The Trump administration has released its annual White House salary report, offering a rare look into the pay structure of more than 400 staffers currently serving under President Donald Trump in his second term. Required by law and submitted to Congress, the report not only outlines who earns the most in the West Wing but also compares it with the payroll under previous administrations, including that of President Joe Biden.
At the top of the list is Jacalynne B. Klopp, a senior adviser earning an annual salary of $225,700, making her the highest-paid official in the White House. She is followed by Edgar Mkrtchian, associate counsel, who receives $203,645. A group of 33 senior officials, including Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Border Czar Tom Homan, Homeland Security Adviser Stephen Miller, Director of Presidential Personnel Sergio Gor, and Trade Counselor Peter Navarro, each earn $195,200 per year.
How much does President Trump earns?
President Trump’s own compensation is set by federal law. He receives an annual salary of $400,000, along with a $50,000 expense allowance, $100,000 for travel, and $19,000 for entertainment. Additionally, he is entitled to a one-time $100,000 redecorating allowance upon taking office. Together, these benefits bring the president’s total compensation package to approximately $569,000 per year. During his first term, Trump donated his salary to various government departments. It remains to be seen if he will continue that tradition in his second term.
The broader salary structure reveals a significant disparity between senior officials and lower-ranking staff. Deputy assistants to the president earn between $155,000 and $175,000, while special assistants fall in the $121,500 to $150,000 range. Presidential speechwriters receive between $92,500 and $121,500. Meanwhile, 108 junior staffers earn between $59,000 and $80,000 annually.
On average, the Trump White House pays its staffers $114,194, which is notably higher than the Biden administration’s 2024 average of $109,166. The Biden White House also employed more staff overall 564 in 2024 compared to just over 400 under Trump and had a smaller proportion of high earners, with only 21 staffers making $180,000 or more.