Net Worth Ranker
What Is Sean Murray’s Net Worth?
Sean Murray, an American actor primarily recognized for his enduring role as Timothy McGee on the CBS procedural drama “NCIS,” has cultivated a substantial net worth over his career. As of 2025, Sean Murray’s net worth is estimated to be $25 million. This figure reflects his earnings from acting roles, primarily his long-standing tenure on “NCIS,” as well as any potential real estate investments and other assets.
Sean Murray’s Earnings and “NCIS” Salary Details
Sean Murray’s prominence stems largely from his consistent presence on “NCIS” since its inception in 2003. His salary per episode reached $300,000, translating to approximately $7 million per season. This figure does not include potential earnings from syndication royalties, which could further augment his annual income. Assuming an average of 23 episodes per season, his $300,000 per episode translates into a significant annual earning. Over two decades of being on “NCIS,” these earnings compound to a substantial portion of his overall net worth.
While specific contract details beyond the per-episode salary are not publicly available, it’s reasonable to assume that Murray’s contract includes standard clauses for bonuses, residuals, and potential profit participation, especially given his long-standing role on a highly successful show. These additional revenue streams would contribute to his overall financial picture and net worth.
Early Life and Career Foundations
Born on November 15, 1977, in Bethesda, Maryland, Sean Murray spent a significant portion of his childhood abroad, growing up in New South Wales, Australia, and residing on various military bases due to his father’s naval career. This diverse upbringing provided him with a global perspective, which may have influenced his adaptability and approach to his acting career. While specific details about his early education are limited, his exposure to different cultures and environments likely contributed to his personal and professional development.
Murray’s acting career began in the early 1990s, with roles in television films and series. His early work included a role in the television film “Backfield in Motion” and a guest appearance on “Civil Wars.” One of his early career milestones was a six-episode arc on the television series “Jag” which was created by his stepfather, Donald Bellisario. During this period, Murray supplemented his income through various guest-starring roles on shows such as “ER”, “Silk Stalkings”, “Touched by an Angel”, and “Boston Public.” These early roles, though not as financially lucrative as his later work on “NCIS,” provided valuable experience and helped establish him in the industry.
His early film credits include roles in “Hocus Pocus” (1993) and “This Boy’s Life” (1993). Although these roles were relatively minor, they provided valuable on-set experience and helped him build his resume. These diverse roles, while offering varying levels of compensation, were essential steps in building his career and ultimately contributing to his current net worth.
Career Success and “NCIS” Stardom
Sean Murray’s most significant career achievement is undoubtedly his role as Timothy McGee on “NCIS.” He has appeared in approximately 400 episodes since the show’s premiere in 2003. This extensive tenure has not only provided him with a consistent income stream but has also elevated his profile and solidified his position in the entertainment industry. The success of “NCIS,” one of the most-watched television shows globally, has undoubtedly contributed significantly to Murray’s financial success and net worth.
Beyond his salary, Murray’s involvement with “NCIS” likely includes benefits such as residuals and potential profit participation, further contributing to his wealth. The show’s continued popularity in syndication ensures a steady stream of income for Murray, even outside of his direct involvement in filming new episodes. His role as a main cast member has provided financial stability, allowing him to pursue other investments and financial opportunities.
Murray’s portrayal of Timothy McGee has resonated with audiences, contributing to the character’s popularity and longevity on the show. This popularity, in turn, has made Murray a recognizable figure in the entertainment industry, potentially opening doors to other opportunities and endorsements. While specific endorsement deals are not publicly known, his high profile on “NCIS” makes him an attractive candidate for various brand partnerships.
Real Estate Holdings
Sean Murray’s real estate portfolio provides insight into his investment strategies and financial management. In 2009, Murray and his wife, Carrie James, purchased a home in Encino, California, for $1.9 million. Maintaining ownership of this property indicates a long-term investment strategy. In April 2021, the couple acquired a 6,500 square-foot mansion in Tarzana, California, for $4.85 million. However, they sold the property just a few months later, in October 2021, for $5.2 million, resulting in a $350,000 profit.
The rapid sale of the Tarzana mansion highlights Murray’s acumen in real estate transactions. The $350,000 profit within five months, or approximately $70,000 per month, demonstrates his ability to identify and capitalize on real estate opportunities. These real estate dealings, in addition to his “NCIS” earnings, contribute to his overall net worth.
While specific details about the Encino property are not publicly available, it can be assumed that maintaining this asset indicates a stable real estate investment strategy. Property values in Encino, California, have generally appreciated over time, suggesting that this home has likely increased in value since its purchase in 2009, further adding to Murray’s overall net worth.
Other Ventures and Assets
While Sean Murray’s primary income source is his acting career, particularly his role on “NCIS,” it is possible he has diversified his portfolio with other ventures and assets. Details about these ventures are not publicly available. Murray’s step-sister Troian Bellisario is an actress known for starring on “Pretty Little Liars.”, but no direct collaboration or financial details between them is available.
It is not known if Sean Murray has any investments in the stock market, bonds, or other financial instruments. These types of investments can significantly contribute to an individual’s net worth over time, providing a diversified stream of income and capital appreciation.
Without specific details, it is difficult to quantify the exact contribution of these potential ventures to Murray’s overall net worth. However, it is common for high-earning individuals in the entertainment industry to explore various investment opportunities to maximize their financial growth and security.
Personal Life
Sean Murray’s personal life includes his marriage to Carrie James in November 2005. They met in 2004. Together, they have two children.
His stepfather, Donald Bellisario, is a prominent television producer known for creating shows such as “Magnum, P.I.,” “Quantum Leap,” “JAG,” and “NCIS.” His parents divorced, and his mother, Vivienne Lee, married Donald Bellisario in 1998. While Murray’s family connections may have provided opportunities and support, his success is ultimately the result of his own talent and hard work.
There is no public information available about his personal habits, hobbies, or philanthropic endeavors. The actor maintains a relatively private personal life, as evidenced by the limited information available about his daily routine and lifestyle.
Net Worth Milestones
While precise year-by-year net worth milestones are not publicly documented for Sean Murray, it is reasonable to assume that his net worth has steadily increased over his career, particularly since joining “NCIS” in 2003. His consistent role on the show, coupled with salary increases and potential earnings from syndication, have likely contributed to significant growth in his net worth over time. His real estate transactions, such as the purchase and sale of properties in California, have also played a role in his financial trajectory.
Based on his estimated $300,000 per episode salary, it can be inferred that his net worth has experienced substantial growth since the mid-2000s. Assuming a conservative estimate of 20 episodes per season, his annual earnings from “NCIS” alone would be around $6 million before taxes and other expenses. Over the course of his career on the show, these earnings have likely contributed significantly to his current net worth of $25 million.
His salary per episode increased as the show’s popularity grew. Early in his “NCIS” career, his per-episode salary was likely lower, but it has steadily increased over time, reflecting his value to the show and his increasing experience and recognition. This salary growth, combined with potential earnings from other sources, has contributed to the ongoing expansion of his net worth.
