The Ultimate Guide to a Golf Caddy's Salary: How Much They...

For many, the world of golf represents pristine green fairways, the quiet tension of a critical putt, and the pursuit of perfection. But walking alongside every great player, from the weekend amateur to the major champion, is a figure who is part strategist, part psychologist, part sherpa, and entirely indispensable: the golf caddy. If you've ever dreamt of trading a desk for a fairway, of making a living in the heart of the game you love, you've likely asked the crucial question: What is the real salary of a golf caddy?

The answer is far more complex and potentially more lucrative than you might imagine. A caddy’s earnings are not a simple annual salary punched into a payroll system. They are a dynamic blend of base fees, performance-based gratuities, and, at the highest level, a percentage of multi-million dollar tournament winnings. The path can lead to a seasonal income that supplements another career, or it can be a full-time, high-stakes profession with earnings that rival those of corporate executives. A caddy at a local municipal course might earn a few thousand dollars over a summer, while an elite PGA Tour caddy can clear over $2 million in a single year. According to data compiled from industry sources like *Golf Digest* and salary aggregators, a dedicated caddy at a private club can consistently earn between $50,000 and $100,000+ per year.

Years ago, as a teenager, I spent a summer caddying at a local club to earn some extra money. The biggest lesson I learned had little to do with yardages or wind direction; it was about understanding people. Learning to know when to offer advice, when to stay silent, and how to give a player confidence was a masterclass in emotional intelligence that has paid dividends in every professional role I've held since. This is the secret of the great caddies—they manage the person, not just the golf bag.

This comprehensive guide will pull back the curtain on the caddying profession. We will dissect every component of a caddy's income, explore the factors that separate the average earner from the top 1%, and provide a step-by-step roadmap for starting your own journey on the links.

### Table of Contents

[What Does a Golf Caddy Really Do?](#what-does-a-golf-caddy-do)
[Average Salary of a Golf Caddy: A Deep Dive](#average-salary-of-a-golf-caddy-a-deep-dive)
[Key Factors That Influence a Caddy's Salary](#key-factors-that-influence-salary)
[Job Outlook and Career Growth for Golf Caddies](#job-outlook-and-career-growth)
[How to Become a Professional Golf Caddy](#how-to-get-started-in-this-career)
[Conclusion: Is a Career as a Golf Caddy Right for You?](#conclusion)

What Does a Golf Caddy Really Do?

The classic image of a caddy is someone who simply "carries the bag and keeps up." This is a profound understatement and does a disservice to the skill and importance of the role. A professional caddy is a golfer's operational partner on the course, a one-person support system responsible for a wide range of tasks that directly impact the player's performance and enjoyment.

At its core, the caddy's role is to manage everything *but* the swing itself, freeing the player to focus solely on hitting the ball. Their responsibilities are both physical and intellectual, demanding stamina, acute observation, and excellent communication skills.

Core Responsibilities and Daily Tasks:

Equipment Management: This is the foundational task. It involves carrying a golf bag that can weigh 30-50 pounds for 4-5 hours over 5-7 miles of often hilly terrain. But it's more than just carrying. Caddies are responsible for keeping clubs clean, ensuring no equipment is left behind, and organizing the bag for quick access.
Course Navigation and Yardage Calculation: A caddy is a human GPS. They must know the exact distance from the ball to the hole, as well as to hazards like bunkers, water, and trees. This involves using laser rangefinders, reading sprinkler heads, interpreting yardage books, and accounting for elevation changes.
Strategic Advice & Course Management: This is where great caddies earn their keep. They advise the player on club selection based on distance, wind, and the player's typical shot shape. They help map out a strategy for each hole, suggesting ideal landing spots and warning against potential trouble.
Green Reading: Caddies are experts in reading the subtle slopes and grain of a putting green to help the player determine the correct line and speed for a putt. This skill alone can save a player multiple strokes per round.
Player Support and Psychology: A caddy acts as a coach and confidant. They are responsible for maintaining a positive and focused atmosphere, offering encouragement after a bad shot, and celebrating a good one. They learn their player's temperament and know exactly what to say (or not say) at critical moments.
Course Maintenance: Caddies are stewards of the course. They rake bunkers, replace divots on the fairway, and repair ball marks on the green. This shows respect for the game and the grounds crew.
Pace of Play: A good caddy helps their group maintain a proper pace on the course by being prepared, locating errant shots quickly, and having the next club ready for the player.

### A "Day in the Life" of a High-End Resort Caddy

To make this tangible, let's walk through a typical day for a caddy at a prestigious resort like Pebble Beach or Bandon Dunes.

