The Pope: Salary, pension, this is how much the head of the Catholic church earns

Popes seem to be this never-changing figure in the Vatican, a constant in a world that is constantly changing. They are also at the heart of many myths and legends. The mystery around their role revolves as much around their personalities, as it revolves around their salary.

Can a Pope retire?

Pope Benedict XVI's real name was Joseph Aloisius Ratzinger, and he held the office of Pontiff from 2005 - he succeeded John Paul II, who had died in office - until 2013 when he chose to resign. He explained his reason:

Because of my weakness of body and mind, although I am fully aware of the grave responsibility, but also of the divine strength that has been given to me

A few days before his death, Benedict XVI was 'gravely ill', according to Pope Francis. For three days, his condition had been serious, but stable. The illness finally took him on the last day of 2022, when he was 95 years old.

Does the Pope get a pension?

Since his retirement, Benedict XVI received a pension of €2,500 per month as Bishop Emeritus of Rome, according to La Stampa. He enjoyed benefits as his expenses were paid by the Vatican, as was his health insurance. The former Pope also did not pay rent: he lived in the Vatican monastery Mater Ecclesiae, where he passed away.

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Does the Pope get a salary?

In an age when footballers like Cristiano Ronaldo are paid a lot of money, you'd think that popes would live comfortably on a large monthly salary. Well, think again. The Pope receives no financial support. He is not paid for being the head of the Catholic Church.

For instance, Pope Francis has taken a vow of poverty, being a Jesuit. And 'like all those called to follow Jesus, the pope is not supposed to live in opulence', as shared by Aleteia. However, it is important to remember that the Pope does not pay for his travel and accommodation expenses, nor does he have to pay taxes or rent. In other words, he has no money to spend all month and the costs around his office are all paid. Having said that, he would not be able to buy the latest car or an expensive watch.

This article was adapted from Oh!MyMag FR.

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Sources used:

-Aleteia: What is the annual salary of Pope Francis?

-La Stampa: In the retreat at the Vatican