Pete Hegseth, widely recognized as a host on Fox News’s Fox & Friends Weekend and a veteran of the U.S. Army National Guard, has accumulated a substantial net worth through his varied career. As of 2024, Pete Hegseth net worth ranges from an estimated $20 million to $30 million, with key income sources spanning his media career, book royalties, and real estate investments.
Early Life and Military Career
Pete Hegseth’s journey began in Forest Lake, Minnesota, where he developed a strong sense of duty and patriotism. This commitment eventually led him to Princeton University, where he joined the Army ROTC, a decision that shaped the trajectory of his early career. After graduating in 2003, Hegseth enlisted as an officer in the U.S. Army National Guard. He first served as a platoon leader at Guantanamo Bay with the 101st Airborne Division and subsequently volunteered for deployments to both Iraq and Afghanistan, where he built a reputation for bravery and leadership.
In Iraq, Hegseth served as a civil affairs officer, engaging in tactical operations and securing his first Bronze Star for meritorious service. His service continued in Afghanistan as a counterinsurgency instructor, where he taught tactical leadership and combat skills to local forces, earning a second Bronze Star and a Combat Infantryman Badge. These decorations highlighted his exemplary conduct and commitment under challenging conditions, and his accomplishments have since become integral to his public persona.
After his military career, Hegseth expanded his role in veterans’ advocacy by joining organizations like the Vets for Freedom and eventually Fox News in 2014. His military experience has greatly influenced his work as a conservative commentator and advocate for veterans’ issues, with regular public engagements focused on the welfare and rights of veterans and their families. His unique background has allowed him to connect with a broad audience on both military and civic matters, positioning him as a prominent advocate for service members transitioning back into civilian life.
Transition to Media and Rise on Fox News
Pete Hegseth’s transition to media, particularly his rise on Fox News, began in 2014 when he joined the network as a contributor. This move allowed him to leverage his military background and strong conservative values, quickly resonating with Fox’s audience. His candid, often provocative commentary on national security, veterans’ rights, and foreign policy helped him stand out, ultimately securing him a co-host position on Fox & Friends Weekend. As a regular on major Fox shows, including The Five, Hannity, and Ingraham Angle, Hegseth became a prominent voice, especially among conservative viewers who appreciated his strong stance on topics like U.S. military strategy and patriotism.
Hegseth expanded his role beyond commentary by hosting Fox Nation specials, including Modern Warriors, where he interviews veterans, and Battle in the Holy City, which delves into Middle Eastern conflicts from his unique perspective as a former military officer. His work on Fox Nation has also included the series Miseducation of America, showcasing his stance on issues like education reform. This blend of on-air presence and special programming has cemented his role as a conservative media influencer with a distinct platform that continues to shape public discourse on military and social issues in the U.S.
Hegseth’s outspoken nature has occasionally sparked controversy. Known for his strong support of President Donald Trump, he has sometimes been criticized for comments on topics ranging from pandemic policy to foreign military actions. Despite this, his influence at Fox News remains significant, and his media career, combined with his advocacy for veterans, has made him a leading voice on conservative issues well into 2024.
Income from Writing and Book Royalties
Pete Hegseth has become a notable conservative author with a string of successful books that have significantly contributed to his income. His 2022 release, Battle for the American Mind, was a major hit, topping the New York Times bestseller list for several weeks. This success followed earlier bestsellers like Modern Warriors and American Crusade, which also helped cement his position as a bestselling author.
His latest 2024 book, The War on Warriors, continues this trend, capitalizing on Hegseth’s strong readership and public influence. Altogether, Hegseth’s book royalties are estimated to bring in roughly $900,000 annually, further elevating his net worth alongside his earnings from Fox News and other ventures
Real Estate Investments
Pete Hegseth’s real estate investments are a substantial component of his wealth, showcasing his strategic approach to high-value property acquisitions. His portfolio includes significant residential properties, most notably a luxury home in Goodlettsville, Tennessee, which he purchased for $3.4 million in 2022. This 9,000-square-foot estate features four bedrooms and seven bathrooms, reflecting his preference for spacious and upscale residences.
Beyond his Tennessee home, Hegseth’s real estate holdings extend to several other high-value assets, totaling an estimated $10 million. These investments add diversity and stability to his wealth portfolio, complementing his income from Fox News and book royalties. Additionally, Hegseth’s broader investment strategy includes assets beyond real estate, with reports indicating a mix of cash reserves, vehicles, and other holdings.
As of 2024, these properties and assets collectively enhance his estimated net worth, which currently ranges between $20 million and $30 million. This diversified financial approach ensures that his real estate ventures remain an essential part of his financial success.
Personal Life and Financial Obligations
Pete Hegseth’s personal life and financial commitments have evolved significantly over the years, shaped by his career and family dynamics. Hegseth has been married three times, with his current wife, Jennifer Rauchet, serving as an executive producer at Fox News. Together, they form a blended family with seven children—three sons from Hegseth’s second marriage to Samantha Deering, three children from Rauchet’s previous relationship, and their daughter, Gwen, born in 2017. The family currently resides in New Jersey and embraces a cohesive, large-family lifestyle.
Hegseth’s high-profile career and past relationships have led to substantial financial commitments, particularly following his second divorce. Reports indicate that his divorce from Deering involved a significant settlement, with child support and other financial obligations in place to support his sons. Despite these financial responsibilities, his consistent earnings from Fox News and income from book sales have maintained his net worth, estimated between $20 and $30 million as of 2024. This financial stability underscores his ability to balance a demanding personal life with a successful career in conservative media.
Summary of Pete Hegseth Net Worth
In summary, Pete Hegseth’s Net Worth as of 2024 reflects the culmination of his work in media, book sales, and real estate, placing his financial status firmly in the multimillion-dollar range. His conservative advocacy, media presence, and strategic investments have built a robust financial profile that likely will continue to grow in the coming years.
| Source of Wealth | Details | Estimated Value |
| Television Salary | Fox & Friends Weekend | $6 million annually |
| Book Royalties | Various books | $1 million annually |
| Real Estate | Homes and land | $10 million |
| Net Worth (2024) | Combined assets and income sources | $20–30 million |
Pete Hegseth’s wealth in 2024 illustrates a successful journey from military service to conservative media stardom. His significant earnings from Fox News, coupled with his success as an author and real estate investor, have propelled him into the ranks of high-net-worth individuals in media. His financial journey is a testament to the multiple pathways to wealth accumulation through diversified interests and public influence.
FAQs
1. What is Pete Hegseth’s main source of income?
Hegseth’s primary income source is his role on Fox News’s Fox & Friends Weekend, where he earns an estimated $6 million per year.
2. How much does Pete Hegseth make from his books?
Hegseth’s book royalties add around $1 million annually to his income, thanks to his success as a conservative author.
3. Does Pete Hegseth invest in real estate?
Yes, Hegseth has invested in high-value real estate, including properties in Virginia, Connecticut, and agricultural land in Minnesota, with an estimated value of $10 million.
4. Has Pete Hegseth’s net worth been affected by his personal life?
Yes, Hegseth’s divorces have included substantial settlements, but his wealth has continued to grow despite these commitments.
5. What is Pete Hegseth’s net worth in 2024?
As of 2024, Pete Hegseth’s net worth is estimated to be between $20 million and $30 million.