Pete Rose, one of baseball’s most famous figures, made headlines not just for his record-breaking hits but also for his financial highs and lows.
What is Pete Rose net worth in 2025, and how did his salary during his career compare to today’s players? Despite earning millions, he faced gambling scandals, tax troubles, and financial setbacks. Let’s dive into his earnings, spending habits, and how he made
money after baseball.
Pete Rose Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Peter Edward Rose Sr. |
| Popular Name | Pete Rose |
| Birth Date | April 14, 1941 |
| Age | 83 (Died: September 30, 2024) |
| Birthplace | Cincinnati, Ohio, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | Western Hills High School |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Karolyn Englehardt (m. 1964–1980), Carol J. Woliung (m. 1984–2011) |
| Children | Pete Rose, Jr., Chea Courtney |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | 3 |
| Parents | Harry Francis “Pete” Rose, LaVerne (née Bloebaum) Rose |
| Height | N/A |
| Net Worth | $3 million |
| Source of Wealth | Baseball salary, memorabilia sales, autograph signings |
What is the Net Worth of Pete Rose in 2025?
Pete Rose net worth in 2025 stands at an estimated $3 million. Despite earning over $7.1 million during his MLB career, his post-baseball finances were troubled by gambling losses, tax evasion charges, and divorce settlements.
For comparison, other retired baseball legends have significantly higher net worths. While Pete Rose relied on autograph signings and memorabilia sales, players like Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez transitioned into lucrative business ventures.
Other baseball figures related to Pete Rose:
- Johnny Bench
- Joe Morgan
- Tony Pérez
- Mike Schmidt
- Reggie Jackson
- Tommy Lasorda
- Whitey Ford
- Mickey Mantle
- Sparky Anderson
- Ty Cobb
Want to see how Pete Rose compares to the biggest earners in sports history? Check out this list of the world’s richest celebrities.
Pete Rose Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
What Was His Salary During His Career?
Pete Rose earned a total of $7.1 million throughout his MLB career. His most lucrative contract was a $3.2 million deal with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1979, making him one of the highest-paid athletes at the time.
Compared to modern MLB stars, his salary appears modest. Today’s top players earn over $30 million per season, a stark contrast to what he made in his prime. Despite being a legendary player, his earnings were relatively low by today’s standards.
How Did He Make Money After Baseball?
After retiring, Pete Rose relied heavily on autograph signings and memorabilia sales. At his peak, he reportedly made between $50,000 and $100,000 per month from signing baseballs, jerseys, and other collectibles.
Additionally, he invested in real estate. In 2014, he sold his Sherman Oaks, California home for nearly $2 million, which provided a financial cushion. However, he did not transition into major business ventures like some of his contemporaries.
What Financial Troubles Did He Face?
Pete Rose’s financial troubles stemmed largely from his gambling addiction. In the late 1980s, he was permanently banned from baseball after being accused of betting on games, including those involving his own team.
In 1990, he faced federal charges for tax evasion, leading to a five-month prison sentence. He had failed to report income from memorabilia sales and gambling winnings. These legal issues drained his finances and hurt his earning potential.
Additionally, his divorces also took a financial toll. His second divorce in 2018 revealed court documents estimating his monthly earnings, but disputes over income and assets continued.
How Much Did He Earn from Autograph Signings?
Pete Rose’s autograph signings became his primary source of income after baseball. He frequently appeared at sports memorabilia events, charging fans for signed baseballs, bats, and photos.
At one point, reports suggested he earned around $100,000 per month from these sessions. However, Rose contested this figure, claiming he made closer to $50,000 per month.
Did Gambling Affect His Financial Stability?
Yes, gambling significantly impacted Pete Rose’s finances. His betting habits not only led to his ban from baseball but also contributed to financial instability. Unlike other retired athletes who invested wisely, Rose struggled to maintain his wealth.
His association with gambling also meant lost endorsement deals and fewer opportunities in professional baseball. Even after admitting to betting on baseball, his Hall of Fame status remains in question, affecting his potential earnings.
What Were His Biggest Financial Decisions?
Pete Rose’s biggest financial moves included:
- Signing a then-record $3.2 million contract with the Phillies
- Selling his Sherman Oaks home for $2 million
- Relying on memorabilia sales instead of business investments
- Failing to properly report income, leading to tax evasion charges
While some of his financial decisions provided short-term gains, poor money management and legal troubles ultimately hurt his long-term stability.
How Does His Financial Story Affect His Legacy?
Pete Rose remains one of the greatest hitters in baseball history, holding the record for the most career hits (4,256). However, his financial troubles have overshadowed his legacy.
His permanent ban from Major League Baseball has kept him out of the Hall of Fame, despite his achievements on the field. The combination of gambling scandals, tax evasion, and money struggles has influenced how fans and historians view his career.
Conclusion
Pete Rose’s financial journey is a mix of success and struggle. While he earned millions as a player, his gambling addiction and legal issues led to financial instability. His story serves as a reminder that even the greatest athletes can face financial challenges.
Want more insights on the financial lives of famous athletes? Visit Pennbook for the latest updates and celebrity net worth analysis.
