Judy Woodruff has been a household name in journalism for decades, gaining recognition through her work with PBS NewsHour, CNN, and NBC News.
Over the years, she has covered major political events, moderated U.S. presidential debates, and played a pivotal role in shaping public broadcasting.
But how does her long and successful career translate financially?
In this article, Aupeo dives deep into Judy Woodruff’s net worth, her salary, and financial assets.
We’ll explore how she earns, how her financial standing has evolved, and what makes her career different from her industry peers.
Judy Woodruff Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Judy Carline Woodruff |
| Popular Name | Judy Woodruff |
| Birth Date | November 20, 1946 |
| Age | 78 |
| Birthplace | Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Education | Duke University (1966–1968), Meredith College, Academy of Richmond County |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Al Hunt (m. 1980) |
| Children | Three (Jeffrey, Benjamin, Lauren) |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | One sister, Anita |
| Parents | Anna Lee Woodruff, William H. Woodruff |
| Height | 1.57 m |
| Net Worth | $8 million (Estimated) |
| Source of Wealth | Journalism, Writing, Public Speaking |
What is the Net Worth of Judy Woodruff in 2025?
As of 2025, Judy Woodruff’s net worth is estimated to be $8 million. This valuation primarily comes from her decades-long career in broadcast journalism, her tenure as anchor and managing editor of PBS NewsHour, and past work with CNN and NBC News.
While this figure may not be as high as some network news anchors, it reflects the stability and longevity of a career in public television. Compared to other top journalists, her financial standing remains solid, particularly considering her contributions to serious news reporting rather than commercial entertainment-based journalism.
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Judy Woodruff Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Does She Earn From Her Journalism Career?
Judy Woodruff has worked across major news organizations like NBC, CNN, and PBS, each offering different salary structures. While NBC and CNN typically pay higher salaries due to advertising revenue, PBS operates as a publicly funded broadcaster.
During her tenure as the PBS NewsHour anchor, her salary was lower than top commercial TV anchors. However, public records suggest that high-profile PBS anchors can earn between $200,000 to $500,000 annually. While exact figures for Woodruff’s salary aren’t disclosed, her earnings have allowed her to maintain a comfortable financial position.
What Are Her Main Sources of Income?
Judy Woodruff’s wealth primarily comes from:
- Television Journalism – Anchoring, reporting, and editorial work.
- Books and Publications – Author of This Is Judy Woodruff at the White House.
- Public Speaking – Frequent speaker at media and academic events.
- Board Memberships – Serves on various journalism and media advisory boards.
Unlike many TV personalities who branch into business ventures or sponsorships, Woodruff’s income is strictly tied to journalism and media education.
How Has Her Financial Status Changed Over Time?
Starting her career at CBS affiliate WQXI-TV in Atlanta, Judy Woodruff moved up the ranks, securing positions at NBC News, CNN, and later, PBS. Her financial growth reflects:
- Early Career (1970s-1980s): Entry-level TV salaries, gaining financial stability at NBC.
- CNN Years (1993-2005): Higher salary, hosting Inside Politics and election coverage.
- PBS NewsHour (2013-2022): More consistent but lower earnings due to public broadcasting.
While she might not have experienced drastic salary spikes, her financial stability comes from a long and reputable career in journalism.
Does She Have Other Financial Investments or Assets?
Judy Woodruff owns two known properties:
- A residence in Washington, D.C.
- A waterfront home in Maryland
These properties reflect long-term financial security, as real estate often plays a significant role in journalists’ wealth management. However, she does not appear to have major business investments or endorsements like some media figures.
How Does She Compare Financially to Other News Anchors?
Compared to high-profile network news anchors like Anderson Cooper or Lester Holt, Woodruff’s earnings are lower. However, her net worth is in line with other respected journalists in public broadcasting, including:
- Jim Lehrer – Former PBS NewsHour anchor.
- Gwen Ifill – Co-anchor of PBS NewsHour.
- Margaret Warner – Longtime PBS correspondent.
Public television salaries are significantly lower than major network salaries, but they provide consistent income over long careers.
What Are the Financial Contributions She Supports?
Judy Woodruff has actively contributed to several causes, including:
- International Women’s Media Foundation – Supports women journalists globally.
- Spina Bifida Research & Support – Advocates for families affected by spina bifida.
- Journalism Education – Supports scholarships and mentorship programs.
Her philanthropic efforts reflect a commitment to journalism ethics and public service rather than financial gain.
Conclusion
Judy Woodruff’s financial standing is built on decades of credibility in journalism.
While her net worth isn’t as high as some network anchors, her financial stability, real estate assets, and ongoing contributions to journalism make her one of the most respected figures in the industry.
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