Television host, writer and comedian
#1 in TV Hosts today
Jay Leno’s net worth is $700 million as of 2024. His car collection is worth $90 Million. As per Forbes, Leno is one of the richest and highest-earning TV hosts with over $20 Million annual salary.
Jay Leno’s Wealth in the 1970s
Jay Leno had minor roles in several television shows and films during the 1970s. He made just under $50 per day.
However, once he began appearing as a guest comedian on David Letterman’s show, Leno began to earn more money. Jay Leno’s net worth was $20,000 at the time.
Standup Comedy Income
Jay Leno’s long standup comedy career is one of the main reasons he is so wealthy. Jay Leno’s shows have sold millions of tickets since the 1980s.
As of today, Leno has sold over 15 million tickets and earned a total of $190 million in earnings. Jay Leno’s net worth has surpassed $200 million thanks to his standup earnings.
The Tonight Show
For 17 years, Jay Leno hosted The Tonight Show on NBC. His annual salary in the 1990s was $7 million.
Leno was earning $15 million by the time he left the show. NBC’s lifetime earnings were $140 million, accounting for 20% of Jay Leno’s wealth.
Jay Leno Net Worth 2024 (Forbes)
Name | James Douglas Muir Leno |
Net Worth | $700 Million |
Annual Income | $84 Million |
Salary per Epiode | $500,000 |
Stock Portfolio | $90 Million |
Cars | 160 |
Motorbikes | 140 |
Real Estate Assets | $120 Million |
Jay Leno’s Car Collection
Jay Leno’s car collection consists of 160 vintage and modern vehicles. Leno spends more than $5 million per year on car maintenance.
These vehicles account for 11% of Jay Leno’s net worth. Let’s take a look at some of Jay Leno’s most notable vehicles.
- 2009 Aston Martin DBS
- 1909 Baker Electric
- 1989 Bentley Turbo R
- 1957 Buick Roadmaster
- 1928 Bugatti Type 37A
- 1911 Christie Fire Engine
- 1961 Chrysler 300G
- 1962 Daimler SP250
Career
Jay Leno attended Andover High School in Andover, Massachusetts, where he spent his teenage years.
His iconic car collection, valued at an estimated $52-$100 million, can also be considered an appreciating asset.
During his time as the host of “The Tonight Show,” Leno became a late-night television icon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s Jay Leno’s most expensive car?
The 1934 Duesenberg Walker Coupe, the German-made car, is considered the most expensive car in Jay Leno’s garage with a price tag of over $25 Million.
How did Jay Leno make money?
Jay Leno earned millions through his Standup Comedy Shows and also as a television host. He earned over $15 Million in salary for ‘The Tonight Show’ making him one of the richest people.
How much does Jay Leno make for a show?
Jay Leno is paid $20 million per show.