Net Worth Ranker
What Is James May’s Net Worth?
James May, a prominent British journalist and television presenter, has accumulated a considerable fortune over his career. As of 2025, James May’s net worth is estimated to be $40 million. This wealth is primarily derived from his successful television career, writing endeavors, and strategic investments.
Career Highlights and Earnings
May’s career began in journalism, working for publications such as “The Engineer” and “Autocar” in the early 1980s. Although details of his early salaries are not publicly available, these roles provided a foundation for his future success. His writing career expanded to include contributions to “Top Gear” magazine and “Car Magazine,” further augmenting his income. In 2006, the publication of “May on Motors,” a compilation of his articles, marked a significant milestone in his writing career, though specific sales figures are not disclosed.
His breakthrough came with television. He presented the documentary “Driven” in 1998 and co-presented “Top Gear” in 1999. However, it was his role in the revived “Top Gear” from 2003 to 2015 that cemented his status as a television personality. While the exact salaries for “Top Gear” presenters are not publicly detailed, it is widely understood that they were substantial, reflecting the show’s global popularity and revenue generation. During his tenure on “Top Gear,” May also presented numerous other TV series, including “James May’s Top Toys” (2005), “Oz and James’s Big Wine Adventure” (2006–2007), “James May’s Big Ideas” (2008), and “James May’s Toy Stories” (2009–2014). These projects added to his income stream and solidified his reputation as a versatile presenter.
In 2016, May transitioned to Amazon’s “The Grand Tour,” alongside Jeremy Clarkson and Richard Hammond. The deal with Amazon was reported to be highly lucrative, with substantial investment in the show’s production quality. While specific salary details for “The Grand Tour” are confidential, industry insiders have estimated that the presenters received multi-million dollar contracts, commensurate with their star power and the show’s expected viewership. Moreover, his role as a director for W. Chump & Sons, the production company behind “The Grand Tour,” further contributes to his financial portfolio.
Beyond his television work, May’s writing career continued to flourish. He has authored over 15 books, including “James May’s Car Fever” (2009) and “James May’s Man Lab: The Book of Usefulness” (2011). While precise book sales figures are not publicly available, these publications undoubtedly added to his overall earnings. More recently, his cooking show “James May: Oh Cook!” (2020) and the travel documentary series “James May: Our Man in Japan” (2020) have demonstrated his continued ability to generate content that resonates with audiences, further diversifying his income sources.
Real Estate and Asset Holdings
James May’s net worth is also reflected in his real estate holdings. In 2015, he purchased a 5-bedroom home in Ansty for £770,000. Additionally, in 2000, he acquired a home in Hammersmith for £325,000, followed by the purchase of an adjacent semi-derelict property for £310,000 in 2013. The subsequent demolition and ongoing construction of a £3.5 million “superhome” underscore his significant investment in real estate. These properties contribute substantially to his asset base.
May’s passion for automobiles is well-known, and he has amassed a collection of luxury cars. His collection includes a Bentley T2, a 2005 Saab 9-5 Aero, a Rolls-Royce Phantom, a Rover P6, a Triumph 2000, an Alfa Romeo 164, a 1984 Porsche 911, a 2014 Ferrari 458 Speciale, a Porsche 911 Carerra S Facelift, a Ferrari F30, and a Fiat Panda. While the exact values of these cars fluctuate, their collective worth represents a notable portion of his overall wealth. He earned his light aircraft pilot’s license in 2006 and has owned several aircraft, including a Cessna A185E Skywagon, Luscombe 8A ‘Silvaire,’ and American Champion 8KCAB Super Decathlon. The acquisition and maintenance of these aircraft involve considerable expense, reflecting his financial capacity.
Business Ventures and Investments
In 2020, May expanded his business interests by becoming half-owner of The Royal Oak pub in Swallowcliffe, Wiltshire. The Royal Oak pub has been in operation since the early 18th century. While the specifics of his investment in the pub are not publicly detailed, this venture represents a diversification of his assets and a commitment to the hospitality industry.
Personal Life and Financial Decisions
May has been in a relationship with art critic Sarah Frater since 2000, and they reside together in Hammersmith, West London. Information regarding their financial arrangements is not publicly disclosed. His lifestyle choices, including travel and leisure activities, are indicative of his financial stability. For instance, his decision to attend a health clinic in Germany for a week-long detox program, although not quantified in monetary terms, suggests a willingness to invest in personal well-being.
James May’s net worth is a testament to his successful career as a journalist, television presenter, and author. His earnings from “Top Gear” and “The Grand Tour,” combined with his real estate holdings, car collection, and business ventures, contribute to his estimated $40 million net worth. His financial decisions reflect a combination of strategic investments and personal passions, solidifying his position as one of Britain’s wealthiest media personalities.
