Bill Gates Ex Wife Net Worth (Updated 2026).
Melinda French, born in Dallas, Texas, was raised in a family that valued education and community involvement. She earned her bachelor’s degree in computer science and economics from Duke University, setting the stage for her future in technology and philanthropy. After graduation, she worked at Microsoft, where she met and later married Bill Gates in 1994.
Melinda’s career at Microsoft began in the application development department, where she worked on early versions of Microsoft’s products. She later transitioned into marketing, where she helped launch the company’s first software package for personal computers. Her work at Microsoft not only contributed to the company’s success but also brought her into the public eye, eventually making her a well-known figure in the tech industry.
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Melinda French Gates’ Current Net Worth (2025)
As of 2025, Melinda French Gates’ net worth is estimated to be around $65 billion, according to Forbes. This places her among the wealthiest individuals in the world. Her fortune primarily stems from her divorce settlement with Bill Gates, following their 27-year marriage.
Melinda French Gates’ Career
Melinda French Gates co-founded the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in 2000, serving as its co-chair until 2021. She has been a vocal advocate for women’s rights, global health, and development. Prior to her philanthropic work, she held various positions at Microsoft, including as a project manager for Microsoft Bob.
Melinda French Gates’ Other Ventures
In 2015, Melinda French Gates launched Pivotal Ventures, an investment company focused on supporting women’s power and influence. She is also a co-founder of the investment firm Breakthrough Energy, focused on clean energy technologies.
Melinda French Gates’ Assets
Melinda French Gates’ assets include a 66-acre estate in Seattle, Washington, valued at around $125 million. She also owns properties in California and New York, as well as a private jet. Her art collection, including works by artists like Mark Rothko and Ellsworth Kelly, is estimated to be worth tens of millions of dollars.
Melinda French Gates’ Annual Income
Melinda French Gates’ annual income is not publicly disclosed. However, in 2014, it was reported that she received a $3.6 billion payout from Bill Gates as part of their divorce settlement, which would average out to around $250 million per year over the following decade.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bill Gates Ex Wife
**Frequently Asked Questions: Bill Gates’ Ex-Wife**
1. Who is Bill Gates’ ex-wife?
Bill Gates’ ex-wife is Melinda French Gates. They were married on January 1, 1994, and announced their divorce on May 3, 2021.
2. Why did Bill and Melinda Gates divorce?
The reasons for their divorce were not publicly disclosed. However, in a joint statement, they mentioned that they could no longer grow together as a couple.
3. How many children do Bill and Melinda Gates have together?
Bill and Melinda Gates have three children: Jennifer, Rory, and Phoebe.
4. What is Melinda French Gates’ net worth?
As of the latest estimates, Melinda French Gates’ net worth is around $60 billion.
5. How did Melinda French Gates make her money?
Melinda French Gates made her fortune through her stake in Microsoft, the company co-founded by her ex-husband Bill Gates. She also co-chairs the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation with Bill.
6. What is the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation?
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is a global philanthropic organization founded by Bill and Melinda Gates in 2000. It aims to enhance healthcare and reduce extreme poverty globally.
7. Will Melinda French Gates continue to work with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation after the divorce?
Yes, despite the divorce, Melinda French Gates will continue to work with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. They announced that they will continue to work together on the foundation’s mission.
8. What is Melinda French Gates’ role in the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation?
Melinda French Gates serves as the co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. She focuses on issues like gender equality, family planning, and improving the lives of women and girls worldwide.
9. How much was Melinda French Gates’ divorce settlement?
The financial terms of Bill and Melinda Gates’ divorce settlement have not been made public.
10. What is Melinda French Gates doing now?
After the divorce, Melinda French Gates has continued her work with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. She has also been more vocal about issues related to gender equality and women’s empowerment.
