Hailey Welch, better known as the “Hawk Tuah Girl,” became an overnight sensation in 2024 after a viral interview clip spread across the internet. Her sudden rise to fame brought fame, opportunities, and curiosity about her financial status. Many now ask, what is Hailey Welch net worth, and how did she build it so quickly?
This article explores her journey, her career earnings, controversies, and what the future holds for her wealth and influence.
Who Is Hailey Welch?
Hailey Welch is an American social media personality who gained viral fame in June 2024. Born in Belfast, Tennessee in 2002 or 2003, she grew up in a small town about an hour from Nashville. Before her internet breakthrough, she lived with her grandmother and worked at a mattress spring factory.
Unlike many influencers who rise gradually, Hailey’s fame came suddenly and unexpectedly. Within days, she went from being unknown to a household internet name.
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Early Life & Background
- Birth Year: 2002/2003
- Hometown: Belfast, Tennessee
- Family: Raised by her grandmother
- First Job: Mattress spring factory worker
Her small-town roots and humble beginnings made her viral journey even more fascinating. She had no prior social media presence, which makes her rapid growth unique in today’s influencer world.
How Hailey Welch Became the “Hawk Tuah Girl”
Hailey’s rise to fame began on June 11, 2024. During a man-on-the-street style interview with the YouTube channel Tim & Dee TV, she was asked:
“What’s one move in bed that makes a man go crazy every time?”
Her now-iconic reply:
“You gotta give ’em that ‘hawk tuah’ and spit on that thang.”
That one sentence exploded across TikTok, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). Memes, remixes, and reactions made her a global viral figure almost overnight.
The Viral Video Moment
- Millions of views across platforms in just days
- Nicknamed “Hawk Tuah Girl” by the internet
- Memes and merchandise followed quickly
Within weeks, she turned her catchphrase into a business opportunity. Partnering with a local apparel brand, she sold over $65,000 in Hawk Tuah merchandise before the end of June.
Memes & Social Media Explosion
- 1.6+ million TikTok followers
- 2.4+ million Instagram followers (as of 2025)
- Guest appearances with major celebrities
Her unique Southern drawl, humor, and authenticity made her relatable. That connection helped her gain not just followers, but also lucrative brand attention.
Career Journey & Income Sources
The main driver of Hailey Welch net worth is her diverse income streams. Instead of relying only on social media, she has explored merchandise, podcasts, sponsorships, and even acting.
Merchandise Sales (Hawk Tuah Merch)
Her first major income came from selling T-shirts, hats, and hoodies with her viral catchphrase. By teaming with Fathead Threads, she quickly made tens of thousands in sales. Merchandise remains one of her steady income sources.
Podcast & Media Collaborations
In September 2024, Hailey launched her own podcast, “Talk Tuah,” originally under Jake Paul’s media company Betr. She later took full ownership and rebranded it under her own name in 2025.
The podcast features conversations with influencers and celebrities. Monetization comes from:
- Sponsorships
- Ads
- Partnerships with media companies
This growing venture adds significant long-term earning potential.
Acting and Public Appearances
Hailey has also dabbled in acting. In 2025, she appeared in Glen Powell’s TV series “Chad Powers” in a small role.
Other public appearances include:
- Throwing the first pitch at a New York Mets game
- Performing onstage with Zach Bryan
- Guesting on Whitney Cummings’ podcast
These appearances build her brand and bring in additional earnings.
Social Media Sponsorships
With millions of followers, Hailey commands significant sponsorship deals.
Brands typically pay $5,000–$20,000 per sponsored post for influencers of her size. Combined with Instagram stories, TikTok campaigns, and partnerships, this adds a steady stream of revenue.
Crypto Coin Venture ($HAWK)
In December 2024, Hailey partnered with OverHere to launch a meme cryptocurrency called $HAWK.
- Market cap hit $500 million within minutes
- Value crashed by over 90% shortly after
- Accused of being part of a “rug pull” scam
The SEC investigated but cleared her in March 2025, finding no fraud. While controversial, the project briefly boosted her income and visibility.
Hailey Welch Net Worth Breakdown
Now let’s get to the main question: What is Hailey Welch net worth in 2025?
- Estimated Net Worth: $500,000
- Main Income Sources: Merchandise, podcasting, brand sponsorships, media appearances
- Potential Annual Earnings: $200,000–$400,000 depending on sponsorship deals
While some outlets have inflated claims of $12 million+, reliable estimates put her at half a million dollars.
Comparison with Similar Influencers
- Alex Cooper (Call Her Daddy): $25 million+
- Alix Earle: $1–2 million
- Hailey Welch: $500,000
Compared to long-term influencers, her net worth is modest. But considering she started less than a year ago, her progress is impressive.
Controversies & Challenges
Hailey’s rise hasn’t been without hurdles.
- Crypto Coin Allegations: Some accused her of tricking fans with $HAWK coin, though regulators cleared her.
- Fan Pushback: When she threw the first pitch at a Mets game, some fans criticized the team for spotlighting her.
Despite these challenges, she has maintained a positive image and stayed active online.
Impact on Pop Culture
Hailey Welch is more than just a viral clip. She represents the power of internet culture in shaping careers.
- Her phrase “hawk tuah” became part of Gen Z slang.
- She’s been featured in Rolling Stone, TMZ, and other outlets.
- She’s seen as a mix of humor, Southern charm, and authenticity.
Some even compare her to a modern-day “Gen Z Dolly Parton” for her wit and relatability.
Charity Work & Community Efforts
Hailey has also shown a philanthropic side.
In July 2024, she donated supplies to an animal shelter and highlighted a dog named Blondie who had been waiting for adoption. She partnered with America’s VetDogs, an organization that pairs dogs with veterans.
This caring side enhances her public image and shows she wants to use her fame positively.
Future Net Worth Growth Potential
Hailey Welch net worth could grow significantly in the next few years if she continues to expand her career.
- Podcast Expansion: Growing “Talk Tuah” into a major brand.
- Acting Career: Pursuing more TV and film opportunities.
- Brand Deals: With her reach, she could land six-figure sponsorship contracts.
- Merchandise: Launching new lines of apparel and digital products.
If she plays her cards right, her net worth could triple or quadruple within five years.
Conclusion: The Real Story Behind Hailey Welch Net Worth
Hailey Welch went from factory worker to viral star in a matter of days. Today, her estimated net worth is $500,000, earned through merchandise, sponsorships, podcasting, and appearances. While controversies have followed her, she continues to grow her influence in media, entertainment, and culture.
Her journey proves that internet fame, when managed smartly, can turn into a sustainable career. The story of Hailey Welch net worth is just beginning — and the coming years may bring even bigger success.
