Hoda Kotb has become a familiar and beloved face in American households over the past two decades. Known for her warmth, resilience, and relatability, the Emmy-winning journalist officially signed off from Today in January 2025, marking the end of an era. As she transitions into a new phase of her life and career, many are curious about how much her successful grind has earned her over the years.
As of 2025, Hoda Kotb’s net worth is estimated at $30 million, reflecting her decades-long journalism career, bestselling books, speaking engagements, and upcoming brand collaborations.
From Oklahoma to Network News Stardom
Hoda Kotb was born in Norman, Oklahoma and raised in Morgantown, West Virginia and later Alexandria, Virginia. Now 60 years old, Kotb attended Virginia Tech, graduating in 1986 with a degree in broadcast journalism. Her early years in news were spent at local stations, including a CBS affiliate in Mississippi and an ABC affiliate in New Orleans. Those roles shaped her journalistic skills and helped her climb the ranks in a competitive industry.
In 1998, Kotb joined NBC News as a correspondent for Dateline, gaining national exposure. However, it was in 2007 that her visibility soared when she began hosting the fourth hour of Today. Her chemistry with co-host Kathie Lee Gifford, beginning in 2008, turned the segment into must-watch daytime TV. Their “Wine Wednesday” antics and unfiltered conversations turned them into pop culture icons.
A Powerful Transition to the Anchor Desk
Hoda Kotb made television history in 2018 when she was named co-anchor of Today alongside Savannah Guthrie, replacing Matt Lauer after his dismissal for sexual misconduct. The decision marked a milestone as it was the first time two women co-anchored the program. Kotb’s approachable style, emotional candor, and heartfelt storytelling helped the show retain its ratings and audience trust.
Kotb once told Forbes, “I’m a grinder. I’ll fall a thousand times, but I get up.” That mindset helped her navigate the fast-paced, often cutthroat world of network news. Over time, she became one of the most respected figures on American television.
Hoda Kotb’s Net Worth in 2025
With a career spanning nearly four decades, Hoda Kotb’s net worth sits comfortably at $30 million in 2025. This wealth isn’t just from anchoring the Today show. Kotb is also a six-time bestselling author, having written both memoirs and children’s books, and has hosted her own SiriusXM radio show from 2015 to 2022.
Kotb’s departure from Today will likely not hinder her financially. According to sources quoted in Us Weekly, she is expected to earn more outside of NBC by collaborating with brands and taking on paid speaking engagements on topics like reinvention and life after 60.
Annual Salary and Income Sources
When Kotb first became a co-anchor in 2018, her salary was reported at $7 million annually—a respectable sum but significantly less than her predecessor, Matt Lauer, who reportedly made $25 million a year. Despite the pay gap, Kotb never expressed discontent. She told friends and colleagues that the role itself was the real dream, not the dollar amount.
In later years, her salary increased to about $8 million per year, especially during her dual role hosting the fourth hour of Today with Jenna Bush Hager, whose salary is estimated at $4 million annually.
Sources close to NBC also claimed that Kotb and Guthrie earned equal salaries, indicating that both women likely negotiated pay raises during their tenure as co-anchors.
Life Beyond ‘Today’
In late 2024, Kotb announced her decision to leave Today, and she officially stepped down in January 2025. While fans were heartbroken, her departure didn’t signal retirement. Quite the opposite—insiders confirmed that Kotb is now open to brand partnerships, endorsements, and motivational speaking, areas that could be even more lucrative than her network news salary.
“She’s going to earn way more than she did at the Today show,” a source told Us Weekly. With decades of credibility and a loyal following, she’s positioned perfectly to explore media, wellness, and lifestyle sectors.
A Personal Life of Resilience and Joy
Hoda Kotb has also navigated major life changes in her personal life. She adopted her first daughter, Haley Joy, in 2017, followed by her second daughter, Hope Catherine, in 2019. Kotb became a mother in her 50s, a life chapter she often calls her most fulfilling.
She was formerly engaged to Joel Schiffman, but the couple split in early 2022 after eight years together. Despite the breakup, Kotb continues to co-parent amicably and remains focused on raising her daughters.
In interviews, Kotb often emphasizes that her greatest success isn’t fame or money—but family. Her late-in-life motherhood journey has become a central theme in her speaking events and upcoming book projects.
What’s Next for Hoda Kotb?
Although her time with Today has ended, Hoda Kotb’s journey is far from over. She’s expected to expand her brand through podcasting, publishing, and public speaking. With a loyal fanbase and years of media experience, Kotb could easily launch her own platform or even a production company focused on storytelling, wellness, or parenting.
In every chapter, from small-town reporter to national morning show host, Kotb has remained genuine and driven. As she enters this exciting new phase, it’s clear her legacy will extend well beyond the morning news desk.
