Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and one of the richest individuals in modern history, continues to make headlines not only for his tech legacy but also for his philanthropic efforts and luxurious lifestyle. Despite stepping down from his day-to-day role at Microsoft years ago, Gates has maintained a commanding presence in the worlds of business, energy, and global health. So, how much is he worth in 2025, and what does he spend his fortune on?
Who Is Bill Gates?
Born on October 28, 1955, in Seattle, Washington, Bill Gates is now 69 years old. He was raised in an upper-middle-class family—his father, William H. Gates Sr., was an attorney, while his mother, Mary Maxwell Gates, served on several prominent boards. Gates attended Harvard University but dropped out to co-found Microsoft with childhood friend Paul Allen in 1975.
He married Melinda French in 1994, and the couple has three children. Though they announced their divorce in 2021, they continue to work together on philanthropic projects through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Bill Gates’ Net Worth in 2025
As of May 2025, Bill Gates’ net worth is estimated at $114 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. This places him fourth among the world’s wealthiest individuals. Despite selling or giving away much of his Microsoft stock, Gates remains a key figure in global wealth rankings due to his savvy investments and diverse assets.
He currently owns around 1.3% of Microsoft’s shares, but most of his fortune is now held through Cascade Investment LLC, a private investment firm that manages his wealth across stocks, real estate, and other businesses.
How Does He Earn So Much?
Gates earns an estimated $150 to $200 per second, thanks to dividends, capital gains, and returns on investments. Over the years, he has diversified his holdings into areas like hospitality, farming, clean energy, and luxury real estate. He’s also a major backer of Breakthrough Energy, a $1 billion fund he co-launched in 2015 focused on sustainable, zero-carbon energy solutions.
Philanthropy and The Gates Foundation
Gates is widely regarded as the most influential philanthropist of the 21st century. Through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, he has donated over $36 billion from 1994 to 2018 alone. The foundation works globally to eradicate diseases, improve education, and combat poverty.
His long-term vision involves donating the majority of his wealth. In fact, he has publicly stated that his children will inherit only about 10% of his fortune, ensuring they are comfortable but not dependent on his riches.
A Mansion Unlike Any Other
Gates’ main residence is “Xanadu 2.0”, a futuristic mansion located in Medina, Washington, valued at $127 million. It includes:
- Seven bedrooms and six kitchens
- 24 bathrooms
- A 60-foot swimming pool with an underwater music system
- A massive library with rare manuscripts, including the $30 million Codex Leicester by Leonardo da Vinci
- An earth-sheltered design that uses technology to regulate temperature and lighting
The house also features customized $80,000 digital screens, allowing guests to change artwork and settings with a single button. Perhaps the most unique detail? He reportedly imports sand from St. Lucia in the Caribbean for his private beach.
Real Estate Portfolio and Private Island
Beyond his primary residence, Gates has invested in an impressive range of real estate. Notable properties include:
- A $25 million private island, Grand Bogue Caye in Belize
- A $18 million horse ranch in California, tailored for his equestrian-loving daughter
- Part ownership in the Ritz-Carlton in San Francisco
- Stake in the Charles Hotel in Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Half of the Four Seasons hotel chain
These holdings are managed via his Cascade Investment firm, which has been instrumental in growing his wealth post-Microsoft.
Private Jet and Luxury Cars
Gates owns a Bombardier BD-700 Global Express private jet, capable of seating up to 19 passengers. The jet cost him around $40 million and is used for both business and leisure travel. He also has a vast car collection, with over 23 luxury vehicles, including a Porsche 959 valued at $1 million. Gates has long been a Porsche enthusiast and has been spotted in several high-performance models.
A Lifestyle of Purpose, Not Excess
Despite his wealth, Gates is famously pragmatic. In a 2013 interview with The Telegraph, he said, “I have no use for money.” His public statements and personal choices reflect that view. He has continuously urged the ultra-wealthy to give more and live simpler lives.
Even his vacations tend to focus on comfort and privacy over showy displays of wealth. He prefers quiet luxury, often choosing secluded estates and private retreats.
Final Thoughts
Bill Gates’ net worth may be astronomical, but his approach to wealth is driven by purpose. While his assets include lavish homes, private jets, and rare art, he has also pledged most of his fortune to improve lives around the world. At 69, Gates continues to evolve—from tech mogul to sustainability investor to humanitarian visionary.
Whether you’re inspired by his business acumen, his giving spirit, or his minimal approach to indulgence, one thing is clear: Bill Gates’ influence far exceeds his billions.