Buffalo Bill Cody, born William Frederick Cody, began his remarkable career at the tender age of 14. After his father’s death, Cody took on the responsibility of supporting his family, securing a job as a messenger on the Pony Express. This role required him to traverse treacherous terrain, often facing harsh weather conditions, and it was here that Cody honed his skills as a skilled rider and marksman.

Cody’s fame began to spread during his time as a buffalo hunter in the late 1860s. At the height of the railroad boom, Cody was hired to supply the Kansas Pacific Railroad with buffalo meat for its workers. His reputation grew as he consistently provided the railroad with thousands of buffalo, earning him the nickname “Buffalo Bill.” It was during this time that Cody met William “Buffalo Bill” Comstock, who would later become his business partner in the famous Wild West show.

Buffalo Bill Cody’s Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Buffalo Bill Cody’s net worth is estimated to be around $250 million, according to the latest available information.

Career

William Frederick “Buffalo Bill” Cody, born in 1846, was an American soldier, bison hunter, and showman. He became famous for his Wild West shows, which he founded in 1883. Cody’s shows featured cowboy themes and displays of frontier skills, attracting large audiences across the United States and Europe.

Other Ventures

Cody’s entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond his Wild West shows. He was a co-founder of the town of Cody, Wyoming, and established the Irma Hotel in 1899. He also wrote an autobiography, “The Life of Hon. William F. Cody: Known to the World as Buffalo Bill,” published in 1904.

Assets

Cody’s assets included his Wild West show company, real estate in Wyoming, and various personal items such as his collection of firearms and Native American artifacts. His estate, estimated at over $10 million at the time of his death in 1917, was left to his daughter, Irma Cody Lucille.

Annual Income

At the height of his career, Buffalo Bill Cody’s annual income was estimated to be around $500,000, equivalent to approximately $14 million in 2021 dollars. This income primarily came from his Wild West shows, which were highly successful and attracted large crowds worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Buffalo Bill Cody

Buffalo Bill Cody Net Worth FAQs

1. What is Buffalo Bill Cody’s net worth?

Buffalo Bill Cody’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million.

2. How did Buffalo Bill Cody make his money?

Buffalo Bill Cody made his fortune through his career as a buffalo hunter, U.S. Army scout, and showman. He founded Buffalo Bill’s Wild West, a successful touring show that showcased cowboy life and skills.

3. When was Buffalo Bill Cody born?

Buffalo Bill Cody was born on February 26, 1846.

4. Where was Buffalo Bill Cody born?

Buffalo Bill Cody was born in Scott County, Iowa.

5. When did Buffalo Bill Cody die?

Buffalo Bill Cody died on January 10, 1917.

6. How did Buffalo Bill Cody die?

Buffalo Bill Cody died of kidney failure and heart failure at the age of 70.

7. What was Buffalo Bill Cody’s real name?

Buffalo Bill Cody’s real name was William Frederick Cody.

8. Did Buffalo Bill Cody really kill 4,280 buffalo in 18 months?

No, this claim is a myth. Buffalo Bill Cody himself claimed to have killed 4,280 buffalo in 18 months, but this number is likely exaggerated. The actual number is believed to be around 2,000.

9. Was Buffalo Bill Cody a friend of Native Americans?

Buffalo Bill Cody had complex relationships with Native Americans. While he had friendships with some individuals, his Wild West shows often perpetuated stereotypes and romanticized violence against Native Americans.

10. Where is Buffalo Bill Cody buried?

Buffalo Bill Cody is buried in the Golden Cemetery in Lookout Mountain, Colorado.