The Kardashian-Jenner Family
Net Worth: $2B
Family Business: Keeping Up With the Kardashians
Industry: Media, Cosmetics
Prominent Member: Kylie Jenner
Family Business: Keeping Up With the Kardashians
Industry: Media, Cosmetics
Prominent Member: Kylie Jenner
Kylie Jenner has recently reached billionaire status so it is only appropriate that the Kardashian family made the list. This Armenian-American family made their presence known through the reality show called Keeping Up with the Kardashians.
Their reality show is a legend on its own, as it is one of the longest-running reality series to ever hit the screens. It is full to the brim with the everyday life of the stars as well as all the drama that accompanies the Kardashian-Jenner household. The family makes money from other side projects as well, and they own several different businesses including in the cosmetic and fashion industries. They also promote different products and use their social media accounts to advertise whatever they are being paid for.
If we take all the wealth in the household together and combine it, we get about two billion dollars. Half of those are contributed by Kylie Jenner alone. She is the youngest billionaire in the United States and that is all thanks to her Kylie Cosmetics company.
Their reality show is a legend on its own, as it is one of the longest-running reality series to ever hit the screens. It is full to the brim with the everyday life of the stars as well as all the drama that accompanies the Kardashian-Jenner household. The family makes money from other side projects as well, and they own several different businesses including in the cosmetic and fashion industries. They also promote different products and use their social media accounts to advertise whatever they are being paid for.
If we take all the wealth in the household together and combine it, we get about two billion dollars. Half of those are contributed by Kylie Jenner alone. She is the youngest billionaire in the United States and that is all thanks to her Kylie Cosmetics company.
The Jolie Family
Net Worth: $160M
Family Business: Jolie Pas
Industry: Film & TV
Prominent Member: Angelina Jolie
Family Business: Jolie Pas
Industry: Film & TV
Prominent Member: Angelina Jolie
We would be lying if we said that the Jolie family has a normal story. We all know Angelina Jolie and we all know where her wealth comes from, but the Jolie family has actually been well off for several generations. She is the daughter of Jon Voight, an actor with an Oscar, after all.
Angelina Jolie made a name for herself in Hollywood thanks to her skill on the screen, as opposed to being the daughter of a famous actor. Nobody questioned her talent, especially since her performance in Girl, Interrupted earned her an Oscar.
Angelina is actually now in the directing waters and produces her own movies as opposed to starring in them. And with directing she is earning much more money than she was when she was acting. She is also tied to numerous different sponsorship contracts, so the money flows in from those as well.
Angelina Jolie made a name for herself in Hollywood thanks to her skill on the screen, as opposed to being the daughter of a famous actor. Nobody questioned her talent, especially since her performance in Girl, Interrupted earned her an Oscar.
Angelina is actually now in the directing waters and produces her own movies as opposed to starring in them. And with directing she is earning much more money than she was when she was acting. She is also tied to numerous different sponsorship contracts, so the money flows in from those as well.
The Marshall Family
Net Worth: $12B
Family Business: Koch Industries
Industry: Investing
Prominent Member: J. Howard II
Family Business: Koch Industries
Industry: Investing
Prominent Member: J. Howard II
The Marshall family is yet another American family who made their fortune selling oil. It all started with Howard Marshall II who founded the empire. He owned some shares in the Great Northern Oil Company but then decided that he would trade them for a 15% stake in Koch Industries.
Howard left his shares of stock to his son J. Howard II, who was not the best example of how to take over a legacy. He actually caused quite a few headaches for the family, because he got into so much trouble with the law.
He then married former Playboy model Anna Nicole Smith in what was quite a huge news story at the time. She was decades younger than him. She actually inherited most of the fortune, and the other family was so infuriated that they even brought her to court for it.
Howard left his shares of stock to his son J. Howard II, who was not the best example of how to take over a legacy. He actually caused quite a few headaches for the family, because he got into so much trouble with the law.
He then married former Playboy model Anna Nicole Smith in what was quite a huge news story at the time. She was decades younger than him. She actually inherited most of the fortune, and the other family was so infuriated that they even brought her to court for it.
The Wynn Family
Net Worth: $3.4B
Family Business: Wynn Resorts
Industry: Hospitality
Prominent Member: Steve Wynn
Family Business: Wynn Resorts
Industry: Hospitality
Prominent Member: Steve Wynn
There are not a lot of families out there who managed to gather a huge fortune and then lose it all. One of those families is the Wynns. Steve Wynn shot to his fortune when he managed to become a billionaire in no other place than Las Vegas. He is the head behind Strip’s most famous hotels and casinos. And that includes the Bellagio and The Mirage.
His success made it possible for him to create his very own resort - the Wynn Resorts. It was one of the most powerful construction companies ever, responsible for the erection of numerous hotels across the globe. Elaine, his wife, was also a huge part of the company and held the position of head of the board for well over a decade.
It was in the 2000s when the company started to sink. The Wynn Resorts stocks were reaching record lows day after day. They managed to turn it all around yet again thanks to some serious restructuring of the business, and they are now well on track to their former glory.
His success made it possible for him to create his very own resort - the Wynn Resorts. It was one of the most powerful construction companies ever, responsible for the erection of numerous hotels across the globe. Elaine, his wife, was also a huge part of the company and held the position of head of the board for well over a decade.
It was in the 2000s when the company started to sink. The Wynn Resorts stocks were reaching record lows day after day. They managed to turn it all around yet again thanks to some serious restructuring of the business, and they are now well on track to their former glory.
The Powell-Jobs Family
Net Worth: $10.2B
Family Business: Apple, Inc.
Industry: Technology
Prominent Member: Steve Jobs
Family Business: Apple, Inc.
Industry: Technology
Prominent Member: Steve Jobs
Steve Jobs, of course, was Apple, Inc.'s iconic CEO until his death in 2011. He was married to Lauren Powell. But as we know, Jobs was not just Apple's CEO – he was also Apple's co-founder and the artistic genius behind his achievement.
Jobs and Steve Wozniak began Apple with a tiny objective in 1976: a groundbreaking private computer. Apple I's machine was a small success. But they did not really shoot to fame until the Apple II.
The business has grown from there to the huge conglomerate it is today, thereby making the Powell-Jobs family highly rich. Unfortunately, in 2003, jobs were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. People with pancreatic cancer usually do not make it for too long. But Jobs was fortunate enough that it was more of a more slow-acting type. He died in 2011, leaving behind a huge heritage of advances in technology.
Jobs and Steve Wozniak began Apple with a tiny objective in 1976: a groundbreaking private computer. Apple I's machine was a small success. But they did not really shoot to fame until the Apple II.
The business has grown from there to the huge conglomerate it is today, thereby making the Powell-Jobs family highly rich. Unfortunately, in 2003, jobs were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. People with pancreatic cancer usually do not make it for too long. But Jobs was fortunate enough that it was more of a more slow-acting type. He died in 2011, leaving behind a huge heritage of advances in technology.
The Bezos Family
Net Worth: $137B
Family Business: Amazon
Industry: E-commerce
Prominent Member: Jeff Bezos
Family Business: Amazon
Industry: E-commerce
Prominent Member: Jeff Bezos
Jeff Bezos is arguably one of the most famous CEOs out there. He managed to bring himself and his family up on top. For those of you who do not recognize Jeff Bezos – he is the CEO and founder of Amazon.
He was born without a silver spoon, however. His mother was still a teenager when Jeff was born, and his father was the owner of a small bike shop. To make matters worse, his parents got divorced when he was just 4-years-old. His mother later got married to Mark Bezos, who was an immigrant from Cuba.
