Rick Ross, a multifaceted American artist, has a net worth of $150 million. His career has spanned music, entrepreneurship, and real estate, with a remarkable string of successes. Over the years, he has sold millions of albums and tens of millions of singles globally. At various points, he has been one of the highest-paid rappers, earning over $90 million in career earnings so far, excluding his valuable real estate holdings and other business ventures.
Ross’ rise to fame began in 2006 with the release of his debut album Port of Miami, which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. His deep, husky voice and vivid storytelling quickly set him apart in the rap world. Following his debut, Ross continued to make waves in the industry with albums like Trilla (2008), Deeper Than Rap (2009), Teflon Don (2010), and God Forgives, I Don’t (2012), all of which charted at the top of Billboard’s rankings. His music often delves into themes of wealth, criminal life, and the Miami lifestyle.
In addition to his successful career as a rapper, Rick Ross is also an astute businessman. He founded Maybach Music Group (MMG) in 2009, where he signed artists like Meek Mill and Wale. Ross’ entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond music, as he owns multiple Wingstop franchises and has made significant investments in real estate. His business portfolio, alongside his music sales, plays a key role in his growing fortune.
Key Financial Milestones and Facts
Rick Ross has accumulated earnings exceeding $90 million through his music and touring alone. A significant financial decision was the purchase of a mansion previously owned by boxing legend Evander Holyfield in 2014. Located in suburban Atlanta, this 190-room estate sits on 235 acres, making it the largest mansion in Georgia at 54,000 square feet. In 2020, he expanded his property by acquiring an additional 87 acres, bringing his total Atlanta real estate to 322 acres.
Early Life and Background
William Leonard Roberts II, known professionally as Rick Ross, was born on January 28, 1976, in Clarksdale, Mississippi, but was raised in Carol City, Florida. He graduated from Miami Carol City Senior High School and went on to attend Albany State University in Georgia on a football scholarship. Though Ross was briefly involved in sports, his path soon led him into the music business.
From Correctional Officer to Music Mogul
Before embarking on his rap career, Ross worked as a correctional officer for approximately 18 months, from December 1995 to June 1997. His musical journey began under the name Teflon Da Don, but he later rebranded himself as Rick Ross, taking inspiration from notorious drug kingpin “Freeway” Rick Ross. His big break came in 2006 when his debut single “Hustlin” created a buzz, leading to offers from top record labels like Diddy’s Bad Boy Entertainment and Irv Gotti’s Murder Inc. Ultimately, he signed with Jay-Z’s Def Jam Records, releasing Port of Miami, which topped the charts.
Following the success of his debut album, Ross’ career only grew. His second album, Trilla (2008), also debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. Ross founded his record label Maybach Music Group in 2009, under which he released several more successful albums. These include Deeper Than Rap (2009), Teflon Don (2010), God Forgives, I Don’t (2012), Mastermind (2014), and others, cementing his place as a major player in the hip-hop scene.
Ross’ influence extended beyond his own music. He was the first artist to sign with Diddy’s Ciroc Entertainment management company. His contribution to music and culture was also recognized in 2012 when MTV named him the Hottest MC in the Game.
Legal Challenges
While Rick Ross’ career has largely been smooth sailing, he has encountered several legal hurdles. In 2008, Ross was arrested on gun and marijuana charges. There was also controversy surrounding his alleged affiliation with gang members, which was highlighted during a deposition with Officer Rey Hernandez. In addition to this, Ross faced a lawsuit from YouTube personality DJ Vlad for an alleged ambush at the 2008 Ozone Awards.
One of the most notable legal battles came in 2010 when “Freeway” Rick Ross sued Ross for using his name. The lawsuit was dismissed in 2013 after a court ruled in favor of the rapper, citing First Amendment protections.
In 2021, Rick Ross reached an agreement to pay $11,000 per month in child support to his ex-girlfriend Briana Singleton for their three children.
Personal Life and Family
Rick Ross has four children: Toie Roberts, William Roberts III, Berkeley Hermes Roberts, and Billion Leonard Roberts. A devout Christian, Ross has shared that he never questions God and prays before every performance. He has also faced personal struggles, including a drive-by shooting in 2013, where he and his girlfriend were the intended targets. Fortunately, neither was harmed, though they did crash their car while attempting to escape.
In terms of relationships, Ross was briefly engaged to model Lira “Galore” Mercer in 2015. However, his career hasn’t been without controversy, as he faced backlash in 2017 for comments about never signing a female rapper. He later apologized, calling his remarks “insensitive” and a “mistake.”
Financial Breakdown and Earnings
Throughout his career, Rick Ross’ income has been impressive. His earnings over the years have varied, with a notable jump between 2007 and 2020. In 2007, he earned $2 million, and by 2019, his income had reached $5 million. In 2020, his reported income was $7 million. According to court documents from a child support case in 2020, Ross’ monthly income was revealed to be $585,000.
Real Estate Ventures
Rick Ross’ real estate portfolio includes several stunning properties. In 2012, he purchased a 10,000-square-foot mansion in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for $5.2 million. This Mediterranean-style home boasts eight bedrooms, 11 bathrooms, and private waterfront access. He eventually sold the home for a bit more than $6 million in 2016.
A bigger splash came in 2014 when Ross purchased Evander Holyfield’s mansion in Georgia for $5.8 million. Spanning 54,000 square feet, the estate is one of the largest homes in the state, featuring 109 rooms, 12 bedrooms, and 21 bathrooms. Ross expanded his property holdings in 2020 with the purchase of 87 additional acres, bringing his total property size to 322 acres.
In 2023, Ross continued to make high-profile real estate investments, including the purchase of Meek Mill’s Atlanta mansion for $4.2 million in cash. He is also reportedly in contract to purchase a $37 million mansion on Star Island in Miami.
Private Jet Purchase
Rick Ross’ wealth has also afforded him the luxury of private air travel. In June 2023, he revealed via Instagram that he had purchased a 2012 Gulfstream G550 private jet. The jet, which costs between $10 to $40 million depending on various factors, was purchased for $19.5 million in April 2023. Ross’ jet is registered under an LLC called Maybach Air.
Rick Ross’ net worth of $150 million is the result of a combination of music sales, business ventures, and real estate investments. From his early days as a correctional officer to his rise as a hip-hop mogul and entrepreneur, Ross has proven himself a versatile and successful figure in the entertainment industry. His real estate portfolio, franchise ownership, and ongoing musical success ensure that his wealth will continue to grow for years to come.
