How Much Money Does A Golf Caddy Make?

Caddies for professional golfers make between $50,000-$100,000 and 5-10% of their golfer’s winnings on average. PGA Tour caddies earn between $1000-$3000 each week.

For lower levels, salaries look like this:

• Beginner or amauteur caddy: $15-$20 per hour
• A caddy with good golf experience:  $35-$40 per hour
• Top level non-professional caddies: $45-$50 per hour

Salary and Pay Rate

The salary and pay rate of a caddy will depend on the level of competition and experience of the individual. Caddies on the PGA Tour earn between $1,000 and $3,000 per week, and a percentage of their golfer’s winnings as well. If the pro golfer finishes outside of the top 10, the caddy receives five percent of the winnings; they receive seven percent if the pro finishes in the top 10, and ten percent if the pro wins. This allows caddies for top professional golfers to earn a lot of money. In 2006, star Tiger Woods’ caddy Steve Williams was estimated to have made $1.27 million.

At lower levels of golf, pay is much lower; for teens or amateur caddies, the rate will start somewhere between $15-$20 per hour. As the experience and knowledge of golf increases for a caddy, they will begin to earn around $35-$40 per hour. The best caddies, which are sought after by many club members, will earn the most outside of the professional leagues at around $50 per hour.

Salary Risks

Caddying for professionals can be a risky industry as you are technically self-employed. This means caddies have to pay higher taxes and do not receive any benefits from the PGA. There is also the risk of being fired by a pro golfer at any time for any reason.