Referee salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Referee in South Africa is approximately 134,939 ZAR (6,744 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Referee do?

A referee is an individual responsible for ensuring fair play and enforcing the rules in various sports and competitive events. They play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the game by making impartial decisions, resolving disputes, and penalizing rule violations. Referees must have a deep understanding of the rules and regulations specific to the sport they officiate, as well as excellent observational and communication skills. They need to make split-second judgments, often under intense pressure, while maintaining control over players, coaches, and spectators. Referees may work at different levels, ranging from local community games to professional leagues, and their duties may include managing the game clock, overseeing player substitutions, and assessing penalties. It is essential for referees to remain calm, objective, and assertive, as they are responsible for ensuring a fair and safe environment for all participants.

Skills: Sports, Officiating, Fair play, Rule enforcement, Decision-making, Conflict resolution
Job industry: Sports

How much does Referee make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Referee a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Referee is an averagely well paid job that still allows for some yearly savings. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Referee?

High salary for Referee would be somewhere between 148,433 ZAR and 195,662 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Referee in South Africa?

Living in South Africa the approximate monthly expenses are: 271 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 134,939 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 11,245 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 2,595 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 65 ZAR per hour
By working as Referee a person can save up to 291 USD per month or 3,490 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in South Africa, see costs of living in South Africa.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Referee

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in South Africa

Data as of 2025

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