Net Worth Ranker
What Is Joe Kernen’s Net Worth?
Joe Kernen, a prominent American CNBC news anchor and author, has accumulated a substantial net worth of $16 million. This financial standing is primarily attributed to his successful career in financial journalism, particularly his long-standing role as the co-host of CNBC’s “Squawk Box.” His contributions to the network over several decades have solidified his position as a respected figure in the financial news industry.
Joe Kernen’s Earnings and Career at CNBC
Kernen’s annual salary at CNBC is $3 million, reflecting his significant role in the network’s programming. He joined CNBC in 1991 following its merger with Financial News Network (FNN). Before his transition to television, Kernen spent a decade as a stockbroker, providing him with practical experience in the financial markets that he now analyzes and discusses on air.
His tenure at CNBC includes co-hosting “Squawk Box” since 1995, a morning news program known for its in-depth coverage of business and financial topics. He has also made appearances on various other programs, including “ESPN SportsCentury” (2000), “McEnroe” (2004), “The Apprentice” (2009), “Piers Morgan Live” (2011), “On the Record w/ Brit Hume” (2012), “Fox and Friends” (2012), “Talking Dead” (2014), and “Worldwide Exchange” (2016–2018). In 2011, Kernen was also featured in the HBO film “Too Big to Fail” and guest-starred in a 2012 episode of the FX series “Damages.” These appearances, while not directly contributing to his salary from CNBC, enhance his public profile, which can indirectly affect his net worth.
Kernen initiated a “Rise Above” campaign in 2012 during the fiscal cliff crisis, advocating for congressional spending cuts, which underscores his active role in influencing economic policy discussions.
Early Life and Education
Born Joseph Richard Kernen on January 6, 1956, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Joe’s upbringing in Western Hills, Cincinnati, laid the foundation for his future success. He attended St. Xavier High School, graduating in 1974. He then pursued higher education at the University of Colorado Boulder, where he earned a bachelor’s degree. Furthering his academic pursuits, Kernen enrolled at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), completing a master’s degree in molecular biology with a thesis focused on cancer research. While his education in molecular biology might seem unrelated to his current career, the analytical and critical thinking skills he developed during his studies have undoubtedly contributed to his ability to analyze complex financial issues. This diverse background sets him apart from many of his peers in financial journalism.
Published Work and Public Engagements
In 2011, Joe Kernen co-authored “Your Teacher Said What?!: Defending Our Kids from the Liberal Assault on Capitalism” with his daughter, Blake. This book reflects Kernen’s views on economic and political issues and demonstrates his engagement beyond his role as a news anchor. While the book’s sales figures are not publicly available, it contributes to his overall net worth through royalties and public speaking engagements related to the book.
Kernen’s on-air comments and public statements have sometimes sparked controversy, such as his remarks on climate change and his imitation of an Indian accent in 2013. These incidents, while not directly impacting his net worth, have the potential to affect his public image and professional standing.
Real Estate Investments
Joe Kernen’s real estate holdings include a 4,800-square-foot home in Short Hills, New Jersey, which he purchased in September 2003 for $566,000. As of today, February 28, 2025, this property is estimated to be worth around $4 million. This significant appreciation in value underscores the importance of real estate as an investment component of his net worth.
Personal Life and Nicknames
Known by the nicknames “The Hair” and “The Kahuna,” Joe Kernen married Penelope Scott, a former commodities trader, in 1998 on a golf course. They met in 1996 after Penelope joined CNBC. They have one daughter, Blake, born in 2000, who co-authored a book with him. These personal details provide a glimpse into Kernen’s life beyond his professional career.
While specific details about his personal investments are not publicly available, it’s reasonable to assume that Kernen, given his background and expertise in finance, has a diversified investment portfolio that contributes to his overall net worth. His intimate knowledge of the stock market and other financial instruments would enable him to make informed investment decisions.
In summary, Joe Kernen’s $16 million net worth is a result of his successful career as a CNBC news anchor, his real estate investments, and other financial endeavors. His annual salary of $3 million from CNBC provides a steady income stream, while his real estate holdings have appreciated significantly over time. While his education was not focused on finance, the skills he developed in molecular biology have been invaluable in his career. His real estate investment in Short Hills, New Jersey stands as one of the cornerstones of his financial portfolio.
