How Many Billionaires Live in Chicago in 2024?

As of 2024, there are approximately 24 billionaires living in Chicago. These ultra-wealthy individuals collectively contribute significantly to the city’s economic landscape. Here are some notable billionaires from Chicago:

Chicago Billionaires’ Wealth Distribution

1. Ken Griffin – Founder of Citadel, net worth $15 billion.
2. Sam Zell – Real estate tycoon, net worth $5.3 billion.
3. Neil Bluhm – Real estate and casino magnate, net worth $5 billion.
4. Eric Lefkofsky – Co-founder of Groupon, net worth $4.2 billion.
5. Joe Mansueto – Founder of Morningstar, net worth $4.4 billion.
6. Penny Pritzker – Former U.S. Secretary of Commerce, net worth $3.1 billion.
7. Thomas Pritzker – Executive Chairman of Hyatt Hotels, net worth $4 billion.
8. Jennifer Pritzker – Investor and philanthropist, net worth $1.9 billion.
9. Michael Polsky – Founder of Invenergy, net worth $1.6 billion.
10. Matthew Roszak – Venture capitalist, net worth $1.1 billion.
11. Jerry Reinsdorf – Owner of the Chicago Bulls and White Sox, net worth $2.2 billion.

These billionaires have diverse backgrounds, ranging from real estate and finance to technology and hospitality, reflecting Chicago’s varied economic base. For more information on the wealthiest individuals in Chicago, refer to sources such as Stacker and 24/7 Wall St.

Notable Billionaires in Chicago: Backgrounds and Journeys

Ken Griffin

• Occupation: Founder of Citadel
• Net Worth: $15 billion
• Background: Griffin started trading during his time at Harvard. In 1990, he founded Citadel, a global financial institution. His strategic investments and innovative approaches have made Citadel one of the most successful hedge funds.

Sam Zell

• Occupation: Real Estate Tycoon
• Net Worth: $5.3 billion
• Background: Zell built his wealth through savvy real estate investments, particularly in distressed properties. He is known for founding Equity Group Investments in the 1960s.

Neil Bluhm

• Occupation: Real Estate and Casino Magnate
• Net Worth: $5 billion
• Background: Bluhm co-founded JMB Realty in 1970, amassing a vast real estate portfolio. He later expanded into the casino business, co-founding Rush Street Gaming.

Eric Lefkofsky

• Occupation: Co-founder of Groupon
• Net Worth: $4.2 billion
• Background: Lefkofsky co-founded Groupon in 2008, transforming it into a major e-commerce marketplace. He has also invested in numerous startups through his venture firm, Lightbank.

Joe Mansueto

• Occupation: Founder of Morningstar
• Net Worth: $4.4 billion
• Background: Mansueto founded Morningstar in 1984, revolutionizing investment research and analysis. His company provides essential financial services globally.

Penny Pritzker

• Occupation: Former U.S. Secretary of Commerce
• Net Worth: $3.1 billion
• Background: A member of the prominent Pritzker family, Penny Pritzker has made significant investments in real estate, hospitality, and tech. She served as U.S. Secretary of Commerce from 2013 to 2017.

Thomas Pritzker

• Occupation: Executive Chairman of Hyatt Hotels
• Net Worth: $4 billion
• Background: Thomas Pritzker oversees Hyatt Hotels, part of the family’s hospitality empire. He has played a crucial role in expanding the brand globally.

Jennifer Pritzker

• Occupation: Investor and Philanthropist
• Net Worth: $1.9 billion
• Background: Jennifer Pritzker, a retired Army lieutenant colonel, has invested in various sectors, including real estate and tech, while supporting numerous philanthropic initiatives.

Michael Polsky

• Occupation: Founder of Invenergy
• Net Worth: $1.6 billion
• Background: Polsky founded Invenergy, a leading clean energy company, in 2001. His focus on renewable energy has significantly impacted the industry.

Matthew Roszak

• Occupation: Venture Capitalist
• Net Worth: $1.1 billion
• Background: Roszak is a prominent figure in the cryptocurrency and blockchain space. He co-founded Bloq and has invested in numerous blockchain startups.

Jerry Reinsdorf

• Occupation: Owner of the Chicago Bulls and White Sox
• Net Worth: $2.2 billion
• Background: Reinsdorf made his fortune in real estate before purchasing the Chicago Bulls and White Sox. Under his ownership, both teams have achieved significant success.

Conclusion

These billionaires have not only built immense wealth but also significantly contributed to Chicago’s economic and cultural landscape. Their diverse paths to success reflect the city’s dynamic and multifaceted business environment.