Negroes were paid pretty well. But most were never paid as much as white players. White players got paid about $100 to $200 more per month than most Negro Leaguers Players got paid. The total combined salaries of the Negro players jumped from $30,000 in 1919, to $75,000 in 1920. Monthly salaries in the 1920’s averaged about $230. The really good players got about $250 a month. During the Depression of the 1930’s, they fell to about $170. In 1937, when the Depression was over, Satchel Paige made about $350 a month. Josh Gibson was recognized as the highest paid Negro player. He played around 1940. His salary was estimated at $1,000 a month. Most players made enough for a living. If they wanted to earn more, they played in Cuba during the winter and fall.