Carl Lentz, once a well-known figure in the Christian community, gained fame as the lead pastor of Hillsong NYC. His energetic preaching style, strong media presence, and close ties with celebrities made him one of the most recognized pastors in the U.S. However, after his public downfall in 2020, his financial situation took a hit. Many are curious about Carl Lentz net worth, how he built his wealth, and where he stands today.
| Full Name | Stephen Carl Lentz |
| Date of Birth | November 6, 1978 |
| Place of Birth | Virginia, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Former Pastor, Author, Speaker |
| Years Active | 2010–2020 (as Hillsong Pastor) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1.5 million – $4 million |
| Spouse | Laura Lentz |
| Children | 3 |
Carl Lentz’s Early Days
Born in Virginia in 1978, Carl Lentz had a relatively private upbringing. His early years didn’t indicate that he would become a pastor with global recognition. However, his passion for faith and leadership eventually led him toward ministry.
Before stepping into the church world, Lentz attended North Carolina State University, where he played college basketball. However, he later chose to shift his focus and moved to Australia to study at Hillsong International Leadership College in Sydney. This decision played a significant role in his career, as it connected him with Hillsong Church and its influential leaders.
Carl Lentz’s Journey To Influence: From Church Leader To Public Icon
Carl Lentz co-founded Hillsong NYC in 2010, transforming it into a major megachurch. His modern preaching style attracted thousands, bringing in revenue through donations, merchandise, and events. As lead pastor, he earned a significant salary and enjoyed financial perks.
A key factor in Carl Lentz net worth was his celebrity ties. His friendship with Justin Bieber gained media attention, while connections with Kevin Durant and Selena Gomez boosted his influence. These relationships led to book deals, speaking engagements, and other income opportunities.
How Carl Lentz Built His Wealth
As the lead pastor of Hillsong NYC, Lentz earned a substantial salary, though exact figures remain undisclosed. Megachurch pastors typically receive six to seven-figure salaries, along with housing allowances, travel benefits, and performance-based bonuses. His leadership at Hillsong NYC played a significant role in his financial success.
Beyond his pastoral earnings, Carl Lentz net worth was boosted by book sales and speaking engagements. His 2017 book, Own The Moment, generated steady royalties, while his reputation as a dynamic speaker brought in high-paying opportunities. He was frequently invited to conferences and events, often earning tens of thousands per appearance, further adding to his wealth.
Carl Lentz’s Financial Rise And Fall
At his peak, Carl Lentz net worth was estimated between $3 million and $4 million, fueled by his Hillsong NYC salary, book sales, and high-paying speaking engagements. His influence as a celebrity pastor allowed him to build a strong financial foundation while enjoying a luxurious lifestyle.
However, after his 2020 dismissal from Hillsong due to personal scandals, his income took a major hit. Losing his pastoral role and public speaking opportunities significantly reduced his earnings. Recent estimates place his net worth between $1.5 million and $4 million, reflecting the financial setbacks he faced after his fall from grace.
Financial Setbacks After His Scandal
Lentz’s firing from Hillsong in 2020 cut off his main income source, leaving a major financial gap. His book sales declined, and speaking invitations became rare as organizations distanced themselves. Without his Hillsong salary and public engagements, his earnings took a sharp hit.
Beyond income loss, his reputation suffered, making financial recovery difficult. Once a trusted pastor, he faced backlash that hurt his brand. While he has been working on rebuilding his life, restoring his past financial success remains uncertain.
Carl Lentz Personal Life
Carl Lentz has been married to Laura Lentz for over 20 years, and they have three children—Ava, Charlie, and Roman. His family was heavily involved in Hillsong NYC, but their lives changed after his 2020 scandal. Following his dismissal, the family moved to Florida, stepping away from the public eye while focusing on rebuilding their personal lives.
Once known for his stylish image and celebrity connections, Lentz often blended faith with modern culture. He had a strong presence on social media and was passionate about fitness and basketball. Since leaving Hillsong, he has maintained a low profile, reportedly working in consulting while staying out of the spotlight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. How did Carl Lentz make his money?
His earnings came primarily from his role at Hillsong NYC, book sales, and speaking engagements.
Q2. What is Carl Lentz’s net worth in 2024?
Current estimates suggest it is between $1.5 million and $4 million.
Q3. What happened to Carl Lentz financially after leaving Hillsong?
He lost his pastoral salary, speaking gigs, and book revenue saw a decline. However, he has been working on rebuilding his career.
Q4. Where does Carl Lentz live now?
He moved from New Jersey to Florida, where he resides in a private home south of Tampa.
Wrapping Up
Carl Lentz experienced financial highs and lows throughout his career. At one point, he was at the center of one of the fastest-growing megachurches in the world, earning millions. However, personal scandals led to a fall from grace, impacting his reputation and wealth. Today, Carl Lentz net worth is lower than it once was, but he remains a figure of interest in the public eye. Whether he will regain his financial standing or choose a different path remains uncertain.