If you’ve ever wondered how much a supermodel makes today, you’re in the right spot. 2025 brought some surprising shifts, with new deals, digital endorsements, and runway fees reshaping the pay landscape. Below you’ll find the biggest earners, the money sources that matter most, and a plain‑English guide to how the numbers are put together.
Kendall Jenner still holds the crown as the highest‑paid female model. Recent estimates peg her annual income around $45 million, thanks to a mix of runway work, high‑profile campaigns, and a booming cosmetics line that pays hefty royalties. Gigi Hadid follows close behind, pulling in roughly $30 million from fashion contracts, a sneaker collaboration, and a popular lifestyle brand.
Other names making the top‑five list include Bella Hadid, who earned about $24 million mainly from luxury brand deals and a new streaming partnership, and Adriana Lima, whose $20 million comes from a blend of runway appearances and a new fragrance line. These figures are not just hype; they’re compiled from agency reports, brand disclosures, and verified contract values.
Model salaries aren’t a single paycheck; they’re a mash‑up of several streams. First, there’s the runway fee, which can range from $10,000 for a regional show to $250,000 for a major fashion week. Next, editorial spreads often pay per shoot, usually between $5,000 and $15,000, but big‑magazine covers can skyrocket to six figures.
Commercial work—think TV ads, online video, and social media promotions—usually brings the biggest bucks. A single Instagram post for a luxury brand can earn a model $100,000 or more, especially when the contract includes a long‑term partnership clause. Licensing deals, like a signature perfume or apparel line, generate ongoing royalties that add millions over a few years.
Don’t forget bonuses and profit‑sharing. Some contracts include performance bonuses if a campaign hits certain sales targets. That’s why a model’s reported earnings can jump dramatically year over year.
So, how do you figure out a model’s real income? Experts start with known contract values, then add estimated social media payouts based on follower counts and engagement rates. Finally, they factor in royalty percentages from product lines. The result is a ballpark figure that’s close enough for ranking purposes.
For aspiring models, the take‑away is clear: diversify. Relying on runway work alone won’t cut it. Building a strong online presence, negotiating brand deals, and exploring product collaborations can turn a modest salary into a seven‑figure career.
Whether you’re a fan curious about the numbers or a budding talent planning your next move, understanding where the money comes from helps you see the bigger picture. Model earnings in 2025 are less about a single paycheck and more about a portfolio of income streams that work together to create massive wealth.
Ever wondered how much Kendall Jenner pockets for strutting down the runway? This article breaks down Kendall's pay per show, the factors that influence her salary, and how her rates compare to other top models. If you're curious about the business side of fashion, get ready to explore fees, perks, and what really goes on behind the scenes at high-fashion shows. Real numbers, insider tips, and plenty of surprises await.