Ann Landers, whose real name was Eppie Lederer, began her career in the most unlikely of places – her mother’s kitchen. In the early 1940s, Eppie started writing a daily column for the Chicago Tribune, answering readers’ questions under the pseudonym “Ann Landers.” This was a far cry from her previous job as a typist, but her wit, warmth, and practical advice quickly won over the hearts of Chicagoans.

As her popularity grew, so did her influence. By the late 1950s, “Ask Ann Landers” was syndicated in over 900 newspapers across the United States. Her fame reached new heights when she began broadcasting her advice on radio, making her a household name across the nation. Ann Landers wasn’t just a advice columnist; she was a cultural icon, a trusted friend to millions of Americans, and a symbol of the power of words to connect and heal.

Ann Landers’ Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Ann Landers’ net worth is estimated to be around $50 million. This figure takes into account her earnings from her advice column, book sales, and other ventures.

Career

Ann Landers, whose real name was Eppie Lederer, was an American advice columnist. She started her career in 1955, taking over her twin sister’s advice column, “Ask Ann Landers”. Over the decades, her column became one of the most widely syndicated in the United States, appearing in over 1,200 newspapers at its peak.

Other Ventures

In addition to her advice column, Landers also ventured into books. She authored several bestsellers, including “Ann Landers’ Book of Common Sense”, “Ann Landers’ Problems of the Heart”, and “Ann Landers’ Advice to the Lovelorn”. She also made appearances on television shows and was a regular guest on talk shows.

Assets

Landers’ assets included her extensive real estate portfolio. She owned properties in various cities across the United States, including Chicago, where she lived for many years. She also had a significant collection of art and antiques, many of which were donated to museums after her death. Her personal papers and correspondence are housed in the University of Chicago Library.

Annual Income

At the height of her career, Ann Landers’ annual income was estimated to be around $20 million. This came primarily from her advice column, which was read by millions of people daily. She also earned royalties from her books and endorsements. Her income declined in her later years due to declining readership and health issues.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Ann Landers

Frequently Asked Questions: Ann Landers Net Worth

1. Who was Ann Landers?

Ann Landers was an American advice columnist who wrote the “Ask Ann Landers” column, which was syndicated in over 1,200 newspapers at its peak. Her real name was Eppie Lederer, but she was born Esther Pauline Friedman.

2. When did Ann Landers start her advice column?

Ann Landers began her advice column in 1955, taking over from her twin sister, Ruth Crowley, who had been writing the “Ann Landers” column since 1943.

3. How did Ann Landers become so popular?

Ann Landers’ popularity can be attributed to her straightforward, no-nonsense advice style, her ability to connect with readers on a personal level, and her coverage of a wide range of topics, from relationships and family issues to social and political matters.

4. How long did Ann Landers write her column?

Ann Landers wrote her advice column until her death in 2002, a total of 47 years.

5. What was Ann Landers’ net worth?

Ann Landers’ net worth was estimated to be around $60 million at the time of her death.

6. How did Ann Landers make her money?

Ann Landers made her money primarily through her advice column, as well as book deals, public speaking engagements, and endorsements.

7. Did Ann Landers have any children?

Yes, Ann Landers had three children: Jonathan, Susan, and Karen.

8. What happened to the “Ask Ann Landers” column after her death?

After Ann Landers’ death, her daughter Margo Howard took over the column, renaming it “Dear Margo.”

9. What was Ann Landers’ stance on controversial issues?

Ann Landers was known for her progressive views and was not afraid to tackle controversial issues. She was a strong advocate for women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and other social causes.

10. What was Ann Landers’ legacy?

Ann Landers’ legacy lies in her impact on American culture and society. She provided guidance and comfort to millions of readers, and her influence can still be seen in modern advice columns and media today.