If you’ve ever watched The Five on Fox News or followed U.S. political commentary, you’ve likely seen Jessica Tarlov in action. Known for her sharp intellect and calm demeanor, Tarlov has carved out a prominent space in both media and political consulting. But here’s the big question everyone’s asking lately: How much does Jessica Tarlov salary? Her salary has become a topic of intrigue, not just because of her media presence, but due to her multi-faceted career.
In this article, we’ll explore Jessica Tarlov salary, her career milestones, estimated net worth, and the many roles that influence her income. Let’s pull back the curtain.

Quick Bio: Jessica Tarlov
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Jessica Tarlov |
Date of Birth | March 9, 1984 |
Age | 41 (as of 2025) |
Birthplace | Manhattan, New York City |
Education | BA from Bryn Mawr College, Ph.D. from LSE |
Current Role | Fox News Contributor, Political Analyst |
Other Roles | Head of Research at Bustle |
Specialization | Democratic Strategist, Communications |
Years Active | 2007–present |
Spouse | Roman Kuznetsov (married) |
Children | 1 Daughter |
Estimated Net Worth | $3 – $5 million |
Estimated Salary | $150,000–$250,000 annually |
Who Is Jessica Tarlov?
Jessica Tarlov is more than just a regular guest on Fox News. With a robust academic background, a decade-plus in political strategy, and frequent appearances on national TV, she brings credibility and nuance to every conversation.
She earned her B.A. in History from Bryn Mawr College, followed by a Master’s and Ph.D. in Political Science from the London School of Economics (LSE). This rare combination of academic prowess and on-camera finesse makes her a standout figure in political commentary.
How Much Does Jessica Tarlov Make?
Now, let’s get to the question that brought you here: Jessica Tarlov salary.
Estimated Salary: $150,000 to $250,000 Annually
As a prominent contributor and co-host on one of Fox News’ most-watched programs, The Five, Jessica Tarlov reportedly earns between $150,000 and $250,000 annually. While Fox News doesn’t publicly disclose individual salaries, industry insiders and comparable positions suggest this salary range is accurate for a contributor of her caliber.
That figure may fluctuate depending on:
- The number of appearances per week
- Contractual obligations
- Exclusive deals or bonuses
- Additional roles she holds within the network
Beyond Fox News: Multiple Income Streams
Jessica isn’t solely dependent on her Fox News income. She also works as Head of Research at Bustle Digital Group, a major media company. This dual-career path likely adds a 6-figure supplement to her base salary, depending on the scope of her responsibilities.
Jessica Tarlov’s Net Worth: A Growing Fortune
Net Worth Estimate: $3 Million to $5 Million
As of 2025, Jessica Tarlov’s net worth is estimated between $3 million and $5 million. This includes her cumulative earnings from:
- TV appearances
- Media consulting
- Political strategy work
- Academic contributions
- Book deals and guest lectures (if applicable)
When compared to peers in her industry, her net worth is considered substantial, especially for someone under 45.
Career Timeline: How She Got Here
Jessica didn’t just stumble into a Fox News slot. Here’s a quick look at her journey:
Academic Foundation
She began with a strong academic base, studying history and later pursuing political science at one of the world’s top institutions, the London School of Economics.
Political Strategy
Jessica gained early experience working on the Douglas Schoen LLC team, where she advised domestic and international political campaigns. This behind-the-scenes expertise helped her transition smoothly into public-facing roles.
Television Career
Her TV career started gaining traction around 2014. As one of the rare liberal voices on Fox News, she stood out with her articulate, respectful commentary. Over the years, she has appeared on:
- The Five
- Outnumbered
- America’s Newsroom
- Hannity (guest appearances)
This on-air exposure significantly raised her profile and earning potential.
What Sets Jessica Tarlov Apart?
Tarlov’s unique value lies in her balanced communication style. She doesn’t yell or interrupt; instead, she dissects conservative talking points with data and calm reasoning. Her ability to remain composed, even when in the minority opinion, makes her not just likable, but incredibly valuable to Fox News.
In a media landscape full of loud voices, Jessica’s subtle but strong voice resonates with viewers across political lines.
Real-Life Case Study: Liberal Voices at Conservative Networks
Tarlov’s rise mirrors that of other liberal commentators in conservative-dominated spaces. Similar to Marie Harf or Geraldo Rivera, she represents an essential part of the Fox News formula: ideological diversity.
By giving airtime to respected liberal analysts like Tarlov, Fox News maintains a sense of balance—and gains credibility among skeptical viewers. This role isn’t just about perspective; it’s a strategic asset to the network, which further justifies a higher-than-average salary.
How Does Jessica Tarlov Salary Compare to Others?
Here’s a rough comparison with other well-known personalities:
Personality | Estimated Annual Salary |
---|---|
Dana Perino (Fox News) | $1 million+ |
Juan Williams | $500,000+ |
Marie Harf | $200,000 |
Jessica Tarlov | $150,000–$250,000 |
While she’s not at the top of the Fox salary pyramid, she earns well above the average political analyst, especially considering her multiple roles and background.
Why Jessica Tarlov’s Salary Matters
You might wonder why we even care about a pundit’s paycheck. But understanding salaries like Jessica Tarlov’s gives us insight into:
- How media personalities are valued
- The intersection of politics and business
- The economics of political commentary
It also reflects a larger trend of academics and strategists becoming public intellectuals, earning more visibility, influence, and financial stability.
Final Thoughts: The Value Behind the Voice
Jessica Tarlov isn’t just a pundit. She’s a scholar, a strategist, and a steady voice in an often-chaotic media landscape. Her salary—estimated between $150K and $250K annually—isn’t just a number. It reflects her credibility, versatility, and unique role at the intersection of politics, media, and research.
As political media continues to evolve, figures like Jessica Tarlov remind us that intelligence, balance, and grace still matter—and yes, they pay well too.

FAQs
Q1: Is Jessica Tarlov a full-time employee at Fox News?
She is a regular contributor and panelist, especially on The Five, but likely operates on a contract basis rather than as a salaried full-time employee.
Q2: Does Jessica Tarlov have income sources beyond Fox News?
Yes. She works with Bustle Digital Group and may also engage in consulting and speaking engagements.
Q3: How does her education impact her salary?
Her Ph.D. from the London School of Economics adds serious credibility, allowing her to command higher compensation.
Q4: Has her salary increased over time?
Yes, as her prominence and frequency on Fox News grew, so did her earnings, potentially doubling since her early appearances.
Q5: What is Jessica Tarlov’s role at Bustle?
She is Head of Research at Bustle Digital Group, helping guide editorial and strategic decisions.
Q6: Could Jessica Tarlov’s net worth continue growing?
Absolutely. With her increasing public profile and dual-career path, her earning potential remains strong and scalable.
Also, Read: Bert Girigorie.