Here's How Much The Miss Universe Winner Actually Earns

The pageant world is a space that's truly like no other. It takes years of hard work and perfecting key talents to rise to the top of the pageant world. For many, the goal is Miss Universe. The international organization pits pageant queens all over the world against each other for the ultimate crown. The competition is a true phenomenon, airing in more than 190 countries, with an estimated half a billion viewers annually (per Reuters).

For 365 days, each year's winner embarks on a once-in-a-lifetime experience where they travel, promote their platform, and win a bunch of cash and prizes. The winning for the Miss Universe pageant may not be quite as much as you think, however. For one, the perks come with the responsibility of upholding and honoring the integrity of the title. In other words, no bad behavior is going to be tolerated from Miss Universe, which has been a problem for contestants on the pageant circuit in previous years who have held passionate views or interests that don't align with the platform.

It also requires personal sacrifice. In recent years, there's been controversy over the fact that contestants can never have been married or pregnant. "No, contestants may not be married or pregnant. They must not have ever been married, not had a marriage annulled nor given birth to, or parented a child," the rules state, per Insider. "The titleholders are also required to remain unmarried throughout their reign."

There's a bit of mystery about exactly what Miss Universe wins, besides the title and the crown. There are rumors about how much of a salary Miss Universe makes, with estimates anywhere in the six-figure arena (per Bustle). For one year, they live in a paid-for New York City apartment, which they share with the winner of Miss U.S.A. (per Esquire). That includes groceries, dining out, and transportation around New York City and wherever else she travels internationally.

Traveling the world for free is a pretty sweet deal, but there's even more in store for Miss Universe. She's outfitted with a complete glam squad including assistants and makeup artists. Her makeup, hair products, shoes, clothes, jewelry, skincare, and more are also taken care of by the organization. Professional styling, nutrition, dermatology, and dental services are also available at no cost.

Then, of course, there are the opportunities that come with the title. Miss Universe has access to exclusive events, parties, premieres, screenings, castings, and more. She also has access to top photographers to help her build a modeling portfolio.