J Willard Marriott Net Worth (Updated 2025).
J. Willard Marriott, born in 1900, began his career at the young age of 14, working as a bellhop at the Salt Lake Hotel in Utah. He was a natural at customer service, always going the extra mile to ensure guests were satisfied. This early start laid the foundation for his future success in the hospitality industry.
In the 1920s, Marriott moved to Washington D.C. to work as a sales manager for the Hot Shoppes restaurant chain. Here, he honed his skills in management and business operations. In 1927, he opened his first root beer stand, which later evolved into a successful restaurant chain. This marked the beginning of the Marriott empire, a journey that would eventually make him a renowned name in the hospitality business.
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J. Willard Marriott’s Current Net Worth (2025)
As of 2025, J. Willard Marriott’s net worth is estimated to be around $13.6 billion, according to Forbes. This makes him one of the wealthiest individuals in the world. His net worth has significantly grown over the years, primarily due to his successful hospitality empire, Marriott International.
Career
J. Willard Marriott, an American business magnate, is the founder of Marriott International, a leading global lodging company. Born in 1900, Marriott started his career as a high school teacher and a football coach. In 1927, he opened his first A&W Root Beer stand, which later expanded into the Hot Shoppes restaurant chain. In 1957, he founded Marriott Corporation, which eventually became Marriott International, now operating in over 130 countries.
Other Ventures
Besides Marriott International, Marriott has been involved in various other ventures. He co-founded Host Marriott Corporation, which later became Host Hotels & Resorts, one of the largest lodging real estate investment trusts (REITs) in the world. He also served as a director of several other companies, including Northwest Airlines and First National Bank of Washington, D.C.
Assets
Marriott’s assets primarily consist of his stakes in Marriott International and Host Hotels & Resorts. As of 2025, he owns approximately 16% of Marriott International’s Class A and Class B shares, valued at around $12.5 billion. His stake in Host Hotels & Resorts is worth approximately $1 billion. He also owns several properties, including his residence in Bethesda, Maryland, valued at around $10 million.
Annual Income
Marriott’s annual income is primarily derived from dividends from his stakes in Marriott International and Host Hotels & Resorts. In 2024, Marriott International paid out dividends totaling $728 million, with Marriott’s share being approximately $116 million, given his ownership stake. His annual income from Host Hotels & Resorts was around $20 million in 2024. Therefore, his total annual income from these sources was approximately $136 million in 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions about J Willard Marriott
**Frequently Asked Questions: J Willard Marriott Net Worth**
1. What is J Willard Marriott’s net worth?
J Willard Marriott’s net worth is estimated to be around $2.1 billion.
2. How did J Willard Marriott build his wealth?
J Willard Marriott built his wealth through his hotel and restaurant empire, Marriott International. He founded the company in 1927 with his wife, Alice, and it has since grown into one of the largest hospitality companies in the world.
3. When did J Willard Marriott pass away?
J Willard Marriott passed away on February 14, 2019, at the age of 97.
4. Who is the current CEO of Marriott International?
After J Willard Marriott’s passing, his son, John P. Marriott, took over as CEO of Marriott International. However, in 2022, Anthony Capuano became the new CEO.
5. How many hotels does Marriott International own?
As of 2022, Marriott International owns over 7,900 properties in 138 countries and territories worldwide.
6. What is the Marriott family’s involvement in the company today?
While the Marriott family no longer holds a majority stake in the company, they still own a significant amount of shares. The family remains involved in the company’s operations and governance.
7. What is the Marriott family’s philanthropic work like?
The Marriott family is known for their philanthropic efforts. The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation has donated millions to various causes, including education, healthcare, and community development.
8. How did J Willard Marriott get started in the hospitality industry?
J Willard Marriott started his hospitality career by opening a root beer stand in Washington, D.C. in 1927. He later expanded into the hotel and restaurant business.
9. What is the Marriott Bonvoy program?
The Marriott Bonvoy program is Marriott International’s loyalty program. It allows members to earn and redeem points at over 7,000 hotels and resorts worldwide.
10. How many children did J Willard Marriott have?
J Willard Marriott had four children: Richard, John, Donna, and Marriott Jr.