The Net Worth of the American Presidents: Washington to Trump

John Quincy Adams inherited his father’s Peacefield home. His wife was the daughter of a wealthy merchant. He devoted most of his adult life to public service, notably after leaving office.

Born poor in 1767, Andrew Jackson became wealthy through his law practice. He also inherited a fortune from his wife Rachel. By 1804, Jackson owned nine slaves and was wealthy enough to build a mansion, the Hermitage. As the estate grew more successful, he continued to expand his land and purchase more slaves. Jackson owned about 150 people at the time of his death.

Martin Van Buren had a substantial income as an attorney. He is one of only two men in U.S. history to serve as secretary of state, vice president, and president. He owned the 225-acre Lindenwald estate in upstate New York.

William Henry Harrison married into money – his wife’s father was a prominent judge and landowner. When Harrison’s father died, he inherited 3,000 acres near Charles City, Virginia, which he later sold to his brother. He also owned Grouseland, a mansion and property in Vincennes, Indiana. Despite his assets, Harrison died penniless. Upon his death, Congress created a special pension for his widow.

John Tyler was one of many presidents whose inheritance of land and property became largely his source of wealth. From his parents, he inherited the thriving family tobacco plantation in Virginia. And when his first wife, Letitia, died while he was in office, he inherited her fortune as well.