Apple has revealed that CEO Tim Cook earned a total compensation package worth $74.3 million for the 2025 fiscal year, according to the company’s latest proxy filing released on January 8, 2026. While the figure represents a marginal decrease from the $74.6 million Cook received in 2024, it still far exceeds Apple’s original compensation target of $59 million, largely due to strong company performance and stock-based incentives.
Breakdown of Tim Cook’s 2025 Compensation
As with previous years, the majority of Cook’s pay is tied directly to Apple’s stock performance rather than a traditional salary. His base salary remained unchanged at $3 million, a figure that has stayed consistent since 2016. The largest portion of his earnings came from stock awards, totaling approximately $57.5 million, primarily in performance-based restricted stock units (RSUs).
In addition, Cook earned $12 million in non-equity incentive compensation, reflecting cash bonuses tied to Apple meeting and exceeding internal financial targets. Another $1.76 million was classified as “other compensation,” covering executive perks such as security services and travel.
In total, Cook’s compensation for 2025 came to $74,294,811, representing a year-over-year decrease of about 0.4%.
Performance Drove the Payout
Apple’s financial success in 2025 played a major role in boosting Cook’s earnings. The company reported record annual revenue of $416.2 billion, triggering maximum payouts under its performance-based incentive plan. Because Apple surpassed its pre-set financial benchmarks, Cook’s non-equity incentive compensation reached the highest allowable level under the plan.
Executive Perks and Security Costs
Apple’s proxy filing also detailed the costs associated with Cook’s security and travel. The company mandates that Cook use private aircraft for all business and personal travel for security and efficiency reasons. In 2025, Apple spent $887,870 on Cook’s personal security and $789,991 on personal air travel. These expenses are standard for Apple’s top executive and are reviewed annually by the board.
Succession Planning and Executive Pay Comparison
The filing noted that Cook has officially met Apple’s “Rule of 60/10,” meaning he is at least 60 years old with over 10 years of service. This status allows for simplified vesting of his stock awards should he choose to retire in the future.
By comparison, other top Apple executives earned significantly less. COO Sabih Khan and General Counsel Kate Adams each received roughly $27 million, while newly appointed CFO Kevan Parekh earned $22.5 million.
Why the Slight Dip Matters Little
The minor decline in Cook’s compensation was not due to a pay cut or weaker performance. Instead, it reflects normal fluctuations tied to stock award valuations and lower “other compensation” expenses. Overall, the filing reinforces how closely Apple links executive pay to long-term performance and shareholder value.
