Nate Bargatze Net Worth: How the Clean Comedian Built His Million-Dollar Career

Introduction: The Rise Of America’s Clean Comedy Star

In a world where stand-up comedy often leans on shock value and controversy, Nate Bargatze has carved out a lane entirely his own. Known for his calm, deadpan delivery and family-friendly humor, Bargatze has become one of the most admired comedians of his generation. His success isn’t just built on jokes—it’s built on authenticity, hard work, and an unwavering belief that clean comedy can be just as funny as edgy material. As of 2025, Nate Bargatze’s net worth is estimated at $40 million, a testament to how his unique comedic voice has transformed him from a small-town performer into an arena-filling sensation.

Quick Bio Information

Full Name: Nathanael Bargatze
Date Of Birth: March 25, 1979
Place Of Birth: Nashville, Tennessee, USA
Profession: Stand-Up Comedian, Writer, Podcaster
Net Worth (2025): $40 Million
Spouse: Laura Baines Bargatze
Children: One Daughter (Harper)
Known For: Clean, Observational Comedy
Residence: Brentwood, Tennessee
Major Achievements: Grammy Nominee, SNL Host, Arena Record-Holder

Nate Bargatze Net Worth Overview

Nate Bargatze’s net worth in 2025 is estimated to be around $40 million, placing him among the highest-earning stand-up comedians in America. His income sources are diverse—ranging from live tours and streaming specials to his hit podcast and television appearances. A large part of his fortune stems from his record-breaking “Be Funny” tour, which became one of the most successful comedy tours in history. It grossed nearly $90 million across 148 shows, selling over 1.1 million tickets.

Unlike many entertainers who rely on endorsements or film deals, Bargatze’s earnings primarily come from stand-up comedy. His consistent growth in both popularity and ticket sales reflects his strong fan base and family-oriented appeal. His clean comedy style has allowed him to attract a wider audience, including families who attend his shows together—a rare feat in today’s comedy landscape.

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Early Life And Education: The Tennessee Roots Behind His Humor

Nate Bargatze was born on March 25, 1979, in Nashville, Tennessee, into a warm, Southern household that valued humor and humility. His father, Stephen Bargatze, is a professional magician and motivational speaker who often performed for schools and charity events. Watching his father captivate crowds taught Nate the power of timing and connection—skills that would later define his comedy.

Bargatze attended Donelson Christian Academy in Nashville before enrolling at Volunteer State Community College in Gallatin. Growing up in the heart of Tennessee deeply shaped his worldview and comedic voice. His Southern roots are evident in his slow-paced delivery and storytelling style, which resonate with audiences across the country.

Starting Small: Nate Bargatze’s Early Comedy Career

Before the fame and Netflix specials, Nate Bargatze’s comedy journey began in the early 2000s in Chicago, where he started performing at local clubs. He later moved to New York City, one of the toughest comedy scenes in the world, where he performed regularly at the legendary Boston Comedy Club. These years were crucial for him—he learned to navigate tough crowds, refine his timing, and stay authentic even when surrounded by more aggressive comedic styles.

During this period, Bargatze also performed for U.S. troops in Iraq and Kuwait, an experience that taught him how to make people laugh even in challenging environments. His persistence paid off when his talent began catching the attention of producers and late-night hosts.

Breakthrough Success: From Comedy Festivals To National Fame

Bargatze’s big break came in 2013 when he won both the New York Comedy Festival and the Boston Comedy Festival, two of the most respected competitions in stand-up. Around the same time, he was featured on Jimmy Fallon’s Clean Cut Comedy Tour, which perfectly aligned with his comedic style and helped him reach a national audience. Fallon quickly became a fan, regularly inviting Bargatze to perform on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where his calm delivery and relatable stories made him an instant hit with viewers.

These appearances opened doors for Bargatze, giving him national recognition and setting the stage for his future success in the streaming era.

Stand-Up Specials And Albums That Defined His Career

Nate Bargatze’s comedy albums and specials have been pivotal to both his career growth and his net worth. In 2014, he released his debut album, Yelled at by a Clown, which reached number two on the Billboard Top Comedy Albums chart. A year later, he followed up with Full Time Magic (2015), released alongside a Comedy Central special.

His true breakout moment came with his first Netflix special, The Tennessee Kid (2019), which introduced millions of viewers to his Southern charm and relatable humor. Two years later, The Greatest Average American (2021) further solidified his reputation and earned him a Grammy nomination for Best Comedy Album.

In 2023, Bargatze released Hello, World on Amazon Prime Video, filmed in Phoenix, Arizona. It was a major success, showcasing his growth as both a performer and a storyteller. Each special has not only expanded his fan base but also significantly increased his income through streaming royalties, global tours, and renewed demand for live performances.

