Shepard Smith is one of the most recognizable faces in American journalism. Having spent over two decades at Fox News and later moving to CNBC, his financial journey is one worth analyzing.
How much did he earn during his career? What are his main sources of wealth? And how has his financial standing evolved over the years?
In this article, Aupeo dives deep into Shepard Smith net worth, his salary progression, and financial decisions that shaped his wealth.
Shepard Smith Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | David Shepard Smith Jr. |
| Popular Name | Shepard Smith |
| Birth Date | January 14, 1964 |
| Age (As of 02/25/2025) | 61 years old |
| Birthplace | Holly Springs, Mississippi, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | University of Mississippi |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Virginia Donald (m. 1987–1993) |
| Children | None |
| Dating | Giovanni Graziano (since 2012) |
| Siblings | Benton Smith |
| Parents | David Shepard Smith, Sr, Dora Ellen Anderson |
| Height | 1.8 meters |
| Net Worth | $30 million (estimated in 2025) |
| Source of Wealth | Journalism, News Anchoring, Media Contracts |
What is the Net Worth Of Shepard Smith in 2025?
As of 2025, Shepard Smith net worth is estimated to be $30 million. His primary earnings come from his long career in journalism, first at Fox News and later at CNBC.
During his peak, he was earning $15 million per year at Fox News, making him one of the highest-paid news anchors.
Compared to other top journalists like Anderson Cooper and Tucker Carlson, Smith’s net worth is substantial but not the highest in the industry.
His financial standing reflects his experience, tenure, and reputation in the media world.
Related People & Companies
- Fox News
- CNBC
- Anderson Cooper
- Tucker Carlson
- Brian Williams
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- Sean Hannity
- Bill O’Reilly
- NBC
- CNN
For more insights into wealthy TV personalities, check out the top-earning media figures.
Shepard Smith Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Does He Earn from His Journalism Career?
Shepard Smith’s earnings have evolved significantly over time. When he first joined Fox News in 1996, he was among the rising stars in media.
His financial success peaked in 2019 when he was making $15 million per year, one of the highest salaries in cable news.
At CNBC, his salary details have not been publicly disclosed, but it is speculated to be lower than his Fox News earnings. However, his years of experience and credibility allowed him to maintain a strong financial position.
What Are His Main Sources of Wealth?
His wealth is primarily built from:
- Long-term media contracts with Fox News and CNBC
- High-paying salary agreements over the years
- Real estate investments, including a $4.9 million condo in NYC
- Public speaking and appearances related to journalism and media
Unlike some TV personalities who venture into business, Smith has mostly stuck to journalism. However, his financial decisions have allowed him to remain financially secure post-Fox News.
How Did His Salary Evolve Over Time?
His salary has grown in phases:
- Early Career (1990s-2000s) – Started as a local reporter with modest earnings.
- Fox News Peak (2010s) – Earned up to $15 million annually.
- Post-Fox News (2020s) – Hosted The News with Shepard Smith on CNBC.
His contracts were multi-year deals, ensuring consistent income growth throughout his career.
Did Leaving Fox News Affect His Finances?
Leaving Fox News in 2019 was a major career move. His final contract was lucrative, and he exited with financial stability. However, shifting to CNBC likely meant a pay cut since CNBC’s budget for anchors is lower than Fox’s.
While his CNBC show was canceled in 2022, his industry reputation has allowed him to explore other financial opportunities.
What Financial Moves Has He Made Outside of Journalism?
Shepard Smith has made strategic real estate investments, including a Greenwich Village condo bought for $1.875 million and later listed for $4.9 million.
Additionally, he has donated to journalism-related causes, including a $500,000 contribution to the Committee to Protect Journalists. His philanthropy reflects his commitment to press freedom.
What Can Be Learned from His Financial Decisions?
His career showcases smart contract negotiations, long-term salary growth, and financial security. Key lessons from his financial journey:
- Long-term media contracts ensure stable income.
- Journalistic credibility plays a role in earnings potential.
- Real estate investments can provide additional financial security.
Shepard Smith’s financial decisions highlight the importance of strategic career moves and stability in high-paying industries.
Conclusion
Shepard Smith’s financial journey showcases how a long career in journalism can lead to significant wealth. His earnings from Fox News and CNBC, along with real estate investments and philanthropy, have shaped his financial success.
For more in-depth analysis of celebrity finances, visit Aupeo and explore the latest updates on media personalities’ wealth and careers.
