Throughout American history, a select group of founding families have achieved extraordinary financial success through smart business decisions and strategic investments. We'll explore the lives and legacies of 15 of the wealthiest families in the U.S., revealing how they earned their fortunes, which have endured for generations. From the Pulitzer family, whose media empire transformed journalism, to the Rockefeller family, whose patriarch became America’s first billionaire, these families have made impactful financial decisions that created vast generational wealth.
Each of these families has not only built remarkable fortunes but has also shaped various industries through their innovative approaches and investments. Join us as we explore the stories behind these iconic families and uncover the impressive net worths that set these families up for the future. Every rich family got their start somewhere, and you’ll find out exactly where and how these families got their wealth and influence. Information on net worth is pulled from Forbes.
Cox Family - $34.5 Billion
Cox Enterprises was founded in 1898 by James M. Cox and was the foundation of the Cox family fortune. Originally a newspaper business, it expanded into radio, television, and later cable and telecommunications with Cox Communications.
The company's diversification into media, broadband, and automotive services, including ownership of Autotrader and Kelley Blue Book, fueled its growth. The family's strategic leadership and investments have secured their $34.5 billion net worth across generations.
S.C. Johnson Family - $38.5 Billion
The S.C. Johnson family built their fortune through S.C. Johnson & Son, founded in 1886 by Samuel Curtis Johnson. The company began with floor care products and expanded into household cleaning and consumer goods with iconic brands like Windex, Pledge, and Ziploc.
As a privately-owned business, it thrived through innovation and global expansion, maintaining family leadership across generations. Today, the S.C. Johnson family holds a net worth of $38.5 billion, making them one of America's wealthiest families.
Cargil-MacMillan Family - $60.6 Billion
Cargill, Inc. was founded in 1865 by William W. Cargill. Initially a grain storage business, it expanded into a global agricultural and commodities powerhouse, dominating markets in food production, trading, and logistics.
The family's fortune grew as the company remained privately owned, reinvesting profits and diversifying into sectors like energy and transportation. Today, the Cargill-MacMillan family has a combined net worth of $60.6 billion.
Mars Family - $117 Billion
The Mars family is the richest “old money” family in America today. Their fortune got its start through Mars, Inc., founded in 1911 by Frank Mars. The company started with popular candies like Milky Way and Snickers, later expanding into pet care with brands like Pedigree and Whiskas.
Under the leadership of family heirs, Mars, Inc. grew into a global food giant with a diverse portfolio in candy, pet food, and beverages. Today, the Mars family has a net worth of $117 billion, largely due to its privately-owned business.
Astor Family - $138 Billion
The Astor family amassed great wealth, peaking at $138 billion (adjusted for inflation), through real estate and fur trading, led by John Jacob Astor in the 19th century. Over time, mismanagement, lavish spending, and inheritance splits diminished their fortune.
By 2015, the remaining $14.5 million sparked a legal battle among descendants after the death of Brooke Astor. This showed just how much of the family's vast wealth went down the drain over generations. The fortune went to Brooke Astor’s son’s wife, Charlene Marshall.
