As Americans hit the polls to decide whether Donald Trump or Kamala Harris will take the reins from Joe Biden, it’s not just the title of 'leader of the free world' that’s up for grabs.
The role of the President of the United States also comes with a neat package of perks and a decent salary — though, arguably, not as decent as some people might expect for such a high-stakes job.
With Election Day taking place on Tuesday (November 5), the stakes have never felt higher.
On one side, former US President Donald Trump. On the other, current US Vice President Kamala Harris. After months of swipes, debates, rallies, and even assassination attempts - it's safe to say that the world will be watching who will hold the fate of the US for the next four years (at least).
But as well as the big question of, "Who will be the next President of the United States?" The next big question some people may have is, "How much does the role pay?"
Well, per USA Today, the current salary for the POTUS - set by Congress back in 2001 - stands at $400,000 annually.
This current rate was a jump from the $200,000 established in 1969, which would now equate to about $1.66 million today, (adjusting for inflation). The salary increase was deemed necessary in part as a symbol of respect for what is one of "the most difficult, demanding and important jobs on the face of the Earth".
Alongside the base salary, the president receives a $50,000 expense allowance annually, which reverts to the Treasury if unspent.
Beyond the paycheck, the presidential role is bundled with benefits that extend far beyond the average job perks.
Living in the White House comes with no rent, complimentary gourmet meals, global travel, and round-the-clock personal security — all on the (White) house. Once out of office, the perks continue with a generous federal pension; for example, Donald Trump pockets about $230,000 annually in pension contributions following his presidency.
But that’s not all—the presidential package includes a $100,000 allowance for White House redecorations upon moving in, a $19,000 entertainment budget, per CNBC, and an additional $100,000 for travel expenses.
And let's not forget the iconic Air Force One as a personal airliner and top-notch healthcare benefits.
Despite these luxuries, some argue that the president's salary doesn’t quite match the job's demands, especially when compared to the multimillion-dollar earnings of top CEOs.
Critics on social platforms like X (formerly Twitter) argue that the salary, though substantial, pales in comparison to what top executives earn.
"Fire the lowest performing half of government. Double everyone's salaries," one person wrote.
"Politicians' salaries should be voted on each election. We as citizens should decide if they deserve a raise or pay decrease each election cycle," one X user suggested.
"It makes no sense that the top CEOs make $24 million on average per year but the US president gets $400k, which is 60 times less." another added.
However, many point out that the real jackpot often comes post-presidency, with lucrative speaking gigs and book deals that can make their time in office look like mere pocket change. Just look at the Obamas.
As the election day drama unfolds, one thing remains clear: While the salary might not make one rich by billionaire standards, the role of the U.S. president remains one of the most uniquely compensated positions in the world, both in prestige and perks.
We'll just have to see who will be receiving the check.
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