Bezos went to Princeton, and after his graduation, he had numerous offers on his table from several different major tech companies of the time. He even worked on Wall Street as a hedge fund manager back in the 1980s. It was in the year 1994 when he decided to bring Amazon to life. Amazon was actually only a very simple bookstore at its beginning but soon grew to the online store that we all know and love. Amazon has recently even bought out the grocery chain Whole Foods.
He was born without a silver spoon, however. His mother was still a teenager when Jeff was born, and his father was the owner of a small bike shop. To make matters worse, his parents got divorced when he was just 4-years-old. His mother later got married to Mark Bezos, who was an immigrant from Cuba.
Bezos went to Princeton, and after his graduation, he had numerous offers on his table from several different major tech companies of the time. He even worked on Wall Street as a hedge fund manager back in the 1980s. It was in the year 1994 when he decided to bring Amazon to life. Amazon was actually only a very simple bookstore at its beginning but soon grew to the online store that we all know and love. Amazon has recently even bought out the grocery chain Whole Foods.
The Riney Family
Net worth: $3.5B
Family Business: Scottrade
Industry: Financial
Prominent Member: Rodger Riney
Family Business: Scottrade
Industry: Financial
Prominent Member: Rodger Riney
The Riney family is behind the Scottrade. It was founded by Rodger O. Riney who then sold it to TD Ameritrade. Riney was born in the 1940s and has made his presence known since he was still a kid. His grandparents gave him ten shares of stock and introduced him to the stock market. He studied at the University of Missouri.
Because of the deregulation of the brokerage industry back in the 1970s, Riney set forth and started and Scottsdale Securities. The main mission of Scottsdale was to provide trades at a lower commission. The business later branched on to St. Louis. Their internet trading platform has been around since 1996.
The name was later shortened and changed to Scottrade. Riney developed a reputation for being a conservative manager, and Scottrade is one of the best companies one can work for, according to its workers.
Because of the deregulation of the brokerage industry back in the 1970s, Riney set forth and started and Scottsdale Securities. The main mission of Scottsdale was to provide trades at a lower commission. The business later branched on to St. Louis. Their internet trading platform has been around since 1996.
The name was later shortened and changed to Scottrade. Riney developed a reputation for being a conservative manager, and Scottrade is one of the best companies one can work for, according to its workers.
The Lauder Family
Net Worth: $24.3B
Family Business: Estée Lauder
Industry: Cosmetics
Prominent Member: Leonard Lauder
Family Business: Estée Lauder
Industry: Cosmetics
Prominent Member: Leonard Lauder
The Lauder family became rich thanks to their cosmetics company Estée Lauder. They started it all just after the Second World War. It was at that time when the founders Estée and Joseph Lauder, who were husband and wife, started their own business.
Their company was nestled in New York City and offered no more than four basic products: cleansing oil, a crème pack, all-purpose crème, and skin lotion. However, they were all very high quality, and soon became a hit amongst New Yorkers. It took them only two years to save up enough money to open a department store on Saks Fifth Avenue.
Over the next fifteen years, the business saw an expansion of the products being offered. The brand released new labels such as Aramis and Clinique. Then, in the 1990s, Estée Lauder even managed to make it to the top of international sales. Even though they are such a big brand right now, it is all still in the hands of the Lauder family.
Their company was nestled in New York City and offered no more than four basic products: cleansing oil, a crème pack, all-purpose crème, and skin lotion. However, they were all very high quality, and soon became a hit amongst New Yorkers. It took them only two years to save up enough money to open a department store on Saks Fifth Avenue.
Over the next fifteen years, the business saw an expansion of the products being offered. The brand released new labels such as Aramis and Clinique. Then, in the 1990s, Estée Lauder even managed to make it to the top of international sales. Even though they are such a big brand right now, it is all still in the hands of the Lauder family.
The Spielberg Family
Net Worth: $3.7B
Family Business: Amblin, DreamWorks
Industry: Entertainment
Prominent Member: Steven Spielberg
Family Business: Amblin, DreamWorks
Industry: Entertainment
Prominent Member: Steven Spielberg
Steven Spielberg is not only an Oscar-winning director but is also the highest-grossing director of all time. You will recognize his hit movies, such as Jaws, Indiana Jones, Jurassic Park, and Schindler’s List, and many more that we simply cannot fit on the list.
Spielberg along with his wife Kate Capshaw and their children hold on to a wealth of about $3.7 billion. You would think that the vast majority of that treasure comes from his film work, but you would be wrong. Spielberg and his wife made numerous real estate investments throughout the years and managed to turn them into a profit.
Spielberg is not only a director but also a producer. Not only that, he even owns a studio that you might recognize – DreamWorks. It is a mini-studio compared to other Hollywood studios, but it is single-handedly responsible for huge hits such as the Transformers franchise and the Shrek films. And yes, you guessed it, a high percentage of sales from those two franchises goes straight into Spielberg's pocket.
Spielberg along with his wife Kate Capshaw and their children hold on to a wealth of about $3.7 billion. You would think that the vast majority of that treasure comes from his film work, but you would be wrong. Spielberg and his wife made numerous real estate investments throughout the years and managed to turn them into a profit.
Spielberg is not only a director but also a producer. Not only that, he even owns a studio that you might recognize – DreamWorks. It is a mini-studio compared to other Hollywood studios, but it is single-handedly responsible for huge hits such as the Transformers franchise and the Shrek films. And yes, you guessed it, a high percentage of sales from those two franchises goes straight into Spielberg's pocket.
The Ziff Family
Net Worth: $14.4B
Family Business: Ziff Davis, Inc.
Industry: Investing, Publishing
Prominent Member: Dirk Ziff
Family Business: Ziff Davis, Inc.
Industry: Investing, Publishing
Prominent Member: Dirk Ziff
It has only been a few years since the Ziff family decided that they would close their hedge funds and shut down their American and London-based branches. With ownership or not, the Ziff Brothers Investments firm will always be remembered, especially for the role it played on Wall Street.
The brothers who started the investment firm, Dirk and Robert, have long since gone their separate ways and are now pursuing businesses that they prefer. They were born into wealth, prior to starting their own firm. The family's fortune is actually closely tied to William Ziff Sr.’s publishing company.
The latter firm actually continued to grow when William Jr. took over. You might recognize them for publishing the PC Magazine and Car and Driver. The majority of the wealth is now brought in from several different investments. Dirk is now actually the owner of a capital company in New York.
The brothers who started the investment firm, Dirk and Robert, have long since gone their separate ways and are now pursuing businesses that they prefer. They were born into wealth, prior to starting their own firm. The family's fortune is actually closely tied to William Ziff Sr.’s publishing company.
The latter firm actually continued to grow when William Jr. took over. You might recognize them for publishing the PC Magazine and Car and Driver. The majority of the wealth is now brought in from several different investments. Dirk is now actually the owner of a capital company in New York.
The Cannon Family
Net worth: $50 million
Family Business: TeenNick
Industry: Entertainment
Prominent Member: Nick Cannon
Family Business: TeenNick
Industry: Entertainment
Prominent Member: Nick Cannon
Nick Cannon is certainly one of the youngest elite individuals out there, but this award-winning rapper, actor, and producer are amongst the richest. Much of his fortune comes from his music. He was a member of a rap group called Da G4 Dope Bomb Squad in his early beginnings.
He soon became famous thanks to his hits like “Nick’s Story,” “Can I Live?” and “Teach Me How to Dougie.” He then decided that it was time for him to start his own label, and shortly after he opened up his own small record company.
Cannon is also known for his marriage to Mariah Carey, with whom he had three children. They were one of the first power couples of our time until they got divorced later down the road. Nick is now the mastermind behind TeenNick for the Nickelodeon TV network. He also signed an exclusive deal with NBC.
