Shortly after white smoke billowed out of the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, the Roman Catholic Church named its next pope: Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, the first American to take the job. Not only is it a huge honor and promotion—but it also comes with a sizable six-figure wage.
However, becoming the pope is a much more spiritual endeavor than other high-flying leadership roles; the late Pope Francis even turned down the generous paycheck, opting to have the money donated to those in need instead.
“He’s somebody who lived as a Jesuit for decades before becoming a bishop and continued to live in the style that he’s been accustomed to as a religious throughout the rest of his life,” Rober told Fortune.
There’s no telling if Pope Leo XIV will accept the salary—but if he does, he could be making as much as some of the world’s most powerful leaders. Either way, he’ll still be enjoying Vatican perks like the Popemobile and a cushy retirement.
Fortune reached out to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops for comment.
The pope’s nearly half-a-million paypacket is on par with the wages of U.S. presidents.
Government leaders receive a $400,000 baseline salary, with at least another $170,000 per year in additional allowances for official duties, travel, and entertainment. The president also has access to Air Force One, Marine One, and 24-hour Secret Service protection—saving them thousands per year in other expenditures.
The pope is revered as the highest and most holiest leader of the Catholic Church, which has over a billion members. And the Vatican makes sure the pontiff can lead in style.
For one, the pope usually lives in the gilded Apostolic Palace—lavish living arrangements with all expenses covered by the Vatican. All of his meals and day-to-day necessities are also free of charge for the pope, with unfettered access to custom, hand-tailored regalia made by top religious outfitters.
Pope Leo XIV will also have access to the Popemobile, private cars, and a fleet of vehicles at the drop of a hat. The pontiff also doesn’t have to worry about security, healthcare, or retirement anymore. He has free access to Vatican medical services and a private pharmacy to ensure a healthy, long reign.
