Unpacking Drew Carey's 'Price Is Right' Salary: A Deep Dive

08 Jul, 2025

For decades, "The Price Is Right" has been a beloved staple of daytime television, a show where contestants guess prices to win incredible prizes. But beyond the excitement of "Come on Down!" and the iconic Plinko board, there's a quieter curiosity that often piques the interest of viewers: how much does the host make? Specifically, what is Drew Carey's salary on The Price Is Right, and how does it contribute to his impressive net worth? This article aims to pull back the curtain on the financial success of one of television's most recognizable personalities.

Drew Carey, the affable comedian who took over the hosting reins from the legendary Bob Barker, has become synonymous with the show's modern era. His unique blend of humor, warmth, and genuine enthusiasm has endeared him to millions, ensuring "The Price Is Right" continues its legacy of entertainment. But his journey to this lucrative position is a story of consistent hard work, strategic career moves, and an undeniable talent for connecting with an audience. Let's delve into the numbers and the career trajectory that led to Drew Carey's staggering paycheck.

The Enduring Legacy of The Price Is Right
Drew Carey: From Stand-Up to Game Show Icon
- Early Life and Career Beginnings
- The Drew Carey Show Era
The Transition: Stepping into Bob Barker's Shoes
Unveiling Drew Carey's Salary on The Price Is Right
- Annual Earnings and Per-Episode Breakdown
- Why Such a Hefty Paycheck?
Drew Carey's Net Worth: A Testament to TV Success
Beyond The Price Is Right: Other Ventures and Income Streams
The Future of Drew Carey and The Price Is Right
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Enduring Legacy of The Price Is Right

"The Price Is Right" isn't just a game show; it's an American institution. First airing in 1956 and then famously revived in 1972, it has captivated generations of viewers with its simple yet engaging premise: guess the price of everyday items to win big. Its longevity is a testament to its timeless appeal, the excitement of its games, and the charisma of its hosts. For decades, Bob Barker was the face of the show, becoming a beloved figure synonymous with its success. When Barker announced his retirement in 2007, the question of who would fill such enormous shoes loomed large over the entertainment industry. The choice was Drew Carey, a comedian and actor already well-known to American audiences.

Carey's first episode of "The Price Is Right" was taped on August 15, 2007, with his shows beginning to air on October 15, 2007. Stepping into a role previously held by an icon is no easy feat, and Carey himself acknowledged the challenge, stating, "You can't replace Bob Barker." However, his tenure as host has been undeniably successful. "The Price Is Right" has maintained its strong ratings and loyal fanbase, a clear indication that Carey's hosting style, which brings a fresh energy to the show, has resonated with viewers of all ages. This continued success is a significant factor in understanding what is Drew Carey's salary on The Price Is Right today.

Drew Carey: From Stand-Up to Game Show Icon

Before taking over the reins for Bob Barker, Drew Carey was already an established comedian and actor with a diverse career that showcased his versatility. His journey to becoming a household name was a gradual ascent, marked by hard work and a distinctive comedic voice. Understanding his background is crucial to appreciating the scale of his current earnings as the host of "The Price Is Right."

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Drew Carey eventually cashed in big after switching from a military career to the entertainment biz. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Carey served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve for six years before embarking on his comedy career. He began performing stand-up in 1985, honing his craft in comedy clubs across the country. His observational humor and everyman persona quickly gained traction, leading to appearances on shows like "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson" and "Late Night with David Letterman." These early successes laid the groundwork for his future in television.

The Drew Carey Show Era

Carey's big break came with "The Drew Carey Show," a popular sitcom that aired on ABC for nine years, from 1995 to 2004. In this show, Carey also played a fictionalized version of himself, a regular guy navigating life, work, and friendships in Cleveland. The show was a massive hit, and it significantly boosted Carey's profile and earnings. His starting salary for the show was $60,000, but it was quickly renegotiated to $300,000 as the show gained popularity. By the series finale, he was earning $1 million per episode, a testament to his rising star power and the show's success. Likewise, he had experience with producing in the entertainment business as well, further solidifying his position in Hollywood.

