Norah O’Donnell is a name synonymous with journalistic integrity and excellence. With an illustrious career spanning decades, O’Donnell has earned a place as one of the most respected and recognizable faces in broadcast journalism. Norah O’Donnell Net Worth stands at an impressive $22 million, with an annual salary of $8 million as the anchor of CBS Evening News and a contributor to “60 Minutes.” Let’s delve deeper into the life, career, and financial achievements of this media powerhouse.
Early Life and Background
Norah Morahan O’Donnell was born on January 23, 1974, in Washington, D.C. to parents Noreen Bernadette O’Kane and Francis Lawrence O’Donnell. Her father was a doctor and an officer in the U.S. Army, and her mother, of Irish descent, enriched O’Donnell’s upbringing with cultural roots extending to Derry, Belfast, and Donegal in Ireland. This Irish heritage played a significant role in shaping O’Donnell’s identity.
Her childhood was marked by frequent relocations due to her father’s military service. From San Antonio, Texas, to Seoul, South Korea, and Germany, Norah experienced a global upbringing. At the age of 10, she began teaching videotaped English lessons for the Korean Educational Development Institute, marking her initial foray into broadcasting. She graduated from Douglas MacArthur High School in 1991 and later earned a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy and a Master of Arts in liberal studies from Georgetown University.
Professional Journey: Rising Through the Ranks
O’Donnell began her professional career as a staff writer for Roll Call, covering Congress. Her sharp insights and compelling writing caught the attention of NBC, where she worked for 12 years in various roles. During her tenure, she became a commentator for Today, Chief Washington Correspondent for MSNBC, and a White House correspondent for NBC News. Her reports were featured on NBC Nightly News, Dateline NBC, and MSNBC, showcasing her versatility as a journalist.
In 2011, Norah transitioned to CBS News, where she quickly ascended the ranks. Initially serving as Chief White House Correspondent, she was named co-anchor of CBS This Morning in 2012. Her incisive interviews and authoritative reporting solidified her reputation as one of CBS’s most trusted journalists.
By May 2019, O’Donnell was announced as the anchor and managing editor of CBS Evening News. She became only the third woman to hold this prestigious position on weeknights, following Connie Chung and Katie Couric. Additionally, she continued her work as a contributing correspondent for 60 Minutes, further cementing her place as a key figure in American journalism.
Norah O’Donnell Net Worth and Salary Breakdown
| Details | Amount |
| Net Worth | $22 Million |
| Annual Salary | $8 Million |
| Primary Role | Anchor, CBS Evening News |
| Other Contributions | 60 Minutes correspondent |
O’Donnell’s financial success is not merely a result of her high-profile roles but also her dedication to delivering impactful and trustworthy news. Her consistent efforts to excel in her field make her earnings well-deserved.
Awards and Accolades
Over the years, Norah O’Donnell has received several prestigious awards for her journalistic contributions:
- Emmy Awards:
- 2008: Part of the NBC Election Night coverage team for Outstanding Live Coverage of a Breaking News Story.
- 2018: For her investigative report “Sexual Assault at the Air Force Academy” on CBS This Morning.
- Sigma Delta Chi Award: For Breaking News Coverage, highlighting her report “D.C. In Crisis” following the September 11 attacks.
- Washingtonian Magazine: Named one of Washington’s 100 Most Powerful Women.
- Irish American Magazine: Included in the Top 100 Irish Americans list.
These accolades underscore her impact as a journalist committed to uncovering the truth.
Personal Life: Family and Balance
Norah O’Donnell married restaurateur Geoff Tracy in 2001. The couple met during their time at Georgetown University and have been inseparable ever since. They are parents to three children: twins Grace and Henry, and a younger daughter, Riley. The family splits their time between Washington, D.C., and New York City.
In 2010, Norah and Geoff co-authored a cookbook titled Baby Love: Healthy, Easy, Delicious Meals for Your Baby and Toddler, reflecting their shared passion for health and parenting.
Norah O’Donnell’s Influence Compared to Other Journalists
Norah O’Donnell’s net worth and career achievements position her among the elite in journalism. Comparing her to other prominent figures highlights her success:
| Journalist | Net Worth | Notable Role |
| Andrea Mitchell | $5 Million | NBC News Correspondent |
| Katie Couric | $100 Million | Former CBS Evening News Anchor |
| Jeff Glor | $3 Million | Former CBS Evening News Anchor |
| Gayle King | $40 Million | Co-Anchor, CBS This Morning |
| Dan Rather | $70 Million | Former CBS Evening News Anchor |
While Katie Couric and Dan Rather boast higher net worths, Norah O’Donnell Net Worth reflects her growing influence in the industry and her continued success as a leading journalist.
Legacy and Future Prospects
Norah O’Donnell has already secured her legacy as a trusted journalist who delivers news with accuracy, fairness, and empathy. Her investigations, such as the Emmy-winning report on sexual assault at the Air Force Academy, showcase her commitment to covering critical issues. As of 2025, O’Donnell continues to shape the future of journalism, setting an example for aspiring reporters.
Final Thoughts
Norah O’Donnell’s journey from a young girl teaching English lessons in South Korea to becoming the anchor of CBS Evening News is nothing short of inspirational. Her story is a testament to hard work, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to the principles of journalism. With a net worth of $22 million and an annual salary of $8 million, she has not only achieved financial success but also cemented her place as one of the most respected figures in modern media.
Disclaimer
All figures regarding Norah O’Donnell Net Worth and other financial details are based on publicly available data and estimates. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, these numbers may vary.