He soon became famous thanks to his hits like “Nick’s Story,” “Can I Live?” and “Teach Me How to Dougie.” He then decided that it was time for him to start his own label, and shortly after he opened up his own small record company.
Cannon is also known for his marriage to Mariah Carey, with whom he had three children. They were one of the first power couples of our time until they got divorced later down the road. Nick is now the mastermind behind TeenNick for the Nickelodeon TV network. He also signed an exclusive deal with NBC.
The Carey Family
Net Worth: $300M
Family Business: The Music of Mariah Carey
Industry: Music
Prominent Member: Mariah Carey
Family Business: The Music of Mariah Carey
Industry: Music
Prominent Member: Mariah Carey
The platinum-selling recording sensation family of Mariah Carey can coast on the amazing wealth of the pop star for centuries to come. Her record sales alone render her one of the all-time's best-selling performers.
Also from Carey's many world trips, music permits, and sponsorship agreements, the Carey family minted a tiny side fortune. Her two kids may be too young to use a lot of the $300 million, but that will alter as quickly as they start filling the garage up with numerous expensive cars.
Over the years, Carey's many divorces divided her true wealth. But with record revenues globally over 200 million, it's safe to say that she is likely going to be okay.
Also from Carey's many world trips, music permits, and sponsorship agreements, the Carey family minted a tiny side fortune. Her two kids may be too young to use a lot of the $300 million, but that will alter as quickly as they start filling the garage up with numerous expensive cars.
Over the years, Carey's many divorces divided her true wealth. But with record revenues globally over 200 million, it's safe to say that she is likely going to be okay.
The Carter Family
Net Worth: $1.3B
Family Business: Roc Nation
Industry: Entertainment
Prominent Member: Beyoncé, Jay-Z
Family Business: Roc Nation
Industry: Entertainment
Prominent Member: Beyoncé, Jay-Z
What do you get by combining the Jay-Z rapper empire with the world-renowned Beyoncé diva empire? Well, you're not just getting one of the largest energy couples in contemporary history – but also one of America's largest net worth.
The merged Carter family maintains approximately $1.3 billion in wealth. Believe it or not, Jay-Z and his record business, Roc Nation, can be ascribed for most of this achievement. Many of the biggest and bestselling albums of the last ten years have been pumped out by the label.
But the amazing fortune of the Carter remains to grow as the pair continues to pump music out, tour the globe, and invest in stuff. They are moguls of real estate in particular.
The merged Carter family maintains approximately $1.3 billion in wealth. Believe it or not, Jay-Z and his record business, Roc Nation, can be ascribed for most of this achievement. Many of the biggest and bestselling albums of the last ten years have been pumped out by the label.
But the amazing fortune of the Carter remains to grow as the pair continues to pump music out, tour the globe, and invest in stuff. They are moguls of real estate in particular.
The Butt Family
Net Worth: $11B
Family Business: H.E. Butt
Industry: Food
Prominent Member: Charles Butt
Family Business: H.E. Butt
Industry: Food
Prominent Member: Charles Butt
The Butt family comes from Texas and they are the proud owners of the grocery store chain called H.E.B. Grocery. It was opened back in 1905, but it actually has quite a tragic reasoning as to why.
Florence Butt founded and opened the store due to her husband's inability to work. He was diagnosed with tuberculosis, and the costs of living skyrocketed. She wanted a store so that they would be able to afford to pay the bills for his treatment, but the community actually loved the place and it all took off immensely. Howard Butt, her son, later took over and under his guidance, the company continued to grow.
Charles Howard, his son, took over and is now the mastermind behind this multi-billion-dollar enterprise. He took the seat of CEO back in 1971 and has been there ever since. The enterprise now owns 329 stores in Texas and 54 stores in Mexico. The estimated worth is set at $22 billion.
Florence Butt founded and opened the store due to her husband's inability to work. He was diagnosed with tuberculosis, and the costs of living skyrocketed. She wanted a store so that they would be able to afford to pay the bills for his treatment, but the community actually loved the place and it all took off immensely. Howard Butt, her son, later took over and under his guidance, the company continued to grow.
Charles Howard, his son, took over and is now the mastermind behind this multi-billion-dollar enterprise. He took the seat of CEO back in 1971 and has been there ever since. The enterprise now owns 329 stores in Texas and 54 stores in Mexico. The estimated worth is set at $22 billion.
The Jackson Family
Net Worth: $2B (estimated)
Family Business: The Michael Jackson Estate
Industry: Entertainment
Prominent Member: Michael Jackson
Family Business: The Michael Jackson Estate
Industry: Entertainment
Prominent Member: Michael Jackson
Although the King of Pop himself passed away a few years earlier, with each passing day, the family of Michael Jackson grows richer and richer. That's because the abrupt death of Jackson in 2009 led fans to purchase up his albums faster than ever before!
Today, the property of Jackson funnels millions to his expanded family members. Neverland Ranch continues to be one of America's most costly real estate pieces.
During his lifetime, Jackson experienced intense controversy, one that follows him long after his death. But few can reject the impact of the singer on music, and the fact that he remains one of history's most lucrative single artists.
Today, the property of Jackson funnels millions to his expanded family members. Neverland Ranch continues to be one of America's most costly real estate pieces.
During his lifetime, Jackson experienced intense controversy, one that follows him long after his death. But few can reject the impact of the singer on music, and the fact that he remains one of history's most lucrative single artists.
The Lucas Family
Net Worth: $5.5B
Family Business: LucasFilm
Industry: Entertainment
Prominent Member: George Lucas
Family Business: LucasFilm
Industry: Entertainment
Prominent Member: George Lucas
George Lucas earned the title of being the richest celebrity figure of all time. He made a name for himself thanks to the success of both American Graffiti and Star Wars. He managed to become famous strictly because he was a pioneer of film’s special effects. Something that you see in the movies everywhere today.
Thanks to Star Wars and a contract that he had signed with 20th Century Fox allowed him to gather quite a fortune that he invested in numerous different film companies. He was the owner of THX, which was the company that revolutionized sound technology. His LucasFilm is probably the most famous one and is behind numerous different movies.
He also pioneered computer technology by using the LucasArts company. They published several different video games; Skywalker Sound, Industrial Light & Magic, and many more. The latter is actually the foundation of all modern special effects ever since the 1970s.
Thanks to Star Wars and a contract that he had signed with 20th Century Fox allowed him to gather quite a fortune that he invested in numerous different film companies. He was the owner of THX, which was the company that revolutionized sound technology. His LucasFilm is probably the most famous one and is behind numerous different movies.
He also pioneered computer technology by using the LucasArts company. They published several different video games; Skywalker Sound, Industrial Light & Magic, and many more. The latter is actually the foundation of all modern special effects ever since the 1970s.
The Jordan Family
Net Worth: $1.9B
Family Business: The Charlotte Hornets
Industry: Sports, Entertainment
Prominent Member: Michael Jordan
Family Business: The Charlotte Hornets
Industry: Sports, Entertainment
Prominent Member: Michael Jordan
There is no basketball player bigger than Michael Jordan. Number 23 managed to climb to success thanks to his spectacular performance playing for the Chicago Bulls in the NBA. He was a very successful individual on the court, and one of the best the game had to offer and inspired many others around him.
He even managed to try himself in acting when he starred in Space Jam. He signed many huge endorsements for Nike and Hanes, and later on, developed his Air Jordan line of sports shoes. He managed to take himself and his family from rags to riches, owning a $2 billion fortune.
