Rick Santelli Wikipedia | Biography
Rick Santelli is a well-known American financial journalist and on-air editor for CNBC. He joined the network on June 14, 1999, and quickly made a name for himself with his lively reporting style and real-time analysis from the bustling floor of the Chicago Board of Trade.
Before he made the leap into television journalism, Santelli had a solid background in finance and commodities trading. He kicked off his career in 1979 at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange and the Chicago Board of Trade, working as a commodity trader and order filler for the investment firm Drexel Burnham Lambert. Over the years, he climbed the corporate ladder and eventually became Vice President of Interest Rate Futures and Options, amassing a wealth of experience in institutional trading and the futures markets.
Later on, Santelli took on a vice president role where he managed institutional trading and hedge fund accounts that focused on futures-related products. His deep knowledge of financial markets and trading made him a standout voice in business reporting once he transitioned to broadcasting.
In the 1990s, Santelli grew increasingly worried about the shifts happening in the financial industry, expressing that he felt the business was changing in ways that weren’t beneficial for him or his family. This prompted him to step away from full-time trading and accept a position with CNBC in 1999.
Rick Santelli Education
Rick kicked off his educational journey at Willowbrook High School in Villa Park, Illinois, where he graduated. He then moved on to the University of Illinois, where he was part of the Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity at Urbana-Champaign. During his time there, he was fortunate to be mentored by RJ Abrams and dove into the world of futures trading, customer relations, and foreign exchange.
Rick Santelli Age
So, how old is Rick? As of 2026, he’s 69 years young! Born on July 6, 1956, in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, he looks forward to celebrating his birthday every year on that special day.
Rick Santelli Nationality
Rick Santelli proudly holds American nationality and citizenship. He was born and raised in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, right here in the United States. He also identifies with white heritage.
Rick Santelli Height
Santelli stands at about 5 feet 6 inches tall (around 1.67 m), which places him in the average height range for men. However, he hasn’t shared any specifics about his other body measurements with the public.
Family
Growing up on Taylor Street in Chicago’s historic Italian neighborhood, Santelli was nurtured by his loving parents. He tends to keep his personal life private, so not much is known about his parents or if he has any siblings. We’re keeping an eye on this section and will update it as soon as we have more information.
Rick Santelli Wife | Children
Rick is happily married to his wonderful wife, Terri Santelli. The couple tied the knot in 2015 and together they have three children, though details about them remain under wraps.
Rick Santelli CNBC
Rick Santelli is a financial journalist and on-air editor for CNBC. He joined the network on June 14, 1999, and quickly made a name for himself with his lively reporting style and real-time analysis from the bustling floor of the Chicago Board of Trade.
Before he made the leap into television journalism, Santelli had a solid background in finance and commodities trading. He kicked off his career in 1979 at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange and the Chicago Board of Trade, working as a commodity trader and order filler for the investment firm Drexel Burnham Lambert. Over the years, he climbed the corporate ladder and eventually became Vice President of Interest Rate Futures and Options, amassing a wealth of experience in institutional trading and the futures markets.
Later on, Santelli took on a vice president role where he managed institutional trading and hedge fund accounts that focused on futures-related products. His deep knowledge of financial markets and trading made him a standout voice in business reporting once he transitioned to broadcasting.
In the 1990s, Santelli grew increasingly worried about the shifts happening in the financial industry, expressing that he felt the business was changing in ways that weren’t beneficial for him or his family. This prompted him to step away from full-time trading and accept a position with CNBC in 1999.
Throughout his broadcasting journey, Santelli has become one of CNBC’s most recognizable figures, especially known for his market commentary and insights on economic policy. He’s also credited with helping to spark the early Tea Party movement after delivering a passionate critique of government mortgage bailout policies during a live segment from the Chicago trading floor on February 19, 2009. His remarks quickly caught national attention and became a pivotal moment in political and economic media coverage during the financial crisis.
Rick Santelli Salary
As a prominent reporter and correspondent for CNBC News, it’s safe to say that Santelli earns a respectable salary. His estimated annual income is around $170,000.
Rick Santelli’s Net Worth
Santelli has built his wealth through his career as a journalist, anchor, and reporter. Over the years, he has accumulated a significant net worth, which is estimated to be around $8 million.