- Salary statistics
- Handball referee salary
Handball referee salary
Latest available salary statistics are for 2025. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.
28 500 - 40 800 SEK / month
Women earn 101% of what men do.
Pedagogiskt arbete
Related tools
Salary progression Handball referee
What does a handball referee do? – Tasks and work environment
A handball referee is responsible for leading and overseeing matches at various levels, from youth teams to elite leagues. Tasks include applying the rules, making quick and impartial decisions, and managing situations with players, coaches, and spectators. The referee must be constantly attentive, have good physical condition, and communicate clearly. The work environment is often dynamic and challenging, with matches that can be intense and require quick adjustments. Work is usually conducted in sports halls, sometimes involving travel to different locations depending on the match schedule and competition level.
Salary development over time
The salary for handball referees has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,300 SEK, increasing to 34 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has further risen to 36 900 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 4.8% over the three-year period. The driving factors behind this development include increased demand for qualified referees, growing interest in handball nationally, and efforts to improve working conditions and attract more people to the profession. The salary trend also reflects greater professionalism within the sport, where the referee role has gained more significance and status.
Handball referee salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 36 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 27,300 SEK/month (men), 28,000 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 39,000 SEK/month (men), 36,600 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage (average): 210 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 101% of what men do
- Regional differences: Data varies, but metropolitan areas tend to offer slightly higher salaries
Education and qualifications
To work as a handball referee, no university degree is required, but completion of referee training through the Swedish Handball Federation is necessary. The training includes both theoretical and practical components, focusing on rule knowledge and match management under supervision. Many start officiating at youth levels and progress to higher leagues over time.
- Referee training via the Swedish Handball Federation: Basic and advanced courses, usually 1–2 days
- Certifications: Ongoing education and license renewal required for higher levels
- Practical experience: Match officiating under the supervision of experienced referees
- Prerequisites: Often a background as a player or handball experience is recommended
- Tips: Engagement in a local handball club can facilitate entry into refereeing
Many referees develop impressive skills in handling stressful situations and communicating clearly, even during strong emotional outbursts on the court. These skills can be invaluable outside sports and are highly valued by employers in other industries.
Common benefits and compensations
Handball referees are often compensated for travel related to matches and sometimes receive per diems for away games. Some clubs or federations offer access to training facilities, further education courses, and mentorship opportunities with more experienced referees. Match fees vary depending on the level and geographic area.
Competition and challenges
The job market for handball referees is competitive, especially at higher levels where the number of matches and positions are limited. New referees often start at youth or district levels and work their way up through experience and training. One of the main challenges is managing criticism from players, coaches, and spectators, requiring mental strength and integrity. Physical endurance is also crucial, as handball matches are fast-paced, and referees must be constantly present. Working conditions can vary by region and club, and many referees combine the role with other employment.
Tips for aspiring handball referees
To succeed as a handball referee, it is helpful to have a strong sense of justice and decisiveness under pressure. Good communication skills assist in explaining decisions and managing discussions on the court, fostering respect from players and coaches. Flexibility is important, as matches may involve travel and varying working hours, and quick adaptation to different game situations is a valuable asset. Being attentive and detail-oriented makes it easier to interpret the rules correctly and act swiftly. Patience and a desire for continuous development are also essential, as the referee role requires both experience and ongoing training.
Key facts about handball referees
- Education level: Referee training via the Swedish Handball Federation
- Work environment: Sports halls and arenas, often during evening and weekend matches
- Work form: Part-time, extra work, or alongside other employment
- Demand: 434 available jobs within the profession according to the Swedish Employment Agency
- Special skills: Rule knowledge and good physical condition
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a handball referee, there are opportunities to officiate at higher series such as the Swedish Allsvenskan or Elitserien, and even participate in international tournaments. Some referees become instructors or trainers for new referees within the Swedish Handball Federation. According to the Swedish Employment Agency, demand remains stable with 434 available jobs, indicating good future prospects for those establishing themselves in the role. Long-term, experience as a referee can also open doors to leadership roles within sports organizations or federations.
