Brian Houston is one of the most recognized names in modern Christian ministry. The former Hillsong Church leader built a global following and amassed wealth through church leadership, bestselling books, chart-topping worship music, and speaking engagements.
Fans and critics alike are curious about the financial success of the pastor who guided Hillsong into an international megachurch. In 2026, his net worth is estimated at $10 million, reflecting decades of work in ministry, publishing, and digital faith platforms.
Understanding Brian Houston Net Worth
Brian Houston’s fortune comes from multiple sources. Most of his early earnings came from founding and leading Hillsong Church, which grew into a global phenomenon. The church’s international events, conferences, and music royalties boosted his financial profile.
Beyond the pulpit, Houston authored bestselling books and became a sought-after speaker at Christian events worldwide. Today, his online ministry adds another income layer, showing that Houston has diversified his wealth while continuing his spiritual mission.
Hillsong Church Salary and Benefits
During his tenure as Global Senior Pastor, Brian Houston earned one of Australia’s highest pastoral salaries, reportedly around $1 million per year. He received additional allowances covering housing, travel, and ministry-related expenses. These benefits significantly increased his earnings.
In 2010, Hillsong’s board approved a retirement package for Houston and his wife, Bobbie, valued at AU$350,000 annually. This package included housing support and health coverage, ensuring financial security beyond active ministry. The combination of salary and benefits formed the foundation of his early fortune.
Hillsong music royalties
Hillsong Church’s music is a global phenomenon. Albums from Hillsong United and Hillsong Worship consistently chart internationally, and churches worldwide license their music for worship services. These royalties generated substantial income for the church and indirectly enriched Houston, the founder.
Music licensing, streaming, and album sales provided ongoing revenue. Hillsong’s brand recognition worldwide helped maintain a steady flow of funds from royalties, making music a crucial component of Brian Houston’s net worth.
Book publishing
Brian Houston has authored more than 15 Christian books, many of which focus on leadership, faith, and personal growth. Titles like Live Love Lead and There Is More reached global audiences and became bestselling works in Christian literature.
Books translated into multiple languages expanded his readership and revenue streams. Sales through online platforms, Christian bookstores, and publishers like Penguin Random House ensured a continuous income from royalties, adding another pillar to his financial portfolio.
Speaking engagements and conferences
Brian Houston was a key speaker at Hillsong Conferences, drawing tens of thousands of attendees. International events and Christian conventions often invited him as a keynote speaker. Reported fees for speaking engagements averaged around $10,000 per event.
Documents indicate that in 2021, Shiloh Ministries Australia, linked to Brian and Bobbie Houston, earned approximately $1.86 million from speaking fees alone. These engagements further enhanced his net worth while keeping him in the public eye.
Brian Houston’s online ministry
After leaving Hillsong in 2022, Houston launched Jesus Followers TV in 2024. This digital platform streams live services, sermons, and faith-based content to a global audience. The platform relies on donations, subscriptions, and tithes for funding.
This new venture demonstrates Houston’s adaptability. While no longer drawing a traditional pastoral salary, his online ministry continues to generate income and supports his ongoing influence in Christian circles.
FAQs About Brian Houston Net Worth
What is Brian Houston worth His net worth in 2026 is estimated at $10 million. This comes from book royalties, speaking fees, music royalties, and real estate holdings.
How much did he earn at Hillsong His reported salary was $1 million per year, with a retirement package of AU$350,000 annually starting in 2023.
Who runs Hillsong now Phil and Lucinda Dooley serve as Global Senior Pastors since 2023.
Why did Hillsong face decline Misconduct scandals, financial allegations, and internal culture issues contributed to its decline, though the church remains active globally.
What is Brian Houston doing now Houston leads a digital ministry and continues publishing and speaking internationally.
Is he still married Brian Houston remains married to Bobbie Houston, and the couple collaborates on their new online ministry projects.
Final word
Brian Houston net worth reflects decades of influence and business acumen in the Christian faith sector. From his leadership at Hillsong Church to bestselling books, international speaking engagements, and digital ministry ventures, Houston built a multi-faceted income stream.
Today, his $10 million fortune illustrates both his global impact and financial success, confirming that the pastor’s career extends far beyond the pulpit into publishing, music, and online platforms.