Much of the money was actually made thanks to his investment in the Charlotte Hornets. The team is nowhere near as successful as Jordan was on the court, but that does not mean that it is worthless. It is actually worth millions of dollars in ownership.
He even managed to try himself in acting when he starred in Space Jam. He signed many huge endorsements for Nike and Hanes, and later on, developed his Air Jordan line of sports shoes. He managed to take himself and his family from rags to riches, owning a $2 billion fortune.
Much of the money was actually made thanks to his investment in the Charlotte Hornets. The team is nowhere near as successful as Jordan was on the court, but that does not mean that it is worthless. It is actually worth millions of dollars in ownership.
The Ballmer Family
Net worth: $47.8 billion
Family Business: Los Angeles Clippers
Industry: Sports
Prominent Member: Steve Ballmer
Family Business: Los Angeles Clippers
Industry: Sports
Prominent Member: Steve Ballmer
The Ballmer family is one of those families who can thank their patriarch Steve Ballmer, for their immense fortune. He is the owner of the LA Clippers who are an NBA team. Prior to making this investment, he was known as an entrepreneur and even held the position of CEO at Microsoft. He was actually one of the first employees ever hired by Microsoft, and that was way back in the 2000s.
He felt like he needed a change of pace, and retired from his position at Microsoft and bought the Los Angeles Clippers. The price was rumored to be around $2 billion. If the rumors are true then this would be the second-highest amount ever paid for a pro sports team. The team is known for its roller-coaster success.
He felt like he needed a change of pace, and retired from his position at Microsoft and bought the Los Angeles Clippers. The price was rumored to be around $2 billion. If the rumors are true then this would be the second-highest amount ever paid for a pro sports team. The team is known for its roller-coaster success.
The Hearst Family
Net Worth: $24.5B
Family Business: Hearst Corporation
Industry: Publishing
Prominent Member: Patty Hearst
Family Business: Hearst Corporation
Industry: Publishing
Prominent Member: Patty Hearst
The Hearst family is yet another family who has their patriarch, William Randolph Hearst, to thank for their massive wealth. William Randolph was actually the son of a wealthy miner in San Francisco. He borrowed money from his father and purchased The San Francisco Examiner when he was only 24-years-old.
He managed to expand the business and it became a newspaper, radio, and TV empire. According to several different reports, Orson Welles used him as an inspiration for the protagonist of the classic Citizen Kane. His son, William II, later won the Pulitzer award as a journalist.
We are now in the era of William II’s son. He is the current head of the Hearst Corporation. There are not that many families out there who have roots so deep and influence in the media as high as the Hearst family.
He managed to expand the business and it became a newspaper, radio, and TV empire. According to several different reports, Orson Welles used him as an inspiration for the protagonist of the classic Citizen Kane. His son, William II, later won the Pulitzer award as a journalist.
We are now in the era of William II’s son. He is the current head of the Hearst Corporation. There are not that many families out there who have roots so deep and influence in the media as high as the Hearst family.
The Filo Family
Net Worth: $4.9B
Family Business: Yahoo!
Industry: Internet
Prominent Member: David Filo
Family Business: Yahoo!
Industry: Internet
Prominent Member: David Filo
Computer technician David Filo co-founded a tiny company at the start of the Internet age in the mid-1990s that would ultimately turn into an empire. The distinctive software code of Filo would provide the basis for the Yahoo search engine.
Now, one of Earth's single most lucrative Internet businesses, Yahoo! has turned Filo into one of the most important components of Silicon Valley. In 2017, a joint transfer to Verizon Communications sent the net worth skyrocketing for Filo.
The firm spun off numerous lucrative microsites, portals, and internet hubs, each further cementing the reputation of Yahoo as a major provider. It presently employs almost 9,000 people worldwide. That alone merits a stamp of exclamation.
Now, one of Earth's single most lucrative Internet businesses, Yahoo! has turned Filo into one of the most important components of Silicon Valley. In 2017, a joint transfer to Verizon Communications sent the net worth skyrocketing for Filo.
The firm spun off numerous lucrative microsites, portals, and internet hubs, each further cementing the reputation of Yahoo as a major provider. It presently employs almost 9,000 people worldwide. That alone merits a stamp of exclamation.
The Hilton Family
Net Worth: Approximately $4.5B Before Donation
Family Business: Hilton Hotels
Industry: Hospitality
Prominent Member: Barron Hilton, Paris Hilton
Family Business: Hilton Hotels
Industry: Hospitality
Prominent Member: Barron Hilton, Paris Hilton
The Hilton hospitality dynasty was started in 1919 with founder Conrad Hilton's purchase of a Texas hotel. The hotel was wildly successful as the Texas oil boom was happening at the time and there was a high demand for accommodations. Throughout the 1920s and even into the '30s, the empire continued to grow in the southwestern United States, and eventually expanded internationally in the '50s and '60s. His son, Barron Hilton, served as president of the American Football League and helped broker the merger between it and the NFL in 1965, creating the Super Bowl, before taking over as president of the Hilton Hotels Corporation a year later and increasing the worldwide presence of the company and leading the push into Las Vegas, a move that turned out to be very profitable.
Despite the billions they were worth, both father and son donated 97% of their fortunes upon their deaths (Conrad in 1979 and Barron in 2019) to the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, whose mission is to relieve global suffering. Some speculated that Barron's donation was partly in order to keep his fortune out of the hands of his grandchildren, most notably, Paris Hilton, who has made a sometimes less-than-stellar name for herself in pop culture for reasons rather dissimilar to those of her grandfather and great-grandfather.
Despite the billions they were worth, both father and son donated 97% of their fortunes upon their deaths (Conrad in 1979 and Barron in 2019) to the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, whose mission is to relieve global suffering. Some speculated that Barron's donation was partly in order to keep his fortune out of the hands of his grandchildren, most notably, Paris Hilton, who has made a sometimes less-than-stellar name for herself in pop culture for reasons rather dissimilar to those of her grandfather and great-grandfather.
The Murdoch Family
Net Worth: $19.8B
Family Business: News Corp.
Industry: Media
Prominent Member: Rupert Murdoch
Family Business: News Corp.
Industry: Media
Prominent Member: Rupert Murdoch
The Murdoch family is one of the largest and wealthiest media giants out there. It all started with Rupert Murdoch, who was born in Australia, but moved to the United States and became a citizen back in 1985. The family had been in the media business prior, but Rupert took it to a whole new level and expanded the business immensely.
He is the mastermind behind News Corporation which he created after his father passed away. He refused to carry on with his father’s business and wanted to pave his own way in the media world.
News Corp. started slowly by taking over Australia's and New Zealand's print and television news. The business then branched out into the UK, Asia, and the United States. The News Corp. owns Harper Collins and the Wall Street Journal in the latter. The ownership of Fox was transferred to The Murdoch Family Trust.
He is the mastermind behind News Corporation which he created after his father passed away. He refused to carry on with his father’s business and wanted to pave his own way in the media world.
News Corp. started slowly by taking over Australia's and New Zealand's print and television news. The business then branched out into the UK, Asia, and the United States. The News Corp. owns Harper Collins and the Wall Street Journal in the latter. The ownership of Fox was transferred to The Murdoch Family Trust.
The John Family
Net worth: $300 million
Family Business: FUBU
Industry: Apparel
Prominent Member: Daymond John
Family Business: FUBU
Industry: Apparel
Prominent Member: Daymond John
Yet another rags-to-riches story, and probably one of the best we have ever seen. Daymond John started off his path by sewing hats with his mom in their Queens apartment. They then sold them for $10 per hat and managed to become quite successful in their community. They then expanded to include t-shirts, which are now known for their logo: FUBU.
