Jim Acosta, born April 17, 1971, is a renowned American journalist, celebrated for his bold reporting as CNN’s former Chief White House Correspondent. At 54 years old, Acosta’s net worth is estimated at $10 million, with an annual salary peaking at $2 million during his CNN tenure. Previously married to Sharon Mobley Stow from 1994 to 2017, he is currently single, with no public dating relationships since his divorce. This article delves into Acosta’s age, net worth, married life, salary, and dating history, offering fresh insights into his career and personal journey.
Early Life and Background of Jim Acosta
Born Abilio James Acosta in Washington, D.C., Acosta’s roots trace back to a Cuban father who fled to the U.S. as a refugee at age 11, just before the Cuban Missile Crisis, and an Irish-Czech mother. Raised in Northern Virginia, Acosta graduated from Annandale High School in 1989 and earned a bachelor’s degree in mass communication with a minor in political science from James Madison University in 1993. His early exposure to diverse cultures shaped his empathetic yet incisive journalistic style, evident in his later confrontations with political figures.
During his college years, Acosta volunteered at WXJM, the student-run radio station, and worked as a reporter for WSVA, a local radio station. These experiences ignited his passion for storytelling, which he later channeled into television journalism. His multicultural background provides a unique lens, making his reporting resonate with diverse audiences.
Career Milestones and Salary Insights
Acosta’s journalism career began in radio at WMAL in Washington, D.C., before transitioning to television in 1994 as a desk assistant at WTTG-TV. By 1995, he was a reporter and substitute anchor at WBIR-TV in Knoxville, Tennessee. His career trajectory included stints at KTVT-TV in Fort Worth and WBBM-TV in Chicago, followed by a role as a CBS News correspondent from 2003 to 2007, covering major events like the Iraq War and Hurricane Katrina.
Joining CNN in 2007, Acosta covered the 2008 presidential campaigns of Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, anchoring the weekend program Ballot Bowl. Promoted to national political correspondent in 2012, he later became Chief White House Correspondent in 2018, gaining national attention for his clashes with President Donald Trump. His bold question, “Why can’t we take out these bastards?” to President Obama about ISIS in 2015, showcased his fearless approach.
Acosta’s salary at CNN reportedly reached $2 million annually by 2024, a significant jump from earlier estimates of $700,000. This increase reflects his prominence and the high stakes of his White House coverage. His departure from CNN on January 28, 2025, after declining a new timeslot for CNN Newsroom, marked a pivotal shift. Industry insiders speculate he may explore digital media or author another book, leveraging his bestselling book, The Enemy of the People: A Dangerous Time to Tell the Truth in America (2019), which earned royalties contributing to his net worth.
Net Worth and Financial Growth
As of 2025, Jim Acosta’s net worth is estimated at $10 million, driven by his journalism career, book royalties, and real estate investments. His portfolio includes a $2.5 million townhouse in Washington, D.C., and a $1.5 million villa in Arlington, Virginia. Over the past decade, his net worth has grown by approximately 40%, fueled by his high-profile CNN role and strategic investments. Unlike many journalists, Acosta’s financial acumen—evident in his luxury car collection worth $420,000, including a Mercedes and Audi—sets him apart.
A case study of Acosta’s financial growth reveals a disciplined approach to wealth-building. While his CNN salary formed the backbone, royalties from his book and speaking engagements added significant streams. His real estate choices in high-value D.C. markets reflect a savvy understanding of long-term appreciation, offering a model for media professionals aiming to diversify income.
Married Life and Divorce
Jim Acosta’s married life with Sharon Mobley Stow, a registered nurse, began in 1994 after meeting at James Madison University. The couple, who wed at the Wye of Carmichel United Methodist Church in Maryland, honeymooned in the Greek Islands and later purchased a $660,000 three-bedroom home in Maryland. They welcomed three children: daughters Hartley and another unnamed daughter, and son Peter. After 24 years, their marriage ended in a divorce finalized in July 2017 at Charles County District Court. The reasons remain private, with Acosta maintaining discretion about his family.
Post-divorce, Acosta has kept his personal life guarded, a stark contrast to his outspoken professional persona. Colleagues note his focus on fatherhood, often sharing moments with his children on social media, like a heartfelt Father’s Day post in 2017. His commitment to privacy underscores a deliberate separation between his public and personal spheres, a rare trait in today’s media landscape.
Dating History and Current Status
Since his divorce, Jim Acosta’s dating history has been notably private. As of 2025, he is single, with no confirmed relationships reported. Speculation about casual dating surfaced, with a White House colleague mentioning seeing him with “different women,” but Acosta has not publicly confirmed any partners. His focus appears to be on his career and children, as evidenced by his limited personal disclosures on platforms like Instagram (@jimacosta) and Twitter (@Acosta), where he prioritizes professional updates.
This reticence contrasts with the public’s curiosity, often fueled by his high-profile clashes with figures like Trump. Unlike peers who leverage personal branding, Acosta’s restraint offers a unique angle: a journalist prioritizing substance over spectacle. This approach may appeal to audiences seeking authenticity in media personalities.
Awards and Legacy
Acosta’s career is decorated with accolades, including the 2017 Presidential Award from the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, the 2018 William Randolph Hearst Foundation Award, and an Emmy for CNN’s 2012 presidential election coverage. His book, The Enemy of the People, became a New York Times bestseller, cementing his role as a defender of press freedom. His confrontations with Trump, notably the 2018 press pass controversy, highlighted his commitment to the First Amendment.
A 2023 survey by the Pew Research Center found that 68% of Americans value journalists who challenge political figures, a role Acosta epitomized. His legacy lies in modeling fearless journalism while navigating personal and professional challenges with integrity.
What’s Next for Jim Acosta?
Following his CNN exit, Acosta’s future is a topic of speculation. Industry experts predict he may launch a podcast or join a digital platform, capitalizing on his 2.2 million Twitter followers and media influence. His commitment to truth-telling, as articulated in his book, suggests new projects will focus on combating disinformation. “Journalism is about holding power accountable, no matter the cost,” Acosta once said, a mantra likely to guide his next chapter.
Jim Acosta Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Abilio James Acosta |
| Date of Birth | April 17, 1971 |
| Age | 54 (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Washington, D.C., USA |
| Ethnicity | Cuban (father), Irish-Czech (mother) |
| Education | Bachelor’s in Mass Communication, James Madison University (1993) |
| Career Start | WMAL Radio, Washington, D.C. (1993) |
| Major Roles | CNN Chief White House Correspondent (2018–2021), National Political Correspondent |
| Salary | $2 million annually (2024 estimate) |
| Net Worth | $10 million (2025 estimate) |
| Marital Status | Divorced (Sharon Mobley Stow, 1994–2017) |
| Children | Three (two daughters, one son: Hartley, unnamed daughter, Peter) |
| Awards | Emmy (2012), National Association of Hispanic Journalists Award (2017) |
| Book | The Enemy of the People (2019) |
| Social Media | Twitter: @Acosta, Instagram: @jimacosta |
| Current Status | Single, no public dating relationships |
Conclusion
Jim Acosta’s journey from a Cuban refugee’s son to a journalism titan reflects resilience and dedication. At 54, with a $10 million net worth, his salary and real estate savvy underscore financial success. His married life with Sharon Mobley Stow, though ended, shaped his role as a devoted father. Single in 2025, Acosta’s dating history remains private, aligning with his focus on professional integrity. His career, marked by awards and bold reporting, continues to inspire. Follow his updates on Twitter and explore his story on Wikipedia.
