Craig Jackson Net Worth: The Barrett-Jackson CEO’s $300 Million Empire
Craig Jackson stands as one of the most influential figures in the collector car industry, having transformed a family business into a global automotive auction empire. As the Chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson Auction Company, Jackson has built an impressive fortune while revolutionizing how classic cars are bought and sold worldwide.
The automotive entrepreneur’s journey from working alongside his father in a small Arizona car wash to leading a company that has sold over $1.5 billion worth of vehicles represents one of the most remarkable success stories in the collector car world. His business acumen and passion for automobiles have created a legacy that extends far beyond personal wealth.
Craig Jackson’s Net Worth in 2025
Craig Jackson’s net worth is estimated at $300 million as of 2025, making him one of the wealthiest figures in the automotive auction industry. This substantial fortune primarily stems from his ownership and leadership of Barrett-Jackson Auction Company, which has become the premier destination for collector car enthusiasts worldwide.
The majority of Jackson’s wealth comes from Barrett-Jackson’s consistent performance in the luxury auction market. The company generates between $100 million and $150 million in gross sales annually, with Barrett-Jackson taking a percentage of each transaction. The flagship Scottsdale auction alone can generate over $100 million in sales during its multi-day event.
In August 2022, talent agency Endeavor acquired a 51% stake in Barrett-Jackson for $261 million, valuing the entire company at approximately $520 million. This acquisition not only validated Jackson’s business model but also provided significant liquidity while allowing him to maintain operational control of the company he has led for decades.
The valuation reflects the strength of Barrett-Jackson’s brand and its dominant position in the collector car auction market. With more than 200,000 people attending the company’s auctions annually and millions more watching the televised events, Jackson has created a media and entertainment empire that extends far beyond traditional car sales.
The Barrett-Jackson Empire: Building a $1.5 Billion Business
Barrett-Jackson Auction Company represents the pinnacle of collector car auctions, having sold over $1.5 billion worth of vehicles since its inception. Under Craig Jackson’s leadership, the company has transformed from a local charity fundraiser into an internationally recognized brand that sets market standards for automotive auctions.
The company’s success lies in its innovative approach to car auctions. Barrett-Jackson pioneered the “no reserve” auction format, which means every car that crosses the block will be sold to the highest bidder, regardless of the final price. This approach creates excitement and ensures that buyers know they have a genuine opportunity to purchase any vehicle they desire.
Television broadcasting has been crucial to Barrett-Jackson’s growth and Jackson’s personal wealth accumulation. The company’s auctions are broadcast to more than 200 countries, with millions of viewers tuning in to watch the excitement unfold. This media exposure has elevated Barrett-Jackson from a regional auction house to a global entertainment brand.
The company operates multiple auction events throughout the year in prestigious locations including Scottsdale, Arizona; Palm Beach, Florida; Las Vegas, Nevada; and Houston, Texas. Each location attracts different demographics of collectors and enthusiasts, allowing Barrett-Jackson to maximize its market reach and revenue potential.
Early Life and Family Legacy
Craig Jackson was born on September 2, 1959, in Michigan, into a family already deeply connected to the automotive world. His father, Russ Jackson, was a car enthusiast who had studied at the General Motors Institute in Flint and served as a Chief Mechanic in the Air Force during World War II.
The Jackson family’s automotive journey began in earnest when they relocated to Scottsdale, Arizona, in 1960. Russ Jackson initially operated a car wash and secured an exclusive contract with the city’s police department, while his wife Nellie managed the business finances. This early entrepreneurial success laid the foundation for the family’s future automotive empire.
In 1963, Russ Jackson responded to a classified advertisement placed by Tom Barrett, who was offering a 1933 Cadillac V16 Town Car that had once belonged to actress Joan Crawford. Although they didn’t complete that particular transaction, the meeting between Russ Jackson and Tom Barrett would prove to be the beginning of a partnership that would reshape the collector car industry.
The tragic loss of Craig’s brother Brian Jackson in 1995 to colon cancer marked a turning point in the family business. Brian had been actively involved in Barrett-Jackson’s operations, and his death left Craig as the sole family member to carry forward the company’s mission and vision.
Career Journey: From Family Business to CEO
Craig Jackson’s involvement with Barrett-Jackson began at an early age, working alongside his father and brother in various capacities throughout the 1970s. In 1978, he officially joined the company, gaining hands-on experience in every aspect of the auction business from car preparation to customer relations.
The company’s origins trace back to 1967 when Russ Jackson and Tom Barrett launched the “Fiesta de los Autos Elegantes” as a charity fundraiser for local organizations. The event evolved into a car auction in 1972, with their first sale being Adolf Hitler’s armored Mercedes-Benz 770K, which sold for over $150,000 – equivalent to approximately $1.2 million in today’s currency.
