Homer Hickam Net Worth (Updated 2026).

Homer Hickam, born in 1943 in Coalwood, West Virginia, was raised in a mining town where expectations were simple and clear: you’d grow up to be a coal miner like your father before you. However, young Homer had other aspirations. He was captivated by the space race, ignited by Sputnik’s launch in 1957, and dreamt of becoming a rocket scientist.

After graduating from high school, Hickam enrolled in college, pursuing his passion for engineering. He worked diligently, often holding multiple jobs to fund his education. His dedication paid off when he was accepted into the United States Naval Test Pilot School in 1964. This marked the beginning of his career in aeronautics, a far cry from the coal mines of his hometown.

Homer Hickam’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Homer Hickam’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. This figure reflects his successful career as an engineer, author, and his various business ventures.

Career

Homer Hickam is a renowned engineer and author, best known for his book “Rocket Boys,” which was adapted into the film “October Sky.” He spent 16 years at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, working on projects like the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station. His engineering prowess has earned him numerous awards, including the NASA Exceptional Service Medal.

Other Ventures

In addition to his engineering and writing careers, Hickam has ventured into entrepreneurship. He co-founded a company called “Brotherhood of the Rocket,” which specializes in designing and manufacturing model rockets. He also serves on the board of directors for several companies, leveraging his technical expertise and business acumen.

Assets

Homer Hickam’s assets include his primary residence in Huntsville, Alabama, valued at approximately $500,000. He also owns a vacation home in the Florida Keys, valued at around $700,000. His portfolio consists of stocks, bonds, and real estate investments, contributing significantly to his net worth.

Annual Income

Homer Hickam’s annual income is estimated to be around $500,000. This includes his salary from his engineering consultancy, royalties from his books, and dividends from his investments. His income also varies based on the success of his business ventures and speaking engagements.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Homer Hickam

**Frequently Asked Questions: Homer Hickam Net Worth**

1. What is Homer Hickam’s net worth?

Homer Hickam’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million.

2. How did Homer Hickam make his money?

Homer Hickam made his fortune primarily as an author. His book “Rocket Boys” was a New York Times bestseller and was adapted into the film “October Sky”. He has also written several other books and has worked as a journalist and a professor.

3. What is Homer Hickam’s most famous work?

Homer Hickam’s most famous work is his memoir “Rocket Boys”, which was published in 1998. The book tells the story of his childhood in Coalwood, West Virginia, and his fascination with rocketry.

4. How many books has Homer Hickam written?

Homer Hickam has written over 20 books, including novels, memoirs, and children’s books.

5. What is Homer Hickam’s background?

Homer Hickam was born in Coalwood, West Virginia, in 1943. He graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in industrial engineering and later earned a master’s degree in guidance and counseling from West Virginia University.

6. What inspired Homer Hickam to write “Rocket Boys”?

Homer Hickam was inspired to write “Rocket Boys” after his mother passed away and he found her diary, which detailed her struggles as a mother and wife in Coalwood. This led him to reflect on his own experiences growing up in the town and his love for rocketry.

7. How successful was the film adaptation of “Rocket Boys”?

The film adaptation of “Rocket Boys”, titled “October Sky”, was a critical and commercial success. It was nominated for several awards, including the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.

8. What is Homer Hickam’s current occupation?

As of 2021, Homer Hickam is a full-time writer and lives in a historic home in Keyser, West Virginia.

9. Has Homer Hickam won any awards for his writing?

Yes, Homer Hickam has won several awards for his writing, including the Christopher Award for “Rocket Boys” and the West Virginia Golden Quill Award for lifetime achievement.

10. What is Homer Hickam’s next book?

Homer Hickam’s next book, “The Keeper’s Son: A Novel of the Great War”, is scheduled to be released in October 2021.