How Much Does a Pro Golf Caddy Make in 2025?

By Sarah Miller · June 28, 2036

Professional golf caddies typically earn between $1,500 and $3,000 per tournament week, plus a percentage of their player's winnings—usually 5% to 10% for cuts and up to 10% for victories, resulting in annual incomes ranging from $50,000 to over $300,000 depending on player performance and tour level.

How Much Do Professional Golf Caddies Make?

The income of a professional golf caddy varies significantly based on the tour they work on, the success of the golfer they carry for, and their experience. While base weekly pay is standard, the real earning potential comes from performance-based bonuses. Top-tier caddies on the PGA Tour can make well over $200,000 annually, with some surpassing $500,000 in peak years when their player wins multiple events.

Breakdown of a Pro Golf Caddy’s Salary

A caddy's compensation consists of two main components: a guaranteed weekly stipend and a commission-based bonus tied to the golfer’s finish. This dual-structure ensures caddies are compensated even if the player misses the cut, but rewards them handsomely when the player performs well.

Weekly Wage vs. Performance Bonus

Weekly wage: Paid regardless of tournament outcome, typically $1,500–$3,000 per week on the PGA Tour.
Performance bonus: A percentage of the player’s prize money—5% for making the cut, 7% for a top-10 finish, and 10% for a win.
Tour differences: Caddies on the LPGA or European Tour generally receive lower base pay and smaller percentages.
Expenses: Caddies usually cover their own travel and insurance, so net income is less than gross earnings.

Income by Tour Level

Earnings differ across professional tours due to variations in prize pools and sponsorship. The PGA Tour offers the highest earning potential, while developmental tours like the Korn Ferry Tour offer more modest compensation.

Tour	Avg. Weekly Wage	Bonus Structure	Avg. Annual Income (Top 10 Caddies)
PGA Tour	$2,000–$3,000	5%–10%	$200,000–$500,000+
LPGA Tour	$1,500–$2,500	4%–7%	$80,000–$150,000
European Tour	$1,800–$2,800	5%–8%	$100,000–$200,000
Korn Ferry Tour	$1,200–$1,800	5%–7%	$50,000–$90,000

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The data shows a clear correlation between tour prestige and caddy earnings. PGA Tour caddies benefit from larger prize pools—often exceeding $8 million per event—which amplifies their 10% winner’s cut. In contrast, lower-tier tours have smaller purses, limiting bonus potential despite similar percentage structures.

Top-Earning Caddies in 2025

A select few caddies earn seven figures in exceptional years. These individuals work with elite players who consistently win or finish near the top.

Jimmy Johnson (Tiger Woods, previously): Earned over $400,000 in 2024 after Tiger’s comeback win.
Jonathan Smart (Rory McIlroy): Estimated $380,000 in 2025 from consistent top-10 finishes and one major victory.
Steve Williams (formerly with Tiger): At his peak, made over $1.2 million in a single year.

These figures highlight how closely a caddy’s income is tied to player performance. A single major win can generate tens of thousands in bonus pay alone.

Factors That Influence a Caddy’s Pay

Several variables determine how much a professional caddy earns beyond the basic rate.

Player Performance

The most significant factor. A caddy for a golfer who wins frequently will earn substantially more than one whose player rarely makes the cut.

Experience and Reputation

Veteran caddies with strong course management skills and player trust often command higher base wages and preferred employment.

Tournament Payout Size

Majors and signature events have larger prize pools. A 10% cut at The Players Championship ($20 million purse) yields far more than a regular tour event.

Contract Negotiations

Some caddies negotiate flat fees instead of percentages, especially with stable but non-winning players.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pro Golf Caddy Salaries

Do golf caddies get paid if the player misses the cut?

Yes, caddies receive a guaranteed weekly wage regardless of whether the player makes the cut. This typically ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 per week on the PGA Tour, ensuring baseline income even during poor performances.

How much does a caddy make when their player wins a tournament?

A caddy usually earns 10% of the winner’s prize money. For example, if a golfer wins $2 million at a PGA Tour event, the caddy receives $200,000 in addition to their weekly fee.

Who is the highest-paid golf caddy in 2025?

As of 2025, Jonathan Smart, caddying for Rory McIlroy, is among the highest earners, with estimated annual earnings exceeding $380,000 due to consistent high finishes and a major championship win.

Are caddies responsible for their own expenses?

Yes, professional caddies are independent contractors and must cover their own travel, lodging, insurance, and equipment costs. This can reduce net income by 15–25%, depending on the season’s schedule.

Do amateur or club caddies make the same as pros?

No, amateur or country club caddies typically earn $30–$100 per round, while professional tour caddies operate under structured contracts with weekly wages and performance bonuses, leading to much higher annual earnings.