When Craig assumed the role of Chairman and CEO in 1995 following his brother’s death, he faced the challenge of modernizing the business while preserving its core values. One of his most significant challenges came in the mid-1990s when eBay began facilitating online car sales, leading many industry observers to predict the demise of traditional auction houses.
Jackson’s response to the digital threat demonstrated his business acumen and forward-thinking approach. Rather than viewing online platforms as competition, he embraced technology by introducing internet bidding to Barrett-Jackson auctions. This innovation allowed global participation in the company’s events and significantly expanded their customer base beyond those who could physically attend auctions.
Craig Jackson’s Legendary Car Collection
Craig Jackson’s personal car collection represents one of the most impressive assemblages of automotive history in private hands. With over 1,500 vehicles, his collection spans multiple decades and includes some of the rarest and most valuable cars ever produced.
The crown jewel of Jackson’s collection is housed in a custom-built circular garage that has been described as one of the most expensive automotive storage facilities in the world. The garage features leather walls, terrazzo flooring, and a sophisticated climate control system designed to protect the vehicles from Arizona’s extreme temperatures.
Among the most notable vehicles in Jackson’s collection is a 1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda convertible, one of only 14 ever manufactured and the only one exported to England that year. The car features a unique white interior and the highly sought-after “Plum Crazy” paint code, making it exceptionally rare and valuable.
Jackson also owns a $2 million Bugatti Veyron, finished in black with silver trim and featuring quilted seats and carbon fiber accents throughout. The supercar sits on a custom turntable in the center of his circular showroom, allowing it to be rotated and displayed from different angles.
His collection philosophy centers on the belief that cars should be enjoyed rather than simply stored as static displays. Jackson regularly drives his vehicles, takes them to car shows and rallies, and even uses some for everyday activities like shopping trips with his wife Carolyn.
Business Achievements and Industry Impact
Under Craig Jackson’s leadership, Barrett-Jackson has achieved numerous milestones that have solidified its position as the world’s premier collector car auction company. The company’s expansion from a single annual event in Scottsdale to multiple auctions across the United States demonstrates Jackson’s strategic vision and execution capabilities.
One of Jackson’s most significant contributions to the industry has been the emphasis on transparency and authenticity in automotive auctions. He hired the prestigious accounting firm Deloitte & Touche to audit Barrett-Jackson’s operations, ensuring that buyers and sellers could trust the integrity of every transaction.
The company’s charitable impact represents another dimension of Jackson’s leadership philosophy. Barrett-Jackson auctions have raised millions of dollars for various charitable organizations over the years, with special charity vehicles often commanding premium prices due to their philanthropic purpose.
Jackson’s influence extends beyond his own company to the broader collector car market. Industry experts credit him with helping hundreds of thousands of people enter the hobby of car collecting by making auctions more accessible and entertaining through television coverage and educational content.
His recognition within the automotive industry includes multiple appearances on Motor Trend’s “Top 50 Power List” for the automotive industry, acknowledging his influence on market trends and collector car values.
Personal Life and Current Status
Craig Jackson is married to Carolyn Mullany-Jackson, who serves as the brand manager at Barrett-Jackson and plays an active role in the company’s operations and public relations efforts. Their partnership extends beyond marriage to include shared responsibility for maintaining Barrett-Jackson’s reputation and continued growth.
The couple resides on a sprawling estate in Paradise Valley, Arizona, which Jackson purchased in 2006 for $6 million. The 12,255-square-foot mansion sits on more than six acres and includes the famous custom garage that houses his extensive car collection. Current estimates place the property’s value between $10 million and $15 million.
Jackson’s lifestyle reflects his success while maintaining his connection to the automotive community. He regularly attends major automotive events, participates in car rallies and tours, and continues to be actively involved in the day-to-day operations of Barrett-Jackson despite the company’s substantial size and success.
As of 2025, Jackson continues to lead Barrett-Jackson with the same passion and attention to detail that has characterized his entire career. At 65 years old, he shows no signs of slowing down and remains committed to expanding the company’s influence while preserving the family values and charitable mission that have defined Barrett-Jackson since its inception.
The automotive entrepreneur’s legacy extends far beyond his personal net worth of $300 million. Through Barrett-Jackson, he has created a platform that celebrates automotive history, supports charitable causes, and provides opportunities for car enthusiasts worldwide to participate in the collector car market. His story represents the American dream realized through passion, hard work, and strategic business decisions that have stood the test of time.
