So I got curious about how much those chess superstars actually make each month. Always heard rumors but never saw real numbers. Here’s what I did to find out:
Starting With Questions
First, I hit Google hard. Typed stuff like “professional chess player salary breakdown” and “how Magnus Carlsen makes money.” Most articles only talked about annual tournament prizes – useless for monthly stuff. Then I remembered streaming might be part of it, so I searched “chess streamer income” too.
The Research Struggle
Took three days because info is scattered everywhere. Checked:
- Tournament records showing prize distributions
- Interviews where players accidentally dropped hints
- Streaming platform payout calculators
Big problem? Most players don’t blab about salaries. Had to piece together clues like detective work.
What Shocked Me
Found out earnings are crazy uneven. That #1 player? Yeah:
- Tournaments alone bring him like $150k/month during season
- Add $50k from sponsorships (chess sites, equipment brands)
- Another $100k from streaming subscriptions/ads
- Then coaching fees – $500/hour! – maybe 20 sessions/month
But here’s the kicker: that’s only for like 10 people worldwide. Regular pros? Total different story.
Real Talk About Regular Players
This depressed me. Spoke to this IM (International Master) through email:
- He makes $3k/month if tournaments go well
- Teaches online 30 hours/week just to pay rent
- Zero sponsorship deals
- His advice? “Have rich parents or marry well.” Brutal but real.
My Big Conclusion
Chess income is like an upside-down pyramid. That top player? Probably banking $300k/month before taxes. But 99% of pros? More like $1k-$5k. Would I chase chess career now? Only if I was top 0.0001% talent. Otherwise? Stick to YouTube tutorials like me.
