Prince William Becomes Billionaire, Surpassing King Charles' Net Worth
The Prince of Wales' fortune has reached an estimated $1.6 billion, largely due to his inheritance of the Duchy of Cornwall.
Prince William has officially joined the billionaire ranks, with his net worth now estimated at $1.6 billion, exceeding that of his father, King Charles III. This significant increase in wealth is primarily attributed to his inheritance of the Duchy of Cornwall, a private estate established in 1337 to fund the heir to the throne. The figures were revealed in the Sovereign Grant's newly published yearly accounts, according to reports.
The Duchy of Cornwall, which William inherited when Charles ascended to the throne in September 2022 following Queen Elizabeth II's death, serves as his primary source of income. This estate encompasses approximately 205 square miles of land across the United Kingdom, covering over 20 counties. The Duchy provides funds for the official, charitable, and private activities of William, his wife Kate Middleton, and their three children.
According to the accounts, Prince William received a private income of $28.5 million in the 2025-2026 fiscal year. Since assuming the title of Prince of Wales four years ago, he has reportedly paid over $26 million in taxes.
In contrast, King Charles III's personal fortune is estimated at $846 million, according to the latest Sunday Times Rich List. He had controlled the Duchy of Cornwall for 53 years, taking over the estate in 1969 when he turned 21, before handing over the responsibilities to William upon becoming king.
William recently announced plans to sell 20 percent of the Duchy of Cornwall over the next decade. This strategic move is intended to facilitate investments exceeding $670 million in housing and nature projects within five key areas: Cornwall, Dartmoor, the Isles of Scilly, the Bath area, and Kennington. William stated his aim is to prioritize initiatives that will improve the lives of residents in these regions.
Queen Elizabeth II was reportedly worth between an estimated $489 million to $568 million at the time of her death. Charles's net worth increased upon inheriting her private wealth, which included properties such as Balmoral Castle and Sandringham Estate.