15 Wildest Perks That U.S. Presidents Get to Enjoy
Being President of the United States isn’t just about signing bills and giving speeches. It also has some unbelievable perks that make an already powerful job even more extraordinary. Ever wondered what makes life in the White House so special? This article lists a few privileges that go way beyond fancy dinners and motorcades.
Secret Service for Life
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Once someone steps into the Oval Office, they’re never really alone again. Former presidents receive full-time Secret Service protection even after leaving the White House. A team of highly trained agents follows them everywhere—to the grocery store, on vacation, even for a casual walk.
Nuclear Football Access
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Everywhere the president goes, so does a military aide carrying the nuclear football. This briefcase holds the launch codes for America’s atomic arsenal and allows the president to authorize an attack from anywhere. Inside is a communications device and a set of classified documents. It’s the most powerful briefcase in the world—literally.
Exclusive Invitations to Major Events
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When you’re a U.S. president, you’re automatically on every guest list that matters: front-row seats at the Super Bowl, Oscars, International Summits, and more. It doesn’t stop after leaving office, either. Former presidents are still invited to high-profile events and often seated alongside world leaders, celebrities, and business tycoons.
24/7 Doctor
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Presidents have a team of medical professionals ready at any time. The White House Medical Unit is stationed inside the residence and provides immediate medical care. This includes routine checkups, emergency treatments, and even surgery if necessary. A doctor is always in the presidential entourage, even during travel.
Living in the White House
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Few addresses are more famous than 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. The White House features 132 rooms, a private gym, and a bowling alley. It’s become part home, part fortress, and part national museum. Every president has the perks of adding personal touches and redecorating certain areas to leave their mark even as they step down.
Blair House
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The White House seems to have it all, but Blair House is always ready to welcome guests and visitors. It is located right across the street and has over 100 rooms! The Blair House has housed visiting dignitaries, presidents-in-waiting, and even sitting presidents in times of transition.
Air Force One
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Air Force One is a flying command center. This customized plane has a private suite, conference rooms, a full kitchen, and the ability to refuel midair. It’s designed to withstand electromagnetic pulses and has top-secret communication systems to keep the president connected at all times.
Marine One
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A fleet of helicopters called Marine One is always on standby, ready to take off from the White House lawn. They’re designed for stealth, can operate in nearly any weather, and are escorted by multiple identical helicopters to keep enemies guessing—no need for a rideshare app when you have a military-grade chopper.
Owning The Beast
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The Beast is a heavily armored Cadillac that looks more like a tank than a car. It has reinforced tires and a sealed cabin to protect against chemical attacks. It’s also required to stock a supply of the president’s blood type.
Access to Camp David
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When the White House feels too busy and the President feels overwhelmed, there’s Camp David. This has been a presidential getaway since Franklin D. Roosevelt’s time. It offers hiking trails, a swimming pool, and a golf range. The isolation and top-tier security make it the perfect place for a president to refresh.
Personal Chef
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The White House Executive Chef and an entire kitchen staff are available 24/7 to prepare anything the president desires. They can request a late-night snack, a family dinner, or a high-stakes state banquet and expect to receive a Michelin-starred quality.
Personal Trainer
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Running the country is a stressful job, so having a way to burn off steam is necessary. Many presidents have worked with fitness experts to maintain their health, and their workouts range from jogging to weightlifting.
Private Movie Theater
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Being president comes with plenty of stress, but at least there’s a built-in way to unwind. The White House has a private movie theater to give presidents and their families access to whatever they want to watch. Franklin D. Roosevelt first converted a cloakroom into a screening room in 1942, and every commander-in-chief has enjoyed the perk since then.
Presidential Library & Museum
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Most people pack up their desks when they leave a job. But former U.S. presidents get an entire library and museum dedicated to their time in office. The library and museum are filled with exhibits, artifacts, and even replicas of the Oval Office. The best part is that they’re open to the public and serve as research hubs.
A Navy Ship Named After Them
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Even presidents from long ago, like Abraham Lincoln, have their names on ships sailing the seas. Other examples include the USS Ronald Reagan and the USS Jimmy Carter. It’s a pretty epic tribute, especially since these floating fortresses play a significant role in national defense.