Who Is Dave Barry? All About the Hilarious American Author

Dave Barry is one of America’s most beloved humorists, known for his sharp wit, satirical writing, and Pulitzer Prize-winning columns. With a career spanning decades, he has made readers laugh with his absurd takes on everyday life, bestselling books, and memorable media appearances. But who exactly is Dave Barry, and how did he become such an iconic figure in American humor?
Quick Bio
Category | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Dave Barry |
Birthdate | July 3, 1947 |
Age | 78 years old (as of 2025) |
Birthplace | Armonk, New York |
Profession | Writer, Author, Humorist, Journalist |
Net Worth | $6 Million |
Notable Awards | Pulitzer Prize for Commentary (1988) |
Famous Works | Dave Barry Turns 40, Big Trouble, Insane City |
Nationality | American |
Spouse | Michelle Kaufman (m. 1996) |
Who Is Dave Barry?

Dave Barry is an American author and humorist best known for his satirical newspaper columns and bestselling books. His unique brand of comedy—self-deprecating, absurd, and wildly relatable—has earned him a massive following. Beyond writing, he’s ventured into television, film adaptations, and public speaking, cementing his place as one of the funniest minds in modern literature.
Early Life and Background
Born on July 3, 1947, in Armonk, New York, Dave Barry grew up in a middle-class family where humor was a way of life. From an early age, he developed a sharp, observational wit, often finding comedy in mundane situations. He attended Haverford College, graduating with a degree in English, which laid the foundation for his writing career.
Age and Physical Appearance
At 78 years old, Dave Barry still carries the same disheveled, approachable charm that made him famous. Often seen wearing glasses and sporting a casual, slightly rumpled look, he embodies the “everyman” persona that makes his humor so accessible. His relatable appearance matches his writing style—unpretentious, witty, and full of personality.
Category: Richest Celebrities › Authors

Thanks to his long-standing success, Dave Barry ranks among the wealthiest humorists and authors in the U.S. His books, columns, and media projects have contributed to his financial success, proving that comedy can be both art and big business.
Net Worth: $6 Million
Dave Barry’s estimated net worth of $6 million comes from multiple streams:
- Bestselling books (Dave Barry Turns 40, Big Trouble)
- Syndicated newspaper columns (Miami Herald, 1983–2005)
- TV adaptations (Dave’s World, 1993–1997)
- Public speaking and comedy tours
His ability to turn humor into a lucrative career has made him a standout figure in the literary world.
Birthdate and Birthplace
Barry was born on July 3, 1947, in Armonk, New York, a small town that contrasts with the big laughs he’d later deliver. His upbringing in a quiet suburb helped shape his keen eye for the absurdities of everyday life.
Gender and Profession
Dave Barry is a male writer whose career spans:
- Humorist – Master of satire and observational comedy
- Journalist – Pulitzer-winning columnist
- Author – Over 30 books, both fiction and non-fiction
- Media Personality – TV and radio appearances
Nationality
Proudly American, Barry’s humor is deeply rooted in U.S. culture, poking fun at politics, family life, and societal quirks in a way that resonates nationwide.
What Is Dave Barry’s Net Worth?
With $6 million accumulated over decades, Barry’s wealth comes from:
- Book royalties (over 30 published works)
- Syndicated columns (nationally distributed)
- TV and film deals (Big Trouble movie adaptation)
- Live performances and speaking engagements
His financial success proves that comedy writing can be both impactful and profitable.
Early Career
Barry began as a journalist for local newspapers, honing his sarcastic, witty style. His big break came when he joined the Miami Herald, where his humor column gained a national following.
Newspaper Column and Pulitzer Prize
From 1983 to 2005, Barry wrote a syndicated humor column for the Miami Herald, earning the Pulitzer Prize for Commentary in 1988. His columns tackled everything from parenting to politics, always with a hilariously cynical twist.
Books and Novels
Dave Barry’s books fall into two categories:
- Non-fiction humor (Dave Barry Turns 40, Dave Barry’s History of the Millennium)
- Fiction novels (Big Trouble, Insane City)
His absurd, laugh-out-loud storytelling has made his works bestsellers.
Legacy and Influence
Dave Barry remains one of America’s most iconic humorists, inspiring modern comedians and writers. Even at 78, he continues to write, speak, and entertain, proving that great humor never gets old.
FAQs About Dave Barry
What is Dave Barry most famous for?
Dave Barry is best known for his Pulitzer Prize-winning humor columns and bestselling books like Big Trouble and Dave Barry Turns 40.
How old is Dave Barry?
As of 2025, Dave Barry is 78 years old, born on July 3, 1947.
What is Dave Barry’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is $6 million, earned through writing, TV, and public appearances.
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