This article was originally published on 365Economist
Jim Justice II ($1 Billion) - West Virginia
Although the full amount of Jim Justice II's wealth is not fully known, it is safe to say that he is technically a billionaire (even if he is the "poorest" one on this list). If only everyone could be as "poor" as Jim Justice II. Living in West Virginia and also governing the state, that is not the source of his vast wealth. Greenbrier, one of West Virginia’s most historic - and most popular - resorts, is actually the real reason he is so wealthy.
Although Greenbrier is the base of his wealth, he was lucky enough to have a great foundation of wealth that he inherited from his father. It was a coal business that was sold to Mechel in the early 2000s.
Steve Green and Family ($1.3 Billion) - Oklahoma
Steve Green and his family, living in the state of Oklahoma, are billionaires without a big back story. In 1970, David Green took out a $600 loan to open up a home business in his garage selling picture frames. Somehow this turned into a very successful business over the years and they created Hobby Lobby which has made the entire family extremely wealthy, turning them into billionaires. Steve Green is the current president and CEO of the company.
As with most people who have amassed large amounts of wealth, there is always a little bit of scandal surrounding how they choose to spend their money. The Hobby Lobby family has been nabbed for smuggling ancient artifacts out of Iraq.
T. Denny Sanford ($2.1 Billion) - South Dakota
T. Denny Sanford, hailing from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, faces an unusual predicament: his overwhelming desire to give away his entire fortune and live without wealth. He has donated over $1.5 billion to charity and yet he is still quite financially stable. How did he get into this position in the first place? He owns First Premier Bank, a major issuer of Mastercard credit cards. So it's no surprise that he is as wealthy as he is.
He is probably the only person on this list who is trying to get rid of his wealth!
Anita Zucker ($2.1 Billion) - South Carolina
Born and raised in South Carolina, Anita Zucker has become a notable figure in both business and philanthropy (not surprising considering her $2.1 billion fortune). Zucker's life journey took a significant turn when she assumed the leadership of InterTech Group, an industrial company that focused on chemical manufacturing. Over the years, InterTech Group has expanded its reach into various sectors, including chemicals, aerospace, and commercial real estate, contributing to Anita's great success.
She is listed as one of the top 100 wealthiest people in the United States and has used her wealth greatly for philanthropic efforts throughout her lifetime.
Glen Taylor ($2.5 Billion) - Minnesota
Up in the North Star State of Minnesota, you'll find Glen Taylor, a billionaire whose life journey is intertwined with business and sports. Taylor's rise to riches began with the Mankato-based Taylor Corporation, a printing and marketing company he transformed into a major player. Beyond business, he's perhaps best known for his ownership of the Minnesota Timberwolves NBA team, as well as the Minnesota Lynx in the WNBA. Taylor's commitment to sports extends to philanthropy, where he's generously invested in the community and education.
With a low-key persona, Glen Taylor's influence in Minnesota resonates not only in the corporate world but also on the courts and in the hearts of Minnesotans.
Donald Trump ($2.5 Billion) - District of Columbia
Although the District of Columbia is not technically a state, it will still be included on this list of "states and their billionaires". It also probably comes as no surprise that the richest person in the District of Columbia is Donald J. Trump. He inherited his real-estate business from his father in 1971 and used it to build his fortune and create a real estate empire that is comparable to none.
Of course his four years as President of the United States is one of the most important events in his life, arguably even more than his real estate empire and his vast wealth.
Frank Vandersloot($3.3 Billion) - Idaho
Frank Vandersloot, a billionaire with a remarkable journey, has made his presence felt well beyond his home state of Idaho. Born in Idaho Falls, Frank started his career in door-to-door sales, a humble beginning that laid the foundation for his future success. He later became the CEO of Melaleuca, a health and wellness company, and transformed it into a powerhouse in the industry. It's rare to see billionaires who started out with very humble beginnings and zero family wealth to give a foot up.
Vandersloot has used some of his wealth to purchase land all across America, focusing specifically on Idaho, Utah, and Montana. It seems at heart that he is still close to his farming family roots.
