Austin Lee Russell, popularly known as Chumlee, is a TV personality, businessman, and pop culture icon who rose to fame through his role in the hit reality TV series Pawn Stars. As one of the most beloved members of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop team, Chumlee has entertained audiences for years with his humorous personality and vast knowledge of collectibles. But beyond his on-screen charm, many fans are curious about his financial success and how much wealth he has accumulated over the years.
As of 2025, Chumlee’s estimated net worth is around $5 million, thanks to his steady income from Pawn Stars, various business ventures, and smart investments. While he earns a substantial salary from the show—reportedly around $25,000 per episode—his financial portfolio extends far beyond television.
How Did Chumlee Build His Wealth?
While Pawn Stars was his ticket to fame, Chumlee has leveraged his popularity to create multiple sources of income:
- Business Ventures – He owns Chumlee’s Candy on the Boulevard, a successful candy store near the Las Vegas Strip.
- Merchandising & Brand Deals – His clothing and accessories line has gained traction among fans.
- Real Estate & Investments – Chumlee has invested in properties and valuable collectibles, adding to his net worth.
Challenges & Comeback
Despite his financial success, Chumlee has faced legal challenges, including a 2016 arrest that briefly put his career at risk. However, he managed to rebuild his reputation and continues to thrive as a businessman and TV personality.
In this blog, we’ll take a detailed look at Chumlee’s net worth in 2025, covering his earnings, business ventures, assets, and career milestones. Keep reading to discover how Chumlee turned his reality TV fame into a multi-million-dollar empire!
Profile Summary of Chumlee
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Austin Lee Russell |
| Nickname | Chumlee |
| Gender | Male |
| Date of Birth | September 8, 1982 |
| Age | 42 years old (as of March 2025) |
| Zodiac Sign | Virgo |
| Place of Birth | Henderson, Nevada, United States |
| Current Residence | Las Vegas, Nevada, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Mixed |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Sexuality | Straight |
| Height | 5’9″ (175 cm) |
| Weight | 250 lbs (110 kg) |
| Shoe Size | 14 (US) |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Eye Color | Hazel |
| Siblings | 2 |
| Profession | TV Personality, Actor, Businessman |
| Net Worth (2025) | $5 million |
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Austin Lee Russell, famously known as Chumlee, was born on September 8, 1982, in Henderson, Nevada, USA. Growing up in a middle-class family, he had a fairly normal childhood, but his quirky personality and love for pop culture set him apart. From a young age, he was fascinated by collectibles, vintage items, and rare memorabilia, which would later become a key part of his career.
How Did He Get the Nickname “Chumlee”?
Many fans wonder how Austin Russell got the nickname “Chumlee.” It all started when he was just 12 years old. One of his childhood friends noticed that he resembled the cartoon character “Chumley”, a goofy but lovable walrus from the animated series Tennessee Tuxedo and His Tales. The name stuck, and over time, “Chumley” evolved into “Chumlee,” which became his iconic identity.
Joining Gold & Silver Pawn Shop
Chumlee’s path to fame began through a personal connection. He was childhood friends with Corey Harrison, the son of Rick Harrison, who co-owned the famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas. Through this friendship, Chumlee started working at the shop as a teenager in the early 2000s. His initial role mainly involved behind-the-scenes tasks such as testing items, handling inventory, and assisting customers.
At the time, the pawn shop was just another local business in Las Vegas, but Chumlee’s easygoing personality and passion for unique items made him a perfect fit. He quickly became known for his ability to spot valuable pop culture collectibles, particularly sneakers, pinball machines, and vintage toys.
Pawn Stars Breakthrough
In 2009, everything changed when the History Channel launched Pawn Stars, a reality TV show that followed the daily dealings of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop. Thanks to his natural humor and chemistry with the Harrison family, Chumlee became one of the most recognizable and beloved members of the show. His comic relief, occasional blunders, and surprising knowledge of collectibles made him a standout character.
This was the turning point in Chumlee’s life—he went from being a regular pawn shop employee to a national TV personality, setting the foundation for his financial success and business ventures.
Rise to Fame: Pawn Stars
In 2009, the History Channel launched Pawn Stars, a reality TV show centered around the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas. The show followed the daily operations of the store, highlighting rare items, historical artifacts, and negotiations between customers and the shop’s owners. While the series featured Rick Harrison, his father Richard “Old Man” Harrison, and his son Corey Harrison, it was Chumlee’s humor and personality that made him a breakout star.
