Hearst Family Net Worth (Updated 2026).

The Hearst family, a name synonymous with American media and publishing, traces its roots back to the late 19th century when George Hearst, a miner turned newspaper proprietor, laid the foundation of the family’s empire. Born in Missouri in 1820, George Hearst started his career as a miner, striking gold in the California Gold Rush. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to acquire several newspapers, including the San Francisco Examiner, marking the beginning of the Hearst family’s influence in the media industry.

Hearst Family’s Current Net Worth (2025)

The Hearst Family, as of 2025, has an estimated net worth of $105 billion, according to Forbes. This makes them one of the wealthiest families in the United States and the world.

Career

The Hearst Family’s fortune is primarily derived from the media and publishing empire founded by William Randolph Hearst in the late 19th century. The family has maintained control over this empire for over a century, with the current generation led by Steven R. Swartz, the CEO of Hearst Corporation.

Other Ventures

In addition to their media and publishing interests, the Hearst Family has diversified into other ventures. These include real estate, financial services, and healthcare. They also have significant investments in various other industries, reflecting their broad business interests.

Assets

The Hearst Family’s assets include a vast portfolio of media and publishing properties, such as the San Francisco Chronicle, Esquire magazine, and the television production company Hearst Studios. They also own extensive real estate, including the iconic Hearst Tower in New York City.

Annual Income

The exact annual income of the Hearst Family is not publicly disclosed. However, given their vast business empire, it is safe to assume that their annual income is in the billions of dollars. The Hearst Corporation, the family’s primary source of income, reported revenue of over $10 billion in 2020.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Hearst Family

Frequently Asked Questions: Hearst Family Net Worth

1. What is the net worth of the Hearst Family?

The Hearst Family’s net worth is estimated to be around $100 billion.

2. Who are the members of the Hearst Family?

The Hearst Family includes descendants of William Randolph Hearst, the founder of the Hearst Corporation. Current members include Steven R. Swartz, the current CEO of Hearst, and his family, as well as other descendants like Patty Hearst and Randy Hearst.

3. How did the Hearst Family make their fortune?

The Hearst Family’s fortune was primarily built through the Hearst Corporation, a diversified media, information, and services company founded by William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century. The company’s holdings include newspapers, magazines, television stations, cable networks, and other media properties.

4. What is the Hearst Corporation’s most well-known publication?

The San Francisco Examiner and the New York Journal, which were acquired by William Randolph Hearst in the late 19th century, are among the most well-known publications associated with the Hearst Corporation. Today, the company’s portfolio includes prominent publications like Cosmopolitan, Esquire, and Harper’s Bazaar.

5. Who was William Randolph Hearst?

William Randolph Hearst (1863-1951) was an American newspaper proprietor who built the nation’s largest newspaper chain and media empire. He was also a significant political figure and a key influence on American journalism.

6. What is the Hearst Family’s involvement in politics?

Several members of the Hearst Family have been involved in politics. William Randolph Hearst was a prominent political figure and ran for various political offices, including the U.S. Presidency. His son, Randolph Apperson Hearst, served as a U.S. Representative from California. Patty Hearst, granddaughter of William Randolph Hearst, was involved in a high-profile political scandal in the 1970s.

7. How does the Hearst Family manage their wealth?

The Hearst Family manages their wealth through various investments, including the Hearst Corporation, real estate, and other financial assets. The family also engages in philanthropic activities, supporting various causes through the Hearst Foundations.

8. What are the Hearst Foundations?

The Hearst Foundations are charitable organizations established by William Randolph Hearst and his wife, Millicent Hearst. The foundations support various causes, including education, health, human services, and cultural institutions.

9. Where do the members of the Hearst Family live?

Members of the Hearst Family reside in various locations, including New York City, San Francisco, and other parts of the United States.

10. How does the Hearst Family maintain their privacy?

The Hearst Family is known for being relatively private and maintaining a low profile. They often avoid the public eye and do not frequently discuss their personal lives or the family’s wealth in interviews or public appearances.