It takes passion and hard work to become a top DJ.
But what does it take to become one of the richest disc jockeys in the world?
Research shows that earning a handsome salary in this competitive field requires much more than talent and hard work.
You need the right entrepreneurial skills, discipline, and investments to increase your fortunes.
Find below the list of the top 30 richest DJs in the world right now.
These high-earning DJs have done everything to deserve a place on this list.
And as you will find out shortly, it truly takes a lot to get ranked among the best-paid entertainers in the world.
So, let’s delve right in.
1. Calvin Harris
Everybody probably knows the Scottish DJ with an enviable career in the music industry.
Calvin Harris, born Adam Richard Wiles, is one of the most popular figures in the entertainment industry.
He burst onto the scene in the mid-2000s with his debut album, I Created Disco, featuring the singles “The Girls” and “Acceptable in the 80s.”
His third studio album, 18 Months, pushed him to international stardom after charting on the Billboard 200.
Today, Calvin Harris is the richest DJ in the world, with an estimated net worth of $300 million.
2. Gianluca Vacchi
Gianluca Vacchi is a successful Italian businessman, DJ, and influencer who rose to fame with his viral Instagram videos.
Nicknamed “The Money King,” Gianluca built his wealth from his DJing career and other investments.
The Italian DJ boasts over 20 million Instagram followers and entertains them with photos and videos about his lavish lifestyle.
He’s also built an enviable following on TikTok, with over 21 million followers on the popular video-sharing platform.
Vacchi has an estimated net worth of $200 million, becoming one of the richest DJs in the world today.
3. DJ Tiesto
Tijis Michael Verwest, better known by his stage name, DJ Tiesto, is among the richest DJs in the world, with an estimated net worth of $170 million.
The Dutch DJ and music producer became a global sensation after getting crowned “The Greatest DJ of All Time” by Mix magazine in 2010.
Some sources have labeled him the “Godfather of EDM,” with a career spanning almost three decades.
His 3rd studio album, Elements of Life, was critically acclaimed, earning him a nomination at the 2008 Grammy Awards.
The Dutch DJ won a Grammy Award for Best Remixed Recording after releasing a remixed version of John Legend’s “All of Me.”
4. Steve Aoki
The next name on our list of the richest DJs is a popular figure from a wealthy background in the Florida City of Miami.
Steve Aoki gets much of his income from his deejaying career and multiple investments in private companies such as Vision Street Wear, SpaceX, and Uber.
According to the latest statistics, Aoki earns about $30-$40 million annually and performs over 200 shows annually.
The Miami-born DJ launched his career in college, touring pretty much any place he could and increasing his fortunes in the process.
He is also a philanthropist and the founder of the Aoki Foundation, involved in scientific research to save lives.
As of 2023, Steve Aoki’s net worth is approximately $120 million, making him one of the richest DJs in the world right now.
5. David Guetta
David Guetta is probably the most popular name on this list, alongside Calvin Harris and Alesso.
The French DJ, record producer, and songwriter has released over 10 million album units throughout his career, with another 65 million single sales worldwide.
He’s been voted the best DJ in the DJ Magazine’s Top 100 DJs poll on two separate occasions, effectively confirming him as one of the greatest disc jockeys ever.
Growing up in Paris, the celebrated DJ released his debut album, Just a Little More Love, in 2002.
He released two more albums, Guetta Blaster and Pop Life, in 2004 and 2007, respectively.
David Guetta’s most successful project was the 2009 studio album, One Love, which had several hit singles, including “Sexy Bitch,” “Gettin’ Over You,” and “When Love Takes Over.”
He followed up this success with a new album in 2011, titled Nothing but the Beat, spawning hit singles “Titanium” and “Turn Me On.”
Guetta’s admirable accolades include a Billboard Music Award, an American Music Award, and 2 Grammy Awards.
He’s popular in the US and the UK and is known for high-profile collaborations with artists like Nicki Minaj.
