America's 15 richest women are not just wealthy; they represent a fascinating tapestry of success, resilience, and familial ties. From two groups of sisters to philanthropic heiresses and widows of tech moguls, these women collectively hold a staggering wealth of $217.5 billion. The list features notable names from the Mars and Walton families, which includes two sets of sisters, showcasing the generational legacy of wealth and influence. This year, Mackenzie Bezos enters the rankings for the first time due to her divorce settlement with Jeff Bezos, while Julia Koch joins the list following the passing of her husband, David Koch. Furthermore, Diane Hendricks proudly maintains the title of the richest self-made woman in America, exemplifying the spirit of entrepreneurship.
In this article, we will explore the stories and backgrounds of these remarkable women, detailing their paths to wealth and the industries they dominate. As we delve into their profiles, you'll discover not only the financial figures but also the personal journeys that shaped their lives and fortunes. The resilience and tenacity displayed by these women serve as inspiration for many, illustrating that success can come in various forms.
So, who are these influential figures, and what stories do they have to tell? Let's take a closer look at the lives of America's richest women and the legacies they are building.
Table of Contents
- Nancy Walton Laurie
- Ann Walton Kroenke
- Victoria Mars
- Valerie Mars
- Pamela Mars
- Marijke Mars
- Diane Hendricks
- Christy Walton
- Blair Parry-Okeden
- Abigail Johnson
- Laurene Powell Jobs
- Jacqueline Mars
- MacKenzie Bezos
- Julia Koch
- Alice Walton
Nancy Walton Laurie
Net worth: $4.6 billion
Source of wealth: Walmart
Age: 68
Nancy Walton Laurie is the daughter of Walmart founder Bud Walton. She inherited half of her father's stake in the company when he died in 1995, solidifying her position within the retail giant.
Ann Walton Kroenke
Net worth: $5.5 billion
Source of wealth: Walmart
Age: 70
Ann Walton Kroenke, also a daughter of Bud Walton, shares a similar story of inheritance and success, receiving half of her father's stake in Walmart, contributing to the family legacy.
Julia Koch and David Koch
(Photo by Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images)
Victoria Mars
Net worth: $6 billion
Source of wealth: Mars Inc.
Age: 62
Victoria Mars is one of the great-granddaughters of the Mars Inc. founder, Frank Mars, ensuring the continuation of her family's influential legacy in the confectionery industry.
Valerie Mars
Net worth: $6 billion
Source of wealth: Mars Inc.
Age: 60
Starting her career at Mars in 1992, Valerie serves as the VP of corporate development, furthering the family's impact in the business world.
Pamela Mars
Net worth: $6 billion
Source of wealth: Mars Inc.
Age: 59
As one of the Mars sisters, Pamela has played significant roles in the company's governance, including a tenure as chairman of the board.
Marijke Mars
Net worth: $6 billion
Source of wealth: Mars Inc.
Age: 55
Marijke is active on the board of directors and represents the family legacy within Mars Inc., contributing to its ongoing success.
Diane Hendricks
Net worth: $7 billion
Source of wealth: ABC Supply
Age: 72
Diane Hendricks is celebrated as the richest self-made woman in the U.S. after founding ABC Supply with her husband and continuing to lead it successfully.
Christy Walton
Net worth: $7 billion
Source of wealth: Walmart
Age: 70
As the widow of John Walton, Christy's wealth is rooted in her late husband's legacy within Walmart, which has continued to flourish.
Blair Parry-Okeden
Net worth: $9.4 billion
Source of wealth: Cox Enterprises
Age: 69
Blair inherited a significant stake in Cox Enterprises and has made her mark while living in Australia.
Abigail Johnson
Net worth: $12 billion
Source of wealth: Fidelity Investments
Age: 57
Abigail's leadership as CEO and chairman of Fidelity Investments has positioned her as a powerful figure in finance.
Laurene Powell Jobs
Net worth: $20 billion
Source of wealth: Apple
Age: 55
The widow of Steve Jobs, Laurene has inherited a massive fortune and is actively involved in philanthropic endeavors.
Jacqueline Mars
Net worth: $37 billion
Source of wealth: Mars
Age: 80
Jacqueline owns a significant portion of Mars, Inc., continuing her family's legacy in the candy industry.
MacKenzie Bezos
Net worth: $37 billion
Source of wealth: Amazon
Age: 49
After her divorce from Jeff Bezos, MacKenzie retained a substantial stake in Amazon and is known for her philanthropy.
Julia Koch
Net worth: $41 billion
Source of wealth: Koch Industries
Age: 57
As the widow of David Koch, Julia inherited a significant stake in Koch Industries and continues to impact various philanthropic ventures.
Alice Walton
Net worth: $50 billion
Source of wealth: Walmart
Age: 70
Alice Walton, the only daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton, has dedicated much of her fortune to art and community projects.
