Melinda Gates, born Melinda Ann French, began her career in the tech industry after graduating from Duke University with a degree in computer science and economics. She joined Microsoft in 1987, where she worked as a project manager for various products, including the company’s operating systems.

During her time at Microsoft, Melinda gained recognition for her leadership and management skills, rising to the position of General Manager of Information Products. Her work on the Microsoft Bob project, an early attempt at a consumer-friendly operating system, brought her to the attention of the company’s CEO, Bill Gates. The two began a relationship that would eventually lead to marriage in 1994. However, it was her professional accomplishments, not her personal life, that initially brought Melinda Gates to fame in the tech world.

Melinda Gates’ Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Melinda Gates’ net worth is estimated to be around $100 billion. This significant wealth is primarily attributed to her stake in Microsoft, the tech giant co-founded by her ex-husband, Bill Gates.

Career Before Marriage

Before her marriage to Bill Gates, Melinda French was a software developer at Microsoft. She joined the company in 1987 and worked on various products, including Microsoft Bob and Expedia. She left Microsoft in 1996 to focus on philanthropic endeavors.

Other Ventures

In 2000, Melinda co-founded the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation with her husband, focusing on enhancing healthcare and reducing extreme poverty globally. She also co-chairs the Gates Ventures investment company and is a board member of several organizations, including the Council on Foreign Relations.

Assets

Melinda’s assets include a 2% stake in Microsoft, valued at approximately $70 billion. She also owns several properties, including a $125 million estate in Washington state and a $43 million mansion in California. Her art collection, which includes works by Mark Rothko and Ellsworth Kelly, is estimated to be worth tens of millions of dollars.

Annual Income

Melinda Gates’ annual income is primarily derived from her Microsoft stake. In 2021, her total compensation from Microsoft was around $1.6 million, including salary and stock awards. However, her annual income can fluctuate significantly due to changes in Microsoft’s stock price.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Melinda Gates Before Marriage

Frequently Asked Questions: Melinda Gates Before Marriage

1. What was Melinda Gates’ occupation before she married Bill Gates?

Melinda Gates worked as a Product Manager for Microsoft, the company founded by her future husband, Bill Gates. She started her career at Microsoft in 1987 as a Marketing Manager for Microsoft’s operating systems.

2. How did Melinda and Bill Gates meet?

Melinda and Bill Gates met at a trade fair in 1984 when Melinda was still a student at Duke University. Bill was there to give a speech, and Melinda was in the audience. They started dating a few years later, and eventually got married in 1994.

3. What was Melinda Gates’ net worth before she married Bill Gates?

Melinda Gates’ net worth before her marriage to Bill Gates is not publicly known. However, her net worth as of 2021 is estimated to be around $60 billion.

4. Did Melinda Gates inherit her wealth from her family?

No, Melinda Gates did not inherit her wealth from her family. She built her fortune through her work at Microsoft and her investments, as well as her share in the wealth of Bill Gates.

5. What is the age difference between Melinda and Bill Gates?

Melinda Gates is two years younger than her husband, Bill Gates. Bill was born on October 28, 1955, and Melinda was born on August 15, 1964.

6. Did Melinda Gates have any children before her marriage?

No, Melinda Gates did not have any children before her marriage to Bill Gates. They have three children together: Jennifer, Rory, and Phoebe.

7. What is Melinda Gates’ educational background?

Melinda Gates graduated from Duke University in 1986 with a degree in Computer Science and Economics. She also has an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business.

8. What are Melinda Gates’ philanthropic efforts?

Melinda Gates is co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which focuses on enhancing healthcare and reducing extreme poverty globally. She is also a vocal advocate for women’s rights and gender equality.

9. Did Melinda Gates work at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation before it was officially established?

Yes, Melinda Gates was involved in the foundation’s work even before it was officially established in 2000. She and Bill Gates started their philanthropic efforts in the late 1990s, and Melinda played a significant role in shaping the foundation’s mission and strategies.

10. What are Melinda Gates’ interests and hobbies outside of her philanthropic work?

Melinda Gates is an avid reader and enjoys spending time with her family. She also plays the piano and is interested in art and photography. In her 2019 memoir, “The Moment of Lift,” she wrote about her passion for empowering women and girls around the world.