Colin Jost, an American comedian, writer, and actor, has made a significant mark in the entertainment industry, particularly through his long-standing tenure on Saturday Night Live (SNL). As of 2025, Jost’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million.
This wealth is primarily derived from his multifaceted career, including his work as a writer and co-anchor for SNL’s Weekend Update, his stand-up comedy, and his success as an author.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on June 29, 1982, in Staten Island, New York, Colin Jost was raised by his parents, Kerry Kelly, the Chief Medical Officer at the New York City Fire Department, and Daniel A. Jost, a former teacher.
Jost attended the prestigious Regis High School in Manhattan, where he honed his academic and creative skills.
After graduating, he moved on to Harvard University, where he became the president of the Harvard Lampoon, a publication known for producing many successful writers and comedians.
After graduating in 2004, Jost briefly worked as a reporter and copy editor for the Staten Island Advance before transitioning into television.
He initially wrote for the short-lived Nickelodeon show Kappa Mikey, but his big break came in 2005 when he was hired as a writer for Saturday Night Live (SNL), marking the beginning of his rise to fame in the comedy world.
The Rise to Fame on SNL
Jost’s career truly took off when he joined the writing team of Saturday Night Live. In 2014, after Seth Meyers departed the show, Jost was promoted to co-anchor of the Weekend Update segment alongside Michael Che.
This position put him front and center of one of the most iconic segments of the long-running sketch comedy show.
His role on Weekend Update made him a household name, and over the years, his sharp wit and satirical humor have earned him a dedicated fan base.
Although Jost started as a writer, his transition into a performer and anchor made him a core member of the SNL cast.
His ability to balance both comedic writing and live performances contributed greatly to his growing wealth and fame.
Colin Jost’s Net Worth Breakdown
As of 2025, Colin Jost’s net worth is estimated to be $10 million. This fortune has been earned through various avenues in the entertainment industry.
Earnings from SNL
Jost has not publicly revealed his salary from SNL, but several reports offer estimates based on industry standards.
In his early years at the show, Jost was earning between $50,000 and $93,000 annually as a writer.
However, once he became a co-anchor of Weekend Update, his salary would have increased significantly.
SNL’s top cast members can earn around $25,000 per episode. With 21 episodes per season, Jost likely earns around $525,000 annually for his on-screen work, in addition to his writing salary.
Earnings from A Very Punchable Face
In 2020, Jost released his memoir A Very Punchable Face, which became a New York Times Best Seller.
While the exact terms of his book deal are not publicly known, celebrity memoirs often command substantial advances. Given Jost’s established reputation, it’s likely that he received a deal in the six-figure range, further contributing to his net worth.
Earnings from Stand-Up Comedy
In addition to his work on SNL, Colin Jost also performs stand-up comedy, which provides another income stream.
His comedy performances, both live and through specials, add to his financial success.
The exact figures from his stand-up gigs are not easily obtainable, but established comedians like Jost can earn tens of thousands of dollars per performance, especially when touring.
Business Ventures and Other Income
In 2022, Jost made a bold and somewhat unconventional business move. He teamed up with fellow comedian Pete Davidson and comedy club owner Paul Italia to purchase a decommissioned Staten Island Ferry for $280,100.
The trio planned to turn the ferry, named the John F. Kennedy, into “New York’s hottest club.”
However, Jost later admitted that this was “the dumbest and least thought-through purchase” of his life, which added an element of humor and humility to his otherwise successful career.
Comparison with Wife Scarlett Johansson’s Net Worth
Colin Jost’s net worth of $10 million pales in comparison to the wealth of his wife, Oscar-nominated actress Scarlett Johansson.
Scarlett’s current net worth is estimated to be around $165 million, largely bolstered by her lucrative roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as Black Widow, as well as other major film projects and endorsements.
Scarlett Johansson’s massive success in Hollywood makes her one of the highest-paid actresses in the world, and she is, by far, the wealthier partner in their marriage.
Colin Jost’s Other Projects
While Jost has been mainly known for his work on SNL, his career has spanned other projects as well. He hosted the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in 2024, an honor reserved for top comedians and entertainers.
The host is typically not paid, as the event is a fundraising dinner for the White House Correspondents’ Association. Hosting such a prestigious event helped solidify Jost’s standing as a major figure in American comedy.
Personal Life and Assets
Colin Jost’s personal life has also garnered attention, particularly his marriage to Scarlett Johansson. The couple wed in a private ceremony and have become one of Hollywood’s most famous power couples.
Aside from his career, Jost is known for his interest in real estate. In 2022, he made headlines for his joint purchase of the Staten Island Ferry.
His investments, such as these, showcase his willingness to take risks outside of traditional entertainment.
