Ringo Starr, best known as the legendary drummer of The Beatles, has amassed an extraordinary career spanning over six decades. With his unique drumming style, successful solo career, and continued influence in the music industry, Ringo Starr remains one of the most respected and beloved musicians of all time. But just how much is Ringo Starr worth, and what has contributed to his massive fortune? Let’s take a deep dive into his net worth, career, and personal life.
Ringo Starr’s Net Worth and Financial Success
As of 2025, Ringo Starr’s net worth is estimated to be $350 million, making him the richest drummer in the world. His wealth has primarily been accumulated through his time with The Beatles, solo music career, acting roles, and brand partnerships. He continues to earn millions from royalties, live performances, and business ventures.
Earnings and Income Sources
Even decades after The Beatles disbanded, Starr continues to earn $3–5 million annually through music royalties, touring, and investments. In 2013 alone, he made $3 million from live performances and record sales. His financial success has been further boosted by his real estate holdings and lucrative memorabilia auctions.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born Richard Starkey on July 7, 1940, in Liverpool, England, Ringo Starr was the only child of confectioners Richard and Elsie Gleave. His early life was marked by serious health struggles.
- At age six, he underwent a routine appendectomy, but complications led to peritonitis, leaving him in a coma for several days and requiring a year-long hospital recovery.
- At age 13, he contracted tuberculosis and spent two years in a sanatorium, where he was introduced to percussion instruments.
After being discharged, Starr’s stepfather, Harry Graves, encouraged his love for music by introducing him to big band artists like Dinah Shore and Billy Daniels. This led him to pick up the drums, and he quickly became obsessed with rhythm and percussion.
The Beatles and Global Fame
By the late 1950s, Starr had joined several local bands before finding success with Rory Storm and the Hurricanes. During this time, he officially adopted the stage name Ringo Starr.
In 1962, his life changed forever when he was asked to join The Beatles, replacing Pete Best. With John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison, Starr completed what would become the world’s most famous band. His unique left-handed drumming technique on a right-handed drum kit helped define The Beatles’ iconic sound.
Contributions to The Beatles
While often in the background, Ringo sang lead vocals on several Beatles tracks, including:
- “Yellow Submarine”
- “With a Little Help from My Friends”
- “Good Night”
- “Act Naturally”
He also wrote songs for the band, such as “Don’t Pass Me By” and “Octopus’s Garden”.
The Beatles disbanded in 1970, but Starr remained in the spotlight with a successful solo career and acting endeavors.
Solo Music Career and Continued Success
Following The Beatles’ breakup, Ringo launched his solo music career, releasing numerous hit singles and albums. His early solo albums, including “Ringo” (1973) and “Goodnight Vienna” (1974), were commercially successful.
Some of his biggest solo hits include:
- “It Don’t Come Easy”
- “Photograph”
- “You’re Sixteen”
- “Back Off Boogaloo”
Throughout his career, he has collaborated with Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and many other famous musicians, keeping his music fresh and relevant.
Acting Career and Television Appearances
In addition to his music career, Ringo ventured into acting, appearing in films like:
- “Caveman”
- “Candy”
- “That’ll Be the Day”
- “Son of Dracula”
He also became a well-known voice in children’s television, narrating “Thomas & Friends” and starring in “Shining Time Station”, for which he won an Emmy Award.
Honors and Recognition
Ringo Starr has received numerous awards for his contributions to music and entertainment:
- Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice (with The Beatles and as a solo artist)
- Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2018 for his services to music
- Inducted into the Modern Drummer Hall of Fame in 1998
- Named the 5th Greatest Drummer of All Time by Rolling Stone in 2011
Personal Life and Family
Ringo married Maureen Cox in 1965, and they had three children: Zak, Jason, and Lee. The couple divorced in 1975. Zak Starkey followed in his father’s footsteps and became a successful drummer, performing with Oasis and The Who.
In 1981, Ringo married actress Barbara Bach, whom he met on the set of “Caveman”. The couple remains together and is actively involved in philanthropy.
Ringo is also a vegetarian and an advocate for meditation and peace. His motto, “Peace and Love,” has become his signature message.
Real Estate and Business Ventures
Ringo and his wife own multiple luxurious homes, including properties in:
- Los Angeles, California
- Monte Carlo
- Cranleigh, England
- Chelsea, London
In 2015, Ringo and Barbara auctioned over 1,300 items from their personal collection, raising $9.2 million for charity. The highlight was his 1963 Ludwig drum kit, used during early Beatles recordings, which sold for $2.25 million.
What’s Next for Ringo Starr?
Even in his 80s, Ringo Starr remains active in the music industry. He continues to tour with Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band, delivering live performances worldwide.
In 2023, it was reported that Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney would reunite to release new music, proving that his influence on rock and roll is far from over.