Clive Cussler Net Worth (Updated 2026).

Clive Cussler, born in 1931, began his career in the late 1960s, working as an advertising copywriter. His passion for underwater exploration and adventure stories led him to start writing novels in his spare time. His first novel, “The Sea Hunters,” was published in 1973, marking the beginning of his successful writing career.

Cussler’s big break came with his 1986 novel, “Raise the Titanic!” This book, a thrilling adventure centered around the recovery of the famous ship, became a bestseller and was adapted into a film. This success propelled Cussler to fame, and he has since become a renowned author in the adventure and thriller genres.

Clive Cussler’s Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Clive Cussler’s estimated net worth stands at $100 million. This substantial figure is a testament to his successful career as an author and his numerous bestselling novels.

Career

Clive Cussler, born in 1931, is an American adventure novelist best known for his Dirk Pitt series. He began his career in the 1970s, publishing his first novel, “The Sea Hunters,” in 1973. Since then, he has written over 80 books, many of which have become New York Times bestsellers. Cussler’s work is renowned for its thrilling plots and meticulous research, often incorporating real-life historical events and mysteries.

Other Ventures

In addition to his literary pursuits, Cussler is also a maritime historian and an underwater explorer. He founded the National Underwater & Marine Agency (NUMA) in 1979, a nonprofit organization dedicated to underwater archaeology and historical research. Cussler’s passion for maritime history has led him to discover and raise numerous shipwrecks, including the Confederate submarine Hunley.

Assets

Cussler’s assets include a sprawling estate in Arizona, valued at over $5 million. He also owns a private aircraft, a Cessna Citation X, which he uses for his extensive travels and underwater exploration missions. Additionally, Cussler’s vast library of maritime books and artifacts, accumulated over decades of research, is one of his most valuable assets.

Annual Income

Clive Cussler’s annual income is primarily derived from his book sales and royalties. His novels have sold over 100 million copies worldwide, generating significant royalties. Additionally, Cussler’s books have been translated into 40 languages, further expanding his global reach and income. While the exact figure of his annual income is not publicly disclosed, it is estimated to be in the tens of millions of dollars.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Clive Cussler

Frequently Asked Questions about Clive Cussler Net Worth

1. What is Clive Cussler’s net worth?

Clive Cussler’s net worth is estimated to be around $800 million.

2. How did Clive Cussler make his fortune?

Clive Cussler made his fortune primarily through his successful career as an author. He is best known for his adventure novels featuring the character Dirk Pitt.

3. How many books has Clive Cussler written?

Clive Cussler has written over 80 books, including both novels and non-fiction works.

4. Which of Clive Cussler’s books is the most popular?

The most popular book by Clive Cussler is “Raise the Titanic!” which was published in 1976 and became a New York Times bestseller.

5. Has any of Clive Cussler’s books been adapted into a movie?

Yes, several of Clive Cussler’s books have been adapted into movies and TV shows. “Sahara” was adapted into a film in 2005, and “Raise the Titanic!” was adapted into a TV movie in 1980.

6. What is the Dirk Pitt series by Clive Cussler?

The Dirk Pitt series is a series of adventure novels written by Clive Cussler, featuring the character Dirk Pitt. The series began with “The Mediterranean Caper” in 1973 and has since included over 20 novels.

7. What is the Clive Cussler Adventures series?

The Clive Cussler Adventures series is a series of adventure novels written by Clive Cussler and his co-author, Dirk Cussler. The series began with “Serpent” in 2001 and has since included over 10 novels.

8. What is the NUMA Files series by Clive Cussler?

The NUMA Files series is a series of adventure novels written by Clive Cussler and his co-author, Paul Kemprecos. The series began with “Polar Shift” in 2004 and has since included over 10 novels.

9. What is the Oregon Files series by Clive Cussler?

The Oregon Files series is a series of adventure novels written by Clive Cussler and his co-author, Jack Du Brul. The series began with “Golden Buddha” in 2006 and has since included over 15 novels.

10. What is Clive Cussler’s latest book?

Clive Cussler’s latest book is “The Sabre-Tooth Curse” which was released in 2022 and is part of the Oregon Files series.