Have you ever wondered how much does a pro bowler make? If you’re like me, you’ve probably imagined professional athletes raking in millions. While that’s true for football or basketball stars, pro bowlers live a different reality. Today, we’ll uncover the astonishing truth about professional bowling salaries, revealing how much these athletes really earn and whether this niche sport can provide a comfortable living.
The Basics: How Much Does a Pro Bowler Make?
The average hourly wage for a professional bowler in the U.S. is $21.15, based on recent data. While that might seem modest, many factors can impact a bowler’s income, from tournament winnings and sponsorships to geography and experience level.
Let’s break it down:
- Hourly pay range: $18.75 to $22.84
- Average annual salary: Approximately $44,000
- Top 10% of bowlers: Earn over $50,000 annually
So, how much does a pro bowler make at the elite level? Some top bowlers, like Jason Belmonte or Anthony Simonsen, can earn upwards of $200,000-$300,000 annually when you factor in sponsorship deals, endorsements, and exhibition appearances.
What Determines a Pro Bowler’s Salary?
1. Tournament Winnings
Pro bowlers earn a chunk of their income through PBA Tour events. Prize money can vary:
- Major tournament winners: $30,000 – $100,000+
- Smaller events: $5,000 – $10,000
2. Sponsorships & Endorsements
Big-name bowlers often land deals with ball manufacturers, apparel brands, and bowling centers. These deals can add thousands to their annual income.
3. Geographic Location
Cities like Nome, AK and Cupertino, CA offer higher average salaries:
- Nome, AK: $54,581 annually / $26.24 hourly
- Cupertino, CA: $54,284 annually / $26.10 hourly
These figures far surpass the national average, revealing how location can influence earnings.
4. Experience and Skill Level
Elite bowlers command higher payouts through consistent performance, higher rankings, and brand appeal.
Top 10 Highest Paying Cities for Pro Bowlers
| City | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Nome, AK | $54,581 | $26.24 |
| Cupertino, CA | $54,284 | $26.10 |
| Mercer Island, WA | $53,888 | $25.91 |
| Berkeley, CA | $53,875 | $25.90 |
| Sitka, AK | $53,005 | $25.48 |
| South San Francisco | $52,873 | $25.42 |
| San Francisco, CA | $51,839 | $24.92 |
| Edgartown, MA | $51,751 | $24.88 |
| Palo Alto, CA | $51,722 | $24.87 |
| Santa Clara, CA | $51,675 | $24.84 |
As you can see, how much does a pro bowler make can depend heavily on where they live and compete.
Best Paying Related Jobs in Bowling
While not every bowler reaches pro status, there are related jobs that can pay surprisingly well:
- AMF Bowling Employee: $56,946/year
- Bowling Mechanic: $51,613/year
- PBA Player (Lower Tier): $34,491/year
These roles can be stepping stones into the industry, especially if you’re passionate about bowling but not competing at a pro level.
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Real-Life Examples of Pro Bowler Salaries
Anthony Simonsen
- Earnings: Over $250,000/year
- Income Sources: Tournament winnings, Ball manufacturer sponsorships, appearances.
Jason Belmonte
- Earnings: $300,000+/year
- Notable Deals: Long-term contract with Storm Bowling, numerous PBA Tour victories.
These stars show that how much does a pro bowler make can significantly increase with skill, marketability, and success.
Women in Professional Bowling
Yes, women bowlers also make their mark on the sport. PWBA Tour players earn less than their male counterparts, but the gap is narrowing:
- Average annual earnings: $20,000 – $30,000
- Top female pros: Can earn $50,000+ with endorsements
Can You Get Rich Bowling Professionally?
Let’s be real. Unlike NBA or NFL stars, most pro bowlers don’t live in mansions. But, with the right skillset, sponsorships, and branding, top bowlers can enjoy financial success and a rewarding lifestyle.
Tips for aspiring pros:
- Build a personal brand on social media
- Network with sponsors and tournament organizers
- Diversify income with coaching or streaming
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FAQs About Pro Bowler Salaries
Q: How much does a pro bowler make in 2025? A: On average, $21.15/hour, or about $44,000 annually, with top pros earning much more.
Q: Do pro bowlers pay for travel and expenses? A: Yes, unless covered by sponsorships or the PBA Tour.
Q: Is bowling a full-time job? A: For top pros, yes. For others, it’s part-time or supplemented with coaching.
Q: How do pro bowlers increase their earnings? A: Through winning major events, securing sponsorships, and expanding their brand.
Final Thoughts
So, how much does a pro bowler make? The answer is nuanced. While not everyone strikes it rich, top pros can earn well over $100,000 annually. For most, it’s a blend of passion, skill, and hustle that fuels success in the lanes. Ready to aim for the pins? Now you know what’s at stake and the astonishing truth about pro bowling earnings.
