GCSAA reports superintendents to see record salary increases in 2025

Golf course superintendents’ average annual salary has reached $121,238, according to the latest Compensation and Benefits Report from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). This marks a 10.6 percent increase from the previous report and continues a three-decade trend of consistent salary growth for professionals managing the nation’s golf courses.

Certified superintendents now average $138,303, up 7.4 percent from 2023. Assistant superintendents and equipment managers also saw notable gains, with average salaries rising to $62,184 and $68,154 respectively. These increases outpace the national average wage growth of 8.1 percent over the past two years, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

“Golf course superintendents and their teams are highly skilled professionals,” said Rhett Evans, GCSAA CEO. “They play an essential role in the success of golf facilities, and golf course owners increasingly understand that and are investing in them accordingly.” 

These compensation trends have important implications for the golf industry. Higher salaries may help attract new talent to key management roles, address labor shortages and reinforce the importance of professional development and certification. For golf facilities, investing in experienced superintendents can translate into better course conditions, improved customer satisfaction and stronger business performance.

As golf’s popularity remains steady, the demand for skilled course management professionals is likely to continue. The GCSAA’s biennial report underscores the industry’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding the expertise that keeps courses thriving.

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