Despite a challenging global economic environment and shifting trade policies, Apple CEO Tim Cook’s compensation remained remarkably steady in 2025. According to the company’s SEC filing, Cook’s total package slightly exceeded Apple’s original target of $59 million, thanks to the company’s strong performance against internal financial and operational goals.
The $74.3 Million Breakdown
As has been the case for nearly a decade, the vast majority of Cook’s earnings are derived from stock-based awards rather than a cash salary.
- Base Salary: $3,000,000 (This figure has remained unchanged since 2016).
- Stock Awards: $57,535,293 (Performance-based equity linked to Apple’s market success).
- Non-Equity Incentive Plan: $12,000,000 (Cash bonuses for hitting specific financial targets).
- Other Compensation: $1,759,518 (Perks, security, and travel).
The Cost of Security and Private Jets
One of the most discussed sections of the proxy filing involves Apple’s spending on Cook’s personal safety and travel efficiency. Per a board-mandated policy, Cook is required to use private aircraft for all business and personal travel.
| Category | 2025 Expenditure |
| Personal Security Services | $887,870 |
| Personal Air Travel (Private Jet) | $789,991 |
| 401(k) Contributions | $21,000 |
| Vacation Cash-out | $57,692 |
The “Rule of 60/10” and Succession Rumors
A critical detail in this year’s filing confirms that Tim Cook has officially met the “Rule of 60/10”—meaning he has reached age 60 and completed 10 years of service at Apple.
- Retirement Ready: Meeting this milestone technically clears the administrative path for an enhanced retirement package should he choose to step down.
- New Role? Speculation is growing that Cook may transition to Chairman of the Board in the near future to reduce his day-to-day workload.
- The Successor: Recent reports have highlighted John Ternus, Apple’s SVP of Hardware Engineering, as a leading internal candidate to take over the CEO mantle.
How Apple’s Other Execs Fared
While Cook remains the highest-paid individual at Apple, other members of the “C-suite” also saw significant compensation packages in 2025:
- Kevan Parekh (CFO): $22.5 million (following his transition into the role).
- Jeff Williams (COO): Approximately $27 million.
- Deirdre O’Brien (Retail + People): Approximately $27 million.
- Luca Maestri (Former CFO): $15.5 million.
The Verdict
Tim Cook’s 2025 pay reflects a leader who has successfully navigated Apple through a volatile period of high tariffs and manufacturing shifts to India. While his “take-home” is lower than the $99 million highs of 2021 and 2022, his $74.3 million remains one of the most substantial—and scrutinized—packages in the tech world.
