Jim Cramer Biography: Age, Family, CNBC Career, Salary, Net Worth & Personal Life (2025)
Jim Cramer is a renowned American television personality, financial expert, and host of CNBC’s Mad Money. Known for his dynamic style and insightful market analysis, Cramer has become a household name in business journalism. His career as a stock market commentator and author has made him a trusted voice for investors and finance enthusiasts across the United States.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | James Joseph Cramer |
| Nickname | Jim |
| Profession | Television Host, Author, Financial Analyst |
| Birth Date | February 10, 1955 |
| Age | 70 (as of 2025) |
| Birth Place | Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Famous For | Hosting CNBC’s Mad Money |
| Known For | Stock Market Commentary, Financial Journalism |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Zodiac Sign | Aquarius |
| Height & Weight | 5 ft 7 in (170 cm) / Approx. 80 kg (176 lbs) |
| Hair Color | Bald / Formerly Brown |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Education | Harvard College (BA), Harvard Law School (JD) |
| Religion | Jewish |
| Marital Status/Spouse | Married to Lisa Cadette Detwiler |
| Children | 2 (from previous marriage) |
| Relatives | N/A |
| Hobbies | Gardening, Writing, Collecting |
| Employer/Organization | CNBC, TheStreet |
| Years Active | 1980–present |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $150 Million (2025) |
Early Life & Education
James Joseph Cramer was born on February 10, 1955, in Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania. Raised in a middle-class Jewish family, his father owned an international packaging company and his mother was an artist. Cramer attended Springfield Township High School, where he developed a keen interest in journalism and business from an early age. He later enrolled at Harvard College, graduating magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in government in 1977. During his time at Harvard, he was the president and editor-in-chief of The Harvard Crimson student newspaper. Cramer went on to earn his Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School in 1984, though he ultimately chose to pursue a career in finance and media.
Career Journey
Beginnings in Journalism & Law
Jim Cramer’s career began in journalism, working for publications like the Los Angeles Herald Examiner and covering high-profile news stories. After earning his law degree, he briefly worked as a lawyer, but his passion for the stock market led him to Wall Street.
Wall Street & Hedge Fund Success
- Started as a stockbroker at Goldman Sachs in 1984.
- Founded his own hedge fund, Cramer & Co., in 1987, delivering impressive returns to investors until his retirement from active fund management in 2001.
- Built a reputation for his aggressive yet analytical investment style.
TheStreet and Media Expansion
- Co-founded TheStreet (thestreet.com) in 1996, a pioneering financial news and literacy website.
- Authored several best-selling books on investing and personal finance, including Confessions of a Street Addict and Jim Cramer’s Real Money.
CNBC and Mad Money
- Became the host of CNBC’s Mad Money in 2005, known for his energetic delivery and practical investment advice.
- Regularly appears on other CNBC programs and provides market analysis across multiple platforms.
- His unique approach blends entertainment with education, making stock market news accessible to a broad audience.
Recent Activity & Current Position
- Continues to host Mad Money and contribute to CNBC’s financial programming.
- Active as a columnist, keynote speaker, and financial commentator in 2025.
- Engages with audiences through social media, podcasts, and digital platforms.
Personal Life
Jim Cramer married Lisa Cadette Detwiler, a real estate broker and businesswoman, in 2015. He was previously married to Karen Backfisch, with whom he shares two children. Cramer is known for his love of gardening, collecting rare items, and supporting educational causes. He resides in Summit, New Jersey, and is actively involved in community and philanthropic efforts.
Awards & Achievements
- New York Times Bestselling Author
- Named to the Time 100 list of most influential people in business (multiple years)
- Inducted into the Cable Hall of Fame
- Recognized for excellence in financial broadcasting by various industry bodies
Physical Statistics
- Height: 5 ft 7 in (170 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 80 kg (176 lbs)
- Eye Color: Brown
- Hair Color: Bald (formerly brown)
- Shoe Size: 9 (US)
- Sexuality: Straight
Quotes
“There is always a bull market somewhere.”
“The goal is not to be right every time, but to make more money when you’re right than you lose when you’re wrong.”
“Don’t invest in companies you don’t understand.”
Controversies
Jim Cramer has faced criticism for his outspoken style and some of his stock recommendations. In 2008, he was publicly challenged over his comments about the stability of certain financial institutions prior to the financial crisis. Despite occasional controversy, Cramer has maintained a loyal following and continues to address critics transparently on air and in interviews.
Favorites
- Favorite Book: The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham
- Favorite Food: Italian cuisine
- Favorite TV Show: Mad Money
- Favorite Hobby: Gardening
Salary & Net Worth
As of 2025, Jim Cramer’s estimated net worth is around $150 million. His annual salary from CNBC is reported to be in the range of $5 million to $7 million, supplemented by book royalties, public speaking engagements, and his stake in TheStreet. Cramer’s wealth stems from his successful hedge fund management, media ventures, and ongoing work as a financial commentator.
Interesting Facts
- Jim Cramer started investing in the stock market while still in college.
- He once lived out of his car after being robbed in Los Angeles early in his journalism career.
- He has appeared as himself in several TV shows and films, including Arrested Development and Iron Man.
- Cramer is a passionate advocate for financial literacy and education.
- He collects rare garden plants and is an avid gardener in his spare time.
Social Media Links
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Jim Cramer in 2025?
Jim Cramer is 70 years old as of 2025.
What is Jim Cramer’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is approximately $150 million in 2025, derived from his media career, investments, and business ventures.
Who is Jim Cramer’s wife?
Jim Cramer is married to Lisa Cadette Detwiler, a real estate broker and businesswoman.
What is Jim Cramer famous for?
He is best known as the host of CNBC’s Mad Money and for his expertise in stock market analysis and personal finance.
Where did Jim Cramer go to college?
He attended Harvard College (BA) and Harvard Law School (JD).
What are Jim Cramer’s hobbies?
Cramer enjoys gardening, writing, and collecting rare items.
Conclusion
Jim Cramer has left an indelible mark on American financial media through his energetic presence, insightful analysis, and dedication to investor education. As a trusted voice on CNBC and beyond, his influence continues to shape how millions approach the stock market. If you enjoyed learning about Jim Cramer, feel free to share this biography with others interested in the world of finance and investing.
Sources: CNBC, TheStreet, Forbes, New York Times, Harvard University, Bloomberg
