Revealed: How much salary does the new Pope Leo XIV actually earn?

The world watched yesterday as Cardinal Robert Prevost was announced as the new leader of the Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV and making history as the first American to take on the role.

Much like the moment itself, attention quickly turned not just to who he is, but how he might lead. His predecessor, Pope Francis, was known for his humility and simple lifestyle, famously turning down luxury in favour of modest living. But as with any major role, being pope does come with certain practical support from the Vatican.

So, how much salary does Pope Leo XIV earn?

Well, the pope doesn’t receive a salary in the usual sense. There’s no direct paycheck landing in his account every month. Instead, the Vatican covers everything he needs, from housing and food to clothing, healthcare, security, and travel.

Congratulations Pope Leo XIV , the most powerful designation with no salary , just service . Cardinals are Deputy Popes , notwithstanding it would be comforting to have Deputy Popes for Continents . pic.twitter.com/jzPP3lzn3K

— Dr Walter Mzembi (@waltermzembi) May 8, 2025

It’s basically an all-expenses-paid role. So while there’s no official pay packet, he doesn’t have any personal bills either. Everything from day-to-day living to international trips is already sorted.

There is a monthly stipend, but it’s symbolic

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That said, some reports suggest the pope might be entitled to around €2,500 per month (that’s about £2,100). Now, Pope Francis, the previous pope, turned it down entirely. He famously chose to live simply and refused a personal income, following the example of his namesake, St Francis of Assisi.

Well, it looks like Pope Leo XIV might do the same. So far, he’s shown signs of sticking to a modest, service-focused lifestyle, meaning that stipend might stay untouched.

Before becoming pope, he earned a regular cardinal’s income

Pope Leo speaks English, Spanish, Italian, French, and Portuguese, and can read Latin and German. He holds a Doctor of Canon Law degree in 1987 from the Pontifical College of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome. He also worked in Peru! pic.twitter.com/qpi9VAQPmN

— Johnny O (@OttawaPro) May 8, 2025

Before taking the top role, Pope Leo XIV was known as Cardinal Robert Prevost and earned a typical cardinal’s income, around €4,000 to €5,000 a month, give or take. That’s in line with other high-ranking Church officials and was funded by the Vatican.

Now that he’s pope, his daily needs are fully covered, and the focus shifts from personal earnings to spiritual leadership and charitable giving. He also gets access to Church funds for helping those in need, something Pope Francis was particularly passionate about.

So… is the pope secretly rich?

Not exactly. While the Vatican as an institution holds wealth, the pope doesn’t personally own it. He lives a supported life, yes, but it’s not about private jets or luxury homes. From what is known so far, Pope Leo XIV is continuing the tradition of humility, using resources for service rather than personal gain.

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Featured image credit:  Vandeville Eric/ABACA/Shutterstock