Steve Ells Net Worth (Updated 2025).
Steve Ells, born in 1961, began his culinary journey at a young age, working in restaurants during his high school and college years. After graduating from the University of Colorado Boulder with a degree in political science, Ells decided to pursue his passion for cooking, enrolling in the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York.
Upon graduating from CIA, Ells honed his skills under renowned chefs like Jeremiah Tower and Mark Miller. In 1988, he moved to San Francisco, where he worked at Stars Restaurant, eventually becoming the executive chef. It was here that Ells developed his unique approach to Mexican cuisine, focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques.
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Steve Ells’ Current Net Worth (2025)
As of 2025, Steve Ells’ net worth is estimated to be around $1.5 billion, according to Forbes. This significant wealth is primarily attributed to his role as the founder and former CEO of Chipotle Mexican Grill.
Career
Steve Ells, born in 1961, is an American entrepreneur and the founder of Chipotle Mexican Grill. He graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in 1984 and later worked at several fine dining restaurants. In 1993, Ells opened the first Chipotle restaurant in Denver, Colorado, with the concept of serving high-quality, fast-casual Mexican food. Under his leadership, Chipotle grew into a multi-billion dollar company with over 2,500 locations worldwide. Ells stepped down as CEO in 2018 but remains on the board of directors.
Other Ventures
Besides Chipotle, Ells has been involved in several other ventures. In 2018, he launched Nextbite, a virtual restaurant company that operates delivery-only kitchens. He also serves on the board of directors for Sweetgreen, a fast-casual salad restaurant chain. Additionally, Ells has invested in several other food-related startups, including Boulder-based Rise Products and San Francisco-based Salt & Straw.
Assets
Steve Ells’ primary asset is his stake in Chipotle Mexican Grill. As of 2025, he owns approximately 16% of the company’s shares, which is worth around $1 billion. Ells also owns several properties, including a home in Boulder, Colorado, and a ranch in Montana. He has donated millions of dollars to various charitable causes, including the University of Colorado’s Leeds School of Business and the Share Our Strength organization, which aims to end hunger.
Annual Income
As of 2025, Steve Ells’ annual income is estimated to be around $10 million. This includes his salary as the executive chairman of Chipotle, as well as income from his other ventures and investments. However, it’s important to note that a significant portion of Ells’ wealth has been accumulated over time through the appreciation of Chipotle’s stock, rather than from his annual income.
Frequently Asked Questions about Steve Ells
**Frequently Asked Questions: Steve Ells Net Worth**
1. What is Steve Ells’ net worth?
Steve Ells’ net worth is estimated to be around $1 billion.
2. How did Steve Ells make his money?
Steve Ells made his fortune by founding Chipotle Mexican Grill in 1993. He served as the company’s CEO until 2018 and remains on its board of directors.
3. What is Steve Ells’ role at Chipotle Mexican Grill?
Steve Ells is the founder and former CEO of Chipotle Mexican Grill. He stepped down as CEO in 2018 but continues to serve on the company’s board of directors.
4. What is Steve Ells’ education background?
Steve Ells graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, in 1989.
5. What inspired Steve Ells to start Chipotle Mexican Grill?
Steve Ells was inspired to start Chipotle Mexican Grill after a trip to San Francisco, where he discovered the burrito culture and saw an opportunity to bring high-quality, fast-casual Mexican food to the Midwest.
6. How many Chipotle restaurants are there?
As of 2021, there are over 2,800 Chipotle Mexican Grill locations worldwide.
7. What is Steve Ells’ investment portfolio like?
Steve Ells has invested in various companies and funds, including Shake Shack, Sweetgreen, and the venture capital firm, VMG Partners.
8. Does Steve Ells have any philanthropic efforts?
Yes, Steve Ells has been involved in philanthropic efforts, including supporting the Chipotle Cultivate Foundation, which focuses on sustainable agriculture and food access.
9. What is Steve Ells’ personal life like?
Steve Ells is quite private about his personal life. He has been married and has children, but he does not often discuss his family in public.
10. What are Steve Ells’ future plans?
Steve Ells’ future plans include continuing to serve on Chipotle’s board of directors and exploring new opportunities in the food industry. He has also expressed interest in mentoring and supporting young entrepreneurs.
