News Summary
Georgia has made a notable splash in the 2025 Forbes Billionaires list with twelve billionaires holding a remarkable combined net worth of $81.8 billion. The Peach State’s wealth is represented by influential figures from industries like fast food, home improvement, and technology. This year also highlights a trend towards more women inheriting wealth, as seen with key individuals, marking a significant evolution in the landscape of American billionaires. Georgia continues to prove itself as a hub for wealth and innovation in the U.S.
Atlanta, Georgia: Home to an Impressive Wealth of Billionaires!
Well, folks, hold onto your hats because Georgia’s wealthy are making waves in the 2025 Forbes Billionaires list! This year, the state has a remarkable total of twelve billionaires, flaunting a jaw-dropping combined net worth of $81.8 billion. That’s right, billion with a “B”! As the world continues to see the expansion of wealth, Georgia proves it’s got some serious cash flow.
Global Billionaire Boom
Forbes has unveiled its annual list showcasing an astounding 3,028 billionaires roaming the globe this year. Together, these tycoons have amassed a whopping $16.1 trillion in total wealth. Isn’t that mind-boggling? To put it into perspective, the United States tops the list with a fantastic 902 billionaires—far more than any other country. In fact, with these figures, you might say Georgia is sitting pretty!
Top Georgians in the Billionaire Club
A standout trio in the Peach State is none other than the children of Chick-fil-A founder Truett Cathy: Bubba Cathy, Dan Cathy, and Trudy Cathy White. Each boasts a net worth of $11.4 billion this year, marking a solid increase from their previous year’s combined wealth of $11.2 billion. Looks like the chicken empire is still sizzling!
Another titan, Arthur Blank, who co-founded Home Depot and owns the Atlanta Falcons, follows closely with his net worth sitting at a cool $9 billion. The home improvement and sports industries sure have treated him well!
More Notable Names and Numbers
The list doesn’t end there. If you’re wondering about pest control, you won’t find a better name than Gary Rollins, whose family owns Orkin, the largest pest control company in North America, with a net worth of $6.9 billion. Meanwhile, Jim Kennedy, the chairman emeritus of Cox Enterprises, has amassed a commendable fortune of $6.6 billion.
Creative minds also shine in Georgia, with Ben Chestnut, the founder of Mailchimp, valued at $5 billion. Not too far behind are his co-founder, Dan Kurzius, with a net worth of $5.6 billion, and Neal Aronson, founder of Roark Capital, pulling in $4.1 billion from various restaurant franchises. It’s clear that Georgia’s innovators are doing things right!
Last but not least, the co-founders of Zaxby’s, Tony Townley and Zach McLeroy, also made the list with net worths of $1.2 billion and $1 billion, respectively. Looks like fried chicken isn’t just a Southern staple but a solid path to wealth!
The Changing Landscape of Billionaires
Interestingly, this year’s wealth figures also highlight a growing trend. More women appear to be inheriting their fortunes than ever before, with Walmart heiress Alice Walton leading the charge at a staggering $101 billion. As the average billionaire’s fortune rises to $5.3 billion, up by $200 million from last year, it raises a few eyebrows regarding the accessibility of this elite club.
Final Thoughts
With nearly three-quarters of billionaires inheriting their wealth, it poses challenges for newcomers trying to break into the billionaire boys club. However, with such a blend of creativity, industry, and tradition, Georgia seemingly holds a treasure trove of wealth. Who knows what the next year’s numbers will look like as these billionaires continue to shape the Peach State’s economic landscape!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- WSB TV: Georgia Billionaires
- Savannah Now: Forbes Billionaires in Georgia
- 11 Alive: Georgia Billionaires
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Mackenzie Scott Donation
- Wikipedia: List of Billionaires
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
