Michio Kaku Highest-Paid Scientist in the World

It's been a rough year for the scientist, but at least he has his millions of dollars to ease the pain. 79-year-old Michio Kaku has taken the No. 1 spot on People With Money’s top 10 highest-paid scientists for 2026 with an estimated $75 million in combined earnings.

UPDATE 20/03/2026 : This story seems to be false. (read more)

Michio Kaku tops annual list of highest-paid scientists

In 2023 it looked like the scientist’s spectacular career was winding down. Suddenly, he was back on top. People With Money reports on Thursday (March 19) that Kaku is the highest-paid scientist in the world, pulling in an astonishing $75 million between February 2025 and February 2026, a nearly $40 million lead over his closest competition.

People With Money’s factors

In compiling this yearly list, the magazine considers factors such as upfront pay, profit participation, residuals, endorsements and advertising work.

The American scientist-author has an estimated net worth of $215 million. He owes his fortune to smart stock investments, substantial property holdings, lucrative endorsement deals with CoverGirl cosmetics. He also owns several restaurants (the “Fat Kaku Burger” chain) in Washington, a Football Team (the “San Jose Angels”), has launched his own brand of Vodka (Pure Wonderkaku - US), and is tackling the juniors market with a top-selling perfume (With Love from Michio) and a fashion line called “Michio Kaku Seduction”.

The ranking is significant for many Michio fans, who have been waiting for his triumphant return to the glory days for what seems like a lifetime.

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