Frequently asked questions about handball referees
- What does a handball referee earn?
- A handball referee has an average salary of 36 900 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and level. - What education is required to become a handball referee?
- Referee training via the Swedish Handball Federation, often combined with practical experience and ongoing courses. - Are there gender differences in salary for handball referees?
- Yes, women earn on average 101% of what men do within the profession. - What is the job market like for handball referees?
- There is strong demand, with 434 available jobs according to current statistics. - What are the main challenges in the profession?
- Managing stressful situations, criticism, and staying updated with rule changes are some of the main challenges. - Can you work full-time as a handball referee?
- Most work part-time or alongside other employment, but at the elite level, full-time positions can exist.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 110% | 28700 kr | 31100 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 33800 kr | 34400 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 38600 kr | 39200 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 40000 kr | 40500 kr |
| 55-64 | 111% | 38600 kr | 39000 kr |
| 65-68 | 40300 kr | 40600 kr | |
| Snitt | 101% | 36000 kr | 36900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 101% | 24700 kr | 28900 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 28100 kr | 31200 kr |
| 35-44 | 102% | 30600 kr | 33100 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 31600 kr | 33800 kr |
| 55-64 | 101% | 31600 kr | 33900 kr |
| 65-68 | 101% | 30700 kr | 32500 kr |
| Snitt | 102% | 27900 kr | 31100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 101% | 24700 kr | 28900 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 28100 kr | 31200 kr |
| 35-44 | 102% | 30600 kr | 33100 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 31600 kr | 33900 kr |
| 55-64 | 101% | 31600 kr | 33900 kr |
| 65-68 | 101% | 30700 kr | 32500 kr |
| Snitt | 102% | 27900 kr | 31100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 45-54 | 28800 kr | 29100 kr | |
| Snitt | 30100 kr | 31200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 31400 kr | 32600 kr | |
| 25-34 | 100% | 34600 kr | 34900 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 39600 kr | 39900 kr |
| 45-54 | 104% | 40800 kr | 41200 kr |
| 55-64 | 115% | 39600 kr | 39800 kr |
| Snitt | 101% | 37600 kr | 38000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 31400 kr | 32600 kr | |
| 25-34 | 100% | 34600 kr | 34900 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 39600 kr | 39900 kr |
| 45-54 | 104% | 40800 kr | 41200 kr |
| 55-64 | 115% | 39600 kr | 39800 kr |
| Snitt | 101% | 37600 kr | 38000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 110% | 26800 kr | 29100 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 33600 kr | 34200 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 40300 kr | 40800 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 39500 kr | 39800 kr |
| 55-64 | 111% | 36800 kr | 37100 kr |
| Snitt | 101% | 36000 kr | 36800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 101% | 24600 kr | 28800 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 27900 kr | 31100 kr |
| 35-44 | 102% | 29900 kr | 32800 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 31300 kr | 33700 kr |
| 55-64 | 101% | 31100 kr | 33700 kr |
| 65-68 | 101% | 30400 kr | 32300 kr |
| Snitt | 102% | 27300 kr | 30700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 101% | 24600 kr | 28800 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 27900 kr | 31100 kr |
| 35-44 | 102% | 29900 kr | 32800 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 31300 kr | 33700 kr |
| 55-64 | 101% | 31100 kr | 33700 kr |
| 65-68 | 101% | 30400 kr | 32300 kr |
| Snitt | 102% | 27300 kr | 30700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 34500 kr | 34800 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 41400 kr | 41600 kr |