Here's a quick look at Drew Carey's personal data:

Attribute	Detail
Full Name	Drew Allison Carey
Born	May 23, 1958 (age 65 as of 2023)
Birthplace	Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.
Occupation	Actor, Comedian, Television Host
Active Years	1985–present
Known For	"The Drew Carey Show," "Whose Line Is It Anyway?," "The Price Is Right"
Net Worth (2023)	$165 Million (approx.)
Annual Salary (TPIR)	$12.5 Million (approx.)

The Transition: Stepping into Bob Barker's Shoes

The announcement of Bob Barker's retirement from "The Price Is Right" in 2007 sent ripples through the television world. Barker had hosted the show for 35 years, becoming an irreplaceable part of many Americans' daily routines. The search for his successor was intense, with many speculating who could possibly fill such an iconic role. Drew Carey, with his established comedic background and experience hosting "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" and "The Drew Carey Show," emerged as the chosen one.

The transition was handled with respect for Barker's legacy, and Carey himself was humble about the task. His ability to connect with contestants and maintain the show's lighthearted, family-friendly atmosphere proved to be a perfect fit. He didn't try to imitate Barker but instead brought his own unique style – a witty sense of humor, goofy antics, and genuine warmth – which quickly resonated with fans. This seamless transition and continued popularity of the show under his leadership directly contribute to the significant figure that is Drew Carey's salary on The Price Is Right.

Unveiling Drew Carey's Salary on The Price Is Right

Now, for the question that brings many to this article: what is Drew Carey's salary on The Price Is Right? The numbers are indeed impressive, reflecting his status as a top-tier television personality and the immense success of the game show itself. His host Drew Carey's staggering paycheck per episode clearly shows 'the price is right' for him.

Annual Earnings and Per-Episode Breakdown

According to Celebrity Net Worth and Wealthy Gorilla, Drew Carey earns $12.5 million annually from his role as the host of "The Price Is Right." This makes him among the richest comedians worldwide. To break that down further, Drew gets paid approximately $750,000 per episode on "The Price Is Right." Considering the show tapes multiple episodes per week, this figure quickly adds up to his substantial annual income. Since taking over from the iconic Bob Barker in 2007, Carey has consistently commanded a hefty paycheck for his work on the show, a testament to the show's enduring popularity and his pivotal role in its continued success.

Why Such a Hefty Paycheck?

The question isn't just "what is Drew Carey's salary on The Price Is Right?" but "why is it so high?" Several factors contribute to his impressive earnings:

Experience and Talent: Carey is an experienced and talented entertainer with a career that includes acting, comedy, and producing. His years in the industry, particularly his success with "The Drew Carey Show" and "Whose Line Is It Anyway?", established him as a proven draw for audiences. Networks are willing to pay top dollar for reliable talent.
Show's Success: "The Price Is Right" is a highly successful game show. Its consistent strong ratings and loyal fanbase mean significant advertising revenue for CBS. A show that performs well financially can afford to pay its lead talent a premium.
Audience Connection: It appears Drew Carey's witty sense of humor and goofy antics have resonated with fans. His hosting style brings a fresh energy to the show, attracting viewers of all ages and maintaining the show's broad appeal. This connection translates directly into viewership and, consequently, value for the network.
Longevity in the Role: Having hosted since 2007, Carey has been the face of "The Price Is Right" for over a decade and a half. This longevity builds trust and familiarity with the audience, making him an invaluable asset.
Negotiating Power: Given his established career and the show's success under his tenure, Carey has significant negotiating power. He is not just a host; he is a brand that contributes to the show's overall marketability.

These elements combined make Drew Carey's salary on The Price Is Right not just a high number, but a justified reflection of his contribution to one of television's most enduring programs.

