Leon Panetta, born in 1938, began his political career in the 1960s as a legislative assistant in the U.S. House of Representatives. He quickly demonstrated his aptitude for public service, rising through the ranks to become Chief of Staff to Speaker Tip O’Neill in the late 1970s. His tenure was marked by a series of legislative triumphs, including the passage of the Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981, which significantly influenced the nation’s economic landscape.

In the 1980s, Panetta’s reputation as a skilled and effective administrator led to his appointment as Director of the Office of Management and Budget under President Bill Clinton in 1993. Here, he played a pivotal role in balancing the federal budget for the first time in decades, a feat that earned him significant recognition and contributed to his growing fame in political circles.

Leon Panetta’s Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Leon Panetta’s net worth is estimated to be around $35 million, according to the latest available information. This figure reflects his successful career in politics and other ventures.

Career

Leon Panetta, born in 1938, is an American politician and lawyer who served as the 23rd United States Secretary of Defense from 2011 to 2013. Prior to this, he served as the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency from 2009 to 2011. Panetta’s political career also includes serving as a U.S. Representative for California’s 17th and 16th districts from 1977 to 1993. He later served as the Director of the Office of Management and Budget and White House Chief of Staff under President Bill Clinton.

Other Ventures

In addition to his political career, Panetta has been involved in various other ventures. He is a founding partner of the law firm Panetta & Newberg, and has served on several corporate boards, including the Boeing Company and the First Republic Bank. Panetta is also a visiting professor at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution and has authored several books, including “Worthy Fights: A Memoir of Leadership in War and Peace”.

Assets

Leon Panetta’s assets include real estate properties in California, where he owns a home in Monterey and an apartment in Washington D.C. He also has a diverse investment portfolio, including stocks and bonds, and has interests in various businesses through his corporate board positions. Panetta is also known to have a collection of art and other valuable items.

Annual Income

Panetta’s annual income varies due to his multiple sources of revenue. As a retired politician, he receives a pension, and his law practice and corporate board positions also contribute to his income. Additionally, Panetta earns royalties from his books and speaking engagements. According to the latest available information, Panetta’s annual income is estimated to be around $2 million.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Leon Panetta

Leon Panetta Net Worth FAQs

1. What is Leon Panetta’s net worth?

Leon Panetta’s net worth is estimated to be around $20 million, according to various sources. However, the exact figure can vary depending on the source.

2. How did Leon Panetta make his money?

Leon Panetta made his money through his long and distinguished career in politics and law. He served as a congressman for nearly three decades, a White House chief of staff, and a CIA director. He also worked as a lawyer and an educator before entering politics.

3. What is Leon Panetta’s annual salary?

As a former politician and government official, Leon Panetta does not receive an annual salary. However, he has earned income through speaking engagements, book deals, and his work as a lawyer and consultant.

4. Does Leon Panetta have any books?

Yes, Leon Panetta has written several books. His memoir, “Worthy Fights: A Memoir of Struggle, Sacrifice, and Service,” was published in 2014. He has also co-authored books on politics and policy with his wife, Sylvia Panetta.

5. What political party is Leon Panetta affiliated with?

Leon Panetta is a Democrat. He served as a Democratic congressman from California from 1977 to 1993.

6. Who is Leon Panetta married to?

Leon Panetta is married to Sylvia Panetta. They have three children together.

7. What is Leon Panetta’s education background?

Leon Panetta earned his undergraduate degree from Santa Clara University and his law degree from Santa Clara University School of Law. He also has an honorary doctorate from several universities.

8. What are some of Leon Panetta’s most notable achievements?

Leon Panetta has had a long and distinguished career in public service. Some of his most notable achievements include serving as White House chief of staff under President Bill Clinton, CIA director under President Barack Obama, and as a congressman representing California’s 16th and 17th districts. He also played a key role in the passage of the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments and the 1993 North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

9. How old is Leon Panetta?

Leon Panetta was born on June 28, 1938, making him 84 years old as of 2022.

10. Where does Leon Panetta live?

Leon Panetta lives in Pacific Grove, California with his wife, Sylvia. They have lived there since the 1970s.