Ever wondered how much Lester Holt net worth is in 2025?
As one of the most recognizable news anchors in America, Holt has built a career spanning decades. His role at NBC News, combined with his journalism expertise, has significantly contributed to his earnings.
But how does his salary compare to other top anchors? Let’s break down his financial journey, wealth sources, and career highlights.
Lester Holt Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Lester Don Holt Jr. |
| Popular Name | Lester Holt |
| Birth Date | March 8, 1959 |
| Age | 66 (As of 03/02/2025) |
| Birthplace | Hamilton Air Force Base, Marin County, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Mixed (Jamaican, Indian, European, African American) |
| Education | California State University, Sacramento (Did not graduate) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Carol Hagen (m. 1982) |
| Children | Stefan Holt, Cameron Holt |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Three older siblings |
| Parents | Lester Don Holt Sr., June DeRozario Holt |
| Height | 1.88 meters |
| Net Worth (2025) | $35 million |
| Source of Wealth | Journalism, TV appearances, real estate |
What is the Net Worth of Lester Holt in 2025?
As of 2025, Lester Holt’s net worth is estimated to be $35 million.
His consistent presence as the face of NBC Nightly News and Dateline NBC has contributed significantly to his wealth.
His annual salary from NBC stands at $10 million, making him one of the highest-paid news anchors in the industry.
When compared to other famous journalists, Holt’s net worth places him among the elite in news broadcasting.
However, he still trails behind industry veterans like Anderson Cooper and Sean Hannity, who have amassed larger fortunes due to additional ventures like books and business investments.
Other Prominent News Anchors & Journalists:
- Brian Williams
- Tom Brokaw
- Anderson Cooper
- Sean Hannity
- Rachel Maddow
- David Muir
- Wolf Blitzer
- Chris Wallace
- George Stephanopoulos
- Megyn Kelly
For more insights on how other wealthy media personalities stack up, check out this list of high-earning figures.
Lester Holt Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Does He Earn Annually?
Lester Holt’s salary has remained stable at $10 million per year, primarily from his anchoring roles at NBC Nightly News and Dateline NBC. His earnings include:
- Base Salary: The bulk of his income comes from his NBC contract.
- Bonuses & Incentives: Performance-based incentives for special reports and high-profile interviews.
- Additional Projects: Guest appearances on TV shows and news specials contribute to his overall earnings.
While Holt’s salary is impressive, it is slightly lower than top-paid anchors like Anderson Cooper ($12 million) and Sean Hannity ($25 million).
What Are His Main Sources of Wealth?
Aside from his NBC salary, Lester Holt has diversified income sources, including:
- Television Hosting: His work on Dateline NBC adds to his paycheck.
- Guest Appearances: Roles in movies like The Fugitive and TV series like 30 Rock.
- Investments: Though not widely publicized, he has made smart real estate moves.
How Has His Salary Changed Over Time?
Lester Holt’s salary progression reflects his growing influence in news media:
- 1981-2000: Worked with CBS, building his career but earning significantly less.
- 2000-2015: Joined NBC and became a weekend anchor, increasing his pay.
- 2015-Present: Became the full-time anchor of NBC Nightly News, elevating his salary to its current level.
His promotion after Brian Williams was a turning point, as it solidified his status and boosted his earnings.
What Financial Investments Does He Have?
Lester Holt has made notable investments, particularly in real estate:
- In 2017, he sold his Manhattan condo for $6.4 million, a significant return from his original $3.22 million purchase in 2007.
- He likely holds other assets, but details on stocks or other ventures remain undisclosed.
What Are the Key Financial Highlights of His Career?
Throughout his career, Holt has secured financial success through key moments:
- 2015: Became the first African American solo anchor of NBC Nightly News.
- 2016: Moderated the first presidential debate between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton.
- 2020: Saw a ratings surge during the COVID-19 pandemic, reinforcing his market value.
- 2025: Announced he would step down from NBC Nightly News, transitioning to a full-time role on Dateline NBC.
What Role Has His Family Played in His Financial Success?
Lester Holt’s family life has had an impact on his career stability:
- His wife, Carol Hagen, is a real estate agent, contributing to their financial planning.
- His son, Stefan Holt, is also a news anchor, following in his footsteps.
- The Holt family maintains a private but comfortable lifestyle, balancing work and personal wealth.
Conclusion
Lester Holt’s financial success is a testament to his hard work and dedication to journalism.
With a $35 million net worth and a $10 million annual salary, he remains a top name in news broadcasting. If you found this breakdown useful, explore more celebrity financial insights at AndoMoney. Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