Touring Success: The Record-Breaking “Be Funny” Tour

If there’s one event that defines Nate Bargatze’s financial success, it’s the “Be Funny” tour. Running through 2023 and 2024, the tour grossed nearly $90 million, making it one of the highest-earning comedy tours of all time. Bargatze sold over 1.1 million tickets for 148 shows, performing in arenas that once hosted global music acts.

In 2023, he broke the attendance record at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, drawing 19,365 fans—an achievement that symbolized his journey from small comedy clubs to the biggest stages in the world. The tour’s success wasn’t just about the numbers; it was proof that clean comedy could fill arenas and compete with mainstream acts.

Beyond The Stage: Podcasting And Media Appearances

Beyond stand-up, Nate Bargatze has expanded his reach through his popular podcast, “Nateland.” Co-hosted with fellow comedians Brian Bates, Dusty Slay, and Aaron Weber, the podcast covers everything from pop culture to life on the road, all delivered in the same easygoing, relatable style that defines his comedy.

The podcast’s success has strengthened Bargatze’s relationship with fans, keeping his name relevant even between tours. He has also performed at major comedy festivals like Bonnaroo, SXSW, and JFL Montreal, and made numerous appearances on television. In October 2023, he achieved another career milestone by hosting Saturday Night Live, an honor that confirmed his place among the most respected comedians in America.

Personal Life: A Family Man Behind The Laughter

Behind Nate Bargatze’s public persona is a devoted family man. He married Laura Baines in 2006, whom he met while they both worked at Applebee’s. Together, they have a daughter, Harper, who occasionally inspires his jokes about parenthood and marriage.

Bargatze often jokes about his ordinary life in his specials, but his grounded personality is part of his appeal. He and his family live in Brentwood, Tennessee, staying close to his Southern roots despite his growing fame. His clean, relatable humor reflects his real-life values—kindness, humility, and an appreciation for everyday experiences.

Real Estate And Lifestyle

In 2018, Nate and his wife purchased a 5,200-square-foot home in Brentwood, Tennessee, for $1.135 million. The house, built in 2015 and located on a quiet cul-de-sac, is now worth around $2 million. Bargatze has referenced this very cul-de-sac in his specials, using it as a backdrop for his suburban storytelling.

Despite his wealth, Bargatze is known for living modestly. He avoids lavish displays of success and prefers a comfortable lifestyle that keeps him focused on his craft and family.

Awards And Recognition

Nate Bargatze’s career is marked by both critical and commercial success. His 2021 Grammy nomination for The Greatest Average American was a highlight, but his biggest reward has been the respect he’s earned from audiences and peers alike. His record-breaking arena shows, sold-out tours, and streaming specials have made him one of the most influential comedians of the decade.

In an industry that often rewards shock value, Bargatze has proven that humor rooted in honesty and decency can still captivate millions.

Lessons From Nate Bargatze’s Success

Nate Bargatze’s story is more than a tale of financial success—it’s a blueprint for perseverance and integrity. His rise shows that staying authentic, consistent, and true to your values can lead to lasting success. By refusing to compromise his comedic style, he has redefined what modern stand-up can look like.

His journey inspires aspiring comedians to embrace their unique voices and audiences to appreciate the humor in everyday life. Bargatze’s success is proof that you don’t need to be controversial to be unforgettable—you just need to be real.

Final Thoughts

Nate Bargatze’s journey from Tennessee’s small clubs to sold-out arenas is a story of persistence, humility, and faith in one’s craft. His $40 million net worth reflects not just financial achievement but also the growing appreciation for authentic, clean comedy in modern entertainment. By staying true to who he is, Nate Bargatze has proven that genuine laughter—and a little Southern charm—can build a career that lasts a lifetime.

FAQs About Nate Bargatze Net Worth

What Is Nate Bargatze’s Net Worth In 2025?
Nate Bargatze’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at $40 million, largely earned from touring, streaming specials, and podcasting.

How Did Nate Bargatze Become Famous?
He gained fame after winning major comedy festivals in 2013 and releasing successful Netflix specials like The Tennessee Kid and The Greatest Average American.

What Makes Nate Bargatze’s Comedy Unique?
Bargatze’s comedy stands out for being clean, relatable, and family-friendly—centered on everyday life and delivered with a calm, Southern tone.

What Is Nate Bargatze’s Most Successful Tour?
His “Be Funny” tour (2023–2024) became one of the highest-grossing comedy tours ever, earning nearly $90 million.

Has Nate Bargatze Won Any Awards?
He received a Grammy nomination in 2021 for The Greatest Average American and continues to earn widespread recognition for his specials.

Where Does Nate Bargatze Live?
He lives in Brentwood, Tennessee, with his wife Laura and daughter Harper.

Is Nate Bargatze Still Touring In 2025?
Yes, Bargatze continues to tour extensively, performing sold-out shows across the United States and maintaining his status as a leading voice in comedy.