Jerry Mathers Net Worth is estimated to be around $3 million as of 2025. Jerry Mathers rose to fame for his role as Theodore “Beaver” Cleaver in the iconic TV show Leave It to Beaver, earning recognition as one of the most cherished child stars of classic American television.
But his journey didn’t stop there, he built a lifelong career in entertainment, overcame personal challenges, and remained a recognizable name across generations.
In this blog, we’ll explore Jerry Mathers’ net worth, his early life, career milestones, personal life, and how he makes money today.
We’ll also answer popular questions like how old Jerry Mathers is now and where he is today.
Who Is Jerry Mathers?
Jerry Mathers is an American actor, singer, and former child star. He became famous in the late 1950s for his role as Beaver Cleaver in the hit TV series Leave It to Beaver. The show ran from 1957 to 1963 and became a symbol of wholesome American family life.
Even though Mathers started his career as a child, he continued to act, work in radio, and speak publicly throughout his adult life. His long career and smart choices helped him maintain a comfortable lifestyle and steady net worth.
Jerry Mathers Net Worth (2025)
By 2025, Jerry Mathers is believed to have a net worth of approximately $3 million.This figure comes from various sources, including:
- Earnings from Leave It to Beaver
- Acting roles in films and TV shows
- Public appearances and conventions
- Real estate and investments
- Book sales and endorsements
Although not a massive fortune compared to today’s stars, it’s a solid net worth for someone who began acting in the 1950s.
Early Life and Childhood
Jerry Mathers came into the world on June 2, 1948, in the city of Sioux City, Iowa.That makes him 77 years old as of 2025.
He was raised in Los Angeles, California, where his early exposure to Hollywood helped launch his acting career. He had three siblings and grew up in a middle-class family.
Jerry Mathers’ Career Beginnings
Jerry started his career at the young age of 2 years old, appearing in a department store ad. From there, he moved on to modeling and commercials. He soon landed small roles in movies, including:
- This Is My Love (1954)
- The 1955 film The Trouble with Harry, helmed by legendary director Alfred Hitchcock
- The Seven Little Foys (1955) with Bob Hope
But his big break came when he was just 9 years old.
Breakthrough Role: Leave It to Beaver
In 1957, Jerry was cast as Beaver Cleaver, the youngest son in the Cleaver family. The show aired on CBS and later ABC, becoming one of the most iconic family sitcoms in American TV history.
Why Was the Show So Popular?
- It portrayed typical American family life in the 1950s.
- Jerry’s genuine performance brought warmth and charm to the character of Beaver, making him easy for audiences to connect with.
- The series aired for six seasons and featured a total of 234 episodes.
Jerry Mathers quickly became a household name, earning steady pay as a child actor and gaining long-term fame.
Did Jerry Mathers Get Rich from Leave It to Beaver?
Not as much as you’d expect. In the 1950s, child actors did not earn the millions that today’s stars do. While Jerry made a decent income for his age, the long-term financial gain came more from his ongoing fame, not the original paychecks.
He also didn’t receive large royalties, as contracts back then didn’t favor syndication earnings. However, he leveraged the show’s popularity for future income opportunities.
Life After Leave It to Beaver
When Leave It to Beaver ended in 1963, Jerry took a break from acting to focus on education. He attended Notre Dame High School in Sherman Oaks, California, and later enrolled at the University of California, Berkeley, earning a degree in philosophy.
In the 1970s, he served in the California Air National Guard, showing a strong sense of civic duty.
Jerry Mathers’ Return to Acting
In the 1980s, Jerry returned to acting, often playing himself or Beaver Cleaver in reunion specials. One notable comeback was in:
- The New Leave It to Beaver (1983–1989) – A sequel series that followed Beaver as a divorced father. The show ran for several years and helped Jerry reconnect with fans.
Other Sources of Income
Jerry’s net worth doesn’t only come from acting. Over the years, he explored other ventures:
1. Radio and Public Speaking
Jerry took on roles as a radio host and motivational speaker, particularly after he openly shared his journey with type 2 diabetes during the 1990s. He partnered with diabetes awareness campaigns, earning fees for speeches and appearances.
2. Book Sales
In 1998, he released his autobiography called …And Jerry Mathers as “The Beaver.”The book gave fans a behind-the-scenes look at his life and career and brought in additional income through sales and signings.
3. Conventions and Fan Events
As a classic TV icon, Jerry is a regular at comic cons, pop culture expos, and autograph shows. These events are a steady income source for many actors from the golden age of television.
Jerry Mathers’ Personal Life
Jerry has been married three times. He married Teresa Modnick in 2011. He is also a father to three children from earlier relationships.
Despite his fame, Jerry has always lived a quiet and modest lifestyle, focusing on family, health, and personal growth. He resides in California and enjoys spending time with loved ones.
Health and Wellness
In the mid-1990s, Jerry Mathers learned he had type 2 diabetes. At one point, his health was at serious risk. But he took charge, changed his diet, and lost weight—eventually becoming a spokesperson for diabetes awareness.
His journey inspired many people, and his public health work has added to his legacy.
Where Is Jerry Mathers Now?
As of 2025, Jerry Mathers is retired from active acting but remains involved in TV appearances, interviews, and conventions. He continues to be a respected figure in Hollywood and is often invited to discuss the golden age of television.
He also stays active on social media, sharing memories and connecting with fans of Leave It to Beaver and classic TV.
Lifestyle and Real Estate
Jerry Mathers has lived a comfortable but not flashy lifestyle. He owns property in California and has made smart financial decisions throughout his life. He’s not known for extravagant spending but has enjoyed the rewards of a long, steady career.
How Jerry Mathers Maintains His Net Worth
To summarize, Jerry Mathers’ $3 million net worth comes from a mix of:
- Classic TV fame and nostalgia value
- Income from reunions, radio, and books
- Public speaking and health advocacy
- Wise money management and personal branding
Unlike many child stars who faded away or struggled financially, Jerry Mathers stayed grounded and continued working in ways that matched his public image.
Final Thoughts on jerry mathers net worth
Jerry Mathers is more than just Beaver Cleaver. He’s an example of how a childhood career can turn into lifelong success when handled with care, discipline, and humility.
Jerry Mathers’ net worth is around $3 million, but with his strong fanbase, and a steady legacy in TV history, Jerry Mathers has proven that success isn’t always about fast fame or flashy wealth.
But it’s about consistency, hard work, and staying true to yourself.
FAQs – jerry mathers net worth
How old is Jerry Mathers?
As of 2025, he is 77 years old.
Is Jerry Mathers still alive?
Yes, Jerry Mathers is alive and active in public appearances.
Where does Jerry Mathers live now?
He lives in California, enjoying retirement with his wife Teresa.
How did Jerry Mathers get rich?
Through a mix of acting, writing, public speaking, and wise investments.
What is Jerry Mathers doing today?
He attends conventions, gives interviews, and promotes diabetes awareness.
