Edith Bouvier Beale Net Worth (Updated 2026).

Edith Bouvier Beale, often referred to as “Big Edie,” was born into a prominent American family in 1895. She began her career in the arts, displaying a natural talent for painting and music. Her family’s wealth and social standing allowed her to pursue these passions, and she was educated at the prestigious Spence School in New York City.

In the 1920s, Big Edie’s life took a turn towards fame when she married John Beale, a successful stockbroker. The couple became known for their lavish lifestyle and extravagant parties, attracting the attention of high society and the press. However, their fortune would later decline, leading to the iconic decay of their East Hampton estate, Grey Gardens, which would ultimately secure Big Edie’s place in popular culture.

Edith Bouvier Beale’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Edith Bouvier Beale’s current net worth is estimated to be around $20 million. This figure is based on the latest available information and takes into account her real estate holdings, investments, and other assets.

Career

Edith Bouvier Beale, often referred to as “Big Edie,” was a socialite and the mother of “Little Edie” Beale, who gained fame through the documentary “Grey Gardens.” Big Edie was known for her eccentric lifestyle and her role in the film. She was also a singer and performed at various events in her younger years.

Other Ventures

Besides her socialite lifestyle and singing, Edith Bouvier Beale also dabbled in other ventures. She was known for her unique sense of style and often designed her own clothing. Additionally, she and her daughter were involved in various business ventures together, including a catering business.

Assets

One of Edith Bouvier Beale’s most significant assets was the estate “Grey Gardens” in East Hampton, New York. The estate, which she shared with her daughter, was the subject of the aforementioned documentary. The property was eventually sold in 2006 for $20 million. She also owned other properties and had investments in stocks and bonds.

Annual Income

The exact figure of Edith Bouvier Beale’s annual income is not publicly disclosed. However, given her net worth and assets, it can be inferred that her annual income would have been substantial. Her income would have come from her investments, rental income from her properties, and potentially from any business ventures she was involved in.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Edith Bouvier Beale

Frequently Asked Questions: Edith Bouvier Beale Net Worth

1. Who is Edith Bouvier Beale?

Edith Bouvier Beale, often referred to as “Big Edie,” was an American socialite and the mother of “Little Edie” Beale, who gained fame through the documentary “Grey Gardens.” She was known for her eccentric lifestyle and was the aunt of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.

2. When was Edith Bouvier Beale born?

Edith Ewing Bouvier was born on August 31, 1895, in Southampton, New York.

3. What was Edith Bouvier Beale’s net worth?

As of the latest estimates, Edith Bouvier Beale’s net worth is approximately $20 million.

4. How did Edith Bouvier Beale make her money?

Edith Bouvier Beale inherited her wealth from her father, John Vernou Bouvier III, who was a wealthy businessman and lawyer. She also received a substantial inheritance from her husband, Phelan Beale.

5. What was the condition of Edith Bouvier Beale’s estate, Grey Gardens?

Grey Gardens, the Beale family estate in East Hampton, New York, fell into disrepair due to Edith’s and her daughter’s eccentric lifestyle and lack of funds for maintenance. The estate was eventually renovated and restored with the help of Jackie Onassis.

6. What was the relationship between Edith Bouvier Beale and her daughter, “Little Edie”?

Edith and her daughter, “Little Edie,” had a complex and codependent relationship. They lived together in Grey Gardens for many years, and their unconventional lifestyle was the subject of the 1975 documentary “Grey Gardens.”

7. What happened to Edith Bouvier Beale’s estate after her death?

After Edith’s death in 1977, her estate, Grey Gardens, was left to her daughter, “Little Edie.” However, due to financial difficulties and legal issues, Little Edie was eventually forced to sell the estate in 2006.

8. What was the cause of Edith Bouvier Beale’s death?

Edith Bouvier Beale died of a heart attack on February 10, 1977, at the age of 81.

9. What was the impact of the documentary “Grey Gardens” on Edith Bouvier Beale’s life?

The documentary “Grey Gardens” brought international attention to Edith and her daughter’s eccentric lifestyle and the dilapidated condition of their estate. While some argue that the documentary exploited their private lives, others believe it provided a unique glimpse into their unconventional world.

10. Are there any books or movies about Edith Bouvier Beale?

Yes, there are several books and movies about Edith Bouvier Beale and her daughter. Some notable works include the documentary “Grey Gardens” (1975), the film “Grey Gardens” (2009), and the book “Edie: American Girl” by Jean Hanff Korelitz.