Daymond took out several loans, spent thousands of hours working on the brand, and even had a few celebrity endorsements to get FUBU to where it is at now. Being the brain behind one of the hottest brands on the market earned Daymond a guest judge spot on season five of Shark Tank.
Daymond took out several loans, spent thousands of hours working on the brand, and even had a few celebrity endorsements to get FUBU to where it is at now. Being the brain behind one of the hottest brands on the market earned Daymond a guest judge spot on season five of Shark Tank.
The Nicholson Family
Net Worth: $400M
Family Business: Acting Career
Industry: Film
Prominent Member: Jack Nicholson
Family Business: Acting Career
Industry: Film
Prominent Member: Jack Nicholson
Jack Nicholson is one of the best actors of all time. He won an Oscar three times and was nominated twelve times. Such a successful actor is bound to have a fortune, and he does. Apart from all the money he earned during his acting career, the majority of his fortune came from investments. And those were quite interesting, to say the least. Some were smart, the others were absolutely strange.
One of the strange examples is his purchase of Marlon Brandon’s former Hollywood home. He spent a bit over $6 million on it and then burned it down. According to Nicholson, he did it in memory of his late friend.
Nicholson’s five children can expect quite the inheritance with $400 million to go around. He is still getting money from the Batman spin-offs and all the merchandise being sold from the 1989 film.
One of the strange examples is his purchase of Marlon Brandon’s former Hollywood home. He spent a bit over $6 million on it and then burned it down. According to Nicholson, he did it in memory of his late friend.
Nicholson’s five children can expect quite the inheritance with $400 million to go around. He is still getting money from the Batman spin-offs and all the merchandise being sold from the 1989 film.
The Cuban Family
Net Worth: $3.9B
Family Business: 2929 Entertainment, the Dallas Mavericks
Industry: Film Production, Sports
Prominent Member: Mark Cuban
Family Business: 2929 Entertainment, the Dallas Mavericks
Industry: Film Production, Sports
Prominent Member: Mark Cuban
Mark Cuban is one of the bigger Hollywood names out there. His area of specialty is entertainment and he is the proud owner of several different film companies, and even owns an NBA team. His family was never rich prior, and they were a simple working-class family.
Cuban made a name for himself during his early ventures in software and systems. He then decided that he would try himself in Hollywood and founded a film company called the 2929 Entertainment. Amongst its first projects was the famous George Clooney film Good Night, and Good Luck. It was a very successful indie movie and it even received six Oscar nominations.
With many movies, documentaries, and the purchase of the Dallas Mavericks later, Cuban's wealth is now sitting at almost $4B. If you would like to hear some words of wisdom from the man himself then you can tune in to Shark Tank.
Cuban made a name for himself during his early ventures in software and systems. He then decided that he would try himself in Hollywood and founded a film company called the 2929 Entertainment. Amongst its first projects was the famous George Clooney film Good Night, and Good Luck. It was a very successful indie movie and it even received six Oscar nominations.
With many movies, documentaries, and the purchase of the Dallas Mavericks later, Cuban's wealth is now sitting at almost $4B. If you would like to hear some words of wisdom from the man himself then you can tune in to Shark Tank.
The Dorrance Family
Net Worth: $17.1B
Family Business: Campbell’s Soup
Industry: Food
Prominent Member: John Dorrance, Jr.
Family Business: Campbell’s Soup
Industry: Food
Prominent Member: John Dorrance, Jr.
Yes, this one might sound a bit weird, but we are not making any jokes here. The Dorrance family invented soup back in 1897. John Dorrance came up with the formula for condensed soup. A formula that would make him famous. If you have ever warmed up a good old can of Campbell’s while you were feeling under the weather then you have Dorrance to thank for that. Yes, they are the owners of Campbell’s Soup.
The company has passed down quite a few generations right now, and it is now in the hands of the 11th generation. The business has expanded over the years, and Campbell's also owns Prego, Pepperidge Farms, and V8.
If we take it all into aspect, it is Dorrance’s grandchildren and great-grandson who are now leading the company. His granddaughter, Charlotte, retired in 2014. He also had another grandchild, Ippy, who actually became a citizen of Ireland after renouncing his American citizenship. He also sold all his ten percent of shares from the company and left.
The company has passed down quite a few generations right now, and it is now in the hands of the 11th generation. The business has expanded over the years, and Campbell's also owns Prego, Pepperidge Farms, and V8.
If we take it all into aspect, it is Dorrance’s grandchildren and great-grandson who are now leading the company. His granddaughter, Charlotte, retired in 2014. He also had another grandchild, Ippy, who actually became a citizen of Ireland after renouncing his American citizenship. He also sold all his ten percent of shares from the company and left.
The Duncan Family
Net Worth: $26B
Family Business: Enterprise Products Partner
Industry: Oil and Gas
Prominent Member: Randa Williams
Family Business: Enterprise Products Partner
Industry: Oil and Gas
Prominent Member: Randa Williams
The Duncan family is what the American Dream is all about. Dan Duncan had quite a rough life. He was raised by his grandmother ever since he was seven-years-old. She took care of him after his mother and brother passed away. They lived in Texas at the time and were living in harsh poverty.
Dan wanted to switch his faith around and went out in search of the oil fields. His luck was on his side and he managed to strike oil. With oil came his very own company Enterprise Products Partners. When the United States was in need of oil, the company managed to deliver without a problem. Both oil and gas are still the main source of the Duncan family's wealth today.
The company makes billions of dollars annually. Dan Duncan passed away in 2010, at the age of 77, leaving behind his $10 billion estates to his children, Randa, Milane, Dannine, and Scott. Ever since his passing, the wealth of the family has doubled. Stock prices have risen since then, and the family also made some smart payouts that favored them.
Dan wanted to switch his faith around and went out in search of the oil fields. His luck was on his side and he managed to strike oil. With oil came his very own company Enterprise Products Partners. When the United States was in need of oil, the company managed to deliver without a problem. Both oil and gas are still the main source of the Duncan family's wealth today.
The company makes billions of dollars annually. Dan Duncan passed away in 2010, at the age of 77, leaving behind his $10 billion estates to his children, Randa, Milane, Dannine, and Scott. Ever since his passing, the wealth of the family has doubled. Stock prices have risen since then, and the family also made some smart payouts that favored them.
The Getty Family
Net Worth: $5B
Family Business: Getty Oil
Industry: Oil
Prominent Member: August Getty
Family Business: Getty Oil
Industry: Oil
Prominent Member: August Getty
The Getty family managed to raise their treasury back in the twentieth century through the petroleum industry. The masterminds behind the successful business were George Franklin and his son, Jean Paul. They were not actually American. They moved to the United States from Ireland, and they were of Scottish and Irish descent.
If you take a look at their history, you will see that the family-owned Cullavmor, which later became County Londonderry. George Franklin was actually a lawyer at first, but then sought his luck as an oilman. He managed to strike gold, and pass the company along to his son. He told him that he should invest in both gas and oil.
And that is what Jean Paul did. Getty Oil was born in 1916. It is still here today, and it has grown into an empire. It is still passed down with the generations, and they are making more money with each generation. The Getty family is not without its tragedies, however. Its members seem to pass on at a young age. J. Paul Getty III, the oil tycoon's grandson, was once kidnapped by gangsters and passed away at the age of 54. Andrew and John Gilbert Getty, who were brothers, and also grandsons to the oil tycoon, both passed away too early. Andrew passed away in 2015 at the age of 47 with methamphetamine and heart disease apparently being part of the equation. John Gilbert, an heir to the family fortune, passed away on November 20th, 2020 at the age of 52. He was found unresponsive in his hotel room in San Antonio, but foul play was not suspected.