The $75 million net worth puts him in the top 10 of the richest DJs in the world.
6. Alex Pall
Alex Pall from The Chainsmokers duo of EDM singers is also one of the richest DJs in the world.
The duo launched their career by releasing remixed versions of popular indie songs before defining their path in the entertainment industry.
Alex formed The Chainsmokers alongside DJ Rhett Bixler.
He is an alumnus of New York University, where he studied art history and the music business.
As a duo, The Chainsmokers have won 7 Billboard Music Awards, nine iHeartRadio Music Awards, 2 American Music Awards, and a Grammy Award.
In 2019, Forbes listed them as the highest-paid DJs, effectively ending Calvin Harris’s 6-year reign at the top.
Alex Pall is deservedly the 6th richest DJ in the world, with an estimated net worth of $70 million.
7. Andrew Taggart
Andrew Taggart completes the one half of The Chainsmokers duo, enjoying mainstream success like his American DJing counterpart, Alex Pall.
Born on 31st December 1989, Andrew went to Syracuse University and worked at Interscope Records as an intern before meeting Alex Pall.
He developed a strong interest in DJing at a young age and joined The Chainsmokers in 2012 to replace DJ Rhett Bixler, who was leaving.
That was the beginning of a fantastic duo that has built a loyal fan base in the entertainment industry.
Today, Andrew Taggart comes in a respectable 7th place in the list of the richest DJs in the world, with an estimated net worth of $70 million.
8. Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo
Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo is another French DJ on the rich list, with an approximate net worth of $70 million.
The French musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer is known for his time with Daft Punk, the French electronic music duo of the 90s.
He was part of the group alongside Thomas Bangalter and enjoyed mainstream success in the 90s with the French house movement.
Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo released several projects through his Crydamoure label he launched alongside Eric Chedeville.
With a respectable $70 million net worth, he’s secured a place in the list of the wealthiest DJs in the world.
9. Thomas Bangalter
Now that we’re talking about Daft Punk let’s talk about its founder and one-half of the iconic French electronic music group.
The French DJ, songwriter, singer, and record producer is best known as the founder of Daft Punk, influencing many artists across multiple genres.
Apart from his successful career in music production, Thomas has excelled as a film director and cinematographer.
Bangalter has always credited his parents with shaping his career from a young age, laying the perfect foundation for his future success with Daft Punk and solo productions.
He’s produced soundtracks for many films, including Irreversible, released in 2002.
As of 2023, Thomas Bangalter has an estimated net worth of $70 million, putting him on the same level as his former Daft Punk colleague and fellow French DJ, Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo.
10. Paul Oakenfold
Only a few youthful music lovers will remember the veteran English DJ from London.
But for the 80s and 90s music lovers, Paul Oakenfold is one of the most popular figures in the entertainment industry, having launched his early career in the 1970s at a local wine bar.
Oakenfold moved to New York City as an 18-year-old budding disc jockey alongside his best pal, Ian Paul.
He broke into the mainstream market after returning to London with Champion Records, which helped him build his career.
At one point, Oakenfold was a promoter for the famed RUN-D.M.C. and Beastie Boys music groups which continued his success.
The veteran British DJ has remixed over 100 hits from popular stars and bands, including U2, Michael Jackson, The Rolling Stones, and Madonna.
He’s also amassed enviable wealth during this period, boasting an estimated net worth of $65 million to stay in the top 10 of the richest DJs in the world.
11. Afrojack
Nick Leonardus van de Wall, commonly known as Afrojack, is a famous Dutch DJ and the founder of Wall Recordings.
He’s constantly on DJ Mag’s Top 100 list.
Afrojack started his DJing career at 14 at the local pubs and clubs.
His first-ever record as Afrojack was titled “In Your Face” and came out in 2007.
He shot to fame with “Take Control Over,” featuring the Dutch singer Eva Maria Simons.
Afrojack has collaborated with many artists and celebrities, including David Guetta, Madonna, and Mike Brown.
