In a monumental moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Robert Prevost, a 69-year-old cardinal from Chicago, has been elected as the new Pope, following the death of Pope Francis. He will now be known as Pope Leo XIV, making history as the first American-born leader of the Catholic Church. His elevation comes after a two-day conclave that took the world by surprise, not only because of his nationality but also his rich and varied background.
While Popes traditionally live humbly and do not possess individual wealth in the conventional sense, questions about Robert Prevost’s net worth and influence have emerged. As of 2025, his estimated net worth is believed to be around $500,000 to $1 million, largely accumulated through his prior positions in the Church and minimal personal holdings. As Pope, he will no longer hold private wealth, as his role shifts fully to serving the Vatican.
Let’s dive into the life, legacy, and financial standing of the man now known as Pope Leo XIV.
Early Life and Background
Robert Francis Prevost was born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1955, and is now 69 years old. Raised in a devout Catholic family, he joined the Order of St. Augustine, a religious community founded in the 13th century and known for its commitment to education, social justice, and missionary work.
After completing his early seminary studies, Prevost earned advanced degrees in Canon Law and Theology. Fluent in multiple languages, including Spanish and Italian, he has spent much of his career outside the U.S., particularly in Latin America.
In the 1980s, Prevost moved to Peru, where he spent nearly 30 years as a missionary. He became deeply rooted in the local culture and was eventually granted Peruvian citizenship in 2015, a move that uniquely positioned him as a cultural bridge between North and South America.
Family and Personal Life
As a member of a Catholic religious order and now Pope, Leo XIV does not have a spouse or children. The vow of celibacy and the religious life he has embraced for over five decades means his “family” has long consisted of fellow clergy, Augustinian brothers, and the global Catholic community.
Prevost’s humility, dedication to service, and approachability have earned him respect both within the Vatican and among lay Catholics.
Clerical Rise and Vatican Roles
Before his election to the papacy, Prevost held some of the most influential roles within the Church:
- Twice elected Prior General of the Augustinian order, serving as its top global leader.
- In 2014, appointed Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, by Pope Francis.
- Elevated to Archbishop and then brought to Rome in 2023 to head the Dicastery for Bishops, overseeing global bishop appointments.
- Served as President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
His elevation to Cardinal in 2023 was widely seen as a sign that Pope Francis viewed him as a potential successor.
Election as Pope and His Vision
Prevost was chosen by the College of Cardinals after a brief two-day conclave. While some Vatican insiders viewed his candidacy as unexpected, his bilingual, bicultural background, deep knowledge of Church governance, and balanced ideology helped him garner support.
Now known as Pope Leo XIV, Prevost aims to continue the pastoral legacy of Pope Francis, with a strong focus on marginalized communities, migration issues, and the role of women in the Church. He is seen as both a reformer and a stabilizer—progressive in outreach yet conservative in doctrine.
For example, he upholds the Church’s traditional stance against ordaining women as deacons but was pivotal in introducing women into the bishop-selection voting process, a groundbreaking reform under Francis.
Net Worth: How Much Is Pope Leo XIV Worth?
As of early 2025, Robert Prevost’s personal net worth is estimated between $500,000 and $1 million. This figure is based on modest earnings from his years as a bishop, archbishop, and cardinal, where he received a stipend rather than a salary. Like most members of the clergy, he led a relatively simple life, often living in Church-owned residences and traveling on Vatican business.
Now as Pope, Prevost no longer holds any private financial interests. The Papacy comes with no personal income, as all expenses—housing, security, travel, and daily needs—are provided by the Vatican City State.
Lifestyle and Leadership Style
Known for his austerity and humility, Pope Leo XIV has already signaled he will continue living simply, likely remaining in the Domus Sanctae Marthae, the Vatican guesthouse also favored by Pope Francis.
Leo XIV is deeply committed to the Church’s global outreach, especially in the Global South. His experience in Peru and Latin America gives him a unique vantage point on issues like poverty, social justice, and human rights.
His leadership style is collaborative, and many expect him to build bridges between the more progressive and conservative wings of the Church.
Public Statements and Media Spotlight
Earlier in 2025, then-Cardinal Prevost made headlines for clashing with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, publicly criticizing Vance’s remarks on Christian love. Prevost tweeted, “JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others.” The incident highlighted his willingness to speak openly on matters of ethics and public morality, even when it involves powerful political figures.
Final Thoughts
Pope Leo XIV—formerly Robert Prevost of Chicago—represents a powerful mix of tradition, outreach, and reform. As the first American-born Pope, his election marks a historic shift in the Church’s global representation. With a modest net worth and decades of service behind him, Leo XIV brings a pastoral heart and a global perspective to the Vatican’s highest office.
While wealth was never the goal, his influence and legacy will be measured not in dollars, but in doctrine, diplomacy, and devotion.
