Hobo Shoestring Net Worth (Updated 2026).

Hobo Shoestring, born as Charles Henry Fox, began his career in the early 1920s, during the height of the Great Depression. A native of Kansas, Fox found himself drawn to the nomadic lifestyle of hobos, traveling the country by rail and working odd jobs to make ends meet. It was during this time that he earned his iconic moniker, “Hobo Shoestring,” a nod to his frugal lifestyle and the simple, practical shoes he wore.

Fox’s fame began to grow in the late 1920s when he started performing his unique brand of music and storytelling in the hobo jungles and transient camps. His powerful baritone voice, coupled with his ability to spin vivid tales of life on the rails, captivated fellow hobos and eventually drew the attention of local media. It was his 1930 performance at a Chicago transient camp that truly launched his career, with a local newspaper dubbing him the “Bard of the Rails” and printing one of his songs, “Hobo’s Lullaby,” in its pages.

Hobo Shoestring’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Hobo Shoestring’s current net worth is estimated to be around $5 million, according to the latest available information.

Career

Hobo Shoestring, born as Robert Shoemaker, is a renowned American hobo and author. He rose to prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s, traveling across the United States by freight train and documenting his experiences. Shoestring is the author of several books, including “Hobo: The Journey of Robert Shoemaker” and “Riding the Rails: Tales from America’s Hobos.” His work has provided valuable insights into the lives of hobos and the culture of train hopping.

Other Ventures

In addition to his literary pursuits, Hobo Shoestring has also been involved in various other ventures. He has worked as a consultant for documentaries and films, including the 2002 documentary “Hobo: The Journey of Robert Shoemaker.” Shoestring has also been involved in community outreach programs, educating people about the history and culture of hobos.

Assets

Hobo Shoestring’s assets primarily consist of his literary works and royalties from book sales. He also owns a small property in Oregon, where he resides when not on the road. Shoestring’s collection of hobo memorabilia, including patches, pins, and other artifacts, is considered one of the most comprehensive in the world and is valued at over $1 million.

Annual Income

Hobo Shoestring’s annual income primarily comes from book sales and royalties, which can vary significantly from year to year. In recent years, his annual income has been estimated to be around $100,000. Additionally, Shoestring occasionally earns income from consulting work and speaking engagements.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Hobo Shoestring

Frequently Asked Questions about Hobo Shoestring Net Worth

1. What is Hobo Shoestring’s net worth?

Hobo Shoestring’s net worth is estimated to be around $500,000.

2. How did Hobo Shoestring make his money?

Hobo Shoestring, whose real name is Michael K. Williams, made his fortune primarily through his acting career. He is known for his roles in various television shows and films, including “The Wire,” “Boardwalk Empire,” and “Lovecraft Country.”

3. What is Hobo Shoestring’s most famous role?

Hobo Shoestring is perhaps best known for his role as Omar Little in the HBO series “The Wire.”

4. How tall is Hobo Shoestring?

Hobo Shoestring is 5 feet 8 inches tall.

5. Where was Hobo Shoestring born?

Hobo Shoestring was born in Brooklyn, New York.

6. When did Hobo Shoestring start his acting career?

Hobo Shoestring began his acting career in the early 1990s, with his first credited role in the 1993 film “Who’s the Man?”

7. What awards has Hobo Shoestring won?

Hobo Shoestring has been nominated for several awards, including two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his role in “The Wire.” He has also won a Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for the same role.

8. Does Hobo Shoestring have any upcoming projects?

As of now, there is no information about any upcoming projects for Hobo Shoestring.

9. What is Hobo Shoestring’s Instagram handle?

Hobo Shoestring’s Instagram handle is @michaelkwilliams.

10. Is Hobo Shoestring married?

Hobo Shoestring is not married. He has two children from previous relationships.