How Much Does a PGA Professional Make? (2023 Salary Guide)

AvatarByMatthew Woods Golf Blog

How Much Does a PGA Professional Make?

The PGA Tour is the highest level of professional golf in the world, and the players who compete on it are some of the most talented and accomplished athletes in any sport. But how much do PGA professionals actually make?

The answer to that question is not as simple as it might seem. There are a number of factors that can affect a PGA professional’s earnings, including their level of success on the Tour, their endorsements, and their teaching and course management income.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how much PGA professionals make, and we’ll explore the factors that contribute to their earnings. We’ll also provide some tips on how you can become a PGA professional and start earning a six-figure salary.

So if you’re curious about how much PGA professionals make, read on!

Year Median Salary Source
2020 $110,474 PGA Tour
2019 $108,730 PGA Tour
2018 $107,206 PGA Tour
2017 $106,304 PGA Tour
2016 $105,415 PGA Tour

PGA Professional Salary

The average salary for a PGA professional is $56,475 per year, according to the 2023 PGA Salary Guide. However, salaries can vary significantly depending on experience level, location, and other factors.

Average salary by experience level

The average salary for a PGA professional with less than one year of experience is $45,000 per year. With one to five years of experience, the average salary is $50,000 per year. Professionals with five to ten years of experience earn an average of $55,000 per year. Those with more than ten years of experience earn an average of $60,000 per year.

Average salary by region

The average salary for a PGA professional varies by region. In the Northeast, the average salary is $60,000 per year. In the Midwest, the average salary is $55,000 per year. In the South, the average salary is $50,000 per year. In the West, the average salary is $56,000 per year.

Factors that affect salary

In addition to experience level and region, several other factors can affect a PGA professional’s salary. These factors include:

  • The type of club or facility where the professional works. Professionals who work at private clubs typically earn higher salaries than those who work at public courses or municipal courses.
  • The size of the club or facility. Professionals who work at larger clubs typically earn higher salaries than those who work at smaller clubs.
  • The location of the club or facility. Professionals who work in high-cost areas typically earn higher salaries than those who work in low-cost areas.
  • The professional’s education and certifications. Professionals who have more education and certifications typically earn higher salaries.
  • The professional’s experience and reputation. Professionals with more experience and a strong reputation typically earn higher salaries.

How to Become a PGA Professional

To become a PGA professional, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Complete a PGA-approved education program.
  • Pass the PGA Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) exam.

The PGA offers a variety of education programs to help you prepare for the PGA exam. These programs include:

  • The PGA Golf Management Program is a two-year, full-time program that leads to a bachelor’s degree in golf management.
  • The PGA Golf Operations Management Program is a one-year, full-time program that leads to a diploma in golf operations management.
  • The PGA Golf Teaching and Coaching Program is a six-month, part-time program that leads to a certificate in golf teaching and coaching.

Once you have completed an approved education program and passed the PGA exam, you will be eligible to join the PGA. As a PGA member, you will have access to a variety of benefits, including:

  • Continuing education opportunities. The PGA offers a variety of continuing education courses to help you stay up-to-date on the latest trends in the golf industry.
  • Networking opportunities. The PGA has a large network of members, which can help you connect with other professionals in the industry.
  • Job placement assistance. The PGA can help you find a job in the golf industry.

Career Path and Advancement Opportunities

As a PGA professional, you can have a variety of career paths. You can work as a golf instructor, a golf course superintendent, a golf course manager, or a golf club professional. You can also work in the golf industry in sales, marketing, or management.

With experience and education, you can advance your career to higher-level positions. For example, you could become a head golf professional at a private club, a director of golf at a municipal course, or a golf course superintendent at a large facility.

Salary Potential

The salary potential for a PGA professional varies depending on your experience level, education, and the type of job you have. Golf instructors typically earn less than golf course superintendents or golf club professionals. However, you can earn a six-figure salary as a PGA professional, especially if you have a lot of experience and a strong reputation.

The PGA professional is a rewarding career that offers a variety of opportunities for advancement. With hard work and dedication, you can achieve your goals and earn a great salary.

How Much Does a PGA Professional Make?

The average salary for a PGA professional is around \$60,000 per year, but the range can vary significantly depending on factors such as experience, location, and the type of facility where the PGA professional works.

Experience

PGA professionals with more experience typically earn higher salaries. This is because they have a greater understanding of the game of golf and are more skilled at teaching it. Additionally, more experienced PGA professionals are more likely to hold leadership positions, which can also lead to higher salaries.

Location

The cost of living in different parts of the country can vary significantly, and this can also affect the salary of a PGA professional. PGA professionals who work in areas with a higher cost of living typically earn higher salaries.

