Tom Vacar Bio
Tom Vacar is an American journalist currently working as a Consumer Editor and investigative reporter for KTVU FOX 2 News based in the San Francisco Bay Area. A veteran with over 45 years of experience, Tom joined the station in 1989 and became a full-time staff member in 1991. He is widely recognized for his consumer advocacy and has covered a vast range of topics, including economics, aerospace, high technology, and general news. As of early 2026, he remains a key figure in KTVU’s coverage of complex financial and global issues, such as the economic impact of geopolitical conflicts.
Before joining KTVU, Tom worked at several high-profile stations, including KGO-TV and KGO Radio in San Francisco (1979–1985), as well as KCBS-TV and KTTV in Los Angeles. He began his career in 1977 at WJW-TV in Cleveland on “PM Magazine.” Tom is notably the founder of the syndicated “Great American Toy Test,” which ran for over 20 years and was nominated for a national Emmy.
During his legendary tenure, Tom has covered nearly every major disaster in California, from the Loma Prieta and Northridge earthquakes to the Caldor Fire and the pandemic. He is a multi-award-winning journalist, having received the NATAS Governors’ Award in 2024, the highest honor bestowed by the local chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. He is also famous for his incredible work ethic, reportedly never missing a day of work due to illness in over 30 years.
Tom is originally from Salem, Ohio, and holds a strong academic background. He earned his undergraduate degree in Political Science from Case Western Reserve University in 1972 and later obtained a Law Degree from the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law in 1978. He is also a veteran of the U.S. Army Reserves, where he served as a medic.
In his spare time, Tom is an avid traveler and wildlife photographer, having visited dozens of countries including Italy, Japan, and New Zealand. He often travels with his wife, and together they enjoy documenting their adventures through still photography.
He currently resides in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Tom Vacar Age
How old is Tom Vacar? Vacar was born in Salem, Ohio, in the early 1950s; however, he has not publicly disclosed his exact birth date. Based on his college graduation in 1972, he is approximately 75 years old as of 2026.
Tom Vacar Family
Tom grew up in a small industrial town in Ohio. While he keeps much of his family life private, he has shared that his experiences in the Army Reserves and his early life in Ohio shaped his dedication to consumer advocacy.
Tom Vacar Wife
Vacar is married to his longtime partner, Sharon Navratil. Sharon is a former San Francisco Opera soprano and also worked as a television producer for 17 years, often collaborating with Tom on his reporting projects.
Tom Vacar’s Height
Vacar stands at an approximate height of 5 feet 8 inches.
Tom Vacar Net Worth
Vacar has an estimated net worth of between $1 million and $5 million as of 2026. His wealth is primarily attributed to his successful, multi-decade career as a leading consumer editor and investigative journalist in a major media market.
Tom Vacar’s Salary
Vacar receives an estimated annual salary ranging from $45,500 to $110,500.
