Dave Hester, the auctioneer best known from Storage Wars, is estimated to have a net worth of around $4 million. Some sources give a lower mark of $3 million, but most agree on the $4 million figure.
Here’s the thing: net worth estimates are rarely perfect. They depend on public records, reported earnings, assets, and sometimes rumors. Still, $4 million is the most repeated figure in recent coverage.
If you’re wondering is Dave Hester still alive, yes, he is alive and active (though less visible in recent years).
Ready to dig deeper? Let’s see how he built that wealth, where the money came from, and what he owns now.
Who Is Dave Hester?
Dave Hester was born July 23, 1964, in Oceanside, California. He entered the auction world early. His father collected items and took him to estate sales, which planted seeds of interest in auctions and hidden value.
Before Storage Wars, Hester ran consignment shops and thrift operations (like Newport Consignment Gallery and Rags to Riches thrift) in Costa Mesa, California. He later shuttered them and concentrated on his auction house, Dave Hester Auctions.
On Storage Wars, he became famous for his loud “YUUUP!” bidding style and competitive energy. His catchphrase, reputation, and bold tactics made him one of the most recognizable faces in the show.
How Did Dave Hester Make His Money?
Storage Wars Earnings
One of the biggest contributors to his wealth came from Storage Wars. Over the years, cast members have been reported to earn between $15,000 to $25,000 per episode.
In his 2012 lawsuit against A&E, Hester claimed a structure of pay: $25,000 per episode (for a guaranteed run of around 26 episodes) plus bonuses, travel stipends, and expense accounts.
That would push his total per-season gross toward $800,000+ in good years. Yes, that is a lot. But keep in mind: production costs, taxes, legal fees, and other expenses cut into what he actually keeps.
Auction Business & Reselling
Besides TV, Hester runs his auction company. He buys storage units, resells hidden items, and handles estate or consignment auctions. This side of his business gives him consistent revenue outside the TV glare.
Over decades, his eye for undervalued pieces (antiques, collectibles, art) has added to his profits. For example, some famed finds (bought cheap, sold for high) boost both revenue and reputation.
Other Income & Ventures
Hester has also dabbled in merchandising (catchphrase-branded items), licensing, and appearances or guest spots.
Some sources suggest he leveraged his brand (the “YUUUP!” identity) to earn beyond auctions and TV. He also dealt with legal settlements (e.g. with A&E) that may have injected cash.
What Assets Does Dave Hester Own?
He likely owns real estate and high-value personal property, though exact details are scarce in public records.
Real Estate & Homes
While I could not find verifiable records of a “Dave Hester house” with full address or value, net worth estimates typically include property holdings. His prior auction and consignment business locations would factor in.
It’s common for entrepreneurs like him to hold commercial real estate (warehouses, showrooms) tied to their auction operations.
Vehicles & Valuables
He probably has vehicles, art collections, antiques, and other valuables from auction finds. Some finds on Storage Wars have included paintings, rare collectibles, and unique items.
Also, jewelry, memorabilia, or branded merchandise might be part of his asset portfolio — though I found no authoritative list.
How Much Does Dave Hester Make Per Episode?
Reports place his per-episode pay between $15,000 and $25,000. In his lawsuit disclosure, he claimed a base of $25,000 per episode.
If an entire season (26 episodes) were guaranteed, plus travel and bonus pay, one season could gross $650,000 to $800,000+ in total before deductions.
Still, variation exists: older seasons likely paid less; later seasons with show popularity might have paid more.
Is Dave Hester Still Active? What Is He Doing Now?
Yes, Hester is still active, though his TV presence has varied over time. In recent years, some coverage notes he made a return to Storage Wars, stirring interest among fans.
His main focus remains on his auction business, brand licensing, and leveraging his reputation for consulting or guest roles.
While health issues (he reportedly had a hemorrhagic stroke) affected his activity levels in some seasons, Hester continues to hold influence in the auction world.
Who Is The Richest In Storage Wars?
Within the Storage Wars cast, wealth estimates vary. Some cast members, like Dan & Laura Dotson are often estimated around $4.5 million. Hester’s ~$4 million figure places him near the upper tier, though not always at the very top.
Jarrod & Brandi, or Barry Weiss, are often noted as strong competitors in net worth, though their income sources differ.
Wrap Up
Dave Hester’s estimated $4 million net worth reflects more than Storage Wars fame. It is the product of decades in auctions, bold business moves, brand identity, and occasional legal windfalls.
Yes, the show paychecks helped a lot. But his real strength is his eye for undervalued items, willingness to take risks, and ability to turn a catchphrase into a brand.