Lester Holt has built an extraordinary career in journalism, and with that, a substantial net worth. As of 2025, Holt’s net worth stands at an impressive $35 million, a reflection of his decades-long dedication to broadcast journalism. His financial success is largely attributed to his role as the anchor of NBC Nightly News and Dateline NBC, as well as various other television appearances.
Holt’s annual salary at NBC is a remarkable $10 million. This salary has remained consistent over the years, underlining the network’s recognition of his value as a journalist and anchor. His tenure at NBC began in 2000, and he swiftly rose through the ranks, securing major roles that would solidify his career and financial stability. By 2003, Holt was already a familiar face on NBC Nightly News as a substitute anchor. His big break came in 2015 when he replaced Brian Williams as the full-time anchor of Nightly News, a position he held for a decade.
All About Lester Holt’s $35 Million Net Worth and $10 Million Annual Salary at NBC
Lester Holt’s journalistic influence spans major world events. He covered the rise of President Donald Trump, the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war, and the 2023 Israel-Gaza conflict. His dedication to on-the-ground reporting has also taken him to natural disaster zones and war-torn regions, further cementing his status as one of the most trusted news personalities in the industry. In fact, he was twice named the “most trusted television news personality in America” by The Hollywood Reporter and Morning Consult polls.
Despite stepping down from NBC Nightly News in February 2025, Holt is not leaving NBC altogether. He will continue his full-time role at Dateline NBC, where he has been a principal anchor since 2011. His shift to Dateline full-time raises speculation about an increase in his salary, though NBC has not disclosed new contract details. Given his reputation and experience, it’s likely that Holt’s compensation will see an uptick in the coming years.
BREAKING: Lester Holt, anchor of ‘NBC Nightly News’ for a decade, will leave the show this summer. He will move full time to ‘Dateline.’ https://t.co/RZRcO8D2vF
— NBC News (@NBCNews) February 24, 2025
Beyond journalism, Lester Holt has additional sources of income. His past cameo appearances in television shows and films, including The Fugitive, Law & Order: SVU, and 30 Rock, have contributed to his wealth. While these roles have not been his primary source of earnings, they have added to his financial portfolio. Furthermore, Holt’s investments in real estate have proven lucrative. In 2017, he and his wife, Carol Hagen, a real estate agent, sold their Manhattan condo in the prestigious Grand Madison building for $6.4 million. They had initially purchased the property in 2007 for $3.22 million, effectively doubling their investment over a decade.
Born on March 8, 1959, in Marin County, California, Lester Holt has had a lifelong passion for journalism. His career began in the early 1980s when he joined CBS as a reporter. He spent nearly 20 years with the network before moving to NBC. His journey from radio reporter to one of America’s most respected news anchors displays his immense dedication and talent. Married to Carol Hagen since 1982, the couple shares two sons, Stefan and Cameron. Stefan has followed in his father’s footsteps, carving out his own career as a television news anchor.
With a legacy spanning more than four decades in journalism, Lester Holt’s financial standing is well-earned. His $35 million net worth is not just a reflection of his salary but also his unwavering commitment to delivering credible news. While his role at NBC Nightly News may be coming to an end, his career and influence in the media landscape are far from over. As he transitions fully to Dateline NBC, his story continues—one built on trust, integrity, and journalistic excellence.
