Jerry Baldwin, born in Seattle, Washington, in 1945, embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in the early 1970s. After graduating from the University of Washington with a degree in English, he worked briefly as a teacher before his passion for coffee led him to open his first coffee shop, Uptown Espresso, in 1971. This venture marked the beginning of his career in the coffee industry.

In 1975, Baldwin, along with Gordon Bowker and Zev Siegl, co-founded Starbucks Coffee Company. They opened their first store in Seattle’s Pike Place Market, focusing on high-quality coffee beans and Italian-style espresso drinks. Baldwin served as the company’s first chairman and CEO, playing a pivotal role in shaping Starbucks into the global coffeehouse chain it is today. His dedication to quality and innovation in the coffee industry has undoubtedly contributed to his fame.

Jerry Baldwin’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Jerry Baldwin’s current net worth is estimated to be around $2.5 billion. This figure is based on the latest available information and takes into account his stakes in various companies and investments.

Career

Jerry Baldwin co-founded Starbucks in 1971 with Gordon Bowker and Zev Siegl. He served as the company’s first chairman and CEO. After leaving Starbucks in 1987, he co-founded Illycafé, which later merged with Illy to form Illycafé North America. Baldwin also served as the chairman and CEO of Specialty Coffee Association of America.

Other Ventures

In addition to his coffee ventures, Baldwin has invested in various other businesses. He is a co-founder and chairman of the board of directors of Peet’s Coffee & Tea. He also has investments in real estate and technology startups. Baldwin’s diverse portfolio reflects his interest in various industries beyond the coffee sector.

Assets

Jerry Baldwin’s assets include a significant stake in Peet’s Coffee & Tea, as well as investments in real estate and technology companies. He also owns a private residence in Seattle, Washington. Baldwin’s assets are a mix of liquid assets, such as investments, and illiquid assets, like real estate.

Annual Income

Jerry Baldwin’s annual income is primarily derived from his investments and business ventures. As a co-founder and chairman of Peet’s Coffee & Tea, he receives a salary and equity compensation. Additionally, his investments in real estate and technology companies contribute to his annual income. However, the exact figure is not publicly disclosed.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Jerry Baldwin

Frequently Asked Questions: Jerry Baldwin Net Worth

1. What is Jerry Baldwin’s net worth?

Jerry Baldwin’s net worth is estimated to be around $1.5 billion.

2. How did Jerry Baldwin make his fortune?

Jerry Baldwin co-founded Starbucks Corporation in 1971 with Gordon Bowker and Zev Siegl. He served as the company’s first chairman and CEO.

3. When did Jerry Baldwin sell his Starbucks shares?

Baldwin sold his shares in Starbucks in 1994, a year before the company went public.

4. What happened to Jerry Baldwin after leaving Starbucks?

After leaving Starbucks, Baldwin founded Il Giornale, a coffee chain that eventually merged with Starbucks.

5. What is Jerry Baldwin’s role in the coffee industry today?

Baldwin is no longer actively involved in the day-to-day operations of any major coffee company. However, he remains a significant figure in the coffee industry.

6. How much was Jerry Baldwin’s stake in Starbucks worth at the time of sale?

At the time of sale, Baldwin’s stake in Starbucks was worth around $100 million.

7. What is Jerry Baldwin’s involvement in the Illy family’s coffee business?

Baldwin is a member of the Illy family’s board of directors and has been involved in the company’s strategic decisions.

8. How has Jerry Baldwin’s net worth changed over the years?

Baldwin’s net worth has fluctuated over the years, primarily due to changes in the stock market and the value of his investments.

9. What is Jerry Baldwin’s philanthropic work like?

Baldwin has been involved in various philanthropic activities, including supporting education and healthcare initiatives.

10. What is Jerry Baldwin’s current residence?

Baldwin currently resides in Seattle, Washington.