how much do nfl cheerleaders make

NFL cheerleaders typically earn around $150 per game, resulting in an average yearly salary of about $22,500. For example, in 2024, a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader made $15 per hour and $500 for each appearance. Cheerleaders can increase their earnings through public appearances, which pay $50 to $75 each. The Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders have recently received a significant pay raise — about 400% — for the 2025 NFL season. This means veteran cheerleaders with more experience could now be making over $75 per hour, a substantial increase from previous pay levels where some were earning as low as $7 per hour and $200 to $500 per game in earlier years. Despite the raise, cheerleaders are typically considered part-time employees, often holding other jobs, and generally do not receive health insurance through the team. This raise is seen as a major improvement in the financially challenging environment that NFL cheerleaders have faced for many years, especially considering their demanding schedules involving rehearsals, games, halftime performances, and appearances.