🏛️ How much does a US representative make?

Members of the US Congress are paid a salary set by federal law. Senators and Representatives earn the same, and the Speaker and party leaders earn a bit more.

Highest: Speaker of the House at $223,500. Lowest: Delegate / Resident Commissioner (Puerto Rico) at $174,000. Average of 9: $190,278.

As of 2026-05-06

• Regular member salary: Most U.S. Representatives receive an annual salary of $174,000. Source
• Speaker salary: The Speaker receives an annual salary of $223,500 instead of the regular member salary; it is not an added bonus. Source
• Retirement benefits: Members may have retirement benefits; the plan, age, and length of service affect them. Source

To serve in the U.S. House, you must be at least 25, have been a U.S. citizen for seven years, and live in the state you seek to represent. Follow that state's rules to run; most states use a primary before the general election. Winners take the oath.

1. Meet the seven-year U.S. citizenship requirement.
2. Be at least 25 and live in the state to be represented.
3. Follow state rules to run and compete in a primary where used.
4. Win the general election and take the oath of office.

Qualifications and exams

The U.S. Constitution requires a Representative to be at least 25, a U.S. citizen for seven years, and an inhabitant of the state represented. It lists no required degree, license, or exam.

A U.S. Representative may start a day in Washington by hearing witnesses and asking questions at a committee meeting. Later, the Representative may discuss or vote on bills, check on help for people in the district, and meet with staff.

Does the Speaker earn a different salary from other Representatives?

The regular salary is $174,000 a year. The Speaker's annual salary is $223,500. Source

Do House party leaders earn more than other members?

Yes. The House majority and minority leaders earn $193,400 a year. Most Representatives earn $174,000. Source

What happens to a Representative's salary after a term ends?

They are paid only during the terms for which they were elected, not after a term ends. Source

Is the office budget personal income for a Representative?

No. The office budget supports official work, such as staff, travel, mail, and equipment; it cannot pay personal expenses. Source

What affects a Representative's retirement benefits?

Retirement benefits vary by plan, age, and length of service. The CRS report says at least five years of service is required for a benefit. Source

This section summarizes public sources. We only show numbers that have a source.