How Colin Jost Increased Net Worth

Colin Jost has become one of the most recognizable comedic voices in American television. Best known as the co-anchor of Saturday Night Live’s satirical news segment “Weekend Update,” Jost has spent nearly two decades shaping the tone, wit, and political humor of the legendary NBC sketch show. As of today, Colin Jost has an estimated net worth of $10 million, earned through his long-running SNL career, stand-up comedy tours, book sales, television appearances, and writing credits across film and media.

Colin Jost Salary

Jost joined SNL in 2005 at just 22 years old—making him one of the youngest writers ever hired for the show. Over the years, he moved up the ranks, serving as:

• Writer
• Writing Supervisor
• Co-Head Writer
• Co-anchor of “Weekend Update”

In 2014, he stepped in front of the camera to co-host “Weekend Update,” forming an on-screen duo with Michael Che—a pairing praised for its dry, sharp, and timely comedy.

How Much Does Colin Jost Make on SNL?

As a main cast performer and writer:

• Colin earns $25,000 per episode
• With approximately 21 episodes per season, this equals:
  ≈ $525,000 per year from SNL alone

This figure does not include bonuses, head writer pay, or additional appearances, meaning his total SNL compensation is likely higher.

Early Life

Colin Kelly Jost was born on June 29, 1982, in Staten Island, New York. His father worked as a schoolteacher, while his mother served as the Chief Medical Officer of the New York City Fire Department.

Raised in a Roman Catholic household alongside his brother Casey Jost (who would later also work in comedy and television), Colin showed strong academic and creative talent from a young age.

He attended Regis High School, one of New York’s most prestigious Jesuit schools, and later enrolled at Harvard University, where he:

• Majored in History and Literature
• Wrote for The Harvard Lampoon, the university’s iconic humor publication

His time at Harvard proved to be the foundation of his comedic writing career.

Career

After graduating, Jost briefly worked at:

• The Staten Island Advance newspaper
• The Nickelodeon animated series “Kappa Mikey”

At 22, he submitted a writing packet to SNL—and was hired almost immediately. From there, he steadily rose within the show.

Rise to “Weekend Update”

When longtime “Weekend Update” anchor Seth Meyers left to host his own late-night show, Lorne Michaels selected Jost to take over the desk.

His comedic tone draws inspiration from:

• Norm Macdonald
• Tina Fey
• Political commentary in classic SNL eras

Alongside Michael Che, he has become one of the longest-running “Weekend Update” hosts in the show’s history.

Work Beyond SNL

While SNL remains his main focus, Jost has also expanded his portfolio with writing, acting, producing, and publishing projects.

Film & Television Work

• Staten Island Summer (2015) – Writer/Producer – loosely based on his teenage years
• How to Be Single (2016) – Supporting role
• Tom & Jerry (2021) – Film appearance
• Coming 2 America (2021) – Cameo

Writing and Publications

Jost has contributed pieces to:

• The New Yorker
• The Huffington Post
• The New York Times Magazine

In 2020, he released his memoir:
“A Very Punchable Face”

• Became a New York Times Bestseller
• Praised for its humor, honesty, and unexpectedly emotional storytelling

Awards and Recognition

• Multiple Writers Guild of America Awards
• Peabody Award (shared with the SNL writing team)
• 14 Primetime Emmy nominations

Personal Life

Before his current marriage, Jost dated actress Rashida Jones.

Also Read: How Elizabeth Debicki Increased Her Net Worth

In 2017, he began dating actress Scarlett Johansson, whom he met while she was guest-hosting SNL. The pair became engaged in 2019 and married in October 2020 during a small, private ceremony.

They share a son, Cosmo (born 2021), and Jost is also stepfather to Rose, Scarlett’s daughter from her previous marriage.

Real Estate

In March 2025, Jost and Johansson purchased a 6,000-square-foot luxury penthouse on Park Avenue in New York City, reportedly for $13 million. The residence further reflects the couple’s shared success and long-term roots in Manhattan.

Colin Jost Net Worth

Colin Jost net worth is estimated to be $10 million.