Averell Harriman Net Worth (Updated 2026).

Averell Harriman, born into wealth and privilege in 1891, began his career in the world of finance, a path paved by his family’s influence. After graduating from Yale University, he joined the Union Pacific Railroad, a company with which his father, E. H. Harriman, had been closely associated. Here, Averell honed his business acumen, rising through the ranks to become a vice president by the age of 30.

Harriman’s rise to fame, however, was not limited to the realm of business. In the 1930s, he turned his attention to politics, becoming a key figure in the Democratic Party. He served as a special envoy to the Soviet Union during World War II, negotiating with Joseph Stalin and playing a crucial role in the Allied war effort. His diplomatic skills and political prowess made him a household name, and he continued to be a prominent figure in American politics for decades to come.

Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Averell Harriman’s current net worth is estimated to be around $6 billion, according to the latest available information. This figure is subject to change and may not reflect recent transactions or market fluctuations.

Career

Averell Harriman, born in 1917, is a prominent American businessman and diplomat. He is the son of railroad magnate Edward Henry Harriman. Averell served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and later became a U.S. Ambassador to the Soviet Union and the United Kingdom. He also served as the U.S. Secretary of Commerce under President Lyndon B. Johnson. Throughout his career, Harriman has been involved in various business ventures, including investments in real estate, finance, and energy.

Other Ventures

In addition to his diplomatic and political roles, Harriman has been involved in numerous business ventures. He is the founder of the investment firm, Averell Harriman & Co., and has also served as the chairman of the Union Pacific Railroad. Harriman has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including the establishment of the Harriman Institute at Columbia University, which focuses on Russian, Eurasian, and East European studies.

Assets

Averell Harriman’s assets include significant stakes in various businesses, such as the Union Pacific Railroad and the investment firm, Averell Harriman & Co. He also owns extensive real estate properties, including a 30,000-acre estate in Wyoming and a 1,500-acre estate in New York. Additionally, Harriman’s art collection, which includes works by Picasso and Monet, is valued at over $100 million.

Annual Income

As a businessman and investor, Averell Harriman’s annual income is derived from his various investments and business ventures. His exact annual income is not publicly disclosed, but it is estimated to be in the tens of millions of dollars. His income is generated from dividends, capital gains, and his role as the chairman of the Union Pacific Railroad.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Averell Harriman

Frequently Asked Questions: Averell Harriman Net Worth

1. What was Averell Harriman’s net worth?

Averell Harriman’s net worth was estimated to be around $100 million at the time of his death.

2. How did Averell Harriman make his fortune?

Averell Harriman made his fortune through his business career, primarily as a railroad executive and later as a diplomat. He was the president of the Union Pacific Railroad and also served as the U.S. Ambassador to the Soviet Union and the United Kingdom.

3. Was Averell Harriman a billionaire?

No, Averell Harriman was not a billionaire. His net worth was estimated to be around $100 million, which is equivalent to approximately $1.5 billion in today’s value.

4. How did Averell Harriman’s wealth compare to other wealthy individuals of his time?

Averell Harriman’s wealth was significant compared to other wealthy individuals of his time. However, he was not among the wealthiest. For instance, his net worth was less than that of John D. Rockefeller or Andrew Carnegie.

5. Did Averell Harriman leave a will? What did he leave behind?

Yes, Averell Harriman left a will. He bequeathed a significant portion of his estate to charitable causes, including the creation of the Averell Harriman Foundation, which supports various educational and cultural institutions. He also left a substantial amount to his family and friends.

6. How did Averell Harriman’s wealth impact his political career?

Averell Harriman’s wealth allowed him to fund his political campaigns and support various political causes. However, his wealth did not guarantee political success. He lost several elections throughout his career.

7. What was Averell Harriman’s role in the development of the Union Pacific Railroad?

Averell Harriman played a significant role in the development of the Union Pacific Railroad. He served as its president from 1909 to 1911 and again from 1917 to 1922. During his tenure, he helped to expand the railroad’s network and modernize its operations.

8. How did Averell Harriman’s diplomatic career contribute to his wealth?

Averell Harriman’s diplomatic career did not directly contribute to his wealth. However, his diplomatic roles provided him with significant influence and connections, which may have indirectly benefited his business interests.

9. What was Averell Harriman’s role in the development of the Democratic Party?

Averell Harriman was a prominent figure in the Democratic Party. He served as the chairman of the Democratic National Committee from 1941 to 1943 and played a significant role in the party’s fundraising efforts. He also served as the U.S. Ambassador to the Soviet Union and the United Kingdom, which further enhanced his influence within the party.

10. How is Averell Harriman remembered today?

Averell Harriman is remembered today as a prominent businessman, diplomat, and political figure. He is recognized for his contributions to the development of the Union Pacific Railroad and his service as a U.S. Ambassador. He is also remembered for his philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Averell Harriman Foundation.