When Andy Cohen first introduced the world to the glamorous lives of The Real Housewives of Orange County in 2006, little did we know that it would birth a multi-city franchise that would redefine reality TV. If there’s one thing that defines the cultural zeitgeist of the mid-2000s, it’s the birth of this franchise. From its jealousy-inducing mansions to the glittering jewels and designer wardrobes of the housewives, the show has captivated audiences worldwide and quite undoubtedly, become a cornerstone of reality TV.
The show has spawned countless memes, inspired fashion trends, and given birth to some of the most iconic moments in television history. But beyond the champagne-popping and diamond-studded drama, who are the richest housewives who’ve truly turned this reality TV gig into a goldmine? Let’s dive into the luxurious world of the wealthiest women from the Real Housewives franchise.
How did the Housewives take over reality TV?
Before we meet our top earners, it’s worth noting how The Real Housewives franchise became a global phenomenon. Initially pegged as a peek into the lives of affluent women in Southern California, the series quickly expanded into various cities like New York, Atlanta, and Beverly Hills. Each iteration brought its own flavour, from the gritty, high-energy conflicts in New Jersey to the southern charm (and shade) in Atlanta.
What started as a series about domestic life quickly evolved into a showcase of wealth, power, and social manoeuvring. Far from a show that centres women with too much time and money; the Real Housewives became a cultural commentary on privilege, ambition, and the high cost of maintaining appearances. Today, The Real Housewives has become a lifestyle brand, with its stars launching businesses, fashion lines, and even political careers off the back of their reality TV fame.
The richest Housewives of the Real Housewives franchise
1. Nina Ali
Net worth: USD 1 Billion
Let’s start with a bang! Nina Ali, from the premier season of Real Housewives of Dubai, is the wealthiest housewife to ever grace the franchise. Although she bowed out after just one season, Nina made a lasting impression. Married to Munaf Ali, a cryptocurrency mogul with a history in Citibank and real estate, this housewife’s wealth is estimated to be over a billion dollars!
Not just a wife to a billionaire, Nina carved her own niche as a social media influencer, capturing hearts with her honest, mom-centric content on Instagram. Her journey into the world of social media was anything but accidental. The 44-year-old began sharing snippets of her life, focusing on her role as a mother, and quickly gained a massive following. Her authenticity resonated with her audience, turning her into a bona fide influencer.
As her circle of influence grew to 600k on Instagram, so did the opportunities. Major brands like Universal Studios and Cartier started approaching Nina for collaborations, and she became selective about who she worked with. In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar Arabia, she added, “It’s because of my followers and their support that I am who I am today.” With the laser-focused strategy paying off, her endorsements began adding significantly to her already impressive wealth.
In 2011, Nina also ventured into entrepreneurship by launching her own business, selling luxurious fruit cakes that are a modern twist on the traditional concept of the dessert. Together with her husband, Nina has elevated the Housewives franchise to the billionaire’s club, making her not just one of the richest housewives, but also the ultimate symbol of success in the world of reality TV.
2. Kathy Hilton
Net worth: USD 350 Million
Kathy Hilton, mother to socialites Paris and Nicky Hilton, is a formidable presence in Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. But long before her stint on reality TV, Kathy was already making waves as an actress and businesswoman. Her vast fortune stems from her marriage to Richard Hilton, heir to the Hilton Hotel empire. Kathy has ventured into various business avenues, from fashion to skincare, and has also invested in real estate, including a sprawling mansion in Bel-Air valued at over USD 55 million. Her ability to stay relevant in the ever-changing world of entertainment is a testament to her business acumen.
Beyond her role as a doting mother and reality TV star, Kathy Hilton has always been a savvy businesswoman. Her foray into the fashion world began in the 1980s, when she successfully launched a collection of party dresses that were sold in high-end stores like Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. Her keen eye for design and her innate understanding of what women wanted made her collection a hit, adding another stream of income to her already impressive portfolio.
Kathy’s marriage to Richard Hilton also positioned her within one of America’s wealthiest and most influential families. Richard, a real estate magnate, co-founded Hilton & Hyland, a luxury real estate firm that has brokered some of the most expensive property deals in Los Angeles. The couple’s shared passion for real estate has seen them acquire and renovate several multi-million-dollar properties, including their primary residence in Bel-Air. Despite her immense wealth, Kathy remains grounded, often expressing how important it is to her to keep her family close-knit and involved in her business ventures. Her success is a heady mix of personal and professional triumphs, making her one of the richest housewives and a true icon in the franchise.
