Sackler Family Net Worth (Updated 2026).

Written ByEmma C Hours Published on

The Sackler family’s journey to prominence began in the early 20th century with Arthur Sackler, a Russian immigrant who arrived in the United States with little more than a dream and a medical degree. He started his career as a house physician in a New York City hospital, later transitioning to pharmaceutical sales. Arthur’s innovative marketing strategies and keen business acumen laid the groundwork for what would become a family dynasty in the pharmaceutical industry.

The family’s fame and fortune truly took off with the founding of Purdue Pharma by Arthur’s brothers, Raymond and Mortimer, in the 1950s. Purdue Pharma, based in Connecticut, initially focused on developing non-addictive pain medications. However, it was their introduction of OxyContin, a powerful opioid painkiller, in 1996 that catapulted the Sackler family into the public eye. OxyContin’s success transformed Purdue Pharma into a global pharmaceutical giant and made the Sackler family one of the wealthiest in the world.

Sackler Family’s Current Net Worth

As of 2025, the Sackler family’s net worth is estimated to be around $13 billion, according to Forbes. This fortune is primarily derived from their ownership of Purdue Pharma, the company that developed and marketed OxyContin, a powerful opioid painkiller.

Career

The Sackler family’s pharmaceutical career began with Arthur Sackler, who co-founded Purdue Pharma in 1952. His brothers, Raymond and Mortimer, later joined the company. They revolutionized the pharmaceutical industry by introducing direct-to-consumer advertising and innovative marketing strategies.

Other Ventures

Beyond Purdue Pharma, the Sackler family has diversified their investments. They have interests in real estate, art, and philanthropy. Some notable ventures include the Sackler Foundation, which funds medical research and cultural institutions, and the Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences at Tufts University.

Assets

The Sackler family’s assets include a significant stake in Purdue Pharma, as well as real estate holdings in the United States and abroad. They also own a substantial art collection, featuring works by renowned artists like Picasso and Matisse. Their philanthropic endeavors have resulted in numerous donations to educational and cultural institutions worldwide.

Annual Income

Due to the private nature of the family’s financial affairs, the Sacklers’ annual income is not publicly disclosed. However, based on their net worth and the success of Purdue Pharma, it is estimated that their annual income is in the hundreds of millions of dollars. This income is derived from their stake in Purdue Pharma, as well as other investments and business ventures.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Sackler Family

Frequently Asked Questions: Sackler Family Net Worth

1. What is the Sackler Family’s net worth?

The Sackler Family’s net worth is estimated to be around $13 billion.

2. Who are the Sackler Family?

The Sackler Family is an American family known for their philanthropy and their connection to Purdue Pharma, the company that developed and marketed OxyContin, a powerful opioid painkiller.

3. How did the Sackler Family make their fortune?

The Sackler Family’s fortune is primarily derived from Purdue Pharma, which they founded in 1952. The company’s most successful product, OxyContin, was introduced in 1996 and became a major source of revenue.

4. What is OxyContin?

OxyContin is a prescription medication that contains the opioid oxycodone. It’s a potent painkiller that’s often used to treat chronic pain. It was developed and marketed by Purdue Pharma.

5. Have the Sackler Family members faced any legal issues related to OxyContin?

Yes, several Sackler Family members have faced legal issues related to OxyContin. In 2020, Purdue Pharma pleaded guilty to criminal charges related to its role in the opioid crisis, and members of the Sackler Family were named in various lawsuits alleging they were aware of the risks of OxyContin but continued to market it aggressively.

6. How have the Sackler Family members responded to these allegations?

Members of the Sackler Family have denied any wrongdoing. They have maintained that they acted in good faith and that Purdue Pharma’s actions were appropriate.

7. What philanthropic work have the Sackler Family members been involved in?

The Sackler Family has been involved in various philanthropic endeavors, including the establishment of the Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences at Tufts University and the Sackler Institute for Nutrition Science at the New York Academy of Sciences. They have also made significant donations to art museums and cultural institutions.

8. Have any of the Sackler Family’s philanthropic donations been returned or rejected?

Yes, some institutions have returned or rejected Sackler Family donations in light of the opioid crisis and the legal issues faced by Purdue Pharma. For example, the Tate galleries in the UK returned a £1 million donation from the Sackler Trust in 2019.

9. What is the Sackler Family’s involvement in the art world?

The Sackler Family has been involved in the art world for decades. They have donated artworks and funds to various museums and have also been collectors themselves. The Sackler Wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York is named after them.

10. How has the Sackler Family’s net worth been affected by the legal issues and settlements related to OxyContin?

The Sackler Family’s net worth has reportedly decreased due to legal fees, fines, and settlements related to OxyContin. However, they remain one of the wealthiest families in the United States.

Hi, I’m Emma Chambers — writer, pop culture junkie, and full-time fangirl. I cover everything from red carpet drama to underrated indie gems, and I’m always on the lookout for the next big thing in entertainment. My blog is where I spill my thoughts, obsessions, and the occasional guilty pleasure. If you’re into celeb buzz, deep dives, and TV marathons, you’ll feel right at home here.