Drew Carey's Net Worth: A Testament to TV Success

Beyond his annual salary from "The Price Is Right," Drew Carey has accumulated a substantial net worth over his decades-long career in entertainment. Drew Carey is an American actor, comedian, and television host who has a net worth of $165 million. This figure is a testament to the fact that TV pays, especially for someone with his consistent success across various platforms. According to Celebrity Net Worth, Drew brings in a significant amount, contributing to his overall wealth.

Throughout his career, the American comedian has earned millions. Here's how much the "Price Is Right" host is worth, and a breakdown of his earnings per The Richest:

"The Drew Carey Show" Earnings: As mentioned, his salary on his sitcom grew significantly, reaching $1 million per episode by the finale. Given the show's nine-year run, this alone contributed tens of millions to his wealth.
"Whose Line Is It Anyway?" Earnings: Carey also hosted the popular improv comedy show "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" for many years, which added another substantial stream of income.
"The Price Is Right" Salary: His annual $12.5 million from "The Price Is Right" has been a consistent and significant contributor to his net worth since 2007.
Endorsements and Other Ventures: Like many celebrities, Carey has likely engaged in endorsement deals and other business ventures throughout his career, further diversifying his income.

Looking ahead, Drew Carey's net worth in 2025 is estimated at an astounding $400 million. This projection comes from his successful television career, including his continued role as the host of "The Price Is Right," and his earlier sitcom "The Drew Carey Show." This significant jump indicates potential future investments, continued high earnings, and the compounding effect of wealth management. This article has examined Drew Carey's choice of luxury, the exquisite assets he invested in as a millionaire, and how he earned his impressive net worth, which clearly extends beyond just his salary on "The Price Is Right."

Beyond The Price Is Right: Other Ventures and Income Streams

While Drew Carey's salary on "The Price Is Right" forms the cornerstone of his current annual income, his financial portfolio is more diverse. Hosting "The Price Is Right" is a major part of his income, but it's not his only source. His wealth also extends beyond TV, showcasing his business acumen and varied interests.

Sports Ownership: Drew Carey is a minority owner of the Seattle Sounders FC, a Major League Soccer (MLS) team. This investment reflects his passion for sports and provides another avenue for income and asset growth.
Producing Credits: As noted earlier, Carey had experience with producing in the entertainment business. This behind-the-scenes work can also generate income through production fees and backend deals.
Real Estate and Investments: Like many high-net-worth individuals, Carey likely has a diversified investment portfolio, including real estate, stocks, and other financial instruments, which contribute to his overall net worth.
Past Hosting Gigs: Before landing the role on "The Price Is Right," Carey hosted "The Drew Carey Show" on ABC for nine years, and "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" These past roles continue to generate residuals and royalties, adding to his ongoing income.

These various income streams highlight that while his "Price Is Right" salary is substantial, Drew Carey has built a comprehensive financial empire through smart career choices and diversified investments.

The Future of Drew Carey and The Price Is Right

Drew Carey's tenure as host has been successful, with "The Price Is Right" maintaining its strong ratings and loyal fanbase. His hosting style brings a fresh energy to the show, attracting viewers of all ages. As of now, there's no indication that Carey plans to step down from his role. His continued popularity and the show's consistent performance suggest that he will remain at the helm for the foreseeable future, ensuring that his impressive salary from "The Price Is Right" continues to be a significant part of his annual earnings.

The show itself remains a cultural phenomenon, adapting to modern times while retaining its classic charm. The recent tribute to Bob Barker following his death aged 99 underscored the show's deep roots and its ability to honor its past while looking to the future. With Drew Carey at the microphone, "The Price Is Right" is well-positioned to continue its legacy for many more years, and with it, Drew Carey's financial success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions regarding Drew Carey's earnings and career:

Q: What is Drew Carey's salary on The Price Is Right per year?
A: Drew Carey earns approximately $12.5 million annually as the host of "The Price Is Right."

Q: How much does Drew Carey get paid per episode of The Price Is Right?
A: Drew Carey gets paid approximately $750,000 per episode of "The Price Is Right."