3. Diana Jenkins
Net worth: USD 300 Million
A newcomer in Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Diana Jenkins has a story straight out of a movie. Fleeing war-torn Bosnia, Diana found herself in London, where she met and married Barclays financier Roger Jenkins, whom she later divorced. The divorce settlement left her with a cool USD 300 million, which she smartly invested in businesses like Neuro Brands, a drink company. Diana’s philanthropy and human rights activism further highlight her as more than just another wealthy housewife. Though her time on the show was brief, her impact — both financial and philanthropic — is undeniable among the richest housewives.
Diana’s rise from a war refugee to one of the most influential women in London is nothing short of extraordinary. After completing her studies in economics at City University in London, the former Yugoslavian began her career in finance, where she met her now ex-husband, Roger Jenkins. The couple became a power duo in London’s high society, with Diana quickly establishing herself as a philanthropist and businesswoman. Her brand, Neuro Brands, offers a range of wellness drinks that have become popular in health-conscious circles. The brand’s success added millions to her fortune, allowing the 51-year-old to live a life of luxury while continuing her humanitarian efforts.
Her philanthropy is another key aspect of her legacy. She is a well-known advocate for human rights and has donated millions to various causes, including the Elton John AIDS Foundation and other initiatives supporting war victims and refugees. Diana’s commitment to making the world a better place, combined with her savvy business decisions, has solidified her status as one of the richest housewives in the franchise, making her not just a reality TV star but also a role model for women everywhere.
4. Kyle Richards
Net worth: USD 100 Million
A true veteran of Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Kyle Richards has been with the franchise since its inception. Her USD 100 million fortune is a mix of family wealth, smart investments, and a long-standing marriage to real estate magnate Mauricio Umansky. Kyle’s ventures include fashion boutiques, a memoir, and savvy real estate investments alongside her husband. Despite her recent separation, Kyle’s empire continues to flourish, reflecting her unshakeable presence in the reality TV world.
Kyle’s journey to becoming one of the richest housewives began long before her debut on reality TV. She grew up in a family of Hollywood royalty, with her sister Kim Richards and half-sister Kathy Hilton also making names for themselves in the entertainment industry. Kyle’s early acting career, which included roles in iconic films like Halloween, laid the foundation for her future success. However, it was her marriage to Umansky that truly catapulted her into the world of wealth.
Mauricio’s real estate firm, The Agency, has been instrumental in the couple’s financial success. Specialising in luxury properties, The Agency has closed billions of dollars in real estate deals, with Kyle often playing a role in the business. Her involvement in the fashion industry has also contributed to her wealth. Her boutique, Kyle by Alene Too, became a go-to destination for high-end fashion in Los Angeles, and her memoir, Life Is Not a Reality Show, offered fans a glimpse into her glamorous, yet grounded life. Kyle’s ability to balance her career, family, and business ventures makes her a standout in the franchise.
5. Lisa Vanderpump
Net worth: USD 90 Million
Lisa Vanderpump is practically reality TV royalty. Known for her time on Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and her spin-off, Vanderpump Rules, Lisa’s USD 90 million fortune is built on a successful career as a restaurateur. Alongside her husband, Ken Todd, Lisa owns a string of upscale restaurants and bars in London and Los Angeles. She’s also ventured into fashion, home décor, and pet accessories, further diversifying her income streams. The 63-year-old’s luxurious lifestyle, coupled with her sharp business instincts, make her one of the most beloved and wealthy housewives in the franchise.
Before her reality TV fame, Lisa was already a successful businesswoman in London. She and Ken Todd owned over 30 bars and restaurants across the city, which they later expanded to the United States. Their Los Angeles ventures, including the famed SUR, Pump, and Villa Blanca, quickly became hotspots for celebrities and fans of the show alike. Lisa’s penchant for design is evident in every aspect of her businesses, from the chic interiors of her restaurants to her luxurious home, Villa Rosa. In her own words, her new Lake Tahoe restaurant, Wolf by Vanderpump, “is the sexiest place” in the area.
Lisa’s influence extends beyond the hospitality industry. She has written for Beverly Hills Lifestyle Magazine, developed a skincare line, and launched a pet accessories brand, Vanderpump Pets. Her commitment to animal welfare is well-known, and she has used her platform to raise awareness about issues like the Yulin Dog Meat Festival, spearheading efforts to end animal cruelty. Lisa’s business ventures, combined with her philanthropic work, have made her one of the most respected figures in the franchise, in which she is undoubtedly one of the richest housewives.
6. Bethenny Frankel
Net worth: USD 80 Million
Bethenny Frankel is the poster child for entrepreneurial success within the Real Housewives franchise. Starting her journey on Real Housewives of New York, Bethenny’s business ventures, particularly the Skinnygirl brand, catapulted her to fame and fortune. She sold the brand for a staggering USD 100 million, though she retained rights to the name for other products. Bethenny’s knack for business didn’t stop there; she made another windfall through her investments in Cameo, and her real estate dealings have also been highly profitable. Her sharp wit and no-nonsense approach to life and business have made her a fan favourite.
