How did Delta Burke go from a rising television star to a successful businesswoman with multiple income streams? Known for her role as Suzanne Sugarbaker in Designing Women, she has built her wealth through acting, business ventures, and real estate. But just how much is she worth today?
Beyond television, she has ventured into Broadway, film, and even launched her own clothing brand.
In this article, Ando breaks down Delta Burke net worth, her income sources, and how she manages her finances in 2025.
Delta Burke Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Delta Ramona Leah Burke |
| Popular Name | Delta Burke |
| Birth Date | July 30, 1956 |
| Age | 68 years (as of March 3, 2025) |
| Birthplace | Orlando, Florida, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Education | London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Gerald McRaney (m. 1989) |
| Children | Stepmother to Gerald McRaney’s children: Kate, Jessica, and Angus |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Jennifer Burke, Jonathan Burke |
| Parents | Jean Burke, Frederick Burke |
| Height | 1.65 m |
| Net Worth | Estimated $8 Million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Producing, Fashion Business |
What is the Net Worth of Delta Burke in 2025?
As of 2025, Delta Burke’s net worth is estimated to be $8 million. This figure includes her joint wealth with her husband, actor Gerald McRaney. She made her fortune through a successful acting career, business ventures, and real estate investments.
Compared to other TV stars from her era, Burke’s net worth is modest. While Dixie Carter, her Designing Women co-star, had a similar career trajectory, actors like Helen Hunt and Mel Gibson, who starred in What Women Want, have amassed significantly higher fortunes.
Related Personalities & Companies
- Gerald McRaney
- Dixie Carter
- Mel Gibson
- Annie Potts
- Linda Bloodworth-Thomason
- Broadway Theater Productions
- CBS Network
- Hollywood Industry
- Delta Burke Design
- Designing Women Production Team
Looking for more insights on the world’s wealthiest TV stars? Check out our list of the most successful celebrities in Hollywood.
Delta Burke Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Did She Build Her Wealth?
Delta Burke’s financial success started with her role in Designing Women (1986–1991). This role not only made her a household name but also secured her financial stability. After leaving the show, she ventured into Broadway, starring in Thoroughly Modern Millie and Steel Magnolias.
Beyond acting, she founded Delta Burke Design, a clothing company catering to plus-size women. The brand gained significant popularity in the late 1990s, contributing to her wealth. Additionally, her book Delta Style: Eve Wasn’t a Size 6 and Neither Am I added to her income.
What Are Her Primary Sources of Income?
Burke’s earnings come from multiple sources:
- Television Acting – Major roles in Designing Women, DAG, and Boston Legal.
- Film Appearances – Supporting roles in What Women Want and Sordid Lives.
- Broadway – Starred in Thoroughly Modern Millie and Steel Magnolias.
- Business Ventures – Founder of Delta Burke Design, a plus-size clothing brand.
- Book Sales – Published Delta Style in 1998.
- Real Estate – Owns properties in Studio City, New Orleans, and Telluride.
How Much Did She Earn from Acting?
Burke’s acting salary varied throughout her career. While she was a lead on Designing Women, she earned a substantial salary per episode. After her departure, her income from television roles fluctuated.
- Designing Women (1986–1991) – Peak earnings during the show’s prime.
- DAG (2000–2001) – Main role alongside David Alan Grier.
- Boston Legal (2006–2007) – Recurring guest role.
- Various TV movies and guest appearances also added to her income.
What Businesses and Investments Does She Own?
Delta Burke is a fashion entrepreneur. Her company, Delta Burke Design, catered to plus-size women and was highly successful in the late 1990s. Although the company is no longer as active, it significantly boosted her financial portfolio.
She also co-owns an antiques store in Mississippi with her husband, Gerald McRaney. The couple has made strategic investments in both fashion and real estate.
What Are Her Real Estate Holdings?
Burke and McRaney have invested in real estate over the years.
- Studio City, California – Purchased a $800,000 home in 2001, now valued at approximately $3 million.
- New Orleans, Louisiana – Additional property investments.
- Telluride, Colorado – Vacation home in a luxury ski destination.
Her real estate portfolio has significantly contributed to her financial stability.
What Financial Challenges Has She Faced?
Despite her success, Burke has faced financial and personal struggles. She was publicly criticized for her weight gain, which affected her career in Hollywood. Additionally, she was diagnosed with Type-2 Diabetes, leading to increased healthcare expenses.
Her compulsive hoarding disorder also led to excessive spending on storage units—at one point, she had 27 storage units filled with items. She later sought therapy to manage this issue.
How Has Her Wealth Evolved Over Time?
Burke’s financial journey has seen highs and lows:
- 1980s-1990s – Peak earnings from Designing Women.
- 2000s – Continued success in television, Broadway, and business ventures.
- 2010s-Present – Focus on real estate investments and occasional TV appearances.
While she no longer earns as much as during her Designing Women days, her real estate and past investments have secured her financial stability.
Conclusion
Delta Burke has built a diverse financial portfolio through acting, business, and real estate investments. While her earnings have fluctuated over the years, she remains financially secure.
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