Herb Kelleher Net Worth (Updated 2025).

Herb Kelleher, born in 1931, began his career in the legal field after graduating from law school. He started as an attorney, but his entrepreneurial spirit and innovative ideas soon led him to the airline industry.

In 1966, Kelleher, along with a group of investors, founded Southwest Airlines. He served as the company’s CEO and Chairman for over three decades, transforming Southwest into a major player in the airline industry.

Herb Kelleher’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Herb Kelleher’s estimated net worth stands at an impressive $2.5 billion. This substantial fortune is a testament to his successful business acumen and innovative approach to the airline industry.

Career

Herbert D. Kelleher, often known as “Herb,” co-founded Southwest Airlines in 1967 and served as its CEO and Chairman for over 20 years. Under his leadership, Southwest became one of the most successful and beloved airlines in the U.S., known for its low-cost fares and exceptional customer service.

Other Ventures

In addition to his work at Southwest, Kelleher has been involved in various other ventures. He has served on numerous corporate boards, including those of AMR Corporation (parent company of American Airlines) and Valero Energy Corporation. He also co-founded the low-cost airline Morris Air, which was later acquired by Southwest.

Assets

Kelleher’s assets include a significant stake in Southwest Airlines, which he has gradually reduced over the years. He also owns properties in Texas, including a ranch in Johnson City. His personal art collection, featuring works by artists like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, is also a notable asset.

Annual Income

As of 2025, Herb Kelleher’s annual income is estimated to be around $10 million. This includes his salary from Southwest Airlines and other business ventures, as well as income from his investments and assets.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Herb Kelleher

Frequently Asked Questions about Herb Kelleher’s Net Worth

1. What is Herb Kelleher’s net worth?

Herb Kelleher’s net worth is estimated to be around $2.5 billion.

2. How did Herb Kelleher make his fortune?

Herb Kelleher co-founded Southwest Airlines in 1967 and served as its CEO and Chairman for many years. He is credited with revolutionizing the airline industry with his innovative business model.

3. What was Herb Kelleher’s role at Southwest Airlines?

Herb Kelleher served as the CEO and Chairman of Southwest Airlines from 1967 to 2008. He was also the company’s President from 1978 to 2001.

4. When was Herb Kelleher born?

Herb Kelleher was born on March 12, 1931.

5. Where did Herb Kelleher grow up?

Herb Kelleher grew up in Haddon Heights, New Jersey.

6. What is Herb Kelleher’s educational background?

Herb Kelleher graduated from Wesleyan University in 1953. He then served in the United States Marine Corps before attending New York University School of Law, where he earned his law degree in 1956.

7. When did Herb Kelleher pass away?

Herb Kelleher passed away on January 3, 2020.

8. What are some of Herb Kelleher’s notable achievements?

Herb Kelleher was inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 1997 and the Texas Business Hall of Fame in 1998. He was also named “CEO of the Year” by Fortune magazine in 1998.

9. How did Herb Kelleher revolutionize the airline industry?

Herb Kelleher revolutionized the airline industry by introducing a low-cost, no-frills business model that focused on short hauls, quick turnaround times, and point-to-point routes. He also pioneered the use of humor and customer service to differentiate Southwest Airlines from its competitors.

10. What was Herb Kelleher’s philosophy on business?

Herb Kelleher believed in treating employees well and empowering them to provide excellent customer service. He once said, “If the employees come first, then they’re happy… A happy employee is a good employee, and they want to stay with the company.”