Jonathan Nelson ($3.4 Billion) - Rhode Island
If you are wondering how Jonathan Nelson managed to amass over $3.4 billion in wealth, the answer is simple. He embarked on his career with a solid foundation in finance, honing his skills on Wall Street. In 1986, he co-founded Providence Equity Partners, a private equity firm that became synonymous with savvy investments in media, communications, and technology companies. Under Nelson's leadership, Providence Equity Partners managed to grow into the successful company that it is today.
Although you might not expect this from Wall Street gurus, Nelson actually makes quite a philanthropic effort and tries to enjoy the simpler things in life.
Gail Miller ($3.9 Billion) - Utah
Out in the picturesque state of Utah, you'll come across Gail Miller, a billionaire whose life story is as captivating as her success. Gail, along with her late husband Larry H. Miller, transformed a single Toyota dealership into a thriving automotive empire. The Larry H. Miller Group of Companies now spans multiple industries, from sports and entertainment to real estate. Gail Miller's philanthropic endeavors have made her a respected figure in Utah, focusing on education and community development.
Miller has also written her own book entitled Courage To Be You: Inspiring Lessons From An Unexpected Journey that was written to help people realize their dreams.
James and Thomas Duff ($4.6 Billion) - Mississippi
So the place for the richest people in the state of Mississippi is actually a tie. And the tie is between two brothers - James and Thomas Duff, each of whom is worth $2.3 billion. Their journey to financial success began with the founding of Duff & Phelps in 1932, a company specializing in automotive parts and services. Over the years, the company turned into Dura Automotive Systems, a global leader in the automotive industry, bringing immense wealth to the two brothers.
The Duff brothers have maintained their strong values despite their insane wealth and they keep their business motto alive of“simply taking care of customers better than anyone else.”
Arturo Moreno ($4.8 Billion) - Arizona
Arturo Moreno, based in California, is known for more than just his deep pockets. As the owner of the Los Angeles Angels, Moreno has made his mark in the sports world. He's the only Mexican-American to own a major sports team in the U.S. Besides his baseball endeavors, Moreno made his fortune through outdoor advertising with Outdoor Systems Inc., which he sold to Infinity Broadcasting for a hefty sum.
His presence in California extends beyond business, as he's actively involved in philanthropic efforts, including education and healthcare initiatives, making him a prominent figure in the Golden State. At least he is making good use of his $4.8 billion wealth.
Gayle Benson ($5.3 Billion) - Louisiana
It probably doesn't come as a big surprise that one of America's billionaires is someone who owns multiple sports teams. Gayle Benson, with $3.2 billion to her name is not only the richest person in Lousiana, but also one of the richest people in America. She owns the Saints from the NFL and the Pelicans from the NBA. She inherited both of these teams after her husband Tom passed away.
Although she did inherit this wealth, it wasn't easy for her to actually acquire the teams. She had to fight for years in court in order to win the legal dispute with her late husband's daughter and grandchildren.
Les Wexner and Family ($6 Billion) - Ohio
Born and raised in Ohio, Les Wexner's journey began with modest beginnings. Wexner's entrepreneurial spirit led him to found L Brands, a retail conglomerate that includes iconic brands like Victoria's Secret and Bath & Body Works. Under his visionary leadership, these brands became household names, shaping the fashion and beauty industry. Although he was not the founder of the company, he acquired it when it was just a small, failing chain of lingerie shops in San Francisco.
He was the CEO of the company for over 50 years before selling the majority of his stakes following his connections with Jeffrey Epstein.
Pierre Omidyar ($6.3 Billion) - Hawaii
Pierre Omidyar, a billionaire who lives in Hawaii, is someone with a fascinating journey that begins in his past. Pierre's story starts in France, where he was born, and later, his family moved to the United States. It was in his garage that he co-founded eBay, the online marketplace that revolutionized e-commerce (you've probably heard of it). Omidyar's innovative spirit and commitment to creating opportunities for small businesses led to eBay's success.