A self-made woman who worked tirelessly to build her brand, Bethenny’s journey to wealth was not a smooth one. Originally a line of low-calorie cocktails, Skinnygirl was quickly expanded into a full-fledged lifestyle brand that included everything from snacks to apparel. Her decision to sell the brand to Beam Global was a game-changer, but Bethenny wasn’t content to rest on her laurels. She continued to expand her empire, making smart investments in companies like Cameo, which paid off handsomely during the pandemic.
Bethenny’s real estate investments have also contributed to her impressive net worth. She has bought and sold several properties in New York, Greenwich, and the Hamptons, often making significant profits. Her ability to turn every venture into a success story has made her not just one of the richest housewives but also one of the most admired.
7. Heather Dubrow
Net worth: USD 70 Million
A staple of Real Housewives of Orange County, Heather Dubrow is the epitome of class and sophistication. Married to world-renowned plastic surgeon Terry Dubrow, Heather’s USD 70 million net worth is partly thanks to her husband’s success, but is also due to her ventures in skincare, fashion, and publishing. The couple’s impressive real estate portfolio speaks to their financial savvy. Heather’s business acumen, combined with her reality TV fame, ensures her place among the franchise’s elite.
Heather’s rise to wealth began with her career in acting. She appeared in numerous TV shows throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, but it was her role on RHOC that truly put her on the map. Her marriage further solidified her position in high society. Together, Heather and her husband ventured into the business world, launching a skincare line, Consult Beaute, and a diet book, The Dubrow Diet, both of which became instant hits.
The couple’s real estate investments are another key component of their wealth. Their Newport Beach mansion, which they custom-built and later sold for USD 55 million, is a testament to their taste and business acumen. Heather’s ability to juggle her career, family, and business ventures with grace and style has made her one of the most respected figures in the franchise, and certainly one of the richest housewives.
8. Adrienne Maloof
Net worth: USD 60 Million
Another original cast member of Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Adrienne Maloof hails from a family of business moguls. Her USD 60 million fortune comes from her share in the Maloof Companies, which have interests in everything from sports teams to casinos. Along with her penchant for making savvy investments, Adrienne’s hands-on approach in the family business makes her a powerhouse in the business world. Even after stepping away from the franchise, her influence and wealth remain significant, solidifying her as a true housewife with a vast empire.
Adrienne’s role in the family business began at a young age. She was heavily involved in the marketing and promotions of the Maloof Companies, which includes the Sacramento Kings, Palms Casino Resort, and Maloof Productions. Her ability to manage multiple aspects of the business while maintaining her public persona made her a valuable asset to the family empire.
Even after leaving RHOBH, the 62-year-old continued to expand her business ventures. She eventually launched her own line of footwear and accessories which were sold in high-end stores across the country.
9. Sutton Stracke
Net worth: USD 50 Million
Stracke may have only joined the RHOBH cast in season 10, but she’s no stranger to wealth. With a net worth of USD 50 million, Sutton’s fortune largely comes from her divorce settlement with financier Christian Stracke. Her keen eye for fashion led her to open a boutique in West Hollywood, and she’s made a name for herself as one of the top party hosts in the country. Her southern charm and taste for the finer things in life make her a standout in the franchise.
The RHOBH star’s journey to becoming one of the richest housewives is one of reinvention and resilience. After her divorce, Sutton took control of her financial future, investing in businesses and real estate. Her boutique, The Sutton Concept, is a reflection of her impeccable taste, offering high-end fashion and accessories to Hollywood’s elite. While her wealth may have come from her marriage, Sutton has since proven that she has the business acumen to grow and manage it successfully.
10. Camille Grammer
Net worth: USD 50 Million
Camille Grammer’s journey from a dancer to a reality TV star with a USD 50 million net worth is a classic Hollywood tale. Marrying actor Kelsey Grammer brought her into the spotlight, but it was her business acumen that helped her to maintain her wealth. Along with her savvy real estate deals, Camille’s involvement in Grammnet Productions, which produced hit TV shows, ensured that her fortune continued to grow even after her eventual split and divorce from Grammer.
Grammnet Productions produced several successful TV shows, including Girlfriends and Medium, which added millions to Camille’s fortune. After her divorce, Camille received a substantial settlement, which she wisely invested in real estate.
Camille’s real estate deals have been particularly lucrative, with her buying and selling properties in some of the most exclusive neighbourhoods in Los Angeles. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, Camille has remained a resilient and successful businesswoman, making her one of the most compelling and richest housewives in the franchise.
(Main Image: Nina Ali and Kyle Richards/Instagram, Featured Image: Kyle Richards/Instagram)
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
