Jenna Bush Hager, co-host of Today with Hoda & Jenna, has become a familiar face in American media. As of 2025, her reported annual salary stands at approximately $4 million. With Hoda Kotb’s retirement, she has been advocating for a salary increase to align with other high-profile Today show personalities who earn significantly more.
This article explores Jenna Bush Hager’s salary in 2025, the factors that influence earnings in the television industry, salary ranges by experience, job market trends, benefits, and the impact of education or certifications on salary potential.
Average Salary Range for Television Hosts
Salaries for television hosts in the U.S. vary widely based on experience, network prominence, and show ratings. Here’s a general breakdown of salaries in this field:
- Entry-Level Hosts: $50,000 – $100,000 per year
- Mid-Level Hosts: $100,000 – $500,000 per year
- Senior Hosts (National Networks): $1 million and above
- Top-Tier Hosts: $5 million – $20 million per year
For comparison, co-hosts of Today like Savannah Guthrie and Al Roker earn over $20 million annually, making Jenna Bush Hager’s $4 million salary relatively modest in comparison.
Factors Influencing Television Host Salaries
Several key factors impact a television host’s salary, including:
1. Experience & Reputation
Hosts with long-standing careers and strong audience followings command higher salaries. Jenna Bush Hager, having been on Today since 2019, is still climbing the ranks compared to more senior co-hosts.
2. Show Ratings & Audience Engagement
Higher viewership brings more advertising revenue, which directly impacts how much networks are willing to pay their hosts. Today remains one of the most-watched morning shows, which works in Jenna’s favor.
3. Network Budget & Market Trends
Recent industry trends indicate networks are becoming more cautious about offering high salaries. Even well-established hosts have seen pay cuts as media companies focus on cost efficiency.
4. Contract Negotiations
Salary negotiations play a crucial role. Jenna Bush Hager’s push for higher pay in light of Kotb’s retirement suggests she recognizes her increased value to NBC.
Salary Growth Based on Experience
Television host earnings grow with experience. Here’s how earnings typically progress in the industry:
- 0-5 years: $50,000 – $200,000 (local or smaller networks)
- 5-10 years: $200,000 – $1 million (regional or mid-level positions)
- 10+ years: $1 million+ (national networks, major shows)
- Top-Tier Hosts (15+ years): $5 million – $20 million
Jenna Bush Hager, now with over five years of experience in a major hosting role, is positioned in the mid-to-high earnings bracket, but still below industry veterans.
Job Market Trends for Television Hosts
The media landscape is changing rapidly. Some key trends affecting TV host salaries include:
- Shift Toward Streaming & Digital Content – Traditional TV networks face competition from digital platforms, which affects advertising revenue and salary budgets.
- Cost-Cutting by Networks – Some high-profile journalists and hosts have seen salary reductions as networks reallocate budgets.
- Multi-Platform Demand – Hosts who can engage audiences across social media, streaming, and TV have a competitive edge.
Benefits & Perks of TV Hosting
Beyond base salaries, television hosts often receive additional perks such as:
- Performance Bonuses – Linked to show ratings and network profitability.
- Profit Sharing – Some hosts receive a percentage of the show’s revenue.
- Other Benefits – Wardrobe budgets, travel expenses, and exclusive industry perks.
Education & Certifications Impacting Salary
While a formal degree isn’t always required, a background in journalism, communications, or media studies can provide a competitive advantage. Additional certifications in broadcasting, public speaking, or media production can also boost earning potential.
Final Thoughts
Jenna Bush Hager’s $4 million salary in 2025 reflects her growing influence on Today, though she still earns significantly less than her veteran colleagues. With the evolving media landscape, television hosts must adapt to multi-platform engagement to maintain and increase their earning potential. As Bush Hager continues to negotiate for higher pay, her future salary will likely depend on her ability to maintain high audience engagement and solidify her role as a key morning show personality.
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