Q: What is Drew Carey's net worth?
A: Drew Carey's net worth is currently estimated at $165 million. It is projected to reach $400 million by 2025.

Q: When did Drew Carey start hosting The Price Is Right?
A: Drew Carey's first episode of "The Price Is Right" was taped on August 15, 2007, and his shows began airing on October 15, 2007.

Q: Was Drew Carey famous before The Price Is Right?
A: Yes, Drew Carey was already an established comedian and actor, famous for "The Drew Carey Show" and "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" before taking over "The Price Is Right."

Q: Does Drew Carey have other sources of income?
A: Yes, in addition to his "Price Is Right" salary, Drew Carey has income from past acting roles, producing credits, and is a minority owner of the Seattle Sounders FC, along with other business ventures.

Q: Why is Drew Carey's salary so high?
A: His high salary is due to his extensive experience, talent, the show's massive success and high ratings, his strong connection with the audience, and his longevity in the role, all of which contribute to his significant negotiating power.

Q: How does Drew Carey's salary compare to Bob Barker's?
A: While specific figures for Bob Barker's peak salary are not as widely published in detail, it's generally understood that top game show hosts command multi-million dollar salaries, reflecting their value to long-running, successful franchises. Drew Carey's earnings are certainly in line with, if not exceeding, what top hosts in similar positions have historically earned.

Q: Has Drew Carey been on hiatus from The Price Is Right recently?
A: While specific hiatuses can occur for various reasons (e.g., production breaks, personal reasons), the show's taping schedule often includes planned breaks. Any recent hiatus would typically be part of the show's regular production cycle or for specific, publicly announced reasons.

Q: What is the significance of Drew Carey's net worth reaching $400 million by 2025?
A: This projection indicates a significant increase in his overall wealth, likely driven by continued high earnings from "The Price Is Right," successful investments, and potentially new ventures. It underscores his enduring financial success in the entertainment industry.

Q: How many years has Drew Carey hosted The Price Is Right?
A: Since starting in October 2007, Drew Carey has hosted "The Price Is Right" for over 16 years as of late 2023.

Q: Does Drew Carey have any producing credits?
A: Yes, Drew Carey has experience with producing in the entertainment business, particularly during his time with "The Drew Carey Show."

Q: What is the "Jim Carey Show" mentioned in some data?
A: This appears to be a typo in some data sources. The show Drew Carey hosted on ABC for nine years was "The Drew Carey Show," not "The Jim Carey Show."

Q: What is Drew Carey's role as a sports owner?
A: Drew Carey is a minority owner of the Seattle Sounders FC, a professional soccer team in Major League Soccer (MLS).

Q: How has Drew Carey's hosting style impacted "The Price Is Right"?
A: His witty sense of humor and goofy antics have resonated with fans, bringing a fresh energy to the show that attracts viewers of all ages and helps maintain its strong ratings and loyal fanbase.

Q: What was Drew Carey's starting salary on "The Drew Carey Show"?
A: His starting salary was $60,000, but it was renegotiated to $300,000 as the show gained popularity, eventually reaching $1 million per episode by the finale.

Q: How does Drew Carey's career earnings compare to other comedians?
A: With an annual salary of $12.5 million and a net worth of $165 million, Drew Carey is among the richest comedians worldwide, placing him in an elite tier of entertainers.

Q: What is the historical significance of "The Price Is Right"?
A: "The Price Is Right" first aired in 1956 and was revived in 1972, making it one of the longest-running and most successful game shows in television history.

Q: Has Drew Carey ever commented on replacing Bob Barker?
A: Yes, in response to replacing Barker as host, Carey stated, "You can't replace Bob Barker," showing respect for his predecessor's iconic status.

Q: What is Drew Carey's primary source of income currently?
A: His primary source of income is his role as the host of "The Price Is Right," contributing approximately $12.5 million annually.