If you take a look at their history, you will see that the family-owned Cullavmor, which later became County Londonderry. George Franklin was actually a lawyer at first, but then sought his luck as an oilman. He managed to strike gold, and pass the company along to his son. He told him that he should invest in both gas and oil.
And that is what Jean Paul did. Getty Oil was born in 1916. It is still here today, and it has grown into an empire. It is still passed down with the generations, and they are making more money with each generation. The Getty family is not without its tragedies, however. Its members seem to pass on at a young age. J. Paul Getty III, the oil tycoon's grandson, was once kidnapped by gangsters and passed away at the age of 54. Andrew and John Gilbert Getty, who were brothers, and also grandsons to the oil tycoon, both passed away too early. Andrew passed away in 2015 at the age of 47 with methamphetamine and heart disease apparently being part of the equation. John Gilbert, an heir to the family fortune, passed away on November 20th, 2020 at the age of 52. He was found unresponsive in his hotel room in San Antonio, but foul play was not suspected.
The Stryker Family
Net Worth: $35B
Family Business: Stryker Corp.
Industry: Medical
Prominent Member: John Brown
Family Business: Stryker Corp.
Industry: Medical
Prominent Member: John Brown
The Stryker family, on the other hand, had nothing to do with oil or gas. They have been in the spotlight since 1941 thanks to their domination of America’s medical technology sector. And they had been on the top for what is nearly half a century. They have Homer Stryker to thank for their wealth. He was an inventor and managed to invent some new medical equipment. The mobile hospital bed that we all know today was actually one of his inventions.
Homer’s son Lee took over but did not hold the reigns for too long, because he, unfortunately, died in a plane crash. Lee left three children behind, Patricia, Jon, and Ronda. They decided that they would take over the business that their father had.
The Stryker family is currently quite well-known because they had been showing constant support of Democratic and socially liberal causes. They even founded the Arcus Foundation that they use in order to promote LGBTQ rights. They also have the Bohemian Foundation, which is dedicated to arts and culture.
Homer’s son Lee took over but did not hold the reigns for too long, because he, unfortunately, died in a plane crash. Lee left three children behind, Patricia, Jon, and Ronda. They decided that they would take over the business that their father had.
The Stryker family is currently quite well-known because they had been showing constant support of Democratic and socially liberal causes. They even founded the Arcus Foundation that they use in order to promote LGBTQ rights. They also have the Bohemian Foundation, which is dedicated to arts and culture.
The Simmons Family
Net Worth: $5.4B
Family Business: Contran Corporation
Industry: Financial
Prominent Member: Dee Simmons
Family Business: Contran Corporation
Industry: Financial
Prominent Member: Dee Simmons
The Simmons family managed to accumulate their wealth through a grey area of business. They are masters of corporate raiding, and most of their money is of new wealth. It all started with Harold Simmons, who first worked at a drug store, moved on to become a bank examiner, and then start his own company.
The company had one mission in mind, and that was to start with corporate takeovers. They were even included in a publication where Simmons was referred to as a “feared raider.” The plan was that each time a corporation would go into the red, Harold would buy it. He would then strip it down to its bare bones, turn it all around, and make the money that he earned by doing so. He would then move on to the next company.
In the beginning, he only went after the smaller ones. They were far easier to handle than the huge businesses. Make no mistakes. Even if his business plans were a bit evil, he was actually known to be a philanthropist. For example, he donated $200 million to the University of Texas’ Southwest Medical Center in their time of need.
The company had one mission in mind, and that was to start with corporate takeovers. They were even included in a publication where Simmons was referred to as a “feared raider.” The plan was that each time a corporation would go into the red, Harold would buy it. He would then strip it down to its bare bones, turn it all around, and make the money that he earned by doing so. He would then move on to the next company.
In the beginning, he only went after the smaller ones. They were far easier to handle than the huge businesses. Make no mistakes. Even if his business plans were a bit evil, he was actually known to be a philanthropist. For example, he donated $200 million to the University of Texas’ Southwest Medical Center in their time of need.
The Newhouse Family
Net Worth: $18.5B
Family Business: Advance Publications
Industry: Publishing
Prominent Member: Donald Newhouse
Family Business: Advance Publications
Industry: Publishing
Prominent Member: Donald Newhouse
The Newhouse family is yet another family who made their fortune thanks to their powerful publishing and media presence. They are also one of America’s oldest to do so. It all started when Sam Newhouse founded what was a family business at the time, called Advance Publications. After he passed away back in 1979 he left it to his sons, Si and Donald, to take it to the next level.
The two brothers did just that and they are considered to be the biggest moguls of the current media industry. Advance Publications is now known all over the world, and it is the biggest magazine business ever. The company is also branched out, and they own Conde Nast Publications. For those of you unaware – they are the publication behind Vogue, Vanity Fair, and The New Yorker.
They mostly focus on newspapers, and they supply 25 of America’s biggest cities on a daily basis. For those of you, who are of younger generations, the Newhouse family are also Reddit investors and own a big share of Discovery Communications.
The two brothers did just that and they are considered to be the biggest moguls of the current media industry. Advance Publications is now known all over the world, and it is the biggest magazine business ever. The company is also branched out, and they own Conde Nast Publications. For those of you unaware – they are the publication behind Vogue, Vanity Fair, and The New Yorker.
They mostly focus on newspapers, and they supply 25 of America’s biggest cities on a daily basis. For those of you, who are of younger generations, the Newhouse family are also Reddit investors and own a big share of Discovery Communications.
The Mars Family
Net Worth: $89.7B
Family Business: Mars Inc.
Industry: Candy
Prominent Member: Jacqueline Mars
Family Business: Mars Inc.
Industry: Candy
Prominent Member: Jacqueline Mars
It has been almost a century since Franklin Clarence Mars invented a candy that would change how the world views chocolate: the Milky Way chocolate bar. It became a huge hit, and numerous others followed right behind, for example, Skittles, Snickers, Twix, Big Red gum, and M&M’s candies. All of this put together to put the Mars family on the top with a record-shattering wealth.
In current times, Mars Incorporated ventured into other industries too. They now make pet care products, drinks, and created Symbioscience, which is a technology-based health and life sciences business. The company was actually founded by Franklin Clarence Mars back in 1911, which was a bit over a decade before they put out the Milky Way. He was trained in candy making by his mother and used the skills she taught him when it came to hand-dipping the candy.
The company's formal name was The Mars Candy Factory at first. In its beginnings, they sold wholesale candy, but they were not making a lot of money and were even losing it at certain points. That is why Mars decided to try again, from the ground up. The company we know now started its path in Minnesota and soon became an empire.
In current times, Mars Incorporated ventured into other industries too. They now make pet care products, drinks, and created Symbioscience, which is a technology-based health and life sciences business. The company was actually founded by Franklin Clarence Mars back in 1911, which was a bit over a decade before they put out the Milky Way. He was trained in candy making by his mother and used the skills she taught him when it came to hand-dipping the candy.
The company's formal name was The Mars Candy Factory at first. In its beginnings, they sold wholesale candy, but they were not making a lot of money and were even losing it at certain points. That is why Mars decided to try again, from the ground up. The company we know now started its path in Minnesota and soon became an empire.
The Greenberg Family
Net Worth: $1.5B
Family Business: AIG
Industry: Finances
Prominent Member: Robert Greenberg
Family Business: AIG
Industry: Finances
Prominent Member: Robert Greenberg
The Greenberg family started their path to glory in New York City. Maurice “Mark” Greenberg was the CEO of American International Group. The latter is an insurance and finance company and it is one of the largest in the world.