6:30 AM - Arrival: The caddy arrives at the club's caddyshack well before their scheduled "loop" (round of golf). They check in with the Caddie Master, get their assignment for the day (which player or group they'll be with), and review any notes about the course conditions.
7:00 AM - Player Meet & Greet: They locate their player's golf bag, give it a final check, and stock it with water and a towel. They meet their golfer on the driving range, introduce themselves, and begin building rapport. They'll watch the player warm up, noting their tendencies, typical distances, and temperament.
7:30 AM - The Loop Begins: On the first tee, the caddy confirms the player's ball and provides the line for the tee shot. For the next 4.5 hours, they are in constant motion and communication: providing yardages, discussing wind, cleaning clubs, reading putts, and offering quiet encouragement.
10:00 AM - The Turn: After nine holes, they might grab a quick snack for the player, restock drinks, and offer a quick assessment of the first half of the round, setting a positive tone for the back nine.
12:30 PM - The 18th Green: As the round concludes, the caddy tends the flagstick for the final putts. After the handshake, they do a thorough wipe-down of all the player's clubs, ensuring they are spotless.
12:45 PM - Post-Round & Payment: The caddy walks with the player back to the clubhouse. This is often where the payment happens. The player will pay the caddy the "loop fee" plus a gratuity. A good caddy might use this time to talk about the highlights of the round, solidifying a positive experience.
1:00 PM - Second Loop or Day End: Depending on demand and their own energy, the caddy might check back in with the Caddie Master for a second loop in the afternoon. If not, they'll head home, having walked over 6 miles and engaged in intense mental and physical work, ready to do it all again the next day.

Average Salary of a Golf Caddy: A Deep Dive

Determining a single "average salary" for a golf caddy is challenging because, for most, it isn't a salary at all. The vast majority of caddies are independent contractors, earning income on a per-round basis. Their total earnings are a combination of a set fee for the round (the "loop fee") and a variable gratuity (the tip), which is based on the quality of their service.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not track golf caddies as a distinct profession. They are often grouped under the broader category of "Amusement and Recreation Attendants" (SOC Code 39-3091). In May 2022, the BLS reported the mean annual wage for this category as $32,010, or $15.39 per hour. However, this BLS data is not a reliable indicator for a dedicated golf caddy. It includes a wide array of lower-paying jobs like ride operators and locker room attendants and fails to capture the significant income from tips or the high earning potential at elite clubs and on professional tours.

To get a more accurate picture, we must break down the compensation by the type of caddying environment and rely on industry-specific sources.

### The Components of Caddy Compensation

1. The Loop Fee (Base Pay): This is the fixed amount a caddy receives for completing a round of golf (a "loop"). This fee is typically set by the golf club and paid either by the club or directly by the golfer. Loop fees vary dramatically based on the prestige of the course.

2. Gratuity (The Tip): This is the most critical and variable component of a caddy's income. It is a direct reflection of the caddy's performance, attitude, and the player's experience. A standard tip is often around 50-100% of the loop fee, but exceptional service can command much more.

3. Percentage of Winnings (Tour Caddies Only): For caddies on professional tours like the PGA Tour or LPGA Tour, this is the largest potential source of income. They earn a percentage of their player's winnings, which can be life-changing.

### Salary Brackets by Caddy Level

Here is a more realistic breakdown of potential annual earnings, pieced together from reports in publications like *Golf Digest*, *Forbes*, and data from caddy masters at various clubs. These are estimates and can vary widely based on the number of loops performed.

| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |

| Standard Private Club Caddy | Mid-Tier Private Country Club | $80 - $120 | $60 - $120+ | $40,000 - $80,000 |

| Elite Resort / Top-Tier Club Caddy | Pebble Beach, Bandon Dunes, Shinnecock Hills | $120 - $150+ | $100 - $250+ | $80,000 - $150,000+ |

Entry-Level (Youth/Beginner Caddy):

A young person caddying at a local club over the summer might complete 50-100 loops. At an average of $70 per bag ($40 fee + $30 tip), this translates to a seasonal income of $3,500 to $7,000. This is often a starting point and a way to learn the trade.

Mid-Career (Standard Private Club Caddy):

A full-time, experienced caddy at a busy private club in a temperate climate can be a very stable and rewarding career. These caddies, known as "A" caddies, are in high demand by club members.

Calculation: If an "A" caddy completes 200 loops in a year at an average of $200 per loop ($100 fee + $100 tip), their annual gross income is $40,000. If they are in high demand and can complete 300 loops (working 5-6 days a week for 8-9 months), that income rises to $60,000. Top earners at these clubs can push towards $100,000 by securing the best-paying members and working doubles.

Senior/Expert (Elite Resort Caddy):

Caddies at world-renowned public resorts are at the top of the non-tour game. Golfers travel from around the world to play these courses and expect top-tier service, and they tip accordingly.

