Gold Rush, which first aired in 2010, follows miners as they try to strike it rich in the challenging and often dangerous mining operations in Alaska, Canada, and other remote locations. Parker Schnabel has been one of the most prominent figures on the show, known for his drive, leadership, and knack for finding gold.
Parker Schnabel, best known for his role on the show has built an impressive fortune over the years. According to Celebrity Net Worth, as of 2024, Parker's net worth is estimated to be around $8 million.
This wealth comes from a combination of his success on the hit Discovery Channel series and his entrepreneurial ventures in the gold mining industry.
Earnings from Gold Rush and Parker Schnabel’s mining ventures
Early life and career beginnings
Parker Schnabel, born on July 22, 1994, in Haines, Alaska, grew up in a mining family. He began working at his grandfather John Schnabel's Big Nugget Mine at age five and gained extensive mining experience by 18. Though he considered studying geology or mining in college, Parker chose to take over the family business when his grandfather retired.
Parker’s decision to move to the Klondike region and lease land from veteran miner Tony Beets marked the beginning of his independent mining career. His first year operating his own mining business saw impressive results, including mining over 1,000 ounces of gold.
By the time he was 24, Parker had mined gold worth over $13 million, significantly building his wealth in a relatively short period.
Parker's reality TV career
Parker Schnabel’s prominence increased after joining the Discovery Channel’s Gold Rush in 2010. The show follows the lives of gold miners in Alaska and the Yukon, capturing the challenges they face in their search for gold. Parker became one of the most popular cast members, especially after he decided to leave his family’s mines and establish his operations.
His involvement in the series continued throughout the years, with Parker leading his team to successful gold mining seasons. In addition to the show Parker also starred in Gold Rush: The Dirt (2012–2016) and Gold Rush: Parker’s Trail (2017).
Over the years, Parker’s involvement in the series has been lucrative, as he is not only a key figure but also a producer on the shows. The revenue from his appearances on the show and its spin-offs has contributed significantly to his net worth. As of 2024, Gold Rush has aired for 15 seasons, and Parker’s mining expertise has been a central aspect of the show’s narrative.
Business ventures and mining operations
In addition to his television career, Parker Schnabel has expanded his wealth through various business ventures. He owns his own mining company, Little Flake, and has access to properties like Australia Creek and Dominion Creek, which he recently purchased. These investments further bolster his financial standing and reflect his growing presence in the gold mining industry.
Parker has also taken his mining operations beyond the Yukon. His mining explorations have led him to locations like Guyana, Papua New Guinea, and Australia, where he has sought out new opportunities. These international ventures contribute to both his wealth and the scope of his mining career.
Parker's personal life and assets
Parker Schnabel keeps his personal life private, but he previously dated Australian veterinary nurse Ashley Youle, who appeared on Gold Rush. They split in December 2018 after two years. Rumors have linked him to assistant producer Sheena Cowell. Known as a workaholic, Parker prioritizes his mining business, which has been key to his financial success. He also invested in his dream home in Alaska, valued at over $950,000.
Gold Rush season 15 officially premiered on Discovery Channel on Friday, November 8 at 8 PM ET/PT. Tune in every Friday to catch the latest mining adventures and see how Parker and the rest of the crew are striking it rich this season!