Survivor Contestants Earnings: How Much Money Do They Really Make?

For numerous contestants on Survivor, the primary allure of participating in the competition is the chance to become the Sole Survivor, winning the substantial cash prize that accompanies the title. Over the course of 47 seasons and almost 700 episodes, individuals from diverse backgrounds have strategized, collaborated, and tested their limits to emerge as the last contestant standing, paving their way to potential millionaire status. Renowned as one of the most exceptional survival reality series ever created, Survivor has continually spotlighted iconic players like Boston Rob, Parvati Shallow, and Tony Vlachos, who have each significantly impacted the game.

While many of Survivor’s hidden truths have been uncovered throughout its long history—ranging from manipulated confessionals to infamous pizza incidents during reward challenges—plenty of enigmas linger behind the scenes. A burning question among fans remains: Do all contestants receive compensation, even if they are eliminated in the first episode? The straightforward answer is yes, although the intricacies of Survivor make it more complex than it may initially appear.

Understanding Survivor Contestants’ Earnings — From the First Voted Off to the Sole Champion

Earnings Vary Based on Duration in the Game

Every dedicated Survivor fan knows that the grand prize stands at $1 million (or $2 million for the winners of special seasons like Winners at War).However, the specifics concerning the compensation for other contestants remain largely undisclosed by the producers. Fortunately, many former players have shared insights into the pay structure through interviews over time.

Contestants’ earnings depend on their duration in the competition. Typically, the first contestant eliminated receives around $3, 500, with increasing amounts awarded for each subsequent week of play (source: CinemaBlend).Those who reach the final three can expect considerable payouts, with the runner-up earning $100, 000, and the contestant finishing in third place taking home $85, 000. Strategic gameplay and alliances become critical, especially when financial stakes are involved; for instance, during Survivor 47, Kyle Ostwald opted to vote for Sam Phalen to boost Sam’s earnings over Rachel LaMont, the ultimate victor, thereby impacting the prize allocation.

One illuminating example is Corinne Kaplan, a two-time contestant and known Survivor villain, who disclosed her earnings during various podcast appearances. After securing seventh place in Survivor: Gabon, Kaplan was awarded $45, 000. However, upon her return for Survivor: Caramoan, finishing in 12th place resulted in a reduced payout of $20, 000.

Rank	Payout
1st	$1, 000, 000
2nd	$100, 000
3rd	$85, 000
4th to 7th	$45, 000 – $85, 000
8th to 12th	$20, 000 – $45, 000
13th to 16th	$3, 500 – $20, 000

Additional Earnings: The $10K Reunion Bonus

Conditions Apply

Vytas from Survivor smiling and looking off to the side

Contestants who feature in the finale or reunion episode earn an additional $10, 000. This bonus proves especially beneficial for those eliminated early in the game who may not walk away with substantial earnings. However, contestants who breach their contracts lose eligibility for this bonus.

For instance, Vytas Baskauskas from Survivor: Cambodia – Second Chance missed the reunion due to breaking contractual obligations when he left the game early to be with his young son. Additionally, cast members such as Brandon Hantz and Dan Spilo were excluded from the reunion due to behavioral issues during their season, likely forfeiting their chance for the $10K bonus.

The Unique Sia Bonus

Sia’s Generosity Toward Favorite Contestants

Tai Trang, Sia, and Jeff Probst on the Survivor reunion

One of the most remarkable phenomena in the Survivor community has been the issuance of the Sia Awards. The renowned pop star is a devoted fan of the show and generously donates prize money to her favorite contestants during the reunion episodes. According to host Jeff Probst, the inception of the Sia Awards was entirely serendipitous:

It started with an inspired moment where she was sitting in the audience and spontaneously texted me during a commercial break, saying: “I want to give some money to a player! Right now, during the reunion.”

Over 14 seasons, Sia has donated over $1 million to 19 players, choosing individuals based on their character and work ethic. The inaugural recipient of the Sia Award was Tai Trang from Survivor: Kaôh Rōng, whom Sia rewarded with $50, 000 for his kindness in protecting a chicken from being eaten. Additionally, Sia has even offered tax advice to contestants who received her financial gifts.

In May 2024, Jeff Probst and Sia announced via Instagram that the Sia Awards would conclude, with the last recipients being Katurah Topps, Kaleb Gebrewold, and Jake O’Kane from Survivor 45.

Sia Award Recipient	Award Amount
Tai Trang	$50, 000 (+ $50, 000 donated to a charity of his choice)
Donathan Hurley	$14, 000
Davie Rickenbacker	$14, 000
Joe Anglim	$15, 000 (donated to charity)
Aurora McCreary	$15, 000
Rick Devens	$100, 000
Jamal Shipman	$15, 000
Elaine Stott	$100, 000
Janet Carbin	$100, 000
Drea Wheeler	$100, 000
Ryan Medrano	$50, 000
Owen Knight	$50, 000
Jesse Lopez	$100, 000
Lauren Harpe	$15, 000
Carson Garrett	$15, 000
Carolyn Wiger	$100, 000
Topps Characters	$100, 000
Kaleb Gebrewold	$15, 000
Jake O’Kane	$15, 000