David Muir isn’t just a respected journalist—he’s also living a life of extraordinary luxury, from a $7 million lakeside retreat to a classic Ferrari and generous philanthropic donations. Let’s explore the life of one of America’s most trusted news anchors.

Humble Beginnings and Early Inspiration

Born on November 8, 1973, in Syracuse, New York, David Muir grew up in the quiet neighborhood of Onondaga Hill in a Catholic family. With one older sibling and two younger step-siblings, Muir enjoyed a large extended family. His childhood was marked by a deep fascination with the news. As a boy, he would sit glued to the television, captivated by the nightly broadcasts. It was during these evenings, watching Peter Jennings on ABC News, that Muir first dreamed of becoming a journalist.

Determined to pursue that dream, he graduated from Onondaga Central Junior-Senior High School in 1991 and enrolled at Ithaca College, majoring in journalism. While studying, he interned at a local news station, gaining vital experience in storytelling and broadcast reporting.

A Trailblazing Career in Journalism

Muir’s professional journey began in 1994 at WTVH-TV in Syracuse. Over the next six years, he built a solid reputation, reporting from global hotspots like Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip, especially after the assassination of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin. His work earned accolades from the Radio-Television News Directors Association and the Associated Press.

From 2000 to 2003, he worked at WCVB-TV in Boston, where he received the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award for his investigative reporting on the 9/11 hijackers. These achievements paved the way for his big break.

In 2003, he joined ABC News, anchoring “World News Now” and later “World News This Morning.” His ascent continued with roles on “Primetime,” “World News Saturday,” and eventually becoming weekend anchor of “World News with David Muir” by 2012. In 2013, he became co-anchor of ABC’s “20/20.”

His defining moment came in 2014 when he succeeded Diane Sawyer as anchor and managing editor of “ABC World News Tonight.” Under his leadership, the show became the most-watched evening newscast in the U.S. by 2015.

His Emmy-nominated “Made in America” series and in-depth reports on the heroin crisis, political interviews, and global coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic solidified his status as one of the nation’s most influential journalists. Notable interviews include figures like Hillary Clinton, Donald Trump, Joe Biden, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

In 2021, he became ABC News’ lead anchor for breaking news and special events—a role previously held by George Stephanopoulos.

David Muir’s Wealth and Properties

With a net worth of around $25 million and an $8 million annual salary as of 2025, Muir ranks among the highest-paid journalists in the industry.

His impressive real estate portfolio reflects his refined taste:

Lakeside Mansion, Skaneateles, New York: Purchased in 2019 for $7 million, this 4,300 sq. ft. home built in 1890 offers six bedrooms, multiple kitchens, and a grand fireplace—all set against a serene lakeside backdrop.

Los Angeles Estate, Cheviot Hills: A stunning 5,341 sq. ft. custom-built property, valued at $6 million, features six bedrooms, 7.5 bathrooms, a standalone ADU, wine cellar, marble accents, white oak flooring, and a pool with a waterfall. Though he doesn’t live there, Muir rents the estate for around $50,000 a month.

Passion for Cars and Leisure

Muir’s car collection reflects both luxury and practicality. It includes:

A Ferrari 250 GT, representing his love for classic cars.

A Chevrolet Suburban, known for its spacious, rugged build.

A GMC Canyon, a mid-size pickup with modern features.

Lifestyle and Personal Interests

Away from the cameras, Muir lives a low-key yet fulfilling life. He values fitness, often spotted jogging in Central Park, which helps him unwind from the high pressures of journalism.

A skilled photographer, Muir captures striking landscapes and candid moments from his travels—often shared with his followers on social media.

His fashion sense mirrors his on-air persona: timeless, elegant, and understated. Whether in the studio or in the field, Muir always presents himself with polished professionalism.

A Life of Purpose: Philanthropy

Beyond wealth and fame, Muir is deeply committed to giving back. Education is a cornerstone of his philanthropic efforts. He actively supports scholarship initiatives and encourages students to pursue their dreams, just as he did.

He’s also a major advocate for children’s health, partnering with institutions like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to raise awareness and funding for pediatric healthcare.

Muir’s humanitarian outreach includes:

Supporting disaster relief efforts (e.g., Hurricane Harvey coverage).

Promoting global causes like famine relief in Madagascar.

Raising over $3 million for the World Food Program following a report on climate change-induced famine.

Private Life and Companionship

Though Muir keeps his personal life out of the spotlight, one constant is his German Shepherd, Axel. The two often enjoy time outdoors, sharing a quiet companionship that contrasts with Muir’s demanding public role.

Conclusion

David Muir has carved a remarkable path in modern journalism—defined by passion, integrity, and impact. While he enjoys the finer things in life, it’s his dedication to truth, empathy, and service that sets him apart. From the anchor desk to global conflict zones, from New York’s skyline to quiet lakeside retreats—David Muir embodies a life where purpose meets prestige.