HGTV has introduced many reality power couples throughout the years. This includes Ben and Erin Napier from the hit show Home Town, where they work together to renovate properties in Laurel, Mississippi. Their series and spin-offs are popular with home improvement enthusiasts. Ben and Erin Napier have a net worth of $5 million and earn $30,000 per episode.
Background
The reality TV stars hail from Laurel, Mississippi, but Ben moved around a lot as his parents were ministers. Ben was actually a youth minister up until 2014 but resigned to focus on running his business. In comparison, Erin’s mom is a realtor, and her dad is a physical therapist.
They started dating during their college days at the University of Mississippi. Erin studied graphic design, and Ben graduated with a bachelor’s degree in history. Erin was also a design editor for the school’s yearbook and first met her future husband while writing a story about Ben.
Early Career and Marriage
After graduating and getting married, the young couple didn’t immediately move to Laurel, New York. They were looking to settle in areas such as Birmingham, Memphis, and Nashville.
But ultimately, they settled in their hometown. There, Ben tried his hand at woodworking and craftsmanship. Erin used her degree and was working as a graphic designer for large businesses.
Later on, Erin helped with some of her husband’s projects at their local store, Laurel Mercantile Co. They renovated a gorgeous 1925 craftsman cottage, which was featured in Southern Weddings Magazine in 2014.
Joining HGTV
Erin gained a massive online following after their work went public. Little did she know that an HGTV producer was following her on social media. One day, she woke up with an invitation email for them to star in a reality show.
In 2016, Home Town began airing on HGTV and documented the couple’s ventures, fixing houses in their area. The show had the highest rated pilot in HGTV history with 2.2 million people tuning in for the first episode. It became a huge hit, which led to several spinoff series, including “Home Town: Ben’s Workshop” and “Home Town Takeover.”
Some viewers have questioned if the show is fake but Home Town is not scripted. During the final reveal, the homeowners have to pay extra for the staged items. If they don’t pay, the items are taken back.
Net Worth and Earnings
The main Home Town series has had eight successful seasons to date. It’s currently recognized as one of the most popular home renovation shows on HGTV. Due to its success, Ben and Erin are reportedly making $30,000 per episode.
Apart from their television endeavors, the Napier’s earn an income from their Laurel Mercantile shop, which sells home appliances and decors. Laurel Mercantile Co. employs 128 people as of January 2022. They also operate the Scotsman General Store. These businesses are a big factor in their $5 million fortune. Despite their impressive wealth, Chip and Joanna Gaines are collectively worth $50 million!
Personal Lives
Ben and Erin Napier got married in 2008 and are raising two children, Helen and Mae, in their iconic craftsman cottage in Laurel. However, their lives weren’t always easygoing. In 2014, Erin was diagnosed with a perforated appendix, and still suffers from symptoms of the illness today.
