Elliot Yamin
Elliot Yamin has had a steady career in music since finishing third on the fifth season of American Idol. Despite never having a big hit, he has nine modestly successful albums to his credit and a net worth of around $6 million. Yamin, who is diabetic, has donated both time and money to diabetes causes.
Clay Aiken
Clay Aiken is another example of a contestant who did not win but went on to make a lot of money. Despite losing to Ruben Studdard, he has published six studio albums, participated on nine big tours, and once campaigned for Congress. As a result, Aiken now has around $7 million to spend on whatever he wants.