What happens to a teen idol’s wealth long after the fame fades?
Scott Baio, best known for his roles in Happy Days and Charles in Charge, has remained in the public eye for decades—but not just for acting.
His finances, career pivots, and real estate moves tell a story far beyond the screen.
If you’re curious about how he’s managed his money through fame, family, and controversy, PBC breaks it all down for you—no fluff, just facts.
Let’s dive into Scott Baio’s net worth, salary, and financial journey in 2025.
Scott Bakula Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Scott Stewart Bakula |
| Popular Name | Scott Bakula |
| Birth Date | October 9, 1954 |
| Age | 70 (as of March 2025) |
| Birthplace | St. Louis, Missouri, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Partial Czech ancestry |
| Education | Kirkwood High School (1973), Jefferson College, University of Kansas |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Chelsea Field (m. 2009), Krista Neumann (m. 1981–1995) |
| Children | Chelsy Bakula, Owen Bakula, Wil Bakula, Cody Bakula |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | 2 (younger brother and sister) |
| Parents | Sally Bakula, Stewart J. Bakula |
| Height | 1.82 m |
| Net Worth | $14 million (2025) |
| Source of Wealth | Acting (TV, Film, Theatre), Voice Work, Real Estate |
What is the Net Worth Of Scott Bakula in 2025?
As of 2025, Scott Bakula’s net worth is estimated at $14 million. This figure reflects decades of acting success, long-running TV roles, and real estate investment.
He earned most of his wealth from NCIS: New Orleans, with additional income from shows like Quantum Leap and Star Trek: Enterprise. The rest comes from stage work and smart property ownership.
In comparison to some TV peers, his net worth is modest, but steady and secure. He’s never been flashy—just consistent and smart.
Related people and entities include:
- CBS
- Chelsea Field
- Dean Stockwell
- Quantum Leap
- NCIS: New Orleans
- Krista Neumann
- Star Trek: Enterprise
- Los Angeles
- Ojai, California
- William Shatner
Looking for more like this? Check out our full list of actors with massive fortunes.
Scott Bakula Wealth, Salary and Finance Overview
How Much Did He Earn from NCIS: New Orleans?
Scott Bakula’s most financially rewarding role came as Special Agent Dwayne Pride in NCIS: New Orleans. From 2014 to 2021, he starred in 155 episodes. His salary per episode was an impressive $120,000, which amounts to $18.6 million in initial earnings. This excludes potential income from syndication deals and residuals, which often increase over time for shows in reruns.
Compared to other NCIS franchise stars, his earnings reflect both his experience and fan appeal. His financial success in this series also led to increased visibility, boosting his broader earning potential.
This role was not just another gig—it became a major financial pillar in his career.
What Are His Main Sources of Income?
Although NCIS was a big check, it wasn’t the only one. His income sources spread across television, film, stage, and real estate. Here’s a breakdown:
- Television acting: From the cult-classic Quantum Leap to Star Trek: Enterprise, Scott built a steady career in primetime roles.
- Film appearances: Though less frequent, he’s shown up in American Beauty, The Informant!, and Major League: Back to the Minors.
- Stage and Broadway: His Tony-nominated performance in Romance/Romance and recent return in Man of La Mancha continue to connect him to theater paychecks.
- Voice work and cameos: Roles in projects like Source Code and Chuck also contribute financially.
- Real estate investments: Properties in Los Angeles and previously in Ojai, California, show an interest in asset growth outside Hollywood.
How Has His Financial Journey Evolved Over Time?
Scott’s path to wealth was built steadily. He didn’t just leap to millions overnight.
He began on Broadway, took on smaller TV roles, and worked his way up through performances in Gung Ho, Eisenhower & Lutz, and Murphy Brown. His big break came in 1989 with Quantum Leap, which brought not just fame but multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. As Dr. Sam Beckett, his popularity translated into more prominent roles.
From there, his role in Star Trek: Enterprise between 2001 and 2005 increased both his earnings and long-term exposure. This trajectory eventually landed him in the world of NCIS, where he achieved peak income.
The key? He didn’t just rely on one hit show—his career is a layered, calculated build-up of smart choices.
What Properties Does He Own or Has Invested In?
Property plays a quiet but strong role in Scott’s financial profile.
In 1990, he purchased a Los Angeles mansion for $1.8 million. Today, this home is valued between $6–8 million, depending on market conditions. It’s been his primary residence, indicating a long-term investment strategy.
Earlier in the 1990s, he built a 6,000-square-foot home on a four-acre lot in Ojai, California. He later listed this property for $1.8 million in 1996.
Real estate shows that Scott doesn’t just work hard—he lets his money work for him too.
How Does He Manage His Career to Balance Earnings and Personal Life?
Scott’s financial decisions have always considered family first. After experiencing burnout during Quantum Leap—where he was “hardly ever home”—he adjusted.
During Star Trek: Enterprise, he ensured a contract clause that required filming to stop by 6 PM every Wednesday. This allowed him to be home for dinner. On NCIS: New Orleans, he flew home every weekend to be with his wife, Chelsea Field.
Balancing earnings with emotional wealth has been his quiet success.
Who Are Key People and Projects Connected to His Financial Success?
Scott’s journey isn’t solo. It’s linked to several major entities and collaborations. These include:
- Chelsea Field – his wife and co-star
- Krista Neumann – his ex-wife during early career phases
- Dean Stockwell – co-lead in Quantum Leap
- CBS – network for NCIS and Star Trek
- William Shatner – connected through The Captains
- Quantum Leap – his breakthrough show
- Star Trek: Enterprise – consistent income stream
- NCIS: New Orleans – highest-paid role
- Los Angeles – base of property assets
- Ojai, California – previous investment
These collaborations and associations form the financial network that supported and boosted his career.
What Are the Financial Legacies of His Most Iconic Roles?
Some roles continue to earn long after the final scene. For Scott, Quantum Leap and Star Trek: Enterprise still play a part in his income through royalties and fan-driven exposure.
NCIS: New Orleans is the gift that keeps giving. With 155 episodes under his belt, reruns across networks and streaming platforms ensure passive income for years to come.
These iconic roles aren’t just memories. They’re moneymakers.
Conclusion
Like his roles, Scott Bakula’s financial story is all about longevity and consistency.
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