Life Below Zero is a popular National Geographic reality series that offers viewers a glimpse of the harsh, remote lives of individuals living in Alaska’s unforgiving wilderness.
While the show highlights their daily struggles to survive, many fans wonder how much the cast members actually earn for starring in the reality series.
Below is a detailed look at the earnings and net worth of the people on Life Below Zero.
Cast Salaries and Earnings
The reality TV industry typically pays cast members based on experience, screen time, and show popularity.
According to Wikipedia, cast members earn between $2,000 and $4,500 per episode, indicating considerable variation in pay that reflects their prominence and tenure on the show.
However, Life Below Zero itself does not publicly disclose exact salaries.
1. Sue Aikens
Sue Aikens is one of the most recognisable figures on the show. She lives alone at the Kavik River camp in northern Alaska, located directly on the Kavik River.
Aikens is reported to earn around $200,000 per year, or approximately $4,500 per episode, reflecting her long-standing role and popularity among viewers.
2. Jesse Holmes
Another prominent cast member, Jesse, is a fisherman, hunter, and dogsled racer living alone with his 40 sled dogs in Brushkana, Alaska. He is estimated to be worth about $500,000.
While exact salary figures are less clear, his longevity on the show over many years contributes significantly to his earnings.
3. Glenn Villeneuve
Glenn, who lives alone in Chandalar, 200 miles north of Fairbanks, Alaska, reportedly earns around $200,000 annually.
Aside from his TV income, he supplements his finances by investing in property and stocks, demonstrating additional revenue streams beyond the show.
4. Chip and Agnes Hailstone
This couple lives with their seven children on the Kobuk River in Noorvik, 19 miles north of the Arctic Circle.
Their estimated net worth combined is around $200,000. Chip’s annual salary is rumored to be about $45,000, reflecting his regional prominence and less screen time compared to prominent cast members.
5. Andy Bassich
Andy lives on the Yukon River near Eagle, Alaska, with his 25 sled dogs.
He is estimated to have a net worth of approximately $250,000, with salary specifics less publicized but commensurate with his tenure on the show.
Additional Sources of Income
While Life Below Zero’s salary payments form the core income for many cast members, several supplementary revenue streams significantly boost their overall earnings, as discussed below.
Land and resource rentals
Given the remote locations and the ownership of large tracts of land, some cast members generate income by leasing portions of their property or renting equipment.
Chip Hailstone charges fees for access and equipment rentals on his land, which can be a substantial side income.
Product endorsements and sponsorships
Increased visibility from appearing on Life Below Zero has allowed cast members to endorse products ranging from outdoor gear to survival equipment.
These deals provide both promotional items and financial compensation.
Art and craft sales
Similarly, some cast members, including Glenn Villeneuve, create and sell artworks or crafts inspired by their lives in Alaska, tapping into their celebrity to drive unique merchandise sales.
Book deals and speaking engagements
A few members have authored books about their lives or survival skills and have participated in speaking engagements, workshops, and events related to wilderness living.