Net Worth: $120 Million
Category: Richest Politicians › Royals
Birthdate: June 21, 1982
Birthplace: Paddington, London, United Kingdom
Profession: Royal, Military Officer
Nationality: United Kingdom
Prince William, Prince of Wales, is a senior member of the British royal family and the first in line to the throne. As the eldest son of King Charles III and the late Princess Diana, William has dedicated his life to royal duties, public service, and family while accumulating significant wealth through inheritances and royal estates.
Sources of Wealth
The Diana Trust
When Princess Diana and King Charles divorced, Diana received a settlement of $24 million, which grew to $40 million adjusted for inflation. This money was placed into a trust for her sons. Upon turning 30, William inherited $20 million, which forms a substantial part of his personal fortune.
The Duchy of Cornwall
Following his father’s ascension to the throne in 2022, William became the Duke of Cornwall and the beneficiary of the Duchy of Cornwall, a 133,000-acre real estate portfolio spanning 23 counties in the UK. The duchy generates annual after-tax revenues of $20–30 million, supporting William’s official and personal expenses. The duchy is valued at approximately $1.3 billion.
Early Life and Education
William was born William Arthur Philip Louis on June 21, 1982, at St. Mary’s Hospital, London. Known affectionately as “Wombat” by his parents, he grew up under the global spotlight due to his royal lineage. William experienced the tragic loss of his mother, Princess Diana, in 1997, an event that deeply influenced his commitment to mental health advocacy.
He attended Eton College, breaking the royal tradition of Gordonstoun, and later graduated from the University of St Andrews in Scotland, where he met his future wife, Kate Middleton.
Military Career
Prince William followed a distinguished path in the military. Highlights include:
- Commissioned as a lieutenant in the Blues and Royals regiment of the Household Cavalry.
- Completed training as a helicopter pilot at the Royal Air Force College Cranwell.
- Served as a Search and Rescue Force pilot at RAF Valley, co-piloting Sea King helicopters.
- Promoted to flight lieutenant, William was actively involved in rescues across the UK.
He retired from active military service in 2013 but retains honorary military titles.
Marriage and Family
On April 29, 2011, William married Kate Middleton in a widely celebrated ceremony at Westminster Abbey. Shortly before the wedding, he was given the titles Duke of Cambridge, Earl of Strathearn, and Baron Carrickfergus.
The couple has three children:
- Prince George of Wales (born 2013)
- Princess Charlotte of Wales (born 2015)
- Prince Louis of Wales (born 2018)
The family resides in Adelaide Cottage on the Windsor estate and Kensington Palace in London.
Royal Duties and Public Service
As a senior royal, Prince William undertakes a wide range of public duties, including representing the Crown, attending state events, and supporting numerous charitable initiatives. He has been heavily involved in mental health advocacy, environmental conservation, and supporting veterans.
Charitable Work
- Co-founded the Royal Foundation with Harry and Kate, focusing on mental health, conservation, and youth initiatives.
- Championed the Heads Together campaign to encourage conversations about mental health.
- Advocates for conservation through initiatives like United for Wildlife and Earthshot Prize.
Inheritance and Real Estate
Royal Estates
- Kensington Palace: Official London residence.
- Anmer Hall: A country home in Norfolk gifted by Queen Elizabeth II.
- Adelaide Cottage: A recent move for the family, offering privacy and proximity to Windsor Castle.
Crown Jewels and Palaces
Though William does not personally own many royal assets, he benefits from their use. Properties such as Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle remain part of the Crown Estate, held in trust for the reigning monarch.
Public Image
William is widely regarded as a modern, relatable royal. His approachable demeanor, combined with his dedication to public service, has made him a popular figure in the UK and worldwide. His emphasis on mental health and environmental issues reflects his commitment to addressing contemporary challenges.
Legacy and Future
As the Prince of Wales, William is poised to inherit the throne, becoming the head of the British monarchy. His focus on modernizing royal traditions while maintaining the Crown’s significance positions him as a transformative figure for the future of the monarchy.