Chumlee’s Role on Pawn Stars
Chumlee initially joined Pawn Stars as comic relief, often playing the role of the clumsy yet lovable employee. His laid-back personality and hilarious mistakes added an entertainment factor that balanced the more serious aspects of the show, such as historical insights and negotiations. However, while he was often portrayed as the “goofball” of the shop, Chumlee had a deep knowledge of pop culture memorabilia, especially in areas like:
- Vintage video games
- Sneakers and streetwear
- Pinball machines and arcade games
- Sports collectibles
This expertise allowed him to bring valuable input when assessing certain items, proving that he wasn’t just a comedic character—he also had a genuine talent for spotting collectibles.
How Pawn Stars’ Success Boosted Chumlee’s Popularity?
Pawn Stars became an instant hit, attracting millions of viewers each week. As the show’s popularity skyrocketed, so did Chumlee’s fan base. His relatable personality, humor, and occasional blunders made him one of the most beloved cast members. Fans loved his chemistry with the Harrison family, especially his on-screen banter with Rick and Corey Harrison.
Chumlee’s growing popularity led to increased screen time, and soon, he became one of the highest-paid cast members of the show. His influence extended beyond television, setting the stage for business opportunities, personal branding, and independent financial success.
Income Sources Contributing to Net Worth
Chumlee has built a diverse financial portfolio, with multiple revenue streams contributing to his estimated $5 million net worth in 2025. While Pawn Stars played a crucial role in his rise to fame, his wealth isn’t solely dependent on his TV salary. His business ventures, merchandise sales, real estate investments, and endorsements have significantly boosted his income.
Pawn Stars Salary
As one of the most recognizable faces on Pawn Stars, Chumlee earns a substantial salary per episode. According to reports, he makes approximately $25,000 per episode, making him one of the highest-paid cast members. Given that the show airs multiple seasons each year, this income alone contributes significantly to his growing net worth.
Additionally, as the show gained global popularity, its syndication rights and reruns continued to generate residual income for the cast members. Chumlee’s humorous and likable personality ensured he remained an essential part of the show, securing a steady paycheck for over a decade.
Business Ventures
Beyond his earnings from Pawn Stars, Chumlee has successfully ventured into entrepreneurship, capitalizing on his brand to launch independent businesses.
Chumlee’s Candy on the Boulevard
In 2017, Chumlee opened Chumlee’s Candy on the Boulevard, a specialty candy store located near the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas. The store offers a variety of nostalgic and gourmet sweets, attracting both locals and tourists who visit Pawn Stars’ famous filming location.
- The shop’s success is largely driven by Chumlee’s celebrity status, as fans often stop by hoping to meet him in person.
- His smart branding and personal involvement in the business have helped it thrive.
- With its strategic location and connection to Pawn Stars, the candy store generates a steady stream of revenue, further contributing to his wealth.
Merchandise Sales
Chumlee has also monetized his brand through merchandise sales, offering custom-designed novelty items, clothing, and collectibles.
- His merchandise includes T-shirts, hoodies, posters, and signed memorabilia, often featuring his famous catchphrases and caricatures.
- With a loyal fan base, his products are consistently in demand, creating another profitable revenue stream.
- His online store allows him to reach fans worldwide, ensuring passive income beyond in-person sales at the pawn shop.
These business moves showcase his ability to capitalize on his fame beyond television, establishing multiple independent sources of income.
Real Estate Investments
Chumlee has also ventured into real estate, a classic wealth-building strategy.
- In 2012, he purchased a 5,200-square-foot home in Las Vegas for $1.1 million.
- The luxurious property featured a large swimming pool, a home theater, and a customized game room—a testament to his financial success.
- However, in 2019, he sold the house for $1.375 million, securing a $275,000 profit in the process.
His real estate dealings indicate that he understands the value of property appreciation, adding another long-term wealth-building strategy to his portfolio.
Appearances and Endorsements
With his widespread recognition, Chumlee earns additional income through paid appearances, sponsorships, and brand endorsements.
- He frequently appears at fan conventions, private events, and meet-and-greet sessions, charging appearance fees for autograph signings and photos.
- His social media presence allows him to collaborate with brands, endorsing products related to pop culture, fashion, and collectibles.
- As a public figure in the reality TV and business world, he also receives offers for sponsorships, further increasing his earnings.
His ability to leverage his celebrity status for promotional opportunities ensures that his income remains diverse and sustainable beyond Pawn Stars.
Chumlee’s financial success is a result of multiple income streams, proving that he is much more than just a reality TV star. His smart business moves, branding strategies, and financial investments have helped him grow and sustain his net worth over the years.
Lifestyle and Assets
Chumlee’s success on Pawn Stars has allowed him to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle, complete with high-end cars, collectibles, and a passion for sneakers. His taste in automobiles and fashion reflects his love for classic and modern luxury items, making him a recognizable figure beyond reality TV.