With an approximate net worth of $60 million, the Dutch DJ has found a place in the list of the wealthiest DJs in the world in 2023.
12. Paul van Dyk
Not many entertainers can proudly talk about becoming the World’s #1 DJ in two consecutive years.
But that was Paul van Dyk’s story at the height of his career, getting crowned the best DJ in the world in 2005 and 2006.
The Grammy-winning DJ and record producer hails from Eisenhuettenstadt in East Germany and rose to fame with his remixed version of Humate’s “Love Stimulation.”
Paul has never hidden his interest in politics throughout his career, releasing a compilation album (The Politics of Dancing) to global acclaim.
The album depicts a happy world without wars, chaos, or hate.
He’s shared strong opinions on political issues like the Iraq War.
With a career spanning about three decades, Paul van Dyk has built enormous wealth, with an estimated net worth of $60 million.
13. Armin van Buuren
Armin van Buuren is another Dutch DJ on this list, with an estimated net worth of $55 million as of 2023.
Armin’s enviable list of accolades includes 3 DJ Awards, 27 International Dance Music Awards, 2 International Golden Gnome Awards, and 5 DJ Magazine Awards.
He mentions French composer Jean-Michel Jarrel as his biggest influence.
After graduating from the Stedelijk Gymnasium Leiden, he studied law at Leiden University.
He started his DJing career in 1996 in Club Nexus and put his education on hold to focus on his musical career.
14. Deadmau5
Joel Thomas Zimmerman, commonly known as Deadmau5, is one of the most successful Canadian DJs on this list.
He specializes in electronic music even though he’s also attempted different styles and genres.
Zimmerman has won 6 Grammy Awards for his selfless work in the entertainment industry and his collaborations with other DJs such as Kaskade.
Deadmau5 wears the bad boy persona and is ranked among the best-paid electronic music producers in the world.
His signature mask is only comparable to Daft Punk and Marshmello, with his $50 million worth of fortunes placing him at #14 in the list of the richest DJs in the world.
15. Kaskade
American DJ, record producer, and remixer Ryan Gary Gordon, commonly known as Kaskade, quickly rose to fame with his remixes of various hits.
He was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, and went to Brigham Young University in Provo for a year, where he honed his DJing skills.
He began his musical career in 1995 and only got his breakthrough in 2000.
His early works with the Canadian electronic music DJ, Deadmau5 helped shape his career, producing several tracks for the Strobelite Seduction album.
In 2013, Kaskade was nominated for two Grammy Awards for Best Dance Recording and Best Dance/Electronica Album.
He’s headlined many tours throughout his career, including Urban Tour (2011), United States Formula 1 Grand Prix Weekend (2012), and Automatic Tour (2015).
Kaskade’s estimated net worth of $50 million puts him among the wealthiest DJs in the world.
16. Skrillex
DJ Skrillex, born Sonny John Moore started his career as a lead singer for California’s post-band, From First to Last.
He quit the group in 2007 to pursue a solo career after releasing two albums (Deer Diary, My Teen Angst Has a Bodycount and Heroine).
In 2009, he adopted the Skrillex stage name and released a new EP titled Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites a year later.
He’s won 8 Grammy Awards throughout an illustrious 19-year career and ranks among the richest DJs in the world right now, with an estimated net worth of $50 million.
17. John Digweed
John Digweed might not be the most popular name in the entertainment industry today because he chose a low-key life, but he’s still one of the richest DJs in the world.
The British DJ was voted the #1 DJ by DJ Magazine in 2001 and followed that success with high-profile collaborations with Sasha and Nick Muir.
At only 15, the Hastings-born disc jockey built a name for himself by entertaining revelers at local clubs and pubs.
He found his ultimate breakthrough in 1993 via Geoff Oakes and DJ Alexander Coe (DJ Sasha).
John Digweed’s collaboration with DJ Sasha pushed progressive house beyond borders, becoming one of the most celebrated duos of the 90s.