| 45-54 | 104% | 40100 kr | 40200 kr |
| 55-64 | 115% | 37200 kr | 37400 kr |
| Snitt | 101% | 37600 kr | 37800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 34500 kr | 34800 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 41400 kr | 41600 kr |
| 45-54 | 104% | 40100 kr | 40200 kr |
| 55-64 | 115% | 37200 kr | 37400 kr |
| Snitt | 101% | 37600 kr | 37800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 110% | 29700 kr | 32200 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 34000 kr | 34500 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 37200 kr | 37900 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 40300 kr | 41000 kr |
| 55-64 | 111% | 40500 kr | 41100 kr |
| Snitt | 101% | 36000 kr | 37000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 101% | 24800 kr | 29000 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 28400 kr | 31400 kr |
| 35-44 | 102% | 31000 kr | 33300 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 31700 kr | 33800 kr |
| 55-64 | 101% | 31800 kr | 33900 kr |
| 65-68 | 101% | 31100 kr | 32600 kr |
| Snitt | 102% | 28300 kr | 31400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 101% | 24800 kr | 29000 kr |
| 25-34 | 101% | 28300 kr | 31400 kr |
| 35-44 | 102% | 31000 kr | 33300 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 31700 kr | 33900 kr |
| 55-64 | 101% | 31800 kr | 34000 kr |
| 65-68 | 101% | 31100 kr | 32600 kr |
| Snitt | 102% | 28300 kr | 31400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 45-54 | 28800 kr | 29100 kr | |
| Snitt | 30100 kr | 31200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 0 kr | 34000 kr | |
| 25-34 | 100% | 34700 kr | 34900 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 38000 kr | 38500 kr |
| 45-54 | 104% | 41300 kr | 41900 kr |
| 55-64 | 115% | 42700 kr | 42900 kr |
| Snitt | 101% | 37600 kr | 38100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 0 kr | 34000 kr | |
| 25-34 | 100% | 34700 kr | 34900 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 38000 kr | 38500 kr |
| 45-54 | 104% | 41300 kr | 41900 kr |
| 55-64 | 115% | 42700 kr | 42900 kr |
| Snitt | 101% | 37600 kr | 38100 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Handball referee has the SSYK code 3422, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
-
Fun Part-Time Job: Become a Jungle Gym Leader
Sports trainers and instructors etc.
Tue, 23 Jun 2026 - 22:37 -
Riding Instructor with Operational Responsibility – Hallstavik Equestrian Club
Sports trainers and instructors etc.
Tue, 23 Jun 2026 - 22:34 -
Coaches Wanted at IBK Dalen – From Youth to Elite Level
Sports trainers and instructors etc.
Tue, 23 Jun 2026 - 21:10 -
Football Instructor at Fotbollskul – The World's Most Fun Side Job!
Sports trainers and instructors etc.
Tue, 23 Jun 2026 - 01:29 -
Leader for Knatteskutt – The Most Fun Side Job for Kids!
Sports trainers and instructors etc.
Tue, 23 Jun 2026 - 01:27
Compare salary, work tasks and job outlook in adjacent occupations to find roles with similar skills or pay levels.
-
Average salary: 36 900 SEK/month • Pedagogiskt arbete
Sports trainers and instructors etc.
Compare with Handball referee
Wed, 24 Jun 2026 - 06:05 -
Average salary: 34 114 SEK/month • Pedagogiskt arbete
Professional athletes
Compare with Handball referee
Mon, 22 Jun 2026 - 14:30 -
Average salary: 36 800 SEK/month • Pedagogiskt arbete
Other educators with theoretical specialist competence
Compare with Handball referee
Wed, 24 Jun 2026 - 05:48 -
Average salary: 40 600 SEK/month • Pedagogiskt arbete
Other trainers and instructors
Compare with Handball referee
Wed, 24 Jun 2026 - 12:10 -
Teacher, children and leisure program salary
Average salary: 43 100 SEK/month • Pedagogiskt arbete
Vocational subject teachers
Compare with Handball referee
Wed, 24 Jun 2026 - 03:19 -
Average salary: 47 600 SEK/month • Pedagogiskt arbete
Special education teachers and special educators etc.
Compare with Handball referee
Wed, 24 Jun 2026 - 11:44