The True Earnings of Pope Leo XIV: What Does the First American Pontiff Make?

 When Robert Francis Prevost was announced as the first American to assume the papacy, curiosity surged—not only about the implications for the Catholic Church but also about his personal life. One question stood out: How much does the Pope actually make?

So, what does the Pope earn?

Despite being one of the most influential religious and political leaders on Earth, the Pope doesn’t receive a conventional salary. In fact, the financial arrangement for the pontiff is far removed from the lucrative packages often associated with global leadership roles.

As the head of the Vatican—the smallest sovereign state in the world—the Pope has all his needs fully covered. This includes his housing, transportation, meals, medical care, and security. Rather than drawing a paycheck, Pope Leo XIV, like those before him, lives within a fully funded system that supports him in every aspect.

Some reports suggest the Pope might technically be entitled to a small stipend, estimated around €2,500 (roughly $2,650) per month. However, this is more symbolic than functional, as the Vatican covers virtually all his living expenses.

Continuing the Legacy of Simplicity

Pope Leo XIV is expected to follow in the footsteps of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who served from 2013 to 2025. Known for his humility and modest lifestyle, Francis famously declined personal luxuries and never accepted a formal salary.

In the same spirit, Pope Leo XIV is anticipated to embrace a life centered on service and spirituality rather than material wealth.

Is the Pope Wealthy?

Though the Pope does not earn a direct income, he certainly isn’t lacking in resources. Pope Francis’s net worth has been estimated at around $12 million, though this figure largely reflects the resources and assets available to him through the Vatican, rather than personal wealth. These include access to official residences, a fleet of vehicles, and funding for charitable initiatives.

Francis, for example, once donated $215,000 to support incarcerated individuals in Rome—just one instance of how the Pope can direct substantial funds for humanitarian purposes.

Inside the Vatican’s Finances

The Vatican’s economy is sustained through various channels: global donations, museum tourism, and investments. According to the CIA World Factbook, the Vatican reported about $315 million in revenue and $348 million in expenditures in 2013—a reflection of its unique financial model and global commitments.

A Wealth of a Different Kind

Although the Pope doesn’t receive a salary in the traditional sense, he is surrounded by a wealth of resources dedicated to supporting his mission. From his elegant accommodations to his ability to influence global charitable efforts, the papal role provides access to power, comfort, and reach—but it is a position deeply rooted in service, not self-enrichment.

In keeping with tradition, Pope Leo XIV is expected to embody humility and compassion, using the tools of his office to uplift others, rather than accumulate personal wealth.