As professional lacrosse continues to gain popularity, more people are curious about careers in the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL)—and how much professionals in the league actually earn. In 2025, PLL salaries have become more structured and competitive, offering promising opportunities for athletes, referees, support staff, and media personnel.
Whether you’re aiming to play professionally, work on the sidelines, or explore a related role such as a Peloton instructor or a test analyst, understanding PLL-related compensation is crucial. Here’s a detailed, SEO-friendly breakdown of salaries, job outlook, and how to maximize your earnings in or around the PLL ecosystem.
Average PLL Salary in 2025
In 2025, the average salary of a PLL player is approximately $35,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on the player’s role, experience, and endorsements. While this is modest compared to major leagues like the NFL or NBA, several factors, including sponsorships, media deals, and social media monetization, can significantly boost overall income.
Key Factors That Influence PLL Salaries
Several variables can impact how much someone earns in the PLL or affiliated roles:
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Experience and Tenure: Veterans often earn more due to proven performance and leadership.
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Position Played: Star attackmen and goalkeepers often command higher pay due to their visibility.
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Marketability: Players with large social media followings or personal brands attract endorsement deals.
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Team Success: Winning teams often receive bonuses and more media exposure.
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Location and Cost of Living: Those living in major markets may negotiate higher pay or receive extra housing stipends.
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Role in the League: Sideline referees, navigators, and analysts have different compensation packages.
Specific Roles and Salaries in and Around PLL
Here are some niche roles associated with PLL and their estimated salaries:
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Sideline Referee Salary (2025):
A sideline referee typically earns between $20,000 and $40,000 per season, depending on their level of experience and number of games officiated. -
Lead Navigator (Auxano or Similar):
Senior Lead Navigators in sports strategy firms like Auxano can earn $90,000–$120,000 annually, especially if working with major clients like PLL. -
Test Analyst (Latpen Test Salary):
QA/test analysts working on PLL’s tech infrastructure or apps could earn $75,000–$105,000 per year, based on expertise. -
Peloton Instructor with PLL Cross-Involvement:
Peloton instructors affiliated with sports leagues may see salaries of $103,000+, especially if they have strong social media or branded content collaborations.
What Does a $103K Salary Take Home in 2025?
A $103,000 annual salary typically results in a take-home pay of around $72,000–$78,000, depending on state taxes, deductions, and benefits. Here’s how it breaks down:
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Federal Income Tax: Approx. 22–24%
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State Income Tax: Varies by location (0% in states like Texas/Florida)
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Other Deductions: Healthcare, 401(k), etc.
This is a strong mid-tier salary that allows for comfortable living, especially outside of high-cost urban centers.
Salary by Experience
Experience Level | Role Example | Estimated Salary |
---|---|---|
Entry-Level | Assistant Media Tech | $35,000–$45,000 |
Mid-Level | Player with 2–5 Years | $60,000–$75,000 |
Senior-Level | Veteran Player/Coach | $80,000–$110,000 |
Executive-Level | Strategic Director | $120,000+ |
Job Market Trends in 2025
The demand for lacrosse professionals is steadily increasing due to:
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Growing Popularity of the PLL
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Increased Streaming Coverage
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Youth Sports Expansion
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Tech and Media Integration in Sports
Non-athlete roles—like performance analysts, media editors, and sports strategists—are expected to see job growth of 10%–15% by 2026.
Benefits and Perks
Many PLL professionals, both athletes and staff, enjoy:
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Health insurance
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Travel accommodations
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Performance bonuses
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Media exposure opportunities
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Access to coaching or mentorship programs
Certifications and Education Impact
While a formal degree isn’t required for every role, the following can increase salary potential:
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Sports Management Degrees
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NASM or ACE for Fitness-Related Roles
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Certifications in Data Analysis or Project Management
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Officiating Licenses for Referees
These credentials can lead to better pay, especially for staff roles or hybrid careers.
Final Thoughts
While the PLL might not offer the million-dollar contracts of other sports leagues (yet), it presents a viable and growing career path with diverse earning opportunities. Whether you’re a player, strategist, tech expert, or sideline pro, your experience, skills, and personal brand can significantly impact your salary.
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