Beyond this, he's delved into philanthropy through the Omidyar Network, focusing on social impact and investing in ventures that seek to make the world a better place so he seems to be using his success and wealth for good things!
Jim Kennedy ($6.7 Billion) - Georgia
You've probably heard of the Kennedy family if you know anything about US history or some of the presidents of the United States. John F. Kennedy is probably the most famous of the Kennedy family, however, Jim Kennedy should be noted as well, at least for his fortune of around $6.7 billion. What did he do to gain this wealth? He is the heir to the privately-held automotive and media company Cox Enterprises, which was handed down to him by his parents.
Cox Enterprises controls the third-biggest cable operator in the U.S., so it would make sense that Jim Kennedy has been able to acquire as much wealth as he has.
Dennis Washington ($7 Billion) - Montana
You probably wouldn't think that the path to wealth would start with the purchase of a bulldozer at the age of thirty. However, that is exactly what happened with Dennis Washington and he has only increased his wealth ever since, growing to be the richest person in Montana with around $7 billion in fortunes. He made his wealth by founding Washington Companies a diversified group with interests in mining, shipping, and transportation.
His legacy serves as a testament to the American dream, where a Montana native can rise to become a billionaire, leaving an enduring impact on both industry and philanthropy.
Stephen Bisciotti ($7.2 Billion) - Maryland
Despite what you might think after hearing the name, Stephen Bisciotti is not immendsley wealthy thanks to the invention or marketing of the famously delicious Italian biscuit, Biscotti. He earned his wealth in a very opposite field, by founding the largest staffing company in the US, known as Aerotek. Following his passions, he has also acquired the NFL team of the Ravens from Maryland (fitting for his Maryland residency).
Considering Bisciotti was always very passionate about sports, specifically football, basketball, and baseball. It would make sense that one of his priorities in spending his wealth would be to buy his favorite sports team.
Tamara Gustavson ($7.3 Billion) - Kentucky
Tamara Gustavson, born in 1961, is a wealthy figure known for her involvement with Public Storage. She inherited her wealth from her father, B. Wayne Hughes, who co-founded Public Storage in 1972. As a board member, she plays a key role in the company's leadership and strategic decisions. It seems that she really lucked out when it came to families though as just about all of her wealth was passed down.
Not all of her $7.3 billion fortune was gifted from her father and her inheritance, however. She also invested wisely in real estate, growing her wealth to the current level.
John Overdeck ($7.3 Billion) - New Jersey
The story of John Overdeck unfolds as a tale of quantitative genius and financial prowess. Overdeck's journey began with a strong foundation in mathematics, honed during his time at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). From there, he ventured into the world of finance, co-founding Two Sigma Investments, a hedge fund renowned for its data-driven and systematic approach to investing, making Two Sigma into a leading force in the financial industry.
Despite his relatively low profile, Overdeck's impact resonates in the financial world and extends to philanthropy, where he's generously contributed to educational and scientific research initiatives.
James Goodnight ($8.5 Billion) - North Carolina
Born in North Carolina, Goodnight's journey began with a strong foundation in mathematics, which he honed during his academic years at North Carolina State University. His entrepreneurial spirit led to the founding of SAS (Statistical Analysis System) in 1976, a company that would become a global leader in analytics software. The company has grown quite a bit since then and is used by 83,000 organizations all around the world.
Mr. Goodnight has also used his fortune for some good, creating the Cary Academy, a private school in his North Carolina hometown.
Victoria Mars ($9.7 Billion) - Pennsylvania
You might recognize the name Mars, especially if you are a chocolate lover. Even if you hate chocolate, then you probably still have at least heard of the Mars Incorporated candy empire. And if you have heard of it then you are probably not surprised at all to hear that Victoria Mars and her three sisters are now extremely wealthy as a result of their great-grandfather who started the business in 1911.
M&Ms, Skittles, Milky Way, and so many more candies are only part of the candies that the Mars group produces. Victoria Mars, as a result, has a net worth of around $9.7 billion.