Calculation: A caddy at a course like Bandon Dunes might have a loop fee of $130, with a *recommended* gratuity of $100-$120. Earning $250+ per loop is common. With a steady stream of tourist golfers, completing 300+ loops a year is feasible, putting their annual income well over $75,000 and potentially into the low six figures. According to a 2022 *Golf* magazine report, top caddies at these destinations can make $150,000 or more.

The Pinnacle (PGA Tour Caddy):

This is a different stratosphere. Tour caddies operate on a unique model:

Weekly Salary/Stipend: They receive a weekly salary from their player to cover travel and living expenses while on the road. This typically ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 per week, regardless of performance. This provides a base income of $75,000 to $150,000 per year.
Percentage of Winnings: This is where the big money is made. The industry standard, often called the "5, 7, and 10 rule," is:
5% of winnings if the player makes the cut.
7% of winnings for a top-10 finish.
10% of winnings for a victory.

If a player wins a standard PGA Tour event with a $1.5 million first prize, the caddy's share is $150,000 for that week alone. As reported by *Forbes*, caddies for top-10 players like Scottie Scheffler or Rory McIlroy can easily earn $1.5 million to $2 million in a successful season. For example, when Tiger Woods won the 2019 Masters, his caddy, Joe LaCava, likely received a bonus of over $200,000 on top of his regular salary.

Key Factors That Influence a Caddy's Salary

A caddy's income is not determined by a degree or a corporate ladder, but by a unique set of factors grounded in reputation, location, and performance. Understanding these variables is the key to maximizing earning potential in this field. This is the most critical section for anyone looking to make a serious career out of caddying.

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1. The Prestige and Type of Golf Club

This is, without a doubt, the single most important factor in determining a caddy's earning potential outside of the professional tours. The type of club dictates the loop fee, the tipping culture, and the number of available rounds.

Elite Private Clubs: Think Augusta National (home of The Masters), Shinnecock Hills, Cypress Point, or Pine Valley. These clubs have an ultra-wealthy membership that values and rewards top-tier caddying. Loop fees are high, but the gratuities are even higher. Caddies at these clubs are often career professionals who have built relationships with members over decades. Getting a job here is incredibly difficult and often relies on networking and a sterling reputation. Earning potential is at the very top end of the club caddy spectrum ($100,000+).
High-End Destination Resorts: This includes publicly accessible courses like Pebble Beach (CA), Bandon Dunes (OR), Whistling Straits (WI), and Pinehurst (NC). These clubs attract passionate "one-percenter" golfers on vacation who are willing to pay a premium for the full experience, which includes a knowledgeable caddy. These caddies are in high demand, and because the clientele is constantly rotating, there's always an opportunity for a new caddy to prove their worth. These resorts often have robust caddy programs and offer some of the most consistent and high-paying work available. Annual income here regularly falls in the $80,000 to $150,000 range.
Standard Private Country Clubs: This is the backbone of the caddying world. These clubs have a dedicated membership that plays regularly. Building a good reputation here is crucial, as members will start requesting you specifically. This leads to consistent work and better tips. The key is to become an "A" caddy who is always in demand. Earnings can range widely from $40,000 to $80,000, depending on the wealth of the membership and the length of the golf season.
Municipal or Daily-Fee Courses: These courses rarely have caddy programs. If they do, the fees and tips are significantly lower. This is often a starting point for teenagers or those new to the profession to gain experience before trying to move up to a private club.

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2. Geographic Location and Seasonality

Where a club is located directly impacts how much a caddy can work.

Year-Round Golf Climates: States like Florida, Arizona, California, and parts of Texas are caddy havens. The ability to work 10-12 months a year dramatically increases annual earning potential. A caddy at a top club in Scottsdale, AZ, can work far more loops than a caddy at an equivalent club in Chicago, IL.
Seasonal Climates: In the Northeast, Midwest, and Pacific Northwest, the golf season might only last from April to October. Caddies in these regions either need a second job for the winter or follow the seasons, working in the North during the summer and heading south to Florida or Arizona for the winter—a lifestyle known as "being a snowbird."
High-Paying Metropolitan Areas: Clubs located near major cities with high concentrations of wealth (e.g., New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco) tend to have higher loop fees and more generous tipping members, even if they are seasonal. A caddy at a prestigious club in the Hamptons on Long Island can earn a significant portion of their annual income in just a few summer months.

###

3. Experience, Reputation, and Caddy Ranking

In the caddy yard, not all caddies are created equal. Caddie Masters use an informal or formal ranking system to assign caddies to players. Your rank determines the quantity and quality of your loops.

