In a significant update to the financial landscape, Kathy Britton, the executive chair of homebuilder Perry Homes, has made her debut on Forbes' annual list of the world's wealthiest individuals. Released on Tuesday, the list ranks Britton at position 1,408, with an impressive estimated net worth of $2.6 billion. This recognition highlights the growing influence of Houston's business leaders in the global economy.
While Britton marks her presence on the list, Tilman Fertitta continues to hold the title of Houston's wealthiest person. Currently ranked at No. 220 globally, Fertitta has an estimated net worth of $11.3 billion. As owner of the Houston Rockets and CEO of the Landry's restaurant and entertainment empire, he was notably present on Capitol Hill as the list was unveiled, preparing to testify before the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee for his confirmation as U.S. Ambassador to Italy.
This year, Forbes reported a total of 3,028 billionaires worldwide, a notable increase from 2,781 last year. The collective net worth of these billionaires has surged to over $16 trillion, reflecting an increase of approximately $2 trillion compared to 2024. This growth underscores the resilience and expansion of wealth across various sectors globally.
Houston boasts an impressive roster of billionaires featured on this year’s Forbes list. Here’s a detailed overview of the top earners from the city:
With an estimated net worth of $11.3 billion, Tilman Fertitta has climbed the ranks, moving from No. 256 last year to No. 220 this year. As he prepares for his potential role as U.S. Ambassador to Italy, he plans to resign as CEO of Landry's if confirmed.
Ranked No. 248, Richard Kinder, the chairman of Kinder Morgan, has a net worth of $10.6 billion. He and his wife, Nancy, are also known for their philanthropic efforts through the Kinder Foundation, which supports various initiatives in Houston.
The Duncan siblings, heirs to Enterprise Products Partners, collectively rank among Houston's wealthiest. Randa Duncan Williams leads at No. 307 with a net worth of $9.3 billion, while her siblings Milane Frantz and Dannine Avara are tied at No. 311, each with $9.2 billion.
Once the wealthiest person in Houston, Jeffery Hildebrand is now ranked No. 411 globally, with an estimated fortune of $7.7 billion. He co-founded Hilcorp, an exploration and production company.
Dan Friedkin shares the No. 411 spot with Hildebrand, also boasting a net worth of $7.7 billion. He is the chairman and CEO of the Friedkin Group, which operates in diverse sectors including automotive and hospitality.
Coming in at No. 561, Janice McNair, co-founder of the Houston Texans, has an estimated net worth of $6.2 billion. Her philanthropic efforts and commitment to the Houston community are widely recognized.
Energy entrepreneur George Bishop ranks No. 717 globally, with a net worth of $5 billion. He founded GeoSouthern Energy in 1981, solidifying his position in the energy sector.
At No. 902, the Chao siblings—Albert, James, and Dorothy—each have a net worth of approximately $4 billion. They are significant stakeholders in Westlake Chemical Corporation, founded by their family in the 1980s.
John Arnold, known for his past role at Enron, ranks No. 1,265 with a net worth of $2.9 billion. After closing his hedge fund, he now focuses on philanthropy through Arnold Ventures.
As a newcomer to the list, Kathy Britton stands at No. 1,408 with a net worth of $2.6 billion. Her leadership at Perry Homes, a company established by her father in 1967, has propelled her into the ranks of the wealthiest.
Jim Crane rounds out Houston's elite, ranking No. 1,513 with a net worth of $2.4 billion. He is a logistics entrepreneur and a notable stakeholder in the Houston Astros.
Beyond Houston, several other Texans have made their mark on the Forbes list. Elon Musk leads as the wealthiest person in the world with a staggering net worth of $342 billion. Michael Dell, chairman and CEO of Dell Technologies, ranks No. 17 with approximately $91 billion. The Butt family, founders of grocery giant H-E-B, also feature prominently, with Charles Butt at No. 230 and his siblings also making appearances.
This year's list not only highlights the wealth of individuals but also underscores the economic dynamism present in Texas, particularly in Houston. As the financial landscape continues to evolve, the impact of these billionaires on local and global economies remains significant.
