Craig Jackson is a known name with classic car auctions and automotive excellence. As of 2025, the 66-year-old entrepreneur boasts a staggering net worth of $300 million, solidifying his position as one of the most influential figures in the automotive industry. As the Chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson, Jackson has transformed a niche family business into a global powerhouse, with over $1.5 billion in car sales to date.
But his journey to success is more than just numbers—it’s a tale of passion, precision, and perseverance. From inheriting his father’s legacy to revolutionizing the collector car auction world, Jackson’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary.
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The Early Days: A Passion Fueled by Family
Born in Arizona in 1959, Craig Jackson grew up immersed in the world of automobiles. His father, Russell Jackson, was a General Motors Institute graduate, an Air Force mechanic, and later, a successful entrepreneur. The Jackson family’s love for cars was evident from the start. After relocating to Scottsdale, Arizona, Russ and his wife, Nellie, founded Classic Carriage House, a business dedicated to buying, selling, and restoring classic cars.
Craig and his brother, Brian Jackson, were raised with grease-stained hands and an appreciation for vintage vehicles. However, the Jackson family’s trajectory changed when Russ partnered with Tom Barrett—a fellow car enthusiast—to create what would eventually become Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction.
The Birth of Barrett-Jackson: A Game-Changer in Classic Car Auctions
In 1967, Russ Jackson and Tom Barrett launched their first event, “Fiesta de los Autos Elegantes,” as a local charity fundraiser. What began as a modest initiative evolved into one of the most prestigious collector car auctions in the world. Their first high-profile sale? Adolf Hitler’s armored Mercedes-Benz 770K, which fetched over $150,000 in 1972—equivalent to $1.2 million today.
As the company expanded, Barrett-Jackson pioneered the “no reserve” auction format, ensuring that every car was sold to the highest bidder. The concept revolutionized the industry, attracting millions of viewers across 200 countries and over 200,000 attendees annually.
A Legacy Continued: Craig Jackson Takes Over
Tragedy struck the Jackson family when Russ passed away in 1993 and Brian died just two years later in 1995. With the weight of the business on his shoulders, Craig officially took over as Chairman and CEO in 1997. Under his leadership, Barrett-Jackson saw unprecedented growth, with the flagship Scottsdale auction alone generating $100 million over several days.
Jackson’s keen business acumen and relentless attention to detail have helped shape Barrett-Jackson into what it is today—a multibillion-dollar brand with televised auctions, online sales, and exclusive events that attract the world’s top collectors.
The Big Deal: Endeavor’s Acquisition
In August 2022, Craig Jackson made headlines when Endeavor (owner of UFC and WWE) acquired 51% of Barrett-Jackson for $261 million. The deal valued the company at $520 million, making it one of the most lucrative transactions in the collector car space. With millions in cash and Endeavor shares, Jackson secured his empire’s future while still remaining at the helm of the brand.
The Ultimate Car Collection
As a true car enthusiast, Craig Jackson’s personal collection is legendary. Housed in one of the most extravagant garages in the world, his collection features a 17-car rotunda showroom, custom-built with leather walls, terrazzo-coated floors, and a turntable centerpiece inspired by a 1967 Shelby Cobra.
Among his prized possessions:
- 1970 Hemicuda Convertible (one of only 14 made)
- 1988 Porsche Factory Slope Nose (his childhood dream car)
- 1969 Camaro ZL1 Rally Sport (one of just two in existence)
- 1961 Chevy Impala Custom Coupe
- 1965 Shelby Mustang GT 350
- Ferrari Daytona
- 1932 Ford Custom Roadster
- A custom Bugatti
His obsession with detail extends beyond cars—his garage is equipped with climate-controlled technology to protect his multi-million-dollar collection from the harsh Arizona heat.
Life Beyond Cars: Arizona Mansion and Luxury Living
Craig Jackson’s 12,255-square-foot Paradise Valley mansion, purchased in 2006 for $6 million, is another testament to his love for luxury. Spread across six acres, the estate includes his iconic garage, multiple showrooms, and a private man cave, making it a car lover’s dream residence.
Today, the mansion’s value is estimated between $10-15 million, though its one-of-a-kind garage makes it difficult to find comparable properties.
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