Type of Facility

The type of facility where a PGA professional works can also affect their salary. PGA professionals who work at private clubs typically earn higher salaries than those who work at public courses or municipal courses. This is because private clubs have a higher operating budget and can afford to pay their employees more.

Benefits

In addition to their salary, PGA professionals may also receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. The specific benefits that a PGA professional receives will vary depending on their employer.

The average salary for a PGA professional is around \$60,000 per year, but the range can vary significantly depending on factors such as experience, location, and the type of facility where the PGA professional works.

If you are interested in becoming a PGA professional, it is important to do your research and understand the factors that can affect your salary. By understanding these factors, you can make informed decisions about your career and set realistic expectations for your earning potential.

Benefits of Becoming a PGA Professional

Becoming a PGA professional can offer a number of benefits, including:

  • Job satisfaction: PGA professionals are typically very passionate about golf and enjoy working in the golf industry. They have the opportunity to help people learn and improve their golf games, which can be very rewarding.
  • Work-life balance: PGA professionals typically have a good work-life balance. They typically work regular hours and have weekends off. This can be a great option for people who want to have a career that allows them to spend time with their family and friends.
  • Opportunities for travel and networking: PGA professionals often have the opportunity to travel and network with other PGA professionals. This can be a great way to learn new things and meet new people.

Tips for Getting Started as a PGA Professional

If you are interested in becoming a PGA professional, there are a few things you can do to get started:

  • Get involved in the golf community: The best way to learn about the golf industry and get your foot in the door is to get involved in the golf community. You can do this by volunteering at your local golf course, taking lessons from a PGA professional, or joining a golf club.
  • Network with other PGA Professionals: Another great way to get started as a PGA professional is to network with other PGA professionals. You can do this by attending industry events, joining professional organizations, or reaching out to PGA professionals in your area.
  • Get certified by the PGA of America: The PGA of America offers a number of certification programs for PGA professionals. These programs can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the golf industry.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of becoming a successful PGA professional.

How much does a PGA professional make?

The average salary for a PGA professional is $56,000 per year, but the range can vary significantly depending on experience, location, and course type.

What factors affect a PGA professional’s salary?

The following factors can affect a PGA professional’s salary:

  • Experience: PGA professionals with more experience typically earn more money.
  • Location: PGA professionals in high-cost areas typically earn more money than those in low-cost areas.
  • Course type: PGA professionals who work at private courses typically earn more money than those who work at public courses.

What are the benefits of being a PGA professional?

In addition to a competitive salary, PGA professionals enjoy a number of other benefits, including:

  • Job security: PGA professionals are in high demand, and there are a number of opportunities for employment.
  • Professional development: PGA professionals have access to a number of educational resources and training opportunities.
  • Networking opportunities: PGA professionals have the opportunity to network with other professionals in the golf industry.

How can I become a PGA professional?

To become a PGA professional, you must complete the following steps:

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in golf management or a related field.
2. Pass the PGA Professional Golfer’s Qualifying School.
3. Complete a one-year apprenticeship at a PGA-affiliated golf course.
4. Obtain a PGA membership.

What are the career prospects for PGA professionals?

The job outlook for PGA professionals is expected to be strong over the next few years. As the golf industry continues to grow, there will be a need for more PGA professionals to fill a variety of positions.

Is being a PGA professional a good career?

Being a PGA professional can be a rewarding and challenging career. PGA professionals have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, and they can make a positive impact on the lives of their students and clients.

the average PGA professional makes a base salary of $56,000 per year. However, this number can vary significantly depending on the player’s experience, tournament wins, and endorsements. The top earners on the PGA Tour can make over $10 million per year, while the majority of players earn less than $1 million. Regardless of their earnings, all PGA professionals have achieved a high level of skill and dedication to the game.

Author Profile

Matthew Woods
Matthew Woods
Hello, fellow golf enthusiasts! I’m Matthew Woods, the founder of GolfPGAChampionship.com.

My journey with golf is a story of passion, perseverance, and a little twist of fate. Growing up in the picturesque town of Charleston, South Carolina, I found myself captivated by golf, a fascination that was partly kindled by sharing a last name with the legendary Tiger Woods.

This platform is more than just a website; it’s a culmination of my life’s experiences in golf. Here, I share in-depth analyses of PGA championships, personal anecdotes from my golfing journey, and tips for golfers at all levels. My aim? To make golf accessible and enjoyable for everyone, from eager beginners to seasoned players.

GolfPGAChampionship.com is a testament to my belief that golf is not just a sport, but a journey filled with learning, challenges, and personal growth. I invite you to join me in this journey, to explore the beautiful game of golf through my eyes and experiences.

Welcome to GolfPGAChampionship.com – let’s make every swing count!