When the world learned that Robert Francis Prevost would become the first-ever American pope, curiosity soared about the implications of this historic moment. How would this affect not only the Catholic Church, but also the life of the new pontiff? One burning question stood out: How much does the Pope actually get paid?
What’s the Pope’s Paycheck?
Despite being one of the most powerful spiritual and political figures on the globe, the Pope’s income might surprise you. The papacy doesn’t come with a traditional salary. Unlike many other high-profile roles that enjoy hefty paychecks, the Pope’s financial setup is quite different.
As the leader of the Vatican—an independent, minuscule state—the Pope’s every need is taken care of. From luxurious accommodations and travel to meals, healthcare, and security, the Vatican provides it all. While Pope Leo XIV, like his predecessors, doesn’t pocket a regular salary, he enjoys an all-expenses-paid lifestyle, complete with lavish living quarters, gourmet meals, and access to an impressive fleet of vehicles.
While technically, Pope Leo XIV might be entitled to a modest monthly allowance of around €2,500 ($2,650), this sum is more of a stipend than a salary, ensuring the papacy’s modest simplicity over any lavish financial gain.
Living Simply, Like Pope Francis
This approach to papal finances is nothing new. Pope Francis, who served from 2013 until 2025, was well-known for his frugal and humble lifestyle, choosing to live without the personal income that many other world leaders enjoy.
In fact, one of the most striking moments of Pope Francis’ papacy came in 2017 when he was gifted a nearly $950,000 Lamborghini Huracán. Rather than keep the luxury vehicle as a symbol of status, the pope opted to auction it off, with the proceeds going to humanitarian causes. His decision reflected the values of simplicity and charity that defined his papacy, and now, it seems Pope Leo XIV is ready to follow in his footsteps.
This way of life closely aligns with the philosophy of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of poverty, whom Pope Francis deeply admired and modeled his own life after. Pope Francis embraced this vow of humility, choosing to reside in the modest Domus Sanctae Marthae guesthouse in Vatican City, rather than the grand Apostolic Palace, which has been the traditional residence for most popes.
Much like his predecessor, Pope Leo XIV is expected to live in a similar manner, prioritizing spiritual leadership over material wealth. His lifestyle will be marked by simplicity, grounded in a deep commitment to serving others rather than indulging in luxury.
What About the Pope’s Wealth?
Even though the Pope doesn’t receive a salary, he is far from living in poverty. In fact, estimates of Pope Francis’s net worth—taking into account papal assets and Vatican-funded services—have been reported as high as $12 million. This wealth reflects the special privileges and resources available to the Pope, including access to property, vehicles, and charitable donations. However, these resources are primarily used to carry out his papal duties and support humanitarian causes, rather than for personal indulgence.
For example, during his papacy, Pope Francis made notable charitable contributions, including a $215,000 donation to support prisoners in Rome. His focus has always been on using his resources to promote the well-being of others, staying true to his mission of serving humanity.
The Vatican’s Financial Landscape
The Vatican’s finances are sustained through various channels, including donations from Catholics around the world, revenue from tourism, and earnings from the Vatican Museums.
While the Vatican’s governing body, the Holy See, does not disclose detailed financial information, the CIA World Factbook estimated that the Vatican’s revenues in 2013 amounted to approximately $315 million, with expenditures reaching around $348 million. This financial structure supports the Pope’s mission to serve both the Church and the global community.
One of the most significant sources of income for the Vatican is Peter’s Pence, an annual collection of donations from Catholics around the world. This fund, which raises an estimated $25 million each year, relies heavily on contributions from countries like the U.S., Germany, and Italy.
Despite the substantial funds raised, the Vatican has faced its own financial hurdles. In 2023, the Vatican reported an operating deficit of $90 million, sparking concerns about the future stability of its pension funds for Vatican employees.
To address these financial challenges, Pope Francis took decisive action, implementing salary cuts in 2021. Senior clergy members, including cardinals and bishops, experienced reductions in pay, an effort to curb spending and promote transparency within the Vatican’s financial operations.
A Different Kind of Wealth
While the Pope does not receive a conventional salary, the resources available to him are substantial. The Vatican covers all of his needs, from lavish housing to generous funding for charitable initiatives. These provisions ensure that the Pope can live comfortably, but they are never meant to foster personal wealth.
Despite the considerable privileges, the Pope’s life is fundamentally about service. Pope Leo XIV, like his predecessors, is expected to follow this example, focusing on helping others and using his resources to advance the Church’s mission rather than accumulating wealth.
As the first American pope, Pope Leo XIV’s approach to the papacy will inevitably be watched closely. Yet, his lack of a traditional salary is a powerful reminder that the papacy remains, at its core, a position founded on humility, simplicity, and spiritual devotion—rather than financial gain.