Mark Greenberg was born in New York, and he was also a war veteran. He was a captain within the Army in WWII. He is also a medallion recipient (Bronze star).
Greenberg had a remarkable AIG career. He was appointed to a prime leadership position there. In 2005, he retired and appeared on Good Morning America in 2008 to criticize the directors of AIG. Despite his retirement, through his investments, he and his family remained wealthy.
Mark Greenberg was born in New York, and he was also a war veteran. He was a captain within the Army in WWII. He is also a medallion recipient (Bronze star).
Greenberg had a remarkable AIG career. He was appointed to a prime leadership position there. In 2005, he retired and appeared on Good Morning America in 2008 to criticize the directors of AIG. Despite his retirement, through his investments, he and his family remained wealthy.
The Trinchero Family
Net Worth: $1.9B
Family Business: The Trinchero Family Estates
Industry: Wine
Prominent Member: Roger Trinchero
Family Business: The Trinchero Family Estates
Industry: Wine
Prominent Member: Roger Trinchero
The Trinchero family is a wine empire, much like the Gallo family. Trinchero Family Estates is the fourth largest wine producer in America. Trinchero Family Estates has a huge portfolio of over fifty well-known wine brands.
The Trinchero Family Estates was started in 1947 and is relatively new. In 1947, the Sutter Home Winery was purchased by two brothers, John and Mario Trinchero. St. Helena, California, is located at the Sutter Home Winery. After John's retirement, the Sutter Home Winery remained in the family, with Mario's son working as the lead winemaker.
White Zinfandel was developed by Bob Trinchero, Mario's son, and that became a very successful brand. The company expanded to include, among others, Menage a Trois, Napa Valley, Napa Cellars.
The Trinchero Family Estates was started in 1947 and is relatively new. In 1947, the Sutter Home Winery was purchased by two brothers, John and Mario Trinchero. St. Helena, California, is located at the Sutter Home Winery. After John's retirement, the Sutter Home Winery remained in the family, with Mario's son working as the lead winemaker.
White Zinfandel was developed by Bob Trinchero, Mario's son, and that became a very successful brand. The company expanded to include, among others, Menage a Trois, Napa Valley, Napa Cellars.
The Johnson Family
Net Worth: $28.5B
Family Business: Fidelity
Industry: Financial
Prominent Member: Abigail Johnson
Family Business: Fidelity
Industry: Financial
Prominent Member: Abigail Johnson
Fidelity Investments was founded by the Johnson family (no relationship to S.C. Johnson, also on our list), an investment firm that has grown to be one of the largest investment empires in the United States. The company was founded by Edward C. Johnson II and passed on to his son, Edward Johnson III (known as "Ned").
Ned then passed the company to Abigail, his daughter, though he remains Fidelity's emeritus chairman. Abigail is the official chairwoman who serves as CEO and chairwoman. Fidelity has become a massive international empire ever since Abigail took over. It employs 45,000 people worldwide.
The personal wealth of Abigail Johnson is extraordinary, reaching alone $ 16.5 billion (and almost $ 30 billion for the entire family). She is currently one of the richest women in the world, recently ranked as the fifth "Most Powerful Woman" in the world by Forbes.
Ned then passed the company to Abigail, his daughter, though he remains Fidelity's emeritus chairman. Abigail is the official chairwoman who serves as CEO and chairwoman. Fidelity has become a massive international empire ever since Abigail took over. It employs 45,000 people worldwide.
The personal wealth of Abigail Johnson is extraordinary, reaching alone $ 16.5 billion (and almost $ 30 billion for the entire family). She is currently one of the richest women in the world, recently ranked as the fifth "Most Powerful Woman" in the world by Forbes.
The McMahon Family
Net Worth: $3.3B
Family Business: WWE
Industry: Entertainment
Prominent Member: Vince McMahon
Family Business: WWE
Industry: Entertainment
Prominent Member: Vince McMahon
One of the first wrestling families is the McMahon family. McMahon's father began the WWE, a conglomerate of wrestling and entertainment. After him, McMahon took over the business and is now the president and CEO.
He also founded Alpha Entertainment, the parent of several other athletic companies like XFL Football. McMahon was an athlete of the WWE himself. After retiring from his stage persona, Mr. McMahon, he was also an announcer. He's coming from a long line of promoters.
In addition to his father, the founder of WWE, his grandfather was also a wrestling promoter. Vince's wife, Linda, is the WWE's former CEO and the SBA's current manager. The two have two kids and six grandkids.
He also founded Alpha Entertainment, the parent of several other athletic companies like XFL Football. McMahon was an athlete of the WWE himself. After retiring from his stage persona, Mr. McMahon, he was also an announcer. He's coming from a long line of promoters.
In addition to his father, the founder of WWE, his grandfather was also a wrestling promoter. Vince's wife, Linda, is the WWE's former CEO and the SBA's current manager. The two have two kids and six grandkids.
The Ellison Family
Net worth: $59.9B
Family business: Oracle Corporation
Industry: Tech
Prominent member: Megan Ellison
Family business: Oracle Corporation
Industry: Tech
Prominent member: Megan Ellison
Larry Ellison, the co-founder of the Oracle Corporation tech empire, is among the world's top ten wealthiest men. With an investment of approximately $ 2,000 (half of which was his own money), he created the company from scratch. It became one of the biz's top tech pioneers within a decade.
Oracle develops state-of-the-art software and hardware products. The patriarch's wealth has been filtering to his offspring. His two kids, David, and Megan Ellison, both used their fortune to fund Hollywood movies.
Some of the recent credits from David include Blockbusters such as Star Trek, Mission: Impossible, and Top Gun's upcoming sequel. On the other hand, Megan has produced more indie fare such as The Master, Her, Vice, and Phantom Thread.
Oracle develops state-of-the-art software and hardware products. The patriarch's wealth has been filtering to his offspring. His two kids, David, and Megan Ellison, both used their fortune to fund Hollywood movies.
Some of the recent credits from David include Blockbusters such as Star Trek, Mission: Impossible, and Top Gun's upcoming sequel. On the other hand, Megan has produced more indie fare such as The Master, Her, Vice, and Phantom Thread.
The Walton Family
Net Worth: $151.5B
Family Business: Walmart, Inc.
Industry: Retail
Prominent Member: Jim Walton
Family Business: Walmart, Inc.
Industry: Retail
Prominent Member: Jim Walton
The Walton family is the single richest family in America as of today. Bud and Sam Walton founded the company you might have heard of called Walmart. Since its founding, Walmart has become America's largest retailer and ranks among the world's most profitable companies.
Every year, Walmart generates a whopping $ 482 billion in revenue. Through Walmart, the Walton family has made fantastic gains, personally pocketing over $ 100 billion.
The family has managed to keep the company's share close over the years, owning 50.4 percent of Walmart. For almost two decades now, the family has dominated Forbes ' rich lists, cementing Walmart as the cornerstone of the American economy.
Every year, Walmart generates a whopping $ 482 billion in revenue. Through Walmart, the Walton family has made fantastic gains, personally pocketing over $ 100 billion.
The family has managed to keep the company's share close over the years, owning 50.4 percent of Walmart. For almost two decades now, the family has dominated Forbes ' rich lists, cementing Walmart as the cornerstone of the American economy.
The Frist Family
Net Worth: $11.9B
Family Business: Hospital Corporation of America
Industry: Hospitals
Prominent Member: Thomas Frist, Jr.
Family Business: Hospital Corporation of America
Industry: Hospitals
Prominent Member: Thomas Frist, Jr.
The richest man in Tennessee (and one of the richest in America) is Thomas Frist, Jr. Born into a family of doctors, in the late 1960s, Thomas and his father formed America's Hospital Corporation.
