Let’s be real for a second. When you see the Indianapolis Colts Cheerleaders on that field, all sparkles and high kicks, your first thought probably isn’t, “I wonder what their direct deposit looks like.” No, you’re more likely thinking, “How do they not trip in those boots?” or “I need that kind of energy on a Monday morning.” But here’s the thing—the question of money inevitably pops up. How much does a Colts cheerleader actually make? It’s a fair question, and the answer might surprise you more than a last-second touchdown.
The short answer is: it’s not a simple number. Unlike the players, who sign multi-million dollar contracts, the cheerleaders operate in a completely different world. Think of it like comparing the salary of a Hollywood star to the person who brings them their latte. Both are essential to the show, but only one is buying a yacht. For the 2024 season, a Colts cheerleader typically earns a stipend that averages between $1,200 and $2,000 per season. Wait—that’s for the whole season? Yes. Not per game, not per month. For the entire year of training, games, appearances, and community events.
Let’s put that in everyday terms. Imagine you took on a part-time job that required you to be in peak physical condition, memorize complex routines, and smile for three hours straight in freezing rain or blazing sun. Oh, and you have to pay for your own hair extensions, makeup, travel, and sometimes even your uniform. That $1,500 stipend? It barely covers the gas money and the dry cleaning. It’s like getting paid for a weekend side hustle, but with a much higher spotlight and a whole lot more glitter.
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It’s Not About the Check (But It Kind Of Is)
Most people assume the cheerleaders are swimming in cash from endorsements or TV appearances. The reality is far more humble. They are often students, teachers, nurses, or fitness instructors who treat the squad like a second job they’re passionate about. I once met a Colts cheerleader who was also a kindergarten teacher. She told me, “My third graders think I’m a superhero. They don’t care that I barely break even after buying new poms.” That’s the kind of heart we’re talking about.
So why do they do it? For the love of the game, the team, and the community. But also for the perks that aren’t on the paycheck. These women get free access to top-tier athletic training, professional development workshops, and networking opportunities that can launch a real career. It’s like paying for a masterclass in performance, confidence, and hustle—while also getting a tiny check. Think of it as the world’s most glamorous internship.
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The Hidden Costs of Looking Fabulous
If you think the stipend sounds small, wait until you hear about the expenses. Colts cheerleaders are responsible for their own hair, makeup, nails, and sometimes even alterations on their uniforms. We’re talking hundreds of dollars for a single game-day look. It’s like if you had to buy a new prom dress every week, but you also had to do a cartwheel in it. One former squad member told me she spent over $3,000 her first season just on “looking the part.” That’s more than double her stipend.
They also pay for travel to away games and cheer camps. The team covers some costs, but not all. So in essence, these women are investing in their dream. It’s a little like buying a pricey gym membership and then being thrilled when they give you a free water bottle. But here’s the secret—they don’t do it for the water bottle. They do it for the roar of the crowd and the chance to inspire little girls in the stands wearing their own tiny cheerleading outfits.
Indianapolis Colts Cheerleaders
Why You Should Care (Besides the Obvious)
You might be thinking, “Okay, but why does this matter to me? I’m just here for the nachos and the game.” Fair point. But here’s why it’s worth knowing: You are the boss. The NFL is a multi-billion dollar industry, and the cheerleaders are a massive part of the game-day experience. Their energy, professionalism, and athleticism are what make the sideline come alive. When you understand that they are often paid a fraction of minimum wage for their work, you start to see the bigger picture. It changes how you view that halftime performance.
It also sparks a conversation about value and fairness. Should someone who dances in front of 70,000 people, and appears on national TV, earn less than a parking lot attendant? Probably not. In recent years, cheerleaders across the league—including the Colts—have pushed for better pay and working conditions. And it’s working. Some teams now offer hourly wages, travel per diems, and even health insurance. The Colts have been praised for being one of the more progressive teams in this area, but there is still room for improvement.
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The Real Paycheck
At the end of the day, the financial numbers are a bit of a bummer if you’re thinking strictly dollars and cents. But the women who sign up know what they’re getting into. They trade a fat paycheck for something else: a once-in-a-lifetime experience, lifelong friendships, and a platform to make a difference. They do charity visits, host camps for kids, and become local celebrities in their own right. One cheerleader told me, “I make less per hour than the kid serving popcorn, but I get to be part of something that matters. That’s my real paycheck.”
So the next time you watch a Colts game, give a little nod to the women on the sideline. They’re not just waving poms—they’re juggling budgets, honing their craft, and showing up with a smile, even when the bank account is a little thin. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most valuable things in life don’t have a price tag. But also, maybe throw a little more cash their way, NFL. Just saying.
And hey, if you ever see a Colts cheerleader at the grocery store, don’t ask her how much she makes. Ask her how she does those high kicks without her knee popping. That’s the real magic.