Harry Stine ($9.7 Billion) - Iowa
Harry Stine's journey from a modest upbringing in Iowa's heartland to becoming a prominent figure in the world of agriculture is an inspiring tale. He embarked on a pioneering venture by establishing Stine Seed, a company specializing in licensing corn and soybean genetics. His innovative approach caught the attention of agricultural giants like Monsanto and Syngenta, who sought his genetics expertise. As the CEO of Stine Seed, Harry Stine plays a pivotal role in developing seed genetics.
Harry Stine has also generously donated millions to institutions like McPherson College, Drake University, and Spurgeon Manor, so at luckily he is trying to better the world with the help of his finances.
Carl Cook ($9.8 Billion) - Indiana
Carl Cook was born in Bloomington, Indiana, in 1962, into the Cook family, where entrepreneurship and innovation were part of the family legacy. His father, Bill Cook, started Cook Group in 1963, initially producing medical devices from a spare room in their apartment. Growing up, Carl Cook was exposed to the inner workings of Cook Group. This early exposure to business would set him up for life once he inherited his father's successful company.
Over the years, Cook Group's success in the world of medical devices led to very high wealth accumulation for Carl Cook and his family. The company's products are widely used in healthcare settings, and its global presence has contributed to its financial success.
Philip Anschutz ($14.8 Billion) - Colorado
Nestled in the heart of Colorado resides Philip Anschutz, a billionaire whose impact spans multiple sectors. Anschutz is a prominent figure in the world of business, with diversified interests that encompass energy, real estate, and entertainment. His business empire includes AEG, a renowned company that boasts sports team ownership and orchestrates large-scale concerts and events. Beyond entertainment, Anschutz has a significant presence in the energy sector, with investments in oil and railroad enterprises as you might guess from his almost $15 billion worth.
He's a low-key billionaire who tends to keep out of the spotlight, but his influence in Colorado and beyond is undeniable, making him a big player in the world of the wealthy.
Ray Dalio ($15.4 Billion) - Connecticut
In the affluent state of Connecticut resides Ray Dalio, a billionaire known for his profound influence in the world of finance. Dalio founded Bridgewater Associates, one of the world's largest hedge funds, which has earned him a reputation as a hedge fund titan. His investment strategies, including a focus on risk management, have made him a significant figure on Wall Street. Now his net worth stands at a bit over $15 billion.
It's crazy to think that he started off his life being influenced by the wealthy when he worked as a caddy at a high end golf course when he was just 12 years old.
Dan Gilbert ($18.7 Billion) - Michigan
Back in 1985, at the young age of 22, Dan Gilbert embarked on an entrepreneurial journey that would reshape the mortgage industry. He founded Quicken Loans, a venture that would later evolve into the largest online mortgage lender. Beyond the world of finance, Gilbert wears multiple hats. He's the proud owner of the NBA's Cleveland Cavaliers and has poured his energy and resources into the revival of Detroit's real estate, demonstrating a profound commitment to the city's resurgence.
Gilbert is currently focused on a new endeavor: bringing major league soccer to the heart of downtown Detroit, trying to improve the state of the city through sports.
Thomas Frist Jr. And Family ($21.1 Billion) - Tennessee
Down in Tennessee, you'll find the extremely rich Rhomas Frist Jr along with his entire family. Together they have a fortune of around $21.1 billion (give or take a few million). Frist started his life out in the Air Force as a flight surgeon but quickly used that knowledge to make the world a better place while also making a fortune in the process. He founded his own hospital company called Hospital Corp. of America.
Although the hospital business may have had humble beginnings, it now owns and operates 185 hospitals and 1,800 sites of care in 21 states in the United States and London.
John Menard Jr ($22.5 Billion) - Wisconsin
John Menard Jr. has carved a prominent niche in the world of retail and entrepreneurship. His story begins with the founding of Menard, Inc., a home improvement retail chain, in 1960. What started as a small store in Wisconsin evolved into one of the largest privately-owned home improvement chains in the United States. Although you may have only heard of this chain if you are living in the midwest, it is quite a well known household name.
