How Al Roker Increased His Net Worth

Al Roker net worth is estimated at $70 million, reflecting a decades-long career as one of the most recognizable and enduring figures in American television. Best known as NBC’s longtime weather anchor on The Today Show, Roker has parlayed his role far beyond meteorology into a multifaceted career as a television personality, author, producer, and cultural mainstay.

After officially becoming Today’s weekday weather anchor in 1996, Roker evolved into a trusted voice for millions of viewers. His warmth, humor, and adaptability allowed him to remain relevant as morning television changed around him, making him one of the most valuable personalities in broadcast news history.

Al Roker’s NBC Salary

A significant portion of Al Roker net worth comes from his lucrative NBC contracts. Roker reportedly earns $10 million per year, and his most recent deal is a five-year, $50 million contract. The agreement covers his duties on The Today Show as well as appearances on The Weather Channel.

His financial success mirrors his professional longevity. In recognition of his 40 years with NBC, the Today Plaza was temporarily renamed “Rokerfeller Plaza” in 2018—an honor rarely bestowed on broadcast journalists.

Career Longevity and Cultural Impact

Roker joined NBC in 1978 and steadily rose through the ranks, becoming a permanent fixture on The Today Show by the mid-1990s after replacing Willard Scott. Over the next three decades, he became far more than a weather forecaster, seamlessly shifting between breaking news, entertainment interviews, national events, and lighthearted segments.

He has covered everything from natural disasters to presidential inaugurations, including the 2013 inauguration of President Barack Obama—an event Roker has described as personally meaningful. His interviewing resume includes legendary figures such as Betty White, Don Rickles, Carl Reiner, and Dick Van Dyke.

Despite celebrating 30 years on Today, Roker has consistently downplayed the idea of retirement, often describing himself as a steward of the show rather than its centerpiece. That mindset has helped sustain both his relevance and his earning power.

Early Life

Al Roker was born Albert Lincoln Roker Jr. on August 20, 1954, in Queens, New York. He grew up in a Catholic household with his parents and five younger siblings. His father worked as a bus driver, and his mother was a homemaker.

Roker attended Xavier High School in Manhattan, where he participated in the Cartooning and Illustration Club. He later earned a Bachelor of Arts in communications from SUNY Oswego in 1976. While still in college, he gained early broadcast experience as a weather anchor for CBS affiliate WHEN-TV in Syracuse.

Television Career Expansion

After graduating, Roker worked at WTTG in Washington, D.C., before joining NBC affiliate WKYC in Cleveland in 1978. His rise was swift. By the early 1980s, he had moved to New York City, eventually becoming WNBC-TV’s chief weathercaster.

In addition to Today, Roker has hosted and appeared in a wide range of television projects. These include NBC’s coverage of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (a role he has held since 1995), game shows such as Celebrity Family Feud, and Food Network programs like Roker on the Road and Tricked-Out Tailgating.

He has also made dozens of cameo appearances in films and television shows, including Men in Black, NewsRadio, 30 Rock, Saturday Night Live, Seinfeld, and multiple Sharknado films—often playing himself.

“Rokerthon” and Record-Breaking Feats

Roker further cemented his brand through his viral “Rokerthon” events. Beginning in 2014, he broke multiple Guinness World Records by delivering marathon weather forecasts and reporting from all 50 U.S. states in a single week. These events not only boosted viewership but also reinforced his marketability and charitable impact.

Writing Career

Another contributor to Al Roker net worth is his success as an author. He has published 12 books, including memoirs, cookbooks, weather-related nonfiction, and a successful mystery novel series co-written with Dick Lochte. Several of his books became bestsellers, adding a substantial secondary income stream beyond television.

Personal Life

Roker has been married to journalist Deborah Roberts since 1995. The couple has two children together, and Roker also has an adopted daughter from his first marriage. He has been open about his health struggles, including weight loss surgery, joint replacements, and a successful prostate cancer operation in 2020.

His transparency about health and wellness has strengthened his connection with audiences and reinforced his reputation as one of television’s most relatable personalities.

Real Estate

Roker and Roberts own a Manhattan brownstone purchased for approximately $3.25 million, as well as a home in New York’s Hudson Valley. These properties contribute to the overall valuation of Al Roker net worth.