As college soccer continues to grow in popularity and competitiveness, the salaries of coaches have become an increasingly important topic of discussion. While Division 1 (D1) coaches often receive the most attention and highest salaries, it's important to understand how coaching compensation differs across the three NCAA divisions.

In this article, we'll explore the differences in college soccer coach salaries among D1, D2, and D3 programs, using the most recent data available.

Division 1 (D1) Soccer Coach Salaries

D1 soccer coaches typically earn the highest salaries among college coaches. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for coaches and scouts in colleges, universities, and professional schools was $45,860 in May 2021. However, this figure includes coaches across all sports and divisions.

Looking specifically at D1 men's soccer, the highest-paid coach in the 2020-2021 season was Sasho Cirovski of the University of Maryland, with a total compensation of $594,309, according to USA Today's NCAA Salary Database. Other top earners in D1 men's soccer for the same season included Bobby Clark of the University of Notre Dame ($352,089), Mike Noonan of Clemson University ($327,500), John Kerr of Duke University ($321,495), and Todd Yeagley of Indiana University ($313,000).

In terms of women's soccer, the highest-paid D1 coach in the 2020-2021 season was Erica Dambach of Penn State University, with a total compensation of $375,000, according to HeroSports.com. Other top earners in D1 women's soccer included Randy Waldrum of the University of Pittsburgh ($325,000), Anson Dorrance of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ($311,140), and Amanda Cromwell of the University of California, Los Angeles ($300,000).

Division 2 (D2) Soccer Coach Salaries

D2 soccer coach salaries are generally lower than those of their D1 counterparts. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for coaches and scouts across all sports in colleges, universities, and professional schools was $45,860 in May 2021. However, this figure does not provide a breakdown by division.

While detailed salary data for D2 soccer coaches is less readily available, it's estimated that the average salary range for D2 head coaches is between $40,000 and $60,000 per year. This range can vary depending on factors such as the school's budget, the coach's experience, and the team's performance. 

For example, according to the 2021 National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Salary Survey, the average salary for a D2 men's soccer head coach was $54,000, while the average salary for a D2 women's soccer head coach was $50,000. The survey also revealed that the highest-paid D2 men's soccer coach earned $110,000, while the highest-paid D2 women's soccer coach earned $95,000.

Division 3 (D3) Soccer Coach Salaries

D3 soccer coaches typically earn the lowest salaries among college coaches, as D3 programs do not offer athletic scholarships and often have smaller budgets compared to D1 and D2 schools. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for coaches and scouts across all sports in colleges, universities, and professional schools was $45,860 in May 2021, but this figure does not provide a breakdown by division.

Estimates suggest that the average salary range for D3 head soccer coaches is between $30,000 and $50,000 per year. However, many D3 coaches also have additional responsibilities, such as teaching or working in other departments within the college, which can supplement their income.

The 2021 NSCAA Salary Survey found that the average salary for a D3 men's soccer head coach was $41,000, while the average salary for a D3 women's soccer head coach was $38,000. The highest-paid D3 men's soccer coach earned $85,000, while the highest-paid D3 women's soccer coach earned $75,000.

Factors Affecting College Soccer Coach Salaries

Several factors can influence college soccer coach salaries, including:

1. Division level (D1, D2, or D3)

2. School budget and resources

3. Coach's experience and track record

4. Team's performance and success

5. Geographic location and cost of living

6. Additional responsibilities (e.g., teaching, administrative duties)

College soccer coach salaries vary significantly across the three NCAA divisions, with D1 coaches generally earning the highest compensation, followed by D2 and D3 coaches. While specific salary data for D2 and D3 coaches is less readily available, recent surveys and estimates provide valuable insights into the average salaries and ranges for coaches at each level.

In the 2020-2021 season, top D1 men's soccer coaches like Sasho Cirovski, Bobby Clark, and Mike Noonan earned salaries well above $300,000, while top D1 women's soccer coaches such as Erica Dambach, Randy Waldrum, and Anson Dorrance also commanded impressive salaries. D2 head coaches typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 per year, with the highest-paid coaches reaching six-figure salaries. D3 head coaches often earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, with some of the highest-paid coaches earning up to $85,000.

As college soccer continues to evolve and grow, it will be interesting to see how coaching salaries change across the divisions. Factors such as program success, school budgets, and the overall growth of the sport will likely play a significant role in shaping the future of college soccer coaching compensation. Aspiring coaches and those interested in the financial aspects of college athletics should stay informed about these trends and the potential opportunities available at each level of competition.

And before you go, take at look at this Highest Paid College Soccer Coaches: Who Tops the List?