pinnacle of ice hockey, and the stakes are high for everyone involved, including the referees. During the playoffs, NHL referees can earn even more than their regular-season counterparts. Each round of the playoffs brings an additional bump in pay, and many zebras can pocket an extra $2,500 to $7,500 or more per game. Talk about an incentive to call a fair game!

How much does a NFL ref make

Moving from ice to grass, let’s take a peek at the salaries of NFL officials. As mentioned earlier, NFL referees top the chart when it comes to earning potential. In recent years, the average salary for an NFL referee ranges from about $200,000 to $500,000 per season. That’s quite the motivation to avoid unnecessary roughness!

Do NHL refs wear pads

While NHL referees might not sport the same level of padding as the players, they do have some protection for those heated on-ice moments. NHL referees wear lightweight, flexible pads on their shins and elbows to mitigate the risk of injury from stray pucks or collisions. It’s not as flashy as a goalie’s gear, but hey, safety first!


As the puck drops on another exciting AHL season, the referees take center stage, donning their striped attire and enforcing the rules of the ice. While AHL referees might not quite reach the financial stratosphere of their NHL counterparts, they are an integral part of the game we all love. So, next time you watch a game, spare a thought for those zebras gracefully skating amongst the stars, keeping the game in check, and earning a living doing what they love.

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