TRENTON — Gov. Chris Christie is the fourth highest paid governor in the nation, according to a report today by Stateline.



Christie, who is compensated $175,000 a year as the chief executive, is topped only by the governors of New York, Illinois and Michigan. He ties for the fourth spot with the Virginia governor.



The Stateline report found that on average, chief executive compensation across the nation is on the decline. Three states, California, Florida and Hawaii, all reduced the pay for the chief executive between 2009 and 2010. The decrease in California from $212,179 to $173,987 bumped Christie into the fourth slot.



Stateline also found that several governors across the country decline their salary, like Florida Gov. Rick Scott and Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam. Former New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine, who was independently wealthy, accepted only $1 in compensation each of his four years in office. Christie collects the full gubernatorial salary.



In addition to a salary, the New Jersey governor receives $75,000 stipend, use of the gubernatorial residence in Princeton, Drumthwacket, and use of a summer home at Island Beach.



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