Rookie/“B” Caddy: A new caddy learning the ropes. They are often given new guests or less-demanding members. Their focus is on mastering the basics: showing up on time, keeping the bag clean, and having a positive attitude.
Experienced/“A” Caddy: A caddy who has proven their reliability, knowledge, and skill. They have a deep understanding of the course, can read greens proficiently, and have excellent interpersonal skills. Members begin to request them by name. An "A" caddy gets first pick of the loops and works more consistently.
Honor Caddy: The top rank. This is a caddy with an impeccable reputation who is trusted with the club's most important guests, prospective members, and club champions. They command the highest respect and, consequently, the highest tips.

Your reputation is your currency. A caddy who is known for being positive, knowledgeable, and hardworking will always have work. One who is late, complains, or gives bad advice will quickly find themselves at the bottom of the list.

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4. The Pinnacle: Caddying on a Professional Tour

Breaking onto a professional tour (PGA, LPGA, Korn Ferry Tour) is the ultimate career move, transforming the job into a high-stakes, international business.

Getting a Bag: This is incredibly difficult and almost entirely based on networking. It often happens when a club caddy works for an aspiring pro who then makes it onto a tour, or through recommendations from other tour caddies or players.
The Player's Success is Your Success: Your income is directly tied to your player's ability to make cuts and contend for titles. Caddying for a player ranked 150th in the world is a grind, often barely breaking even after expenses. Caddying for a top-20 player is a multi-million-dollar enterprise.
Lifestyle and Expenses: While the income is high, so are the costs. Tour caddies are independent contractors responsible for their own flights, hotels, and meals week after week. This can amount to $50,000 - $80,000 per year in expenses that come directly out of their earnings.
Endorsements: Top tour caddies can also earn extra income through endorsements, often wearing a hat or carrying a towel with a sponsor's logo. This can add another $25,000 to $100,000+ per year for the most famous caddies.

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5. In-Demand Skills That Directly Increase Earnings (Tips)

The base fee for a loop is fixed. The path to a six-figure income is paved with excellent tips. These are the skills that make a golfer happy to pay a premium for your service:

Masterful Green Reading: Saving a player 2-3 putts per round with your reads is the fastest way to earn a reputation and a hefty tip.
Psychological Acumen: Knowing when to talk and when to be quiet. Understanding how to calm a player down after a bad hole or keep them focused during a great round.
Precise Yardages and Wind Assessment: Consistently giving your player the correct number and a confident club selection builds immense trust.
Unwavering Positive Attitude: Nobody wants to spend 4-5 hours with a negative or low-energy person. Enthusiasm, hustle, and a professional demeanor are non-negotiable.
Local Knowledge: Knowing the hidden bounces of the fairway, the spots to avoid, and the history of the course adds immense value to the player's experience.

Job Outlook and Career Growth

The future for golf caddies is a fascinating mix of tradition and technology, presenting both challenges and opportunities. While the BLS projects a 5% growth for the overarching "Amusement and Recreation Attendants" category from 2022 to 2032, the specific outlook for caddies is more nuanced.

### Emerging Trends and Future Challenges

The Threat of Technology: The proliferation of GPS watches, laser rangefinders, and detailed yardage apps in every golfer's pocket has led some to question the future need for a caddy's traditional distance-calculating role. This is the most significant headwind the profession faces.
The Rise of Golf Carts: At many clubs, the golf cart has become the default mode of transport, reducing the demand for traditional walking caddies who carry a bag.
The Counter-Argument: The Enduring Value of the Human Element: Despite technology, the demand for high-quality caddies at elite clubs and resorts remains incredibly strong. Why? Because technology cannot replicate the most valuable parts of caddying:
Reading the subtle breaks of a green.
Providing strategic advice based on a player's specific abilities.
Offering psychological support and companionship.
Sharing the rich history and stories of the course.

Top-tier clubs understand that a great caddy elevates the golfing experience from a simple game to a memorable event.

Growth in Golf Tourism: The "Bandon Dunes effect" has spurred growth in destination golf resorts that emphasize the walking-and-caddying tradition. As more of these resorts open, they create new pockets of high-paying jobs for professional caddies.
The Forecaddie: A growing trend is the use of "forecaddies." A forecaddie works for a whole group of four players who are riding in carts. The forecaddie walks ahead, spots all the tee shots, provides yardages, helps with club selection, and reads greens for everyone in the group. This model allows clubs to offer caddy services without eliminating carts and can be quite lucrative for the caddy.

### How to Stay Relevant and Advance in the Field

To thrive in the modern caddying landscape, one must focus on the skills that technology cannot replace.

1. **Become

The Ultimate Guide to a Golf Caddy's Salary: How Much They *Really* Make (and How to Become One)

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