Irwin Jacobs Net Worth (Updated 2025).

Irwin Jacobs, a name synonymous with innovation and entrepreneurship, began his career in the heart of the tech revolution. Born in 1936, Jacobs was always fascinated by electronics and mathematics, a curiosity that led him to pursue a degree in electrical engineering from Cornell University. After graduating, he joined the military, serving as an electronics officer, where he honed his skills in signal processing and communications.

Following his military service, Jacobs joined the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) as a professor in 1966. He co-founded his first company, Linkabit, in 1968 with Andrew Viterbi. Linkabit was a pioneer in digital signal processing and satellite communications, and it was here that Jacobs’ reputation as an innovator began to take shape. The company’s success laid the groundwork for Jacobs’ future endeavors.

Irwin Jacobs’ Current Net Worth

As of 2025, Irwin Jacobs’ current net worth is estimated to be around $2.5 billion, according to Forbes and Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

Career

Irwin Jacobs co-founded Qualcomm in 1985, a multinational corporation known for its work in the wireless telecommunication sector. He served as the CEO until 2005 and remained as the executive chairman until 2012. Jacobs is widely recognized for his significant contributions to the development of CDMA technology.

Other Ventures

Beyond Qualcomm, Jacobs has invested in various other ventures. He is a co-founder of the Jacobs Institute for Engineering Work at the University of California, San Diego. He also serves on the board of directors for the Salk Institute for Biological Studies and the Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute.

Assets

Jacobs’ assets include a significant stake in Qualcomm, as well as real estate holdings. He owns a mansion in La Jolla, California, valued at around $20 million. He also owns a private jet and has made substantial donations to various philanthropic causes.

Annual Income

As of 2021, Irwin Jacobs’ annual income was estimated to be around $10 million, primarily from his stake in Qualcomm and other investments. However, this figure can fluctuate based on the company’s performance and market conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Irwin Jacobs

Frequently Asked Questions about Irwin Jacobs

1. What is Irwin Jacobs’ net worth?

Irwin Jacobs’ net worth is estimated to be around $4.5 billion.

2. How did Irwin Jacobs make his fortune?

Irwin Jacobs co-founded Qualcomm, a multinational semiconductor and telecommunications equipment company, in 1985. He served as the CEO from 1985 to 2005 and as the chairman until 2012.

3. What is Irwin Jacobs’ role at Qualcomm?

Irwin Jacobs is the co-founder and former CEO and chairman of Qualcomm. He currently serves as the chairman emeritus of the company’s board of directors.

4. What are some of Irwin Jacobs’ philanthropic efforts?

Irwin Jacobs and his wife, Joan, have established the Jacobs Family Foundation, which supports various educational, scientific, and cultural causes. They have also made significant donations to the University of California, San Diego, where Irwin Jacobs earned his Ph.D. in electrical engineering.

5. What is the Jacobs Family Foundation involved in?

The Jacobs Family Foundation supports a wide range of initiatives, including the Jacobs School of Engineering at UC San Diego, the San Diego Symphony, and various scientific research projects. It also funds the Jacobs Institute for Molecular Medicine at the University of California, San Diego.

6. What is Irwin Jacobs’ educational background?

Irwin Jacobs earned his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in electrical engineering from the University of Pennsylvania, Cornell University, and the University of California, San Diego, respectively.

7. What awards has Irwin Jacobs received?

Irwin Jacobs has received numerous awards and honors, including the National Medal of Technology and Innovation, the IEEE Founders Medal, and the Marconi Prize. He is also a member of the National Academy of Engineering and the National Academy of Sciences.

8. When was Qualcomm founded?

Qualcomm was founded in 1985 by seven entrepreneurs, including Irwin Jacobs.

9. What are some of the technologies Qualcomm is known for?

Qualcomm is known for developing and commercializing various technologies, including CDMA and LTE wireless communications standards, and the Snapdragon line of processors used in mobile devices.

10. What is Irwin Jacobs’ current role at Qualcomm?

Irwin Jacobs currently serves as the chairman emeritus of Qualcomm’s board of directors. He is not involved in the company’s day-to-day operations.