When it was announced that Robert Francis Prevost would be the first American pope, there was widespread interest in the implications for the Catholic Church and his individual life.
One major question on everyone’s mind was: what is the Pope’s salary?
What does the Pope actually get paid?
While the Pope is one of the most high-powered figures in the world, both spiritually and politically, the answer might sh0ck you.
The Pope doesn’t earn a traditional salary, and the role itself is far deleted from the lucrative paychecks most high-profile positions enjoy.
The Vatican, the world’s smallest independent state, ensures that the Pope’s every need is covered, including accommodations, transport, food, healthcare, and security.
Pope Leo XIV, like his predecessors, will not receive a regular wage but instead be supplied with an all-inclusive lifestyle.
This includes a luxurious house, meals, and access to a fleet of vehicles, all provided for him.
While Pope Leo XIV may theoretically be entitled to a modest salary, estimates suggest that the papacy would pay roughly €2,500 ($2,650) per month, which appears to be more of a stipend than a salary.
However, the Pope’s determination to live a simple life distinguishes him.
Pope Leo XIV will follow in Francis’ footsteps
The tradition of a pope not drawing a paycheck is not new.
Pope Francis, who led the Church from 2013 until 2025, was famously frugal, often choosing to live simply and reject any personal income.
Like his predecessor, Pope Leo XIV is predicted to prioritize spiritual stewardship over financial gain.
His lifestyle will be grounded in humility and a strong focus on serving the needs of others rather than living lavishly.
What about the Pope’s wealth?
Despite not earning a salary, the Pope is far from impoverished.
Estimates of Pope Francis’s net worth, which includes access to papal assets and Vatican-funded services, have been recorded to be as high as $12 million.
This figure reflects the unique privileges and resources available to the Pope, including property, vehicles, and charitable donations.
For example, during his tenure, Pope Francis made large charitable donations, including $215,000 to support prisoners in Rome.
The Vatican’s financial landscape
The Vatican’s finances are supported by several sources, including donations from Catholics worldwide, income from tourism, and revenue from the Vatican Museums.
However, the Central Intelligence Agency’s World Factbook recorded that in 2013, the Vatican’s revenues were around $315 million, while its expenditures totaled approximately $348 million.
A different kind of wealth
While the Pope is not compensated in the traditional sense, he does have tremendous resources at his disposal.
The Vatican ensures that all of his wants are met, including opulent lodgings and philanthropic funds.
Despite these perks, the Pope’s life is about service, and Pope Leo XIV is expected to follow in his predecessors’ footsteps, focusing on assisting others rather than collecting fortune.
