The Net Worth of the American Presidents: Washington to Trump

Source: Hulton Archive / Getty Images

George Washington
> Term: 1789-1797 (1st president)
> Peak net worth (in current dollars): $587.0 million

His Virginia plantation, “Mount Vernon,” consisted of five separate farms on 8,000 acres of prime farmland, run by over 300 slaves. His wife, Martha Washington, inherited a substantial amount of property from her first husband. Washington made significantly more than subsequent presidents: his salary was two percent of the total U.S. budget in 1789.

Source: White House research / Wikimedia Commons

John Adams
> Term: 1797-1801 (2nd president)
> Peak net worth (in current dollars): $21.3 million

Adams received a modest inheritance from his father. His wife, Abigail Adams, was a member of the Quincys, a prestigious Massachusetts family. Adams owned a handsome estate in Quincy, Massachusetts. The estate, known as “Peacefield,” covered approximately 40 acres. He also had a thriving law practice.

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Thomas Jefferson
> Term: 1801-1809 (3rd president)
> Peak net worth (in current dollars): $236.8 million

Jefferson was left 3,000 acres and several dozen slaves by his father. “Monticello,” his home on a 5,000 acre plantation in Virginia, was one of the architectural wonders of its time. He made significant money in various political positions before becoming president, but was left mired in debt towards the end of his life.

Source: National Archives / Getty Images

James Madison
> Term: 1809-1817 (4th president)
> Peak net worth (in current dollars): $113.3 million

Madison was the largest landowner in Orange County, Virginia, with land holding consisting of 5,000 acres and the “Montpelier” estate. He made significant money as secretary of state and president. Madison lost money at the end of his life due to the steady financial collapse of his plantation.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

James Monroe
> Term: 1817-1825 (5th president)
> Peak net worth (in current dollars): $30.4 million

Monroe’s wife, Elizabeth, was the daughter of wealthy British officer. He made significant money during eight years as president, but entered retirement severely in debt and was forced to sell his Highland plantation, which included 3,500 acres.