The MLS salary cap for 2025 is projected to be in the range of $5.7 to $6.0 million per team, reflecting the league's continued growth in revenue from broadcasting deals, sponsorships, and attendance. The exact figure is set by the league and the MLS Players Association through collective bargaining.
The salary cap has grown significantly over the past decade. In 2015, it was $3.49 million per team. The new media rights deal with Apple TV, worth a reported $2.5 billion over 10 years, has provided additional revenue that supports cap increases. The league and players' union negotiate the cap as part of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which also sets minimum salaries, free agency rules, and other financial parameters.