Will Shortz Net Worth (Updated 2026).

Will Shortz, a name synonymous with crossword puzzles, began his career in an unconventional way. After graduating from Indiana University with a degree in English, he pursued a law degree at the University of Virginia. However, his passion for puzzles was too strong to ignore. He started creating puzzles for local newspapers while still in law school, a hobby that would eventually transform into a full-fledged career.

Will Shortz’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Will Shortz’s net worth is estimated to be around $15 million. This figure is based on the latest available information and takes into account his various professional endeavors and assets.

Career

Will Shortz, born in 1952, is an American puzzler, journalist, and editor. He is best known for his work as the puzzles editor for The New York Times. Shortz has been in this role since 1993, making him the longest-serving puzzles editor in the paper’s history. He also hosts the weekly radio show “Weekend Puzzle” on NPR.

Other Ventures

In addition to his work with The New York Times and NPR, Shortz has authored several books on puzzles and games. He has also created puzzles for various publications and events, including the Olympics. Shortz is a founding member of the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament and has served as its director since 1978.

Assets

Will Shortz’s assets include his primary residence in Pleasantville, New York, valued at around $800,000. He also owns a vacation home in the Catskill Mountains, worth approximately $400,000. His extensive collection of puzzles and games is another significant asset, although its value is difficult to quantify.

Annual Income

Will Shortz’s annual income is primarily derived from his work as the puzzles editor for The New York Times. According to recent reports, he earns an annual salary of around $300,000 from this role. His income also includes royalties from his books and other puzzle-related projects, as well as his work on the NPR radio show.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Will Shortz

Frequently Asked Questions about Will Shortz

1. What is Will Shortz’s net worth?

Will Shortz’s net worth is estimated to be around $50 million.

2. How old is Will Shortz?

Will Shortz was born on September 2, 1952, making him 70 years old.

3. What does Will Shortz do for a living?

Will Shortz is an American puzzler, crossword constructor, and editor. He is best known for his work as the crossword puzzle editor for The New York Times.

4. Where did Will Shortz grow up?

Will Shortz grew up in the Washington, D.C. area.

5. What is Will Shortz’s educational background?

Will Shortz graduated from Indiana University with a degree in English and earned a law degree from the University of Virginia.

6. When did Will Shortz start editing The New York Times crossword puzzle?

Will Shortz began editing The New York Times crossword puzzle in 1993.

7. Has Will Shortz written any books?

Yes, Will Shortz has written several books on puzzles and games, including “The New York Times Puzzle & Game Book” and “The Crossword Puzzle Obsession.”

8. Does Will Shortz have any hobbies outside of puzzles?

Will Shortz enjoys playing the guitar and is a fan of bluegrass music.

9. How can I contact Will Shortz?

Will Shortz can be reached through his website, shortz.com, or by mail at The New York Times, 620 8th Avenue, New York, NY 10018.

10. What awards has Will Shortz won?

Will Shortz has won numerous awards for his work in puzzles, including the 2012 Games Magazine Award for Puzzle Designer of the Year and the 2013 American Crossword Puzzle Tournament’s Puzzle of the Year award.