Steve Liesman Bio
Steve Liesman is a Pulitzer Prize-winning American journalist currently serving as the Senior Economics Reporter for CNBC. Based at the network’s global headquarters in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, he is a primary authority on the U.S. economy, the Federal Reserve, and major economic indicators. He is a staple on the network’s morning program, “Squawk Box,” and is well-known for using a paper “easel” to simplify complex economic data for viewers.
Liesman’s career is marked by high-level investigative and international reporting. Before joining CNBC in 2002, he was a senior economics reporter for The Wall Street Journal, where he served as the Moscow bureau chief from 1996 to 1998. He was a key member of the reporting team that won the 1999 Pulitzer Prize for International Reporting for chronicling the crash of the Russian financial markets. He also won an Emmy Award for his comprehensive coverage of the 2008 financial crisis. Earlier in his career, he helped found The Moscow Times, Russia’s first English-language daily newspaper, and created its first stock index.
Beyond his journalistic work, Liesman is an amateur guitarist and a devoted fan of the Grateful Dead. He frequently performs with the Stella Blue’s Band, a Grateful Dead tribute group, and even hosted the pay-per-view broadcast of the band’s “Fare Thee Well” reunion concerts in 2015.
Born and raised in Bronxville, New York, Liesman is a graduate of Edgemont Junior–Senior High School. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University at Buffalo and a Master of Science from the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.
Steve Liesman Age
How old is Steve Liesman? Liesman was born on May 21, 1963, in Bronxville, New York. He is 62 years old as of early 2026 and will turn 63 in May 2026. In addition, he celebrates his birthday on the 21st of May every year.
Steve Liesman Family
Steve is the son of Marvin L. Liesman and the late Doris Liesman. He was raised in a family that valued education and public service. His father is a prominent resident of Bradenton, Florida. He has often shared his passion for music with his family, particularly his son, who has joined him for live performances.
Steve Liesman’s Wife
Steve is married to Karen Fran Dukess, an accomplished author and former journalist. Dukess is known for her novel The Last Book Party and has worked in communications and as a writer for major publications. The couple wed on November 9, 1991, at the Manursing Island Club in Rye, New York. They have two sons, including Johnny Liesman, who is also a musician. The family currently resides in Westchester County, New York.
Steve Liesman’s Height
Liesman stands at an approximate height of 5 feet 3 inches (1.60 m).
Steve Liesman Net Worth
Liesman has an estimated net worth of between $2 million and $5 million as of 2026. His wealth is primarily attributed to his 24-year tenure.
Steve Liesman’s Salary
Liesman receives an estimated annual salary ranging from $40,000 to $120,000.
