Sue Aikens Net Worth and Everything You Should Know About Her Profile
Sue Aikens is one of the most captivating figures from the reality series Life Below Zero. Known for her rugged survival skills and independent spirit, she has built a life far removed from modern conveniences. In this article, we’ll explore her net worth, career, personal life, physical profile, lifestyle, and fascinating facts that make her story so compelling.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Susan “Sue” Aikens |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 1, 1963 |
| Age (2025) | 61 years old |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5 ft 5 in (165 cm) |
| Weight | ~77 kg (169 lbs), later lost ~75 lbs |
| Net Worth | ~$500,000 |
| Occupation | Reality TV star, Camp operator |
| Known For | Life Below Zero, Kavik River Camp |
| Children | 2 (one son, one daughter) |
| Partner | Michael Heinrich (long-distance relationship) |
| Notable Incident | Survived a bear attack in 2007 |
| Social Media | Instagram: @sueaikens |
Early Life and Background
Sue Aikens was born on July 1, 1963, in Chicago, Illinois. Her childhood was turbulent, as her parents separated when she was young. Afterward, her mother relocated to Alaska, where Sue grew up in challenging conditions. This early exposure to the wilderness shaped her independence and survival instincts.
She reportedly completed an accelerated high school program at a young age, which gave her the freedom to pursue an unconventional life. Alaska, with its isolation and raw beauty, became her lifelong home.
Net Worth and Income
Sue Aikens’ estimated net worth is around $500,000. While some sources claim her wealth ranges up to $1.5 million, the most consistent figure across reports is approximately half a million.
Her main income sources include:
- Life Below Zero salary: She reportedly earns about $4,500 per episode, which has contributed significantly to her net worth over the years.
- Kavik River Camp: Sue owns and operates this remote outpost in Alaska. It attracts visitors looking for extreme wilderness experiences.
- Media appearances: She has featured on programs like Flying Wild Alaska, Sarah Palin’s Alaska, and interviews that supplement her income.
Despite her earnings, Sue’s lifestyle requires high expenses due to the costs of supplies, fuel, and maintaining life in the Arctic Circle.
Career Highlights
Sue became a household name through Life Below Zero, a documentary series that chronicles the lives of people surviving in Alaska’s harsh environment. Her grit, humor, and determination quickly made her a fan favorite.
Beyond the show, she has been featured in several other programs, showcasing both her survival expertise and her unique perspective on life away from civilization. In 2017, she filed a lawsuit against the producers of Life Below Zero over filming conditions but the case was later dismissed. Despite this, she continues to appear on the series, maintaining her popularity.
Personal Life and Family
Sue has experienced both love and loss in her personal life. Her first husband died from brain cancer, and her second husband, Eddie James Aikens, passed away in 2004 after their 17‑year marriage ended.
She has two children, a son and a daughter, and is also a grandmother. Living in such a remote location makes it difficult for her to see her family frequently, but she maintains close ties. More recently, Sue has been linked to Michael Heinrich, a journeyman electrician from New York, in what is reported to be a long-distance relationship.
Age and Physical Appearance
As of 2025, Sue Aikens is 61 years old. She stands at around 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) tall and her weight has fluctuated due to health issues and lifestyle changes. At one point she weighed about 77 kg (169 lbs), but after a major weight loss journey, she reportedly shed around 75 lbs in 2020.
Her physical health has been tested numerous times. She famously survived a bear attack in 2007, suffering serious injuries to her hips and head. She has since undergone surgeries and rehabilitation, demonstrating her resilience.
Life in the Alaskan Wilderness
Sue resides at Kavik River Camp, located north of the Arctic Circle. Life here is not for the faint of heart. The conditions are extreme: sub-zero temperatures, limited supplies, and dangerous encounters with wildlife. She spends her days hunting, fishing, repairing equipment, and preparing for long winters.
Her life, while harsh, reflects her deep connection to nature and desire for independence. Living far from urban conveniences is both a challenge and a choice that defines her unique lifestyle.
Social Media Presence
Despite her remote lifestyle, Sue maintains an online presence. Her official Instagram account, @sueaikens, has over 130,000 followers. She shares photos of the Alaskan wilderness, her camp, and moments of her daily life. Her social media is authentic, focusing more on her environment and survival than on celebrity glamour.
She has fewer verified accounts on other platforms, but fans often follow her updates through Life Below Zero’s official channels as well.
Fun Facts
- Bear Attack: In 2007, Sue survived a terrifying grizzly bear attack. She fought off the animal and waited ten days for rescue while severely injured.
- Accelerated Student: She reportedly graduated high school at just 13 years old.
- Flying Skills: Sue has learned how to fly small aircraft, an important skill for survival in Alaska’s remote regions.
- Lawsuit Drama: Her legal battle with the show’s producers brought attention to the risks of reality TV filming in extreme environments.
- Philosophy: Known for her calm voice and pragmatic outlook, she often shares survival wisdom that resonates with fans.
Conclusion
Sue Aikens’ story is a testament to strength, resilience, and individuality. From her challenging childhood to her current life in Alaska, she has embraced a path most would shy away from. With an estimated net worth of $500,000, she balances television fame with a life rooted in survival.
Her journey shows that success is not always about luxury or fame, but about living true to one’s values. Whether through Life Below Zero or her wilderness camp, Sue Aikens continues to inspire audiences worldwide.
FAQs
What is Sue Aikens’ net worth in 2025?
Her net worth is estimated at around $500,000, earned through TV work, her camp, and media appearances.
How much does Sue Aikens earn per episode of Life Below Zero?
Reports suggest she makes about $4,500 per episode, though this figure may vary with contracts.
Where does Sue Aikens live?
She lives at Kavik River Camp, a remote camp north of the Arctic Circle in Alaska.
Did Sue Aikens survive a bear attack?
Yes, in 2007 she survived a grizzly bear attack that left her with serious injuries. She fought back and endured until help arrived.
Does Sue Aikens have children?
Yes, she has two adult children and is also a grandmother.