Q: What kind of assets has Drew Carey invested in?
A: While specific details are private, as a millionaire, he has likely invested in various assets, including real estate, stocks, and potentially luxury items, as mentioned in the data examining his "choice of luxury" and "exquisite assets."

Q: How has Drew Carey maintained the show's success after Bob Barker?
A: By bringing his own unique and engaging hosting style, which resonated with both long-time fans and new viewers, he successfully kept the show's ratings strong and its fanbase loyal.

Q: What does "testament to the fact that TV pays" mean in relation to Drew Carey?
A: It means that his substantial net worth and high salary are clear evidence that a successful career in television can be extremely lucrative, especially for a prominent and long-standing figure like Drew Carey.

Q: Is Drew Carey's salary public information?
A: While exact contract details are private, figures like his annual salary and per-episode pay are widely reported by reputable financial and celebrity news outlets based on industry estimates and insider information.

Q: What makes Drew Carey's humor unique on the show?
A: His unique blend of witty humor, self-deprecating jokes, and "goofy antics" creates a relaxed and fun atmosphere that differentiates his hosting style and connects with the audience.

Q: How did Drew Carey transition from a military career to entertainment?
A: He transitioned by pursuing stand-up comedy after his service in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, gradually building his career through club performances and television appearances.

Q: What is the significance of "The Price Is Right" in Drew Carey's career?
A: Hosting "The Price Is Right" is the pinnacle of his career in terms of consistent high earnings and public visibility, solidifying his status as a major television personality.

Q: Does Drew Carey interact much with the models and George Gray on the show?
A: Yes, as the host, Drew Carey frequently interacts with the show's announcer, George Gray, and the models, contributing to the show's overall dynamic and entertainment value.

Q: What is the average number of episodes "The Price Is Right" tapes annually?
A: "The Price Is Right" typically tapes around 170-180 new episodes per season, which contributes to Drew Carey's substantial per-episode and annual earnings.

Q: How does Drew Carey's salary compare to other game show hosts?
A: Drew Carey's salary of $12.5 million annually places him among the highest-paid game show hosts in television, reflecting the show's popularity and his long tenure.

Q: What impact did "The Drew Carey Show" have on his financial success?
A: "The Drew Carey Show" was instrumental in building his initial wealth, with his salary reaching $1 million per episode, providing a strong financial foundation before his "Price Is Right" role.

Q: Is Drew Carey still active in comedy outside of "The Price Is Right"?
A: While his primary focus is "The Price Is Right," he occasionally performs stand-up or participates in other comedic projects, leveraging his roots in comedy.

Q: What is the significance of "The Price Is Right" being a "highly successful game show"?
A: Its high success translates directly into significant revenue for the network, allowing them to pay a premium for a popular and effective host like Drew Carey, ensuring his salary remains substantial.

Q: How does Drew Carey's personality contribute to his high salary?
A: His relatable "everyman" persona combined with his quick wit and genuine enthusiasm makes him highly appealing to a broad audience, making him a valuable asset to the show and justifying his high compensation.

Q: What is the general public perception of Drew Carey as host?
A: The general perception is largely positive, with many fans appreciating his unique style and how he has successfully continued the legacy of "The Price Is Right" while making it his own.

Q: Has Drew Carey ever won an award for hosting "The Price Is Right"?
A: While specific awards for "The Price Is Right" hosting might vary, his long and successful tenure is often recognized by industry nominations and the show's continued popularity, which is a testament to his performance.

Q: What is the typical length of a contract for a host like Drew Carey?
A: Contracts for prominent hosts on long-running shows are typically multi-year deals, often with options for renewal, ensuring stability for both the host and the network.

Q: How does the show's taping schedule affect Drew Carey's work-life balance?
A: While the per-episode pay is high, game shows often tape multiple episodes in a single day or week, allowing for blocks of time off, which can contribute to a manageable work-life balance for the host.

Q: What is the long-term outlook for Drew Carey's career?
A: With his current role on "The Price Is Right" and diversified investments, Drew Carey's long-term career outlook appears

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