Carrie Underwood has come a long way since her days as an American Idol contestant, rising to become one of the most successful and wealthiest artists in country music.
As of now, Underwood’s net worth is estimated to be an impressive $120 million, a testament to her career spanning nearly two decades.
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Carrie Underwood was born on March 10, 1983, in Checotah, Oklahoma. Growing up, she was involved in singing and performing at local events, even auditioning for a record deal at the age of 14.
However, it wasn’t until 2004, when she auditioned for American Idol’s fourth season, that her career truly took off.
Underwood not only won the competition but also earned a dedicated fan base, known as “Carrie’s Care Bears.” This loyal following helped propel her from reality TV winner to a mainstream country music sensation.
American Idol Earnings and Early Career
As an American Idol finalist, Underwood earned significant money, but the real financial opportunities began once she secured her record deal with Hollywood Records.
Though the show paid contestants modest weekly stipends, the big payout came after winning.
The American Idol winner typically receives a recording contract, with an initial payment of $125,000 upon starting their first album and another $125,000 upon completion.
Additionally, there’s an album production budget of $300,000. While this doesn’t sound like a fortune compared to her later earnings, it was enough to set the stage for her music career.
Net Worth
By 2024, Carrie Underwood’s net worth has grown to a staggering $120 million. Her fortune is mainly derived from her successful career as a singer and songwriter.
Underwood’s career success can be attributed to her versatility, having topped both country and pop charts. Her Grammy-winning albums and multiple hit singles have contributed to her impressive bank balance.
Underwood has made significant earnings not only from record sales but also from a diverse range of income streams, including endorsement deals, tours, and her foray into the world of fashion.
How Much Does Carrie Underwood Earn Annually?
Carrie Underwood reportedly makes upwards of $12 million a year, although this figure can fluctuate based on the specific projects she is involved in. For example, in years when she is on tour or releases a new album, her earnings can soar even higher.
The amount she earns varies with her level of involvement in the music industry each year, but one thing is clear—she remains one of the top-earning country music stars of her generation.
Tour Earnings: How Much Does Carrie Underwood Make Per Concert?
Carrie Underwood’s tours have been some of the most lucrative of any country artist in recent years. For example, during her Cry Pretty Tour in 2019, she earned an estimated $50 million.
A large portion of her earnings comes from live performances, where she can command significant fees.
While exact numbers can vary, it has been reported that Underwood was making $500,000 per concert in 2014, and it is assumed that this figure has increased since then.
Her tours not only provide a large financial influx but also solidify her place as one of country music’s top performers.
Earnings from Sunday Night Football Theme Song
Carrie Underwood has been the voice behind the iconic theme song for Sunday Night Football since 2013. This long-running contract has been incredibly lucrative for the singer.
It is reported that Underwood earns $1 million per week for her performance of the opening theme song, which adds up to an incredible $18 million annually.
However, Underwood herself has shared that, despite the large paycheck, she doesn’t view it as a paid gig in the traditional sense.
As she explained in an interview with Howard Stern, she essentially does the work for the joy of it, given her deep connection to the sport and the excitement of performing for such a large audience.
Calia: Underwood’s Activewear Brand
Carrie Underwood launched her activewear line, Calia, in 2015. The brand, which focused on fitness clothing, was extremely popular, particularly with Underwood’s dedicated fan base.
She sold a significant portion of her stake in Calia in 2021, although the exact amount she earned from the sale has not been publicly disclosed.
Underwood’s involvement in fashion provided an additional stream of income outside of music. Calia was well-received for its blend of style and functionality, and its success added to Underwood’s already-growing fortune.
Additional Ventures and Business Investments
Beyond her music career and activewear brand, Underwood has made several other business moves, including investments in products and ventures that align with her personal brand.
These include partnerships with major companies and endorsements for products such as Olay, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and more.
Personal Life and Endorsements
Carrie Underwood’s endorsement deals have played a significant role in her income over the years.
As one of the most marketable country artists, Underwood has signed lucrative contracts with brands that reflect her wholesome, fitness-focused image. These endorsements further contribute to her impressive wealth.