Car Collection
Chumlee has built an impressive car collection, combining classic lowriders, muscle cars, and luxury SUVs. His passion for automobiles is evident in his carefully selected vehicles, each reflecting his personality and appreciation for automotive craftsmanship.
1. 1986 Buick Regal
One of Chumlee’s most iconic vehicles is his 1986 Buick Regal, customized with hydraulic lifts for a classic lowrider aesthetic. This car represents his love for old-school American automobiles and is a common sight in Las Vegas’s car culture.
- The Buick Regal is a popular choice among collectors, and its customization adds a unique touch.
- The hydraulic system allows him to control the car’s height and movement, a signature feature of lowrider culture.
2. 1964 Chevy Impala
Another standout in his collection is the 1964 Chevy Impala, a classic muscle car known for its lowrider appeal.
- The Chevy Impala is a favorite among car enthusiasts, especially for its sleek design and powerful engine.
- Chumlee’s Impala is fully restored, maintaining its vintage charm while incorporating modern upgrades.
3. Maserati GranTurismo
For a taste of Italian luxury, Chumlee owns a Maserati GranTurismo, a high-performance supercar with a price tag of around $150,000.
- The GranTurismo is known for its smooth handling and powerful V8 engine, making it a thrilling ride.
- This car reflects his love for speed and luxury, a stark contrast to his classic American lowriders.
4. Range Rover Evoque & Cadillac Escalade
Apart from muscle cars and sports cars, Chumlee also enjoys luxury SUVs like the Range Rover Evoque and Cadillac Escalade.
- The Range Rover Evoque is a compact luxury SUV, valued for its stylish design and off-road capabilities.
- The Cadillac Escalade, on the other hand, is a full-size luxury SUV, popular among celebrities for its comfort, power, and high-end features.
These SUVs add practicality and luxury to his collection, allowing him to travel in comfort and style while maintaining his signature personality.
Sneaker Collection
Beyond cars, Chumlee is also known for his impressive sneaker collection, particularly his love for Air Jordans.
- He owns over 40 pairs of rare and classic sneakers, including limited-edition Nike Air Jordans and Yeezys.
- His sneaker collection reflects his passion for street fashion, aligning with his laid-back and stylish persona.
- Some of his most valuable sneakers have resale values in the thousands, making them a smart investment as well as a fashion statement.
Chumlee’s lifestyle and assets showcase his unique taste in luxury, combining classic cars, high-performance vehicles, and a premium sneaker collection. His choices reflect both practicality and indulgence, making him stand out as more than just a reality TV star.
Chumlee’s Net Worth Over Time
| Year | Estimated Net Worth |
| 2020 | $4 million |
| 2021 | $4.5 million |
| 2022 | $4.7 million |
| 2023 | $4.8 million |
| 2024 | $4.9 million |
| 2025 | $5 million |
Factors Behind His Wealth Growth
- Pawn Stars Salary – As one of the key cast members, Chumlee earns a steady salary per episode, which has significantly increased over the years.
- Merchandise and Business Ventures – His candy shop and novelty items have been profitable additions to his income.
- Real Estate Investments – Chumlee has bought and sold properties, leveraging the real estate market for financial growth.
- Endorsements & Public Appearances – He monetizes his popularity through paid appearances and brand sponsorships.
Chumlee’s ability to diversify his income sources has ensured steady net worth growth, proving that he’s not just a reality TV star but also a savvy businessman.
FAQs
Is Chumlee still on Pawn Stars?
Yes, as of 2025, Chumlee is still a part of Pawn Stars, actively appearing on new episodes and contributing to the show’s ongoing success.
What other business ventures has Chumlee invested in?
Apart from his candy store, Chumlee has invested in merchandise sales and real estate, including buying and selling properties in Las Vegas.
How much does Chumlee earn per episode?
Chumlee reportedly earns around $25,000 per episode of Pawn Stars, making it one of his primary sources of income.
What is Chumlee’s net worth in 2025?
His estimated net worth in 2025 is $5 million, accumulated from television earnings, business ventures, and smart investments.
Conclusion
Chumlee has transformed from a pawn shop employee to a reality TV star and businessman, amassing a net worth of $5 million by 2025. His journey through Pawn Stars, strategic business ventures like Chumlee’s Candy on the Boulevard, and investments in real estate and merchandise sales have secured his financial success.
His luxury car collection, sneaker obsession, and ongoing presence on television continue to make him a fan favorite. Despite challenges, he remains an entrepreneur and entertainer, proving his ability to adapt and grow.
