Major League Soccer’s salary landscape for the 2025 season reveals a widening gap between top-spending clubs and more budget-conscious teams. According to data released by the MLS Players Association, Inter Miami leads all teams in guaranteed compensation, shelling out an annualized $46.8 million, far surpassing the rest of the league.
Top-Spending MLS Teams in 2025:
- Inter Miami – $46.8M
- Toronto FC – $34.1M
- Atlanta United – $27.6M
- FC Cincinnati – $23.2M
- LA Galaxy – $22.9M
- LAFC – $22.4M
- Chicago Fire – $22.1M
- Nashville SC – $21.8M
- NY Red Bulls – $21.5M
- San Diego FC – $20M
The dramatic lead by Inter Miami reflects the club’s aggressive approach to signing marquee players, a trend intensified since the arrival of global superstar Lionel Messi in 2023.
Mid-Tier Payroll Teams:
- Portland Timbers – $19.6M
- FC Dallas – $19M
- St. Louis City SC – $18.1M
- Seattle Sounders – $18.1M
- Sporting KC – $17.7M
These clubs are investing at a competitive level while staying well below the top three’s massive figures.
Lower End of the Spectrum:
The bottom of the salary table includes several playoff contenders and traditionally strong teams:
- Montreal – $12M (lowest in MLS)
- Philadelphia Union – $13.4M
- Real Salt Lake – $13.4M
- Houston Dynamo – $13.4M
- Minnesota United – $13.8M
Despite their low spending, clubs like Philadelphia have consistently punched above their weight, focusing on homegrown talent and system efficiency.
Notable Observations:
- Eastern Conference clubs dominate the top of the spending list, occupying 7 of the top 10 spots.
- Expansion team San Diego FC enters the league with a substantial $20M payroll, indicating strong ambition right from the start.
- Several California-based clubs, including San Jose, LAFC, and LA Galaxy, rank in the top 20, reflecting the state’s costly player market and talent demand.
Conclusion:
The 2025 MLS payroll rankings reflect a league in transition—where some franchises are betting big on star power and global appeal, while others rely on development, strategy, and smart spending. As the season progresses, these numbers may offer insight into who’s getting the most value for their investment—and who’s falling short.