Digweed enjoyed massive success throughout Europe and North America, building fortunes estimated at $48 million.
Today, any list of the richest DJs in the world is incomplete without his name on it.
18. Zedd
Finally, a Russian DJ is on the list.
Zedd, born Anton Zaslavski, is a German DJ, musician, and record producer with Russian roots.
He was raised in Dansenberg, Germany, and started playing instrumentals at only four years.
He has released remixed versions of hits from renowned artists and bands like Lady Gaga, Black Eyed Peas, and Justin Bieber.
He’s headlined iconic tours and concerts such as the Moment of Clarity Tour (2013), True Colors Tour (2015), and Echo Tour (2017-2018).
As of 2023, Zedd boasts a net worth of $45 million and is one of the wealthiest DJs in the world.
19. Judge Jules
Judge Jules is a British trance DJ and record producer born in 1966 in London.
He began professional DJing in 1987 before gaining popularity as one of the best entertainers in Colchester.
His radio show on Radio 1 increased his popularity in the mainstream market.
Today, Judge Jules’ fortunes have catapulted him to the list of the richest DJs in the world, with an estimated net worth of $42 million.
20. Marshmello
Everybody surely knows the masked man who goes by the stage name Marshmello.
Born Christopher Comstock, the American electronic music record producer has done everything to deserve a place on the list of the richest DJs.
Many people may never know what his face looks like, but there’s no doubt Marshmello is one of the most popular figures in the contemporary music industry.
He’s featured in hit songs by Selena Gomez, Halsey, and Bastille as one of the best collaborators.
Marshmello’s anonymity hasn’t stopped him from making a name for himself in the entertainment industry, with an estimated net worth of $40 million as of 2023.
The masked dance-pop DJ stuck on everyone’s lips with hits like “Happier,” “Silence,” and “Be Kind” and has since become one of the richest DJs in the world
21. DJ Sasha
Alexander Paul Coe, better known by his stage name Sasha, is a talented Welsh DJ who has headlined several events from his native UK to the world.
He specializes in electronic music and is famed for successful collaborations with DJ John Digweed.
In 2000, he was crowned the World’s #1 DJ by a DJ Magazine poll, putting him among the most popular figures of the decade.
Sasha has won the International Dance Music Award on four separate occasions in addition to 4 DJ Awards and a Grammy nomination.
His current net worth is estimated at $40 million, putting him in the top 30 of the richest DJs in the world.
22. Tom Joyner
Do you remember the famous American radio personality who hosted the Tom Joyner Morning Show?
That man was Tom Joyner, a celebrated radio host, musician, and philanthropist.
Born in Tuskegee, Alabama, Tom attended the Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University) alongside his brother Albert and obtained a degree in Sociology.
He was part of the Commodores band in a bid to realize his musical aspirations.
After quitting the funk and soul band, he embarked on his radio career and worked at many radio stations in Dallas, St. Louis, and Memphis.
He emceed The Tom Joyner Show, which contributed to his fortunes.
As of 2023, Tom Joyner is ranked among the wealthiest DJs in the world, with an estimated net worth of $40 million.
23. Peter Tong
Peter Michael Tong is best remembered for his work with BBC Radio 1.
The English DJ has hosted different programs, including Essential Selection and Essential Mix.
His performances at music festivals and nightclubs have often left his fans craving more.
And his numerous projects as a record producer have only increased his fortunes over the years.
Today, Tong is among the richest DJs in the world, with an estimated net worth of $33 million.
24. Alesso
It’s impossible to ignore Alesso when compiling a list of the richest DJs in the world.
The Swedish DJ and record producer needs no introduction to the entertainment industry, having ruled the dance charts for years since he debuted in 2010 with his Alesso EP.
Alesso’s catchy tunes have earned him millions of fans around the world, standing out with hits like “If I Lose Myself,” “Under Control,” and “Falling.”
He has worked with several artists and DJs, from Calvin Harris to David Guetta and Katy Perry, building a net worth of about $30 million.
