Contestants on Dancing With the Stars Can Earn Up to $400,000, Says Bobby Bones
Compensation for contestants on Dancing With the Stars has been detailed, with varying amounts reported by different individuals involved in the show. According to a 2019 report from Variety, participants initially earn $125,000 for the rehearsal phase and the first two weeks of their respective seasons. Furthermore, should they continue beyond that initial period, they reportedly receive incremental pay increases each week, with a potential maximum payout of approximately $295,000.
However, Bobby Bones, winner of Season 27 alongside partner Sharna Burgess in 2018, claims he earned more than the typical figures. In a September 2025 episode of Jason Tartick’s podcast Trading Secrets, he outlined the payment structure, stating, “That show pays OK. Like, first episode, no money. Second episode, $10,000. I think it’s like, $10,000, $10,000, $20,000, $20,000. It ends up being $50,000 an episode if you last.”
In addition to his earnings based on episode performance, Bones mentioned a base salary of around $110,000, concluding that he ultimately made close to $400,000 from his time on the show. Despite these claims, it is noteworthy that ABC has not publicly confirmed any financial specifics regarding contestant remuneration.
Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Eonline
