John Davison Rockefeller Sr., born in 1839, began his career at the age of 16 as an assistant bookkeeper for a Cleveland produce commission house. His natural aptitude for business and frugal lifestyle allowed him to save a significant amount of money, which he later invested in his first business venture, a commission house of his own.

In 1863, Rockefeller partnered with Maurice B. Clark to form Rockefeller, Andrews & Flagler, a commission and shipping firm. This partnership marked the beginning of his involvement in the oil industry. The firm was successful, and by 1870, Rockefeller had become the majority shareholder, renaming it Standard Oil. This company would go on to become one of the most powerful and influential businesses in American history, making Rockefeller one of the wealthiest men in the world.

John Davison Rockefeller Sr.’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, John Davison Rockefeller Sr.’s net worth is estimated to be around $400 billion, according to Forbes. This figure is adjusted for inflation and takes into account the various assets and wealth he accumulated during his lifetime.

Career

John Davison Rockefeller Sr. was an American business magnate and philanthropist. He co-founded the Standard Oil Company in 1870, which dominated the oil industry and was the first great U.S. business trust. Rockefeller’s career was marked by aggressive business tactics and a desire to control the oil industry, leading to his nickname, “the Richest Man in History”.

Other Ventures

Beyond Standard Oil, Rockefeller had investments in various other industries, including railroads, real estate, and finance. He also established the University of Chicago and founded the Rockefeller Foundation, which continues to support global health, social welfare, and scientific research.

Assets

Rockefeller’s assets included extensive real estate holdings, including his estate, “The Colony Club”, in New York City, and his estate, “Kykuit”, in Westchester County, New York. He also owned a significant collection of art and was a major benefactor of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

Annual Income

At the height of his career, John Davison Rockefeller Sr. had an annual income of around $50 million, which would be equivalent to approximately $1.5 billion in 2025. This income was derived primarily from his ownership in Standard Oil and his other investments.

Frequently Asked Questions about  John Davison Rockefeller Sr

Frequently Asked Questions: John Davison Rockefeller Sr. Net Worth

1. What was John Davison Rockefeller Sr.’s primary source of wealth?

John Davison Rockefeller Sr. made his fortune primarily through Standard Oil, an oil refinery and marketing company that he co-founded in 1870. He was one of the leading figures in the oil industry during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

2. How much is John Davison Rockefeller Sr.’s net worth?

John Davison Rockefeller Sr.’s net worth is estimated to be around $400 billion in today’s value, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in history.

3. When did John Davison Rockefeller Sr. start his business career?

Rockefeller began his business career in 1855, at the age of 20, when he became a bookkeeper for a small produce commission house in Cleveland, Ohio. He later moved into the oil business in 1863.

4. What was the name of the company that eventually became Standard Oil?

The company that eventually became Standard Oil was initially called “Rockefeller & Andrews”. It was later renamed “Standard Oil of Ohio” before becoming the Standard Oil Trust in 1882.

5. How did John Davison Rockefeller Sr. contribute to philanthropy?

Rockefeller was a significant philanthropist. He established the University of Chicago, the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research (now Rockefeller University), and the General Education Board. He also made substantial donations to various causes, including education, public health, and religious organizations.

6. When did John Davison Rockefeller Sr. retire?

Rockefeller retired from active management of Standard Oil in 1897, although he remained the company’s largest shareholder and continued to influence its operations until his death in 1937.

7. What was John Davison Rockefeller Sr.’s political affiliation?

Rockefeller was a lifelong Republican and was a significant financial backer of the Republican Party. He supported the party’s progressive wing and was a strong advocate for the gold standard.

8. How many children did John Davison Rockefeller Sr. have?

Rockefeller had five children with his wife Laura Spelman Rockefeller: John D. Rockefeller Jr., Alta Rockefeller Prentice, Laura Spelman Rockefeller McCormick, Percy Avery Rockefeller, and Ethel Ford Rockefeller.

9. What was the cause of John Davison Rockefeller Sr.’s death?

Rockefeller died of a heart attack on May 23, 1937, at the age of 97. He was the last surviving founding member of Standard Oil.

10. Where is John Davison Rockefeller Sr. buried?

Rockefeller is buried in Lake View Cemetery in Cleveland, Ohio, along with his wife Laura and several of their children. The cemetery also contains the Rockefeller Family Mausoleum, which is open to the public.