The Onion, a satirical news website, was founded in 1988 by two college students, Tim Keck and Christopher Johnson, in Madison, Wisconsin. Initially, it was a print publication, distributing free copies in the city, offering a humorous take on local and national news. Their unique brand of wit and sarcasm quickly resonated with readers, and The Onion began to gain traction.

In the late 1990s, The Onion transitioned to an online platform, expanding its reach significantly. The website’s launch coincided with the rise of the internet, and its clever, irreverent humor found a wide audience among young, tech-savvy readers. The Onion’s articles, featuring fictional news stories with absurd and hilarious twists, became a viral sensation. The site’s popularity grew exponentially, and it soon became a cultural phenomenon, famous for its ability to poke fun at societal norms and current events.

The Onion’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, The Onion’s current net worth is estimated to be around $100 million. This digital media company has seen significant growth since its founding in 1988, with its satirical news articles and videos attracting a substantial online following.

Career

The Onion began as a weekly print publication in Madison, Wisconsin. It expanded to a daily online format in 1996 and has since grown to include multiple websites, a TV show, and a radio network. The company is known for its humorous and often absurd take on current events.

Other Ventures

Beyond its core news satire, The Onion has ventured into various projects. These include a book publishing imprint, ‘Onion Books,’ and a series of mobile games. Additionally, the company has produced several specials for television networks like IFC and Comedy Central.

Assets

The Onion’s primary assets include its extensive online presence, with websites like TheOnion.com and ClickHole drawing millions of monthly visitors. The company also owns its content library, consisting of thousands of satirical articles and videos. Its brand is another significant asset, recognized worldwide for its unique style of humor.

Annual Income

While The Onion does not publicly disclose its annual revenue, industry estimates suggest it generates tens of millions of dollars annually. The company’s income comes from a mix of advertising, merchandise sales, and licensing fees for its content. Its digital platforms allow for targeted advertising and data collection, contributing to its revenue stream.

Frequently Asked Questions about  The Onion

Frequently Asked Questions: The Onion Net Worth

1. What is The Onion?

The Onion is a digital media company and news satire organization that publishes satirical articles on international, national, and local news. It was founded in 1988 and is based in Chicago, Illinois.

2. When was The Onion founded?

The Onion was founded on July 29, 1988, in Madison, Wisconsin, by Tim Keck, Christopher Johnson, and Peter Haise.

3. Who is the current CEO of The Onion?

Mike McAvoy is the current CEO of The Onion. He joined the company in 2013 and has since overseen its digital transformation and expansion.

4. What is The Onion’s net worth?

The Onion’s net worth is estimated to be around $100 million.

5. How does The Onion make money?

The Onion generates revenue through advertising, sponsored content, and licensing its content to other media outlets. It also has a merchandise store and offers subscription-based premium content.

6. Who owns The Onion?

Univision Communications Inc. acquired The Onion in 2016. Prior to this, The Onion was owned by its founders and employees.

7. How many people work at The Onion?

As of 2021, The Onion employs around 150 people across its editorial, sales, marketing, and technology departments.

8. Where is The Onion’s headquarters located?

The Onion’s headquarters is located in Chicago, Illinois. It also has an office in Los Angeles, California.

9. What is The Onion’s most popular article?

The Onion’s most popular article is “Congress Passes Controversial Bill Outlawing Math” from 2012. It has been shared extensively on social media and has received millions of views.

10. Does The Onion have any sister publications?

Yes, The Onion has several sister publications, including The A.V. Club (entertainment news and reviews), ClickHole (satirical content aggregation site), and The Onion’s local section (satirical local news).