How Much Money Do Professional Esports Players Really Make in 2024
As a gaming industry expert, I can tell you that esports player salaries vary significantly based on several factors. Top professionals can earn millions annually, while newer players might make $12,000-$60,000 per year. Let me break down exactly how much esports players make across different tiers and games.
The average salary for professional esports players typically ranges from $50,000 to $75,000 per year. However, this baseline doesn't tell the complete story.
Here's what top esports players make in different games:
League of Legends: $400,000-$2.5 million annually Dota 2: $100,000-$3 million annually CS:GO: $300,000-$1.5 million annually Overwatch: $50,000-$500,000 annually Fortnite: $100,000-$1 million annually
These earnings come from multiple sources:
Base salary from their team Tournament prize money Streaming revenue Sponsorship deals Merchandise sales
The biggest earners in esports history have made substantial amounts. Johan "N0tail" Sundstein, a Dota 2 player, has earned over $7 million from tournament prizes alone. Kyle "Bugha" Giersdorf won $3 million from a single Fortnite World Cup tournament.
Entry-level earnings are much more modest:
Tier 3 teams: $12,000-$24,000 annually Tier 2 teams: $24,000-$60,000 annually Tier 1 teams: $60,000-$150,000 annually
Geographic location also affects earnings. North American and European players typically earn more than those in other regions. For example, the average LCS (North American League of Legends) player makes around $400,000 annually, while players in smaller regions might earn less than $100,000.
Additional income streams can significantly boost earnings:
Popular streamers can earn $2,000-$10,000 monthly from subscriptions Brand deals can add $10,000-$500,000 annually YouTube revenue can contribute $1,000-$30,000 monthly
It's important to note that these earnings aren't guaranteed. Success in esports requires:
Exceptional gaming skills Consistent performance Strong work ethic Building a personal brand Networking within the industry
The esports industry continues to grow, with top player salaries increasing yearly. However, like traditional sports, only a small percentage reach the highest earning brackets. Most professional players earn moderate salaries while working to advance their careers.
For aspiring esports professionals, it's crucial to understand that earnings typically start low and increase with experience and success. The path to high earnings usually takes several years of dedicated practice and professional play.
Remember that these figures represent pre-tax earnings, and players often need to pay for their own health insurance and retirement savings, as these benefits aren't always provided by teams.