How Much Do Jockeys Make?
Do Jockeys Make A Lot Of Money?
Jockeys can earn significant amounts, but their income varies greatly. Top jockeys in major races can win up to $100,000+ per ride.
However, most jockeys earn modest fees ($100-$500 per ride). Annual salaries range from $20,000 to $1 million+, depending on experience and success.
How Much Does A Jockey Make?
Jockeys' salaries vary greatly because they are paid based off of their performance.
Entry-level jockeys can earn $30,000-$50,000 annually. Experienced jockeys can make $100,000-$200,000 or more. Top-tier jockeys, like Kentucky Derby winners, can earn $1 million+.
How Are Jockeys Paid?
Jockeys are paid a fee for each race, typically ranging from $100 to $500 per mount. Winners receive a percentage of the purse, usually 5-10%.
Top jockeys may also earn endorsements and bonuses. Experienced jockeys can earn $200,000-$500,000 annually while leading riders can exceed $1 million in winnings.
What Is The Average Jockey Salary?
The average jockey salary in the US is around $60,000-$80,000 annually. According to the Jockeys' Guild, the average monthly salary is $5,000-$6,000.
Top jockeys can earn $200,000+. Entry-level and apprentice jockeys start at $30,000-$40,000. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and racing success.
How Much Does The Winning Jockey Make?
The winning jockey's earnings vary. Typically, they receive 5-10% of the winner's purse. For major stakes:
- Kentucky Derby: $60,000-$100,000+
- Triple Crown: $100,000-$200,000+
- Breeders' Cup: $50,000-$100,000+
- Grade 1 stakes: $20,000-$50,000+
Fees per ride also apply.
How Much Do Jockeys Make Per Race?
Jockeys' earnings per race vary depending on the race and finishing position respectively:
- Losing rides: $50-$200
- Winning rides: 5-10% of purse (avg. $500-$5,000+)
- Major stakes: $1,000-$10,000+
- Graded stakes: $500-$2,000+
- Allowance races: $200-$1,000
Plus, jockeys receive a mount fee ($50-$100) for each ride, regardless of outcome.
How Much Does A Jockey Make Winning The Kentucky Derby?
Winning the Kentucky Derby is a dream come true for jockeys, and it comes with a substantial payday.
The champion jockey takes home about 10% of the $5 million purse, which translates to around $310,000.
However, that amount is before taxes and other deductions, including a 25% tip to their agent and 5% to their valet.
After all the deductions, the jockey's take-home pay is significantly less, but still a handsome sum for just over two minutes of racing.
It's worth noting that the prize money for the Kentucky Derby has remained at $5 million since 2024, with the winner receiving $1.86 million, which is more than 60% of the total purse.
How Much Do Jockeys Make In The Kentucky Derby?
Kentucky Derby jockeys earn a minimum of $30,000 to $50,000 for participating. Winners can receive:
- 10% of the $3 million purse (approximately $300,000)
- Additional bonuses from owners and sponsors
- Mount fees
Top jockeys can earn upwards of $500,000 or more from a single Derby win. The prestige and financial rewards make the Kentucky Derby a pinnacle event for jockeys.
Who Is The Highest Paid Jockey Of All Time?
John Velazquez is the highest-paid jockey of all time, with earnings exceeding $415 million.
A Hall of Famer, Velazquez has won numerous prestigious races, including the Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, and Breeders' Cup.
His impressive career spans over 30 years, with over 6,000 wins and 4,700 places.
What Is Pat Day's Jockey Net Worth?
Pat Day is a renowned American jockey, inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 1991. His net worth is estimated to be around $20-30 million.
Day's impressive career spanned over 30 years, with:
- 4 Eclipse Awards for Outstanding Jockey
- 8 Breeders' Cup wins
- 5 Kentucky Derby runner-up finishes
- Over 8,800 wins
- Earnings of over $298 million in purse money
His success and longevity contribute to his substantial net worth.