Menard holds his employees and his company to the highest standards, from the executives to the lower level employees. He is a very strict person when it comes to his business.
Abigail Johnson ($25.5 Billion) - Massachusetts
Right in the heart of Massachusetts, you've got Abigail Johnson, a billionaire who's a big deal in the financial world. She's the boss at Fidelity Investments, a name you've probably heard if you're into money stuff. Abigail is actually the third generation of her family running the show there. She's brought Fidelity into the modern era with high-tech services and those robo-advisors you might've heard about. Plus, she's all about getting more women into finance, which is pretty cool.
So, Abigail Johnson's not just a billionaire; she's a force in finance, and she's doing it all from the Bay State. It's not so clear exactly what she is doing with her whopping $25.5 billion fortune, but it seems like mostly good things.
Thomas Peterffy ($28.7 Billion) - Florida
In sunny Florida, you'll find Thomas Peterffy, a billionaire worth almost $30 billion, with a remarkable journey through the financial world. Hailing from Hungary, he arrived in the U.S. with just a few dollars and a dream. Peterffy's entrepreneurial spirit led him to create Interactive Brokers, a major player in the online brokerage sphere. He's a tech-driven trailblazer, renowned for his pioneering work in electronic trading, reshaping how people invest wisely and easily.
Despite his substantial wealth, Peterffy maintains a modest profile and is also notable for his advocacy of free-market principles. However, now one of his greatest happinesses in life are his recently purchased horses.
Sheldon Adelson ($29.8 Billion) - Nevada
If you ever wondered anything about the world of casinos in Las Vegas and who makes all the money off the industry...the man behind it all was Sheldon Adelson. He was the CEO and founder or the Las Vegas Sands Corporation. He owned half of the gambling empire that he has built and so it comes as no surprise that he has made it to having almost $30 billion in fortunes.
He was also famous for founding countless businesses during his lifetime before passing away in 2021. He was very passionate about entrepreneurship.
Ken Griffin ($35.4 Billion) - Illinois
When it comes to the finance world, there's hardly anyone who hasn't heard of Ken Griffin. His name is practically synonymous with success, as he ranks among the wealthiest individuals globally. He's the founder and CEO of Citadel, a financial institution that has not only weathered the turbulent seas of Wall Street but has also emerged as a dominant force. Under Griffin's stewardship, Citadel has navigated the complexities of the financial world, propelling him into the elite ranks of billionaires.
Griffin's portfolio extends beyond Citadel, with investments in various industries. His influence touches highly profitable companies like Citadel Securities.
Jacqueline Mars ($38.9 Billion) - Virginia
You might not be surprised to see another person with the last name Mars on this list. After all, the Mars candy empire seemed to have a few children and they were all able to be quite rich as a result of all their family's success. Jacqueline is very similar to her Pennsylvania located sister, only she is living in Virginia. Just like her billionaire Pennsylvania sister Victoria, Jacqueline Mars has used her wealth to pursue her passion of equestrianism.
Jacquline used to work full time in the Mars company on the board of directors, however, she recently stepped down and let her son take over as chariman.
Wyoming: John Mars ($38.9 Billion) - Wyoming
It seems that the Mars family is taking over the list of billionaires in the United States...and they are spread out all over the country. Just like his sisters, John Mars inherited a huge chunk of the giant Mars candy company which he shares with Victoria and Jacqueline. He is currently tied for the place of 32nd wealthiest person in the world and comically he is tied with his sister Jacqueline for this place.
John Mars is currently living in Wyoming in a massive home (more like a mansion) and they rarely make appearances in public as he and his family prefer to live quiet lives.
Phil Knight and Family ($41 Billion) - Oregon
Phil Knight and his family have etched an extraordinary chapter in the annals of sports and business history. The tale begins with Knight's founding of Blue Ribbon Sports in 1964, a modest venture that would ultimately evolve into the iconic Nike, Inc. Over the decades, Phil Knight's visionary leadership catapulted Nike to the global stage. The introduction of the iconic "Swoosh" logo and endorsements from legendary athletes like Michael Jordan solidified Nike's status as a cultural phenomenon.