Within a few years, the father-son business exploded beyond the billion-dollar mark. From there, massive businesses, including IBM, were chaired. In 2006, Frist made the largest buyout in American history.
In 2009, Frist left his business to his son, Billy. But he would have become one of the leading shapers of the modern American healthcare system by then already. Also in the medical field are his many brothers, sisters, and children.
Within a few years, the father-son business exploded beyond the billion-dollar mark. From there, massive businesses, including IBM, were chaired. In 2006, Frist made the largest buyout in American history.
In 2009, Frist left his business to his son, Billy. But he would have become one of the leading shapers of the modern American healthcare system by then already. Also in the medical field are his many brothers, sisters, and children.
The Knight Family
Net Worth: $33.8B
Family Business: Nike
Industry: Sportswear
Prominent Member: Phil Knight
Family Business: Nike
Industry: Sportswear
Prominent Member: Phil Knight
Phil Knight, the founder of Nike, is a self-made billionaire. His father ran a local newspaper as the story goes, but refused to give a summer job to a young Knight – instead, he would learn more from finding his own way.
Well, the harsh parenting paid off. Knight found his way into sports quickly, then the United States Army and finished it off with Japanese shoes. These would provide the kernels he needed and would ultimately lead to Nike, his flagship sportswear company.
During a scuba diving trip, Knight's son Matthew passed away from a sudden heart defect in 2004. The death had a profound impact on Knight, eventually leading to his departure as CEO of Nike. But he and his family remain one of America's richest families.
Well, the harsh parenting paid off. Knight found his way into sports quickly, then the United States Army and finished it off with Japanese shoes. These would provide the kernels he needed and would ultimately lead to Nike, his flagship sportswear company.
During a scuba diving trip, Knight's son Matthew passed away from a sudden heart defect in 2004. The death had a profound impact on Knight, eventually leading to his departure as CEO of Nike. But he and his family remain one of America's richest families.
The Kohler Family
Net Worth: $8.3B
Family Business: Kohler Company
Industry: Plumbing Fixtures
Prominent Member: Herbert Kohler, Jr.
Family Business: Kohler Company
Industry: Plumbing Fixtures
Prominent Member: Herbert Kohler, Jr.
If you have ever replaced a faulty pipe, then you're probably already aware of the Kohler Company. The powerful company based in Wisconsin is one of the largest plumbing supply makers in the nation. It is currently being headed by Herbert Kohler, Jr., a billionaire.
Kohler inherited the business as it was passed down generations. By the age of 33, he was running the company's day-to-day business. The financial success of the company has resulted in huge family investments in hospitality, manufacturing, and government.
Kohler Jr. loves to play golf. So much so that in the Open Range film of 2003 he even had a cameo. Didn't hurt being friends with the star of the movie – none other than Kevin Costner, winner of an Oscar.
Kohler inherited the business as it was passed down generations. By the age of 33, he was running the company's day-to-day business. The financial success of the company has resulted in huge family investments in hospitality, manufacturing, and government.
Kohler Jr. loves to play golf. So much so that in the Open Range film of 2003 he even had a cameo. Didn't hurt being friends with the star of the movie – none other than Kevin Costner, winner of an Oscar.
The Meijer Family
Net Worth: $7.3B
Family Business: Meijer
Industry: Supermarkets
Prominent Member: Hank Meijer
Family Business: Meijer
Industry: Supermarkets
Prominent Member: Hank Meijer
Meijer supermarkets are all too familiar to Midwesterners. This massive private company, based in Michigan, is part of the Meijer family. It was founded nearly a decade ago by Hendrik Meijer after the Netherlands immigrant arrived in the U.S.
The 14-year-old son of Hendrik would be one of his first employees. Half a century later, it would become one of the country's largest supermarket chains. It's been worth billions by the 1960s.
Today the company is run by Hank and Doug Meijer, who led the company to massive success in the twentieth century. Since then, they have appointed others to run the daily affairs. But the Meijer clan continues to boom this family business.
The 14-year-old son of Hendrik would be one of his first employees. Half a century later, it would become one of the country's largest supermarket chains. It's been worth billions by the 1960s.
Today the company is run by Hank and Doug Meijer, who led the company to massive success in the twentieth century. Since then, they have appointed others to run the daily affairs. But the Meijer clan continues to boom this family business.
The Green Family
Net Worth: $7B
Family Business: Hobby Lobby
Industry: Retail
Prominent Member: David Green
Family Business: Hobby Lobby
Industry: Retail
Prominent Member: David Green
In the early 1970s, to invest in his own business idea, David Green used all the money in his pocket – $ 600. This would transform into the flagship empire of his family within two years: a massive chain of arts and crafts stores known as the Hobby Lobby.
Green and his family own Hobby Lobby, and they have invested in various different religious causes throughout the world. They found themselves in trouble by doing so.
Most infamously, in Iraq and Israel, Hobby Lobby was captured transporting archeological products from archeological digs – and trying to use the artifacts for a museum of the Bible. The firm was sanctioned $ 3 million and the smuggled artifacts were forced to make a return.
Green and his family own Hobby Lobby, and they have invested in various different religious causes throughout the world. They found themselves in trouble by doing so.
Most infamously, in Iraq and Israel, Hobby Lobby was captured transporting archeological products from archeological digs – and trying to use the artifacts for a museum of the Bible. The firm was sanctioned $ 3 million and the smuggled artifacts were forced to make a return.
The Sobrato Family
Net Worth: $6.6B
Family Business: The Sobrato Organization
Industry: Real Estate
Prominent Member: John A. Sobrato
Family Business: The Sobrato Organization
Industry: Real Estate
Prominent Member: John A. Sobrato
John A. Sobrato may be the owner of one of the country's largest real estate companies, but he mainly has to thank his mom for it. His mother became the pioneer of the real estate industry by investing all of the money she had into the company.
John started his own real estate business by the time he was old enough. The resulting business, the Sobrato Organization, owns coast-to-coast land, office space, and residential plots.
The three children of Sobrato used this incredible wealth to lead their own investments towards massive success. For example, his son owns part of the NFL team from San Francisco – the 49ers.
John started his own real estate business by the time he was old enough. The resulting business, the Sobrato Organization, owns coast-to-coast land, office space, and residential plots.
The three children of Sobrato used this incredible wealth to lead their own investments towards massive success. For example, his son owns part of the NFL team from San Francisco – the 49ers.
The Love Family
Net Worth: $7B
Family Business: Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores
Industry: Retail, Gas Stations
Prominent Member: Tom Love
Family Business: Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores
Industry: Retail, Gas Stations
Prominent Member: Tom Love
If you have ever made a cross-country road trip across America, you cannot tell how many Love's Travel Stops & Country Stores you have passed along the journey. That is due to the fact that Love's is one of the country's biggest gas and comfort stores.
Husband and spouse duo, Judy and Tom Love, are the creators of the business. It began as a tiny service center that they then fully transformed. They would then grow across the U.S. within a century.
Love's was purchasing up rivals and doing endorsements everywhere. They reached an agreement with the NBA most lately to position Oklahoma City Thunder logos in select shops. They are presently operating in 41 out of 50 countries. Hey, that is not terrible!
Husband and spouse duo, Judy and Tom Love, are the creators of the business. It began as a tiny service center that they then fully transformed. They would then grow across the U.S. within a century.
Love's was purchasing up rivals and doing endorsements everywhere. They reached an agreement with the NBA most lately to position Oklahoma City Thunder logos in select shops. They are presently operating in 41 out of 50 countries. Hey, that is not terrible!