Don Blankenship Net Worth (Updated 2025).
Don Blankenship, a name synonymous with the coal industry, began his career in the rugged Appalachian mines of West Virginia. Born into a family of coal miners, Blankenship’s first job was as a coal miner himself, starting at the age of 17. He worked his way up, learning the intricacies of the industry from the ground up.
Blankenship’s big break came in the 1980s when he took over the strugglinguco Corporation. With a shrewd business acumen and a no-nonsense approach, he turned the company around, making it one of the largest coal producers in the United States. His aggressive mining strategies and cost-cutting measures made him a controversial figure in the industry, but they also made him famous.
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Don Blankenship’s Current Net Worth (2025)
As of 2025, Don Blankenship’s net worth is estimated to be around $1.5 billion, according to Forbes. This makes him one of the wealthiest individuals in West Virginia.
Career
Don Blankenship is a businessman and former CEO of Massey Energy, a coal mining company. He served as the CEO from 1992 until 2010, when he retired. During his tenure, Massey Energy became one of the largest coal producers in the United States.
Other Ventures
After leaving Massey Energy, Blankenship founded Monongalia Playhouse, a community theater in Morgantown, West Virginia. He also runs a cattle farm in Upshur County, West Virginia.
Assets
Blankenship’s assets include several properties in West Virginia, including a mansion in Sago, where he resides. He also owns a private jet and a collection of classic cars. His mining interests are primarily held through his company, Enersystems LLC.
Annual Income
Blankenship’s annual income is not publicly disclosed. However, as a former CEO of a major coal company and current owner of several businesses, his annual income is likely substantial. His political contributions and spending on legal fees provide some insight into his financial activities.
Frequently Asked Questions about Don Blankenship
Frequently Asked Questions: Don Blankenship Net Worth
1. Who is Don Blankenship?
Don Blankenship is an American businessman and former CEO of Massey Energy Company. He is known for his role in the Upper Big Branch Mine disaster in 2010.
2. What is Don Blankenship’s net worth?
As of the latest estimates, Don Blankenship’s net worth is approximately $66 million.
3. How did Don Blankenship make his money?
Blankenship made his fortune through his career in the coal industry. He started as a miner and worked his way up to become the CEO of Massey Energy Company.
4. What happened at the Upper Big Branch Mine?
The Upper Big Branch Mine disaster was a coal mine explosion that occurred on April 5, 2010, in Montcoal, West Virginia, USA. Twenty-nine miners died in the incident.
5. Was Don Blankenship charged for the Upper Big Branch Mine disaster?
Yes, Blankenship was charged with conspiracy to violate mine safety standards and securities fraud in connection with the disaster. He was acquitted of the conspiracy charge but convicted of a misdemeanor charge of conspiring to willfully violate mine safety and health standards.
6. What is Don Blankenship’s political affiliation?
Blankenship is a Republican. He ran for the U.S. Senate in West Virginia in 2018 but lost in the primary.
7. Does Don Blankenship have any children?
Yes, Don Blankenship has three children.
8. Where does Don Blankenship live?
Blankenship resides in the state of West Virginia.
9. What is Don Blankenship’s age?
Don Blankenship was born on January 26, 1950, making him 72 years old.
10. What is Don Blankenship’s stance on climate change?
Blankenship has been critical of regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, arguing that they hurt the coal industry. He has also expressed skepticism about the extent to which humans contribute to climate change.