It's no surprise that this successful company has made Knight into one of the top 20 wealthiest people on the planet, with around $41 billion in wealth.
Charles Koch ($54.5 Billion) - Kansas
From the heart of Kansas emerges the story of Charles Koch someone who helped to change the face of America's businesses. Charles, alongside his brother David, transformed their father's modest oil refining company into a global powerhouse. Today, Koch Industries is a sprawling conglomerate with interests in energy, manufacturing, and more. Charles Koch is currently the chairman and CEO of the company and has steered it through decades of growth and diversification, making it the incredible powerhouse that it is today.
Beyond business, Charles Koch is renowned for his advocacy of libertarian principles, emphasizing personal freedom and free-market capitalism. He has also written a few books to help teach people about these subjects.
Alice Walton ($66.5 Billion) - Texas
Being rich in Texas takes on another meaning compared to wealth in some other states. However, that isn't even that relevant as Alice Walton is not only the wealthiest woman in Texas but also the wealthiest woman in the world. Can you guess what she did to get her fortune? She was the heir to the Walmart fortune. It's no surprise that she is as wealthy as she is today.
Alice's brothers both work for Walmart, making it the store that it is today, however, Alice preferred to use her wealth to enjoy a life surrounded by the arts. She owns a gallery in Arkansas and spends her time focused on that.
Jim Walton ($67.6 Billion) - Arkansas
You have already seen that the Walmart family has made it onto this list a few times. After all, there is probably not a person who hasn't heard of Walmart or shopped there or at least understood how successful it has been in the world. Jim Walton is the son of the founder of Walmart, Sam Walton, and as a result, has lucked out in the financial world, making him on the list of top 10 richest people in the world.
All of his money was earned by being on the board of Walmart and owning shares in the company worth over $11 billion dollars.
Michael Bloomberg ($96.3 Billion) - New York
Even if you haven't heard of Michael Bloomberg in the sense of wealth, you probably know him as the mayor of New York City for over ten years. However, his wealth was amassed long before his years in politics, and even took a salary of $1 a year while he was serving in office. Bloomberg is the co-founder of Bloomberg LP, whose business interests range from media to data.
Bloomberg is on the list of the top ten wealthiest people in the world, which doesn't come as a big surprise when you take a look at his $96 billion in wealth.
Warren Buffett ($121.3 Billion) - Nebraska
There is probably no one in the world who hasn't heard of Warren Buffet. The name is practically synonymous with wealth as he is one of the wealthiest people in the whole world (number 4 to be exact). Born and raised in Nebraska, he has a whopping net worth of about $121.3 billion. He is the founder and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, which owns more than 60 highly profitable companies, including Geico, Duracell, and Dairy Queen.
One of the most remarkable parts of Warren Buffet is that he is very determined to use his wealth towards the greater good and promises to donate 99% of his wealth to charity.
Larry Ellison ($139.9 Billion) - California
Larry Ellison, a billionaire whose influence extends far beyond his roots, is a true tech trailblazer. Born in New York City, Ellison co-founded Oracle Corporation, a global leader in database software, and grew it into an industry giant. His innovation and competitive drive have made him a key player in the tech world, especially as his company was founded in 1977, just at the beginning of the tech craze. His timing was perfect and led to his immense success.
Oracle, Ellison's company is a major finance companies such as Wells Fargo, CitiBank, and JPMorgan Chase. It's no surprise that he is in the top 5 wealthiest people in the US and top 10 in the world.
Jeff Bezos ($151.9 Billion) - Washington
Even if you haven't heard of any of the people on this list so far, there is little to no chance that you haven't heard of Jeff Bezos, the CEO and founder of Amazon. There is probably no one in the world who doesn't know of Amazon and who doesn't use it on a regular basis, so it would come as no surprise that he is the wealthiest man in the world for at least eight years running.
Bezos started Amazon from very humble beginnings, rich out of his Seattle garage in 1994. It wasn't long (only about five years later), that the company completely took off and turned Bezos into a millionaire.