Bernie Sanders has been a household name in American politics for decades. He’s known for fighting for working people, free college, higher taxes on the rich, and universal healthcare.
But there’s one question people still ask:
How much is Bernie Sanders worth in 2025
For a man who’s all about economic equality, it’s a fair question. So let’s look into his finances, where his money comes from, how he spends it, and whether he’s really as “regular” as he claims to be.
What Is Bernie Sanders’ Net Worth in 2025?
As of 2025, Bernie Sanders’ estimated net worth is around $3 million.
That might sound like a lot—and it is for most Americans—but compared to many politicians and celebrities, it’s not jaw-dropping. Especially when you consider how long he’s been in public service.
So, where did all that money come from? Let’s break it down.
1. Senator Salary – His Main Job
Bernie has been a U.S. Senator since 2007 and served in the House before that. In 2025, a U.S. Senator’s base salary is $174,000 per year.
That’s a solid paycheck, but it’s not millions. Still, over the years, it adds up.
He’s been in office for over 30 years. If you do some quick maths, and take out taxes and living expenses, a portion of his net worth is likely from long-term savings from his government salary.
2. Book Deals – Where the Big Money Came From
This is where Bernie made a real financial leap.
After his 2016 and 2020 presidential campaigns, Sanders wrote a few best-selling books. His titles include:
- Our Revolution
- Where We Go From Here
- It’s OK to Be Angry About Capitalism
These books sold very well. In fact, reports suggest that between 2016 and 2018 alone, Bernie earned over $1.7 million in book royalties.
In other words, being “angry about capitalism” paid pretty well.
That said, Bernie has always been open about this. When asked about being a millionaire, he famously said: “I wrote a best-selling book. If you write a best-selling book, you can be a millionaire too.”
3. Speaking Engagements – Paid to Talk
Like many high-profile politicians, Bernie gets invited to speak at universities, political conferences, and events.
And yes, these gigs pay well.
It’s estimated that he’s earned hundreds of thousands of dollars from public speaking over the years. While he doesn’t do it as much as some others in politics, it’s still a source of income that boosted his wealth.
4. Real Estate – His Homes and Property
Bernie and his wife, Jane, own three properties:
• Burlington, Vermont (Main Home)
They bought this house back in 2009 for around $405,000. It’s a four-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom home in a quiet neighborhood. By 2025, the house is worth close to $700,000, thanks to rising property prices.
• Washington D.C. (Townhouse)
As a Senator, Bernie also lives part-time in D.C. He owns a townhouse that’s modest by D.C. standards but still valuable. It’s worth an estimated $500,000+.
• Lakefront Vacation Home – North Hero, Vermont
This vacation home made headlines when he bought it in 2016. Located by Lake Champlain, the house cost about $575,000. While it raised some eyebrows at the time, it’s part of his net worth and probably worth even more today.
Combined, these three homes make up a big chunk of his total wealth.
5. Retirement Accounts and Investments
Like most politicians, Sanders likely has retirement savings and other investments.
He’s in his 80s now, so it’s safe to say he’s planning for financial stability. However, he’s not known for risky investments or flashy business ventures. No yachts, no private jets (well, at least not for personal use).
Does His Wealth Clash with His Politics?
This is the big debate.
Bernie has always fought for wealth redistribution, free education, and taxing the rich. So how can someone worth $3 million still call himself a “democratic socialist”?
Here’s his answer—he’s not against people having money. He’s against billionaires hoarding most of it while millions can’t pay their medical bills.
He doesn’t wear gold chains or buy sports cars. He’s lived in the same modest Vermont home for over 15 years. And he still flies commercials, except when his campaign charters a private plane during back-to-back events.
In fact, when asked about a private jet used during a campaign, Bernie said it was the only practical option due to time constraints. Not exactly a lavish lifestyle.
Public Reaction and Criticism
Of course, critics love to call out the irony.
They say Sanders made millions talking about how bad the rich are. They mock him for owning multiple homes and selling books about economic inequality.
But his supporters argue that his income is fair. He didn’t inherit his wealth. He earned it through work—writing, speaking, and serving the public.
And unlike many in politics, he hasn’t cashed in with shady deals or big corporate speaking fees.
Final Thoughts – Is Bernie Sanders “Rich”?
Yes, by average standards, Bernie Sanders is a wealthy man.
No, he’s not part of the billionaire class he often criticises.
His net worth of around $3 million in 2025 reflects decades of public service, smart money management, and a few successful books. He lives comfortably, but not extravagantly.
For a man who could have used his fame to cash in much more, Bernie has kept things surprisingly modest.
Love him or not, his financial life matches his message more than most people in politics.
