Steven Furtick Biography: Early Life, Education, and 2026 Salary Breakdown
As the founder and lead pastor of Elevation Church, Steven Furtick has become a central figure in modern evangelicalism. Known for his high-energy delivery and Grammy-winning songwriting, Furtick’s ministry reaches millions through online streaming and satellite locations. In 2026, he continues to lead one of the fastest-growing churches in the United States, blending contemporary worship with motivational biblical teaching.
Key Takeaways: Steven Furtick at a Glance
- Born: February 19, 1980, in Moncks Corner, South Carolina.
- Education: B.A. in Communications (North Greenville University) and a Master of Divinity (Southern Baptist Theological Seminary).
- Net Worth (2026): Estimated at $60 Million, primarily from book royalties, music publishing, and speaking fees.
- Ministry Milestone: Founded Elevation Church in 2006 with just seven families.
- Worship Impact: Member and songwriter for the Grammy Award-winning group Elevation Worship.
Early Life in Moncks Corner: The Vision Begins
Larry Stevens Furtick Jr. was born and raised in Moncks Corner, South Carolina, a town that served as the backdrop for his formative years. He attended Berkeley High School, where he was known as a typical student with a passion for music.
The trajectory of his life changed at the age of 16. After reading Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire by Jim Cymbala, Furtick felt a distinct spiritual calling to pastor a church in a major metropolitan area. This “Sun Stand Still” vision became the driving force behind his academic and professional pursuits. Moncks Corner remains a touchstone in his sermons, often cited as the place where his small-town upbringing met his “audacious” dreams.
Education: Building a Theological Foundation
Furtick’s path to the pulpit was paved with intentional academic preparation. He sought a balance between communication skills and deep theological study:
- North Greenville University: Furtick attended this Southern Baptist institution in Tigerville, South Carolina, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications. This degree helped hone the oratory skills that would later make him a viral sensation.
- Southern Baptist Theological Seminary: To further his ministry credentials, he earned a Master of Divinity (M.Div.). His time at this seminary provided the foundational doctrine that initially anchored Elevation Church within the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), though the church eventually withdrew to become independent.
The Rise of Elevation Church (2006-2026)
In 2006, Furtick and seven other families moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, with a mission to start a church that would reach people far from God. The first service of Elevation Church was held on February 5, 2006.
Growth Timeline
- 2006: Founded in Charlotte, NC.
- 2010: Reached over 10,000 in weekly attendance across multiple campuses.
- 2013: Faced public scrutiny over the construction of a large private estate.
- 2023: Officially withdrew from the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) amid debates over church governance and women in leadership.
- 2026: Operates nearly 20 physical locations and maintains one of the largest digital congregations in the world.
Salary and Net Worth: Analyzing the 2026 Financial Picture
One of the most frequent inquiries regarding Steven Furtick involves his financial compensation. While Elevation Church is transparent about its general expenses—reporting over $118 million in yearly offerings—Furtick’s exact church salary is not public. Instead, it is set by an independent Board of Overseers consisting of other prominent megachurch pastors.
Sources of Wealth
By 2026, Furtick’s estimated net worth of $60 million is attributed to several lucrative streams outside of his pastoral salary:
- Music Royalties: As a primary songwriter for Elevation Worship, Furtick has contributed to hits like “The Blessing” and “Graves into Gardens.” The group’s global success and Grammy wins generate substantial ongoing revenue.
- Book Sales: Furtick is a New York Times bestselling author. Titles such as Crash the Chatterbox, Greater, and his 2024 release Do the New You have sold millions of copies.
- Speaking Engagements: He is a frequent keynote speaker at global leadership summits and Christian conferences.
The Weddington Estate
Much of the public discussion regarding his wealth centers on his home. In 2013, news broke that he was building a 16,000-square-foot mansion on 19 acres in Weddington, North Carolina. Furtick has consistently stated that the home was funded by his book royalties rather than church tithes, labeling the estate as a “gift from God.”
Theological Shift and Independence
A major chapter in Furtick’s biography is Elevation’s withdrawal from the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) in 2023. This move was largely attributed to the church’s desire for autonomy and its stance on women in leadership, specifically regarding his wife Holly Furtick’s active preaching role. In 2026, Furtick operates as an independent minister, often collaborating with diverse leaders like T.D. Jakes and Joel Osteen.
Summary Table: Quick Bio
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Larry Stevens Furtick Jr. |
| Birth Date | February 19, 1980 |
| Hometown | Moncks Corner, SC |
| Spouse | Holly Furtick (m. 2002) |
| Education | North Greenville University, Southern Baptist Seminary |
| 2026 Est. Net Worth | $60 Million |
