
Curious about how Denis McDonough, a man known for his dedication to public service, turned his career into a financial powerhouse? Let's dive into the details.
From working under two of the most influential presidents in modern history to taking on lucrative roles in the private sector, his journey is nothing short of impressive. In this piece, we'll break down his net worth, salary, and how he managed to amass his fortune while staying true to his roots.
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Denis McDonough Quick Facts
FACT | DETAIL |
---|---|
Real Name | Denis Richard McDonough |
Popular Name | Denis McDonough |
Birth Date | December 2, 1969 |
Age (as of 03/25/2025) | 55 years old |
Birthplace | Stillwater, Minnesota, U.S. |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | Irish-American |
Education | St. John’s University (BA), Georgetown University (MSFS) |
Marital Status | Married |
Spouse | Karin Hillstrom |
Children | 3 |
Dating | N/A |
Siblings | 10 |
Parents | Kathleen Marie McDonough, William Joseph McDonough |
Height (meters) | N/A |
Net Worth | $3 million (estimated) |
Source of Wealth | Government salary, consulting, nonprofit, academic positions, speaking gigs |
What is the Net Worth Of Denis McDonough in 2025?
As of 2025, Denis McDonough has built an estimated net worth of $3 million. That's not exactly billionaire territory, but it's pretty impressive for someone whose career has largely been in public service. This figure comes from years of steady government work, high-paying private sector roles, and a knack for making smart financial decisions.
Compared to some of his peers in the Trump administration, Denis's wealth may seem modest, but it's still a significant achievement. Unlike Robert Wilkie, his predecessor as VA Secretary, who remained a lifelong government employee with relatively low assets, Denis has managed to diversify his income streams. His financial growth really took off between 2017 and 2020, when he stepped into the private and nonprofit sectors.
McDonough has worked with some of the biggest names in politics and business, including Joe Biden, Barack Obama, the Markle Foundation, and the University of Notre Dame. If you're curious about other high-profile figures, check out our full list of top-paid public figures and stars.
Denis McDonough Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
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How He Built His Financial Portfolio Across Public and Private Sectors
Denis McDonough started his career in Washington, D.C., where he worked as a staffer on the House International Relations Committee. From there, he moved on to become an advisor to Tom Daschle and eventually rose to the role of Chief of Staff to President Barack Obama. While his government salary wasn't exactly extravagant by private sector standards, it set the stage for a federal pension now valued at around $310,000. Serving under Obama was a game-changer for Denis, shaping both his career and his finances.
When Joe Biden appointed him as Secretary of Veterans Affairs, his salary increased to approximately $200,000 annually, up from the $176,000 he earned during his Obama years. These roles not only provided financial stability but also positioned him as a key cabinet member, albeit with a salary lower than some of his counterparts during the Trump era.
What His Government Roles Contributed to His Earnings
Throughout his time in public service, Denis McDonough earned a reliable and steady income. His move from Deputy National Security Advisor to White House Chief of Staff marked a significant career milestone. It also

