Craig Jackson is a renowned entrepreneur and automotive expert, best known as the Chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction. His expertise and leadership have helped the company sell over $1.5 billion worth of collector cars, making it one of the most prestigious car auction businesses in the world. With a career spanning decades, Jackson has built a reputation for innovation, precision, and an unmatched passion for classic cars.
As of 2025, Craig Jackson’s estimated net worth is $300 million. This article takes a deep dive into his early life, career, business ventures, car collection, and personal wealth.
Early Life and Passion for Cars
Where Was Craig Jackson Born?
Craig Jackson was born in Arizona in 1959 (making him 66 years old in 2025). He was raised in a family with a deep love for automobiles, thanks to his father, Russ Jackson. Russ had a mechanic background and worked as a car salesman, eventually launching Classic Carriage House, a company that bought, sold, and restored classic cars.
How Did Craig Jackson Get Involved in Cars?
Growing up in Scottsdale, Arizona, Craig was surrounded by the automotive world from an early age. His father and older brother, Brian Jackson, played key roles in shaping his interest in classic cars. As a teenager, Craig worked at his father’s car company, learning the ins and outs of car restoration, sales, and auctions.
At just 17 years old, his father gifted him a Corvette, and Craig soon purchased his first car—a 1966 Pontiac LeMans, which he still owns today. These early experiences fueled his lifelong passion for collecting, restoring, and auctioning classic cars.
Barrett-Jackson: The Evolution of a Collector Car Empire
How Did Barrett-Jackson Begin?
In 1963, Craig’s father, Russ Jackson, met Tom Barrett, a fellow car enthusiast. They bonded over their love for rare and vintage cars, which led them to create an exclusive car auction event. In 1967, they officially launched Fiesta de los Autos Elegantes, a charitable car auction that quickly grew into a premier collector car auction business.
In 1972, they sold their first major vehicle—Adolf Hitler’s armored Mercedes-Benz 770K, which fetched over $150,000 (equivalent to $1.2 million today). This sale solidified Barrett-Jackson’s reputation as a top-tier auction house for rare automobiles.
Craig Jackson’s Rise to Leadership
After Russ Jackson’s passing in 1993, Craig and his brother Brian Jackson took over the company. Tragically, Brian died of colon cancer in 1995, leaving Craig as the sole leader of Barrett-Jackson. In 1997, Craig officially became Chairman and CEO, ushering in a new era of innovation and expansion.
Barrett-Jackson’s Growth Under Craig Jackson
Under Craig’s leadership, Barrett-Jackson has seen unprecedented growth, including:
- Pioneering the “No Reserve” auction format, ensuring cars sell to the highest bidder.
- Expanding auctions to over 200,000 attendees annually.
- Broadcasting auctions to over 200 countries, increasing global viewership.
- Generating between $100 – $150 million in sales per auction year, with the Scottsdale auction alone pulling in $100 million over several days.
- Launching online auction platforms like AutoHunter.com and ClassicCars.com, ensuring a digital presence in the car-collecting world.
Barrett-Jackson’s Historic Sale to Endeavor
In August 2022, talent agency Endeavor (owners of UFC and WWE) acquired a 51% stake in Barrett-Jackson for $261 million. The deal valued the entire company at $520 million, marking one of the biggest acquisitions in the collector car industry. Craig Jackson retained ownership of 49% of the company, keeping him involved in the business he helped build.
Craig Jackson’s Luxury Car Collection
What Cars Does Craig Jackson Own?
Craig Jackson is known for having one of the most impressive private car collections in the world. His custom-built multi-million dollar garage is home to some of the rarest muscle cars, classic sports cars, and vintage collectibles. His circular rotunda showroom, inspired by the wheel of a 1967 Shelby Cobra, showcases up to 17 cars at a time, with a custom climate control system to protect the vehicles.
Some of Craig Jackson’s most prized cars include:
- 1970 Hemicuda Convertible (one of only 14 made)
- 1969 Camaro ZL1 Rally Sport (one of two in existence)
- 1988 Porsche Factory Slope Nose (his childhood dream car)
- 1961 Chevy Impala Custom Coupe
- 1965 Shelby Mustang GT 350
- 1997 Dodge Viper
- Ferrari Daytona
- 1932 Ford Custom Roadster
- A custom-built Bugatti
How Expensive Is Craig Jackson’s Garage?
Craig’s custom-built garage is widely considered one of the most expensive private garages in the world. The facility features:
- A rotating turntable for showcasing cars.
- Terrazzo-coated floors and leather-lined walls.
- A private “man cave” showroom, displaying the history of Barrett-Jackson.
- A custom-built workshop where he maintains and restores his vehicles.
Craig Jackson’s Real Estate Holdings
Where Does Craig Jackson Live?
In 2006, Craig purchased a 12,255-square-foot mansion in Paradise Valley, Arizona, for $6 million. The mansion, situated on six acres, includes:
- Multiple luxury living spaces
- A private home theater
- State-of-the-art security systems
- His multi-million-dollar garage
Today, the estimated value of the mansion is between $10 – $15 million, though its custom-built garage makes it hard to compare to other homes in the area.
Craig Jackson’s Business Awards and Industry Impact
Craig Jackson’s incredible attention to detail, professionalism, and passion for cars have earned him numerous accolades, including:
- Two-time recognition on Motor Trend’s “Top 50 Power List”
- Lifetime Achievement Awards from leading automotive organizations
- Named one of the most influential figures in the collector car industry
Conclusion: Craig Jackson’s Legacy in the Automotive World
Craig Jackson’s $300 million fortune is a testament to his decades of leadership in the collector car industry. From growing Barrett-Jackson into a globally recognized brand to owning one of the most valuable car collections in the world, his impact is undeniable.
With continued auctions, new business expansions, and a passion for preserving automotive history, Craig Jackson remains one of the most respected and influential figures in the world of classic cars. His legacy is built not just on wealth but on his commitment to car enthusiasts, collectors, and the future of the industry.
