The financial dimensions of the U.S. presidency extend far beyond the $400,000 annual salary seen today, revealing a complex arrangement of compensation and perks. The president even receives money to decorate the white house. Can you guess which president made the most?
Presidential Salary and Allowances
The President of the United States receives an annual salary of $400,000, established by Congress in 2001. The salary remains constant, highlighting the longstanding financial standing of this role. Congress cannot change this salary during an elected term, as per Article II of the Constitution. Along with the base salary, the president receives a $50,000 annual expense allowance. This amount is not included in the president’s gross income and reverts to the Treasury if not used.
The president’s compensation package includes other allowances— a non-taxable $100,000 travel account and a $19,000 entertainment budget. These figures showcase the additional expenses that come with executive duties.
🚨REPORT:
Presidential worth before and after Office:
📈 Barack Obama: $1.3M to $70M
📈 George Bush: $20M to $40M
📈 Bill Clinton: $1.3M to $241.5M
📈 George H.W. Bush: $4M to $23M
📉 Donald Trump: $3B to $2.3B pic.twitter.com/jN56N8eINO— Ivanka Trump 🇺🇲 🦅 News (@IvankaNews_) October 8, 2024
Post-Presidency Benefits
After leaving office, former presidents earn a pension equivalent to that of a cabinet secretary, currently at $230,000 annually. They also receive coverage for office space and travel expenses. This pension and support system ensures that they are financially supported in their post-presidential years, reflecting the high esteem in which the position is held.
Moreover, former presidents often secure lucrative deals through memoirs, speaking engagements, and other media appearances. As history shows, Ulysses S. Grant was the first to capitalize on his presidential experiences through memoir writing, establishing a tradition that persists among modern presidents.
The Vice President and Other Figures’ Compensation
The Vice President earns an annual salary of $235,100, adjusted for the cost of living. Other key figures in the government have their salaries laid out transparently. The Senate Majority Leader earns $193,400 per year, while other senators receive $174,000. Meanwhile, the White House Press Secretary receives an annual salary of $180,000, reflecting the demanding nature of this crucial role in the administration.
The lodgings and facilities provided to the sitting president add to the role’s lucrative personal benefits. The President resides in the White House, which offers amenities such as a bowling alley, fitness center, and swimming pool. These perks are part of the comprehensive benefits that come with the position, though past presidents have chosen to redecorate at their own expense.
The President of the United States of America makes $400K a year. Harris County's Interim County Administrator makes $418K per year. This Harris County dept was created in 2021, their $2.7M in budget 2022 has morphed to $25M in 2025. pic.twitter.com/arGMOFG6s3
— CLC2020 (@CLC1113) October 2, 2024
Other Notable Presidential Perks
Security and transportation also stand out among the perks. Presidents are protected for life by the Secret Service, while their children are covered until age 16. This security is essential, given the unique risks of their past role. In terms of transportation, the president has access to Air Force One, Marine One, and a fleet of armored cars known as “The Beasts.”
These financial perks and compensation details highlight the extensive package that supports the President and enhances the societal importance of this noble role.
