With a personal donation of €200,000 to inmates at Rome’s Regina Coeli prison, Pope Francis once again underscored the hallmark of his papacy: simplicity. The funds came directly from his personal account, reigniting questions about how much the Pope actually earns.

Since his election in 2013, Pope Francis has declined any personal salary. Although entitled to a symbolic monthly income—reportedly around €2,500, the same as his predecessor Benedict XVI—he has never accepted it. All his expenses, including food, lodging, transportation, healthcare, and security, are fully covered by the Holy See. His decision to live in the Domus Sanctae Marthae instead of the papal apartments further reflects his commitment to humility.

In principle, the Pope also has access to Peter’s Pence, a Vatican fund supported by donations from the faithful and used to finance the Church’s charitable and missionary initiatives.

Until 2021, cardinals in the Roman Curia earned between €4,000 and €5,500 per month. However, a 10% pay cut introduced by Pope Francis in response to the economic impact of the pandemic, followed by further reductions in allowances, brought their average monthly income down to about €5,000.

Bishops receive approximately €3,000 per month, while priests earn an average of around €1,200. Monks and nuns, on the other hand, typically do not receive a salary unless they hold roles with specific responsibilities.