Highest Paid Models in 2025 – Who’s on Top and Why It Matters

If you’ve ever wondered which faces are pulling in the biggest paychecks, you’re in the right spot. The world of modeling isn’t just about runway walks; it’s a money‑making machine powered by brand deals, social media, and savvy business moves. Below we break down the current leaderboard, explain how earnings are calculated, and share what makes those figures soar.

What the Ranking Looks Like Right Now

The latest list puts a few familiar names at the summit. Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, and Bella Hadid all sit within the top five, each earning well over $30 million last year. Behind them, Asian superstars like Liu Wen and Indian star Priyanka Chopra (who also does high‑profile fashion work) push the total past $20 million. These numbers come from a mix of runway fees, campaign contracts, and lucrative Instagram promotions.

What’s surprising is how quickly the list can change. A single viral TikTok or a new perfume launch can add several million to a model’s bank account. That’s why the ranking is updated every few months – the industry moves fast.

How Earnings Are Calculated

Most rankings use three main income streams:

• Runway and Show Fees: Walking for major fashion weeks still pays, but it’s often a base amount. Big designers may add bonuses for exclusivity.
• Brand Campaigns: High‑end brands pay the most for print, video, and digital ads. Long‑term contracts can be worth tens of millions.
• Social Media & Influencer Deals: Every post, story, or reel can bring a six‑figure paycheck if a model has a massive following.

Analysts add up publicly disclosed contracts, estimate influencer rates, and factor in royalties from product lines. The result is a rough but reliable snapshot of who’s really cashing in.

For aspiring models, the lesson is clear: diversify. Relying only on runway gigs limits earnings. Building a strong online presence and aligning with luxury brands can push a career from six to seven figures.

Another factor that boosts pay is regional demand. Models who can work in both Western markets and booming Asian markets earn extra because brands want to reach both audiences. Fluency in multiple languages and the ability to travel quickly are real assets.

Finally, many top earners launch their own product lines – from cosmetics to activewear. Those ventures generate passive income that keeps the cash flow steady long after the runway lights dim.

So whether you’re a fan curious about the money side or a model looking to climb the ladder, keep an eye on these three income pillars. The highest paid models didn’t get there by chance; they turned every opportunity into a revenue stream.

Stay tuned to this tag page for fresh updates, deeper dives into individual earnings, and tips on how you can apply the same strategies in your own modeling journey.