25. Axwell
Another Swedish DJ on this list is Axwell, famed for gracing high-profile events in Avant Gardner (Mirage), Omnia, Ultra Brasil, and Prysm.
He’s best known for hits like “Sun Is Shining,” “In My Mind,” and “Ressurection.”
His association with the Swedish House Mafia, alongside Steve Angello and Sebastian Ingrosso, has made him popular in the entertainment industry.
With a net worth of $30 million, he comfortably occupies the 25th spot on the list of the richest DJs in the world.
26. Fatboy Slim
English record producer Fatboy Slim comes 26th on the list of the richest DJs in the world.
He might not be the most popular name in the modern music industry, but Slim is often recognized for spreading the big beat genre in the 90s.
He was a Housemartins indie rock band member in the 80s, which achieved a #1 status with a rendition of “Caravan of Love.”
He took the “Fatboy Slim” stage name in 1996 and released many albums to critical acclaim, including Better Living Through Chemistry, You’ve Come a Long Way, and Baby.
He boasts a net worth of $30 million and is among the most successful DJs in the world.
27. Ferry Corsten
Ferry Corsten is another popular Dutch DJ, record producer, and remixer who rose to fame in the 1990s.
Born and raised in Rotterdam, Ferry was inspired by a local radio show called “The Soulshow.”
He tried his hand at DJing at school parties when he was only 15.
At 16, Ferry released his first record with his friends.
Today, his humble beginnings have propelled him to the top of the entertainment industry, ranking among the wealthiest DJs in the world with an estimated net worth of $30 million.
28. Sebastian Ingrosso
Like Axwell, Sebastian Ingrosso is a part of the Swedish House Mafia supergroup and is rated among the best DJs in Sweden and the world.
Sebastian has Italian, Swedish, and Tunisian roots and spent much of his teenage life in his father’s studio.
This is where he crafted his music skills to become one of the best Swedish DJs.
He won the Best House DJ Award in 2010 and has entertained his fans with many EPs, hit singles, and remixes.
He’s been married to Swedish songwriter Kinnda since 2011, and they have two lovely daughters.
Sebastian has a net worth of $30 million, putting him on the list of the richest DJs in Sweden and the world.
29. Diplo
Thomas Wesley Pentz, simply known as Diplo, is another American DJ who’s built his wealth from DJing and music production.
He is one of the founding members of the famous electronic dance music trio Major Lazer, with a career spanning over two decades.
He’s also a member of Jack U and Silk City.
As a solo artist, Diplo has worked on several mix tape projects with famous artists like Justin Bieber, Ellie Goulding, Snoop Dogg, and Bad Bunny.
No wonder his fortunes have increased to an estimated net worth of $26 million in 2023.
30. Eddie “Piolin” Sotelo
There is no better way to complete our list than with the best Mexican radio broadcaster and DJ.
Eddie “Piolin” Sotelo is one of the biggest names in North America, with an impressive career dating back to the early 2000s.
He hosts the El Show De Piolin radio show on Entravision, where he’s made a name for himself with his “big daddy” nickname.
He was born in 1972 in Ocotlan, Jalisco, and traveled to the US at 16 in search of greener pastures.
And greener pastures he found, getting inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2013 for his contributions to the broadcast industry.
He completes our list of the richest DJs in the world with an estimated net worth of $25 million.
Richest DJs in the World – Final Thoughts
The list of the world’s richest DJs keeps changing constantly.
According to the latest sources, Calvin Harris is still the wealthiest DJ in the world, with an estimated net worth of $300 million.
Considering the Scottish DJ’s high-profile collaborations in the music industry, it’s hard to dispute that.
What stands out in the list is that the gap between the highest earners slowly narrows from #2 downwards.
We may see new names in the top 10 in the future if that trend continues.
So, that’s it.
DJing can be a rewarding career if you approach it correctly, just like it’s been for the 30 entertainers on this list.
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