How Much Salary Will American Pope, Leo XIV, Get? Will He Pay Taxes? Vatican Finances Explained
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Pope Leo XIV will the first American pontiff to get a monthly salary of $33,800. His annual earnings would match or even exceed the pay of some of the world's most powerful leaders
The Pope, who commands the spiritual devotion over a billion Catholics across the world and is the supreme head of the Roman Catholic Church, does not earn a traditional salary.
But Pope Leo XIV will the first American pontiff to draw a monthly salary of $33,800 along with unmatched perks.
Formerly known as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, pope's historic appointment has sparked worldwide attention, not just for its spiritual significance, but also for the salary and unique benefits that come with the role.
Let us look at the pope's salary and taxes, if he has to pay, how does it compare to other world leaders.
Pope's Salary Compared To Other World Leaders
With the monthly salary of $33,800 per month (roughly Rs 28,00,000), according to a Fortune report, Pope's annual earnings would match or even exceed the pay of some of the world's most powerful public figures.
For instance, the US President receives a base salary of $400,000, along with an extra $170,000+ annually for official duties, travel, and entertainment.
In the higher education world, university chancellors in the US earn between $250,000 and $372,000 on average. Some, like the presidents of North-western University, University of Vermont, and Purdue University, earn closer to the pope's salary—around $400,000 a year.
Pope Francis, who died on April 21, was known for his frugal and humble lifestyle, and refused any form of personal income when he was Head of the Church from 2013-2025.
In fact, previous popes have also never been known to draw lavish salaries. Instead, the Vatican supplies what is essentially an all-expenses-paid life.
According to a Daily Mail report, housing is traditionally provided in the opulent Apostolic Palace, although Francis chose to remain in the simpler Domus Sanctae Marthae guesthouse on Vatican grounds.
Though the Pope does not receive a wage, he is far from destitute. Pope Francis's estimated net worth is close to £12million, which includes access to papal assets and Vatican-funded services.
The Pope has access to a fleet of vehicles, official residences, and a generous allowance for charitable donations. Yet these resources are not for personal use. Popes are expected to uphold spiritual stewardship, not financial gain.
In fact, the role of Pope comes with lifelong responsibilities – even after retirement, as seen with Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who lived within the Vatican until his death in 2022.
It should be noted that the Vatican itself relies on a mix of donations, investment returns, and revenue from tourism and the Vatican Museums.
One of its most famous sources of income is Peter's Pence – an annual collection from Catholics around the world that generates about £20 million a year. The largest contributions come from the US, Germany, and Italy.
In 2023, the Vatican reported a £70 million operating deficit, prompting concern from Pope Francis over the long-term viability of its pension fund for Vatican employees.
Will Pope Leo Get Pension After Retirement?
Yes. Even in retirement, a former pope is financially secure. Pope Leo XIV, if he chooses to retire, will be entitled to a monthly pension of €2,500 (about $3,300).
Besides, the Vatican continues to cover all daily expenses, including food, housing, and housekeeping services. Retired popes also get to live within the Vatican's walls, maintaining a peaceful and secure life away from public pressures.
Will He Pay Taxes?
All US citizens are required, including those living abroad, are required to file an annual tax return.
Unless Pope Leo XIV renounces his US citizenship, he will face unique tax considerations due to his position as both a clergyman and the leader of a foreign nation.
Therefore, his situation is unique compared to previous popes, as many countries do not tax their citizens living overseas, The Washington Post reported.
Americans residing abroad can often exclude a portion of their earnings from US taxes. However, this exemption does not apply to income earned from working for a foreign government. This means that Pope Leo would still be liable for US taxes as an employee of the Vatican, the report added.
Pope's Salary Vs Tech CEOs
Surprisingly, not always in terms of base salary. Tech giants like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg have famously taken base salaries of $0 or $1. However, their real wealth comes from stock compensation, bonuses, and company-funded perks like private jets, security, and travel expenses.
While Musk and Zuckerberg's net worth skyrocketed into the billions, their daily earnings are technically less than what the Pope could earn. Yet, in terms of leadership perks, few roles offer the all-inclusive lifestyle the Pope's position provides.
Salaries Of Others In The Vatican
Cardinals, who previously earned between €4,000 and €5,500 per month, saw their pay slashed by 10% due to financial concerns post pandemic.
Bishops take home around €3,000 a month, while ordinary priests in Rome average just €1,200.
Monks and nuns, who often take vows of poverty, generally do not receive any salary unless holding administrative positions within the Church.
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May 13, 2025, 13:52 IST
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