Pete Hegseth is a prominent figure in conservative American politics and media who has drawn national attention for his views, affiliations, and growing net worth. As a former Fox News host, author of several books, and the current U.S. Secretary of Defense, his wealth is a point of interest for both the media and the public.
As of 2025, Pete Hegseth’s net worth is estimated to be around $6 million.
This article explores Pete Hegseth’s net worth, income sources, and personal life.
Pete Hegseth bio
| Attribute | Details |
| Full name | Peter Brian Hegseth |
| Date of birth | June 6, 1980 |
| Net worth | Estimated at $6 million as of 2025 |
| Main income sources | Fox News, books, real estate, military services, speaking events |
| Current role | Secretary of Defense (since January 2025) |
| Spouse | Jennifer Rauchet, married 2019 |
| Children | Three children with ex-wife Samantha Deering, one daughter with Jennifer Rauchet |
| Education | Princeton University (B.A. in Public Policy), Harvard Kennedy School (M.P.P.) |
Career as a former Fox News host
Before joining the Donald Trump administration as Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth was a Fox News host, best known as a Fox and Friends Weekend co-host. He built a robust media career that climaxed with him earning an estimated annual salary of $2.3 million, a significant boost to his growing net worth. His work at Fox involved conducting interviews, live reporting, and conservative commentary.
Hegseth also earns from speaking engagements. In 2023 and 2024, he earned almost $1 million from events sponsored by groups such as Concerned Veterans for America, an organization he once led as an executive director. His media connections also opened doors for writing opportunities and partnerships.
Fox News and its impact on Pete Hegseth’s net worth
Hegseth’s time at Fox News contributed significantly to his net worth growth. Besides salaries and bonuses, he leveraged this time to publish multiple books, including In The Arena, Modern Warriors, and American Crusade, and Battle for the American Mind.
He leveraged the Fox News platform to discuss American ideals at length, mostly politics and war strategies, and resonated with conservative audiences. These talks were often tied to his military background and services in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Career in public office
Pete Hegseth began his career as a public servant in January 2025, when President Donald Trump appointed him to the office of Secretary of Defense. Although he had no experience in public office, his military background, knowledge, and advocacy for veterans made him the perfect candidate for the job.
His tenure began with a focus on boosting troops’ morale and military preparedness and promoting American values within the armed forces.
Hegseth’s role is classified as a Level I position in the executive schedule and carries an annual salary of $250,600. This represents a significant cut from his earnings as a media personality, but underscores his influence within conservative circles. It also underlines Hegseth’s alignment with the Trump administration’s defense priorities.
Personal life and challenges
Pete Hegseth’s personal life is both controversial and celebrated. He has been married three times to Meredith Schwarz, Samantha Deering, and now to Jennifer Rauchet, a Fox executive producer. He has three children with Samantha Deering and one daughter with Jennifer.
He went to Princeton University, where he served as editor-in-chief of The Princeton Tory, a conservative student magazine known for challenging the institution’s liberal perspective. His work with Princeton Tory often led to controversies on campus.
During these times, Hegseth’s mother, Penelope Hegseth, and friends from the basketball team supported him through the challenges. According to The New York Times, his mother and friends significantly shaped his foundational values.
After his military service, Hegseth has openly discussed his struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder, including periods during which he engaged in excessive alcoholism. In interviews, he reflects on the difficulties of coping with civilian life.
Public image and legacy
Pete Hegseth has been praised and critiqued, especially after assuming the office of the Secretary of Defense. His strong views on America, defense, and his own power have given him a voice within conservative circles.
After his appointment, Hegseth requested a studio within the Pentagon and set up an unsecured account for Signal messaging. These actions sparked criticism and scrutiny over cybersecurity and respect for protocols.
His financial disclosure files revealed real estate deals, including a mansion he purchased in Tennessee and a property he sold in Maryland. His resignation from Fox News was a requirement for his government office appointment, and the required transparency.
His recent order to slash the number of four-star generals and admirals by 20% and the number of general and flag officers by 10% made headlines in the United States.
Hegseth has had a successful career as a media personality. Through his books and other platforms, he has contributed to veteran welfare and discussions on educational policies. He has also contributed to the efforts of modernizing defense approaches. Hegseth has a strong following on social media platforms such as Facebook.
