Few TV stars have had careers as enduring and financially rewarding as Mariska Hargitay. Best known for portraying Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, she has built a fortune through acting, directing, and philanthropy.
But exactly how much does she earn per episode? How does she manage her finances? This article explores Mariska Hargitay net worth, her wealth, salary, and financial strategies, revealing what makes her one of the most successful actresses on television.
Mariska Hargitay Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Mariska Magdolna Hargitay |
| Popular Name | Mariska Hargitay |
| Birth Date | January 23, 1964 |
| Age | 61 years old (as of 03/03/2025) |
| Birthplace | Santa Monica, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Hungarian-American |
| Education | University of California, Los Angeles, Marymount High School, The Groundlings, UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Peter Hermann (m. 2004) |
| Children | August, Amaya (adopted), Andrew (adopted) |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Jayne Marie Mansfield, Zoltan Hargitay, Tony Cimber, Tina Hargitay, Mickey Hargitay Jr., Venico Cimber |
| Parents | Mickey Hargitay, Jayne Mansfield |
| Height | 1.71 meters |
| Net Worth | $100 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Producing, Endorsements |
What is the Net Worth of Mariska Hargitay in 2025?
As of 2025, Mariska Hargitay’s net worth is estimated at $100 million. Her primary source of wealth comes from her long-standing role on Law & Order: SVU, where she reportedly earns $500,000 per episode. This puts her among the highest-paid television actresses, alongside other industry veterans.
Compared to Sofia Vergara and Reese Witherspoon, who have leveraged film and business ventures to grow their wealth, Hargitay has built her fortune mainly from television.
While she may not earn as much as Oprah Winfrey or Ellen DeGeneres, her financial success is remarkable for a network TV star.
Related Figures in Entertainment & Business
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Looking for more insights into the wealth of famous personalities? Check out our list of the wealthiest stars in Hollywood.
Mariska Hargitay Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Does She Make Per Episode on Law & Order: SVU?
Hargitay earns $500,000 per episode, which translates to $11 million per season, assuming a standard 22-episode run. With bonuses and royalties, her annual earnings from SVU can reach $13-15 million.
This places her in an elite category of highest-paid TV actresses, alongside Ellen Pompeo and Sofia Vergara.
What Are Her Main Sources of Income?
Hargitay’s fortune isn’t just from her role as Olivia Benson. Her wealth comes from:
- Acting Salaries: Over 25 years on Law & Order: SVU.
- Directing & Producing: She has directed several episodes of the show.
- Syndication Royalties: With the show airing globally, she earns residuals from re-runs.
- Real Estate Investments: She owns luxury properties in New York City and East Hampton.
- Endorsements & Appearances: She has partnered with brands and appeared in high-profile events.
How Does She Manage Her Finances and Assets?
Hargitay has made smart real estate investments, including:
- A $10.7 million New York townhouse, later sold for $9.75 million.
- A $7.34 million estate in East Hampton, her primary residence.
Unlike some celebrities who splurge on extravagant purchases, she focuses on long-term assets, ensuring financial stability.
How Did She Build Her Wealth Over the Years?
- 1999: Landed her breakthrough role on Law & Order: SVU.
- 2006: Salary increased after Emmy and Golden Globe wins.
- 2013-2014: Ranked among the highest-paid actresses, earning $400,000 per episode.
- 2020-Present: Continues to earn $500,000 per episode while expanding her career into producing and directing.
Where Does She Invest Her Money?
- Real Estate: New York City, East Hampton properties.
- Luxury Assets: High-end fashion, jewelry.
- Philanthropy: She funds initiatives for sexual assault survivors.
- Entertainment Ventures: She has invested in television production.
How Does She Compare to Other Highest-Paid TV Actresses?
Hargitay’s earnings are among the highest in television history. Here’s how she compares:
- Ellen Pompeo (Grey’s Anatomy): $550,000 per episode.
- Sofia Vergara (Modern Family): $500,000 per episode, plus endorsements.
- Reese Witherspoon (Big Little Lies): Over $1 million per episode.
While some stars have diversified their income streams, Hargitay’s steady TV earnings and syndication deals have solidified her financial success.
What Role Does Philanthropy Play in Her Finances?
Hargitay is the founder of the Joyful Heart Foundation, which helps survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. She has donated millions to:
- Domestic violence shelters
- Legal reforms for sexual assault cases
- Educational programs for survivors
Her foundation’s impact has led to new laws and policy changes, proving that wealth can be used for meaningful change.
Conclusion
With an estimated $100 million net worth, Mariska Hargitay stands out as one of television’s most financially successful actresses. From her SVU salary to smart investments and philanthropy, she has built an empire that extends beyond Hollywood.
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