Geraldo Rivera net worth has been a topic of interest for years, given his long-standing career in journalism and television. As a lawyer-turned-broadcaster, he has built his wealth through multiple income streams, including news reporting, hosting talk shows, and writing books.
His financial journey spans decades, from exposing social injustices to covering wars and even competing in reality TV.
Beyond his work at Fox News, CNBC, and NewsNation, Rivera has made smart financial moves, investing in real estate and diversifying his income. But how does his salary compare to his peers?
And what are his most lucrative ventures? Let’s take a closer look at his financial success and earnings.
Geraldo Rivera Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Gerald Rivera |
| Popular Name | Geraldo Rivera |
| Birth Date | July 4, 1943 |
| Age (as of 02/21/2025) | 81 years |
| Birthplace | New York City, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Puerto Rican (father), Ashkenazi Jewish (mother) |
| Education | University of Arizona, Brooklyn Law School |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Erica Michelle Levy (since 2003) |
| Children | 5 |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Irene Rivera, Sharon Rivera, Craig Rivera |
| Parents | Lillian Friedman, Cruz Rivera |
| Height | 5 ft 9½ in (1.77 m) |
| Net Worth | $20 million |
| Source of Wealth | Journalism, TV hosting, Book sales, Real estate |
What is the Net Worth Of Geraldo Rivera in 2025?
As of 2025, Geraldo Rivera net worth is estimated at $20 million. This wealth is primarily derived from his decades-long career as a television host, journalist, and author. His work on Fox News, CNBC, and various other networks significantly contributed to his earnings.
Compared to other media personalities, Rivera’s net worth is substantial but not as high as Sean Hannity or Anderson Cooper, who have earned more from long-term contracts and production deals. However, his diversified investments in real estate and book sales have helped maintain his financial stability.
Related People
- Fox News
- CNBC
- NewsNation
- The Celebrity Apprentice
- The Five
- Brooklyn Law School
- University of Arizona
- Peabody Award
- Rivera Live
- Al Capone’s Vaults
Want to see how Rivera stacks up against other wealthiest media personalities?
Geraldo Rivera Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How He Built His Wealth and Financial Success
Geraldo Rivera’s financial success didn’t happen overnight. His career began in law, but his transition into journalism marked a turning point. After winning a Peabody Award for exposing abuse at Willowbrook State School, his reputation skyrocketed, leading to roles at ABC, Fox News, and CNBC.
His talk show Geraldo ran for 11 years, generating significant income. Later, he became a war correspondent, covering Iraq and Afghanistan, which increased his credibility and financial worth. His earnings also come from guest appearances, books, and investments.
His Salary and Earnings Over the Years
At the peak of his career, Rivera earned $4 million per year from Fox News before leaving the network in 2023. While his current earnings are undisclosed, his long-term contracts and consultancy work continue to bring in revenue.
Geraldo Rivera has also published multiple books, including Exposing Myself and The Geraldo Show, which contribute to his passive income.
Investments and Financial Portfolio
Rivera has been strategic with his money, investing in high-value properties and financial assets. His real estate portfolio includes:
- A $2.8 million mansion in Cleveland
- A luxury waterfront home in Edgewater, NJ (previously listed at $3.75M)
- Former ownership of a NYC apartment sold for $6.1 million
In addition, his sailing hobby has led to participation in international yacht races, which might not be a direct financial asset but adds to his lifestyle expenses.
How His Television Career Impacted His Financial Status
Geraldo Rivera’s TV career was his primary wealth driver. His biggest financial successes include:
- Hosting Geraldo (1987-1998) – one of the most controversial talk shows of its time.
- Geraldo at Large (2009-2011) – a well-rated Fox News program.
- Fox News War Correspondent – covering 22 combat zones, a role that increased his salary.
- The Celebrity Apprentice (2015) – runner-up, raising $726,000 for charity.
Major Financial Achievements and Awards
Geraldo Rivera’s career is decorated with:
- 7 Emmy Awards
- A Peabody Award for Investigative Journalism
- Successful book sales and publishing deals
These accolades enhanced his credibility, leading to higher salaries and book advances over time.
Real Estate and Luxury Assets
His financial portfolio includes:
- High-end properties in New York and Ohio
- A luxury yacht (Voyager), used for racing and leisure
- Significant home sales profits from NYC real estate
Financial Challenges and Controversies
Rivera has faced contract disputes, including a lawsuit against Cumulus Media over a radio deal. He also had on-air conflicts that led to his Fox News departure. However, these setbacks didn’t majorly affect his financial stability.
His Future Financial Prospects
With his new role at NewsNation as a correspondent-at-large, Rivera’s income sources remain strong. His real estate holdings, book royalties, and media work ensure a stable financial future.
Conclusion
Geraldo Rivera’s financial success is a result of decades of hard work in journalism, talk shows, and strategic investments. His ability to diversify income sources has kept his wealth stable despite career shifts. Want to stay updated on more celebrity finances? Visit andomoney.com for the latest updates!
