Ringo Starr, the legendary drummer of The Beatles, has built a fortune that has only grown over the years. With a net worth of $350 million in 2025, Starr continues to be one of the wealthiest musicians in the world, and notably, the richest drummer. Best known for his time with The Beatles, his solo career, and his contributions to the music world, Ringo Starr’s wealth is a testament to his talent, work ethic, and lasting influence on popular culture.
Early Life and the Birth of a Star
Born Richard Starkey on July 7, 1940, in Liverpool, England, Ringo Starr’s early life was far from easy. He was the only child of Richard and Elsie Gleave. His parents’ marriage ended when Ringo was young, and his father was not involved in his life. His mother supported the family by working as a house cleaner and barmaid. Starr faced a series of health challenges during his childhood, including a serious case of appendicitis and a long battle with tuberculosis, which kept him in a sanatorium for two years.
It was during his time in the sanatorium that Ringo first developed an interest in music. The hospital band introduced him to percussion instruments, and by Christmas 1957, his stepfather Harry Graves gave him a second-hand drum kit, which helped shape his future. Ringo honed his skills in local Liverpool bands, most notably Rory Storm and the Hurricanes, where he gained a reputation as a talented drummer. In 1962, he joined The Beatles, replacing Pete Best, and the rest, as they say, is history.
The Beatles and Ringo Starr’s Rise to Fame
Ringo Starr’s entry into The Beatles in 1962 was a turning point, both for the band and for him. With John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison, Ringo completed the Fab Four, a group that would become the most influential in rock history. While Lennon and McCartney were the main songwriters, Ringo’s drumming style became integral to The Beatles’ sound. He also occasionally took lead vocals, with notable tracks like Yellow Submarine and With a Little Help from My Friends, and wrote memorable songs like Octopus’s Garden.
Although Ringo’s contributions to The Beatles were often overshadowed by the brilliance of Lennon and McCartney, his unique style of drumming and his role in the band were essential to their success. The Beatles’ immense popularity and the wealth generated from their record sales, tours, and merchandise made Ringo a wealthy man. In the 1960s and early 1970s, The Beatles earned millions, with each member becoming a financial powerhouse.
Solo Career and Continued Success
After The Beatles disbanded in 1970, Ringo Starr launched a successful solo career. His 1973 album Ringo was a commercial hit, with singles like Photograph and You’re Sixteen becoming major hits. Over the years, Ringo released more albums and continued to enjoy success with hits such as It Don’t Come Easy and Back Off Boogaloo. His solo career, while not as commercially explosive as his time with The Beatles, kept him in the spotlight and generated significant revenue.
Ringo also became known for his All-Starr Band, which toured regularly with different musicians. These tours have provided a steady income stream for Starr, with his performances attracting a loyal fanbase. In addition to his music, Ringo continued to make money through his acting career, appearing in films such as Caveman and The Magic Christian, and hosting television shows like Thomas & Friends and Shining Time Station. His involvement in these ventures further contributed to his wealth.
Ringo Starr’s Net Worth: $350 Million in 2025
As of 2025, Ringo Starr’s net worth stands at an impressive $350 million. Much of this wealth comes from his Beatles royalties, solo music, and successful tours. The enduring popularity of The Beatles ensures that Ringo continues to earn money from their catalog of songs, both from streaming and royalties. Additionally, Starr’s acting career, combined with his ventures into television and film, has helped him amass a fortune.
In addition to his income from music and acting, Ringo has made wise investments over the years, including his extensive real estate holdings. Ringo Starr’s real estate portfolio includes multiple properties, and he has also sold significant items from his personal collection, such as his 1963 Ludwig Oyster Black Pearl drum kit, which sold for $2.25 million. The money from auctions and sales of memorabilia has also contributed to his wealth.
Personal Life and Family
Ringo Starr has been married twice. In 1965, he married Maureen Cox, with whom he had three children: Zak, Jason, and Lee. However, their marriage ended in divorce in 1975 due to Ringo’s infidelities. In 1981, Starr married actress Barbara Bach, and the couple has remained together ever since. They have a strong bond and share a passion for philanthropy, co-founding the Lotus Foundation in 2004, which supports a variety of charitable causes.
Ringo also has eight grandchildren and, as of 2016, became a great-grandfather. Despite the challenges in his early life, Ringo has found stability in his personal relationships and has enjoyed a fulfilling family life.
Philanthropy and the Lotus Foundation
In 2004, Ringo and Barbara Bach founded the Lotus Foundation to support various charitable causes. The foundation focuses on mental health, physical well-being, and other social causes. One of the foundation’s notable efforts was its involvement in helping the victims of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, a cause close to Ringo’s heart. In addition to the foundation’s work, Ringo is known for promoting peace and love, with his “peace and love” message resonating throughout his career.
Real Estate and Auctions
Ringo Starr has owned a number of high-profile properties over the years, with one of the most notable being Tittenhurst Park, the former home of John Lennon. Starr bought the estate in 1971, further cementing his wealth and status. In 2015, Ringo and his wife, Barbara, held a charity auction of over 1,300 pieces of memorabilia, raising a staggering $9.2 million for the Lotus Foundation. The auction included iconic items like Ringo’s famous drum kit, Beatles records, and personal jewelry, with the proceeds going to charitable causes.
Ringo’s Legacy and Ongoing Influence
Ringo Starr’s contribution to the music world is undeniable. In addition to his wealth, Starr’s influence on the drumming world is immense. He was ranked the 5th “Greatest Drummer of All Time” by Rolling Stone in 2011. His unique style, which set him apart from other drummers of the time, has influenced generations of musicians. Despite the challenges he has faced, including the breakup of The Beatles and personal struggles, Ringo Starr’s legacy endures through his music, acting, and philanthropy.
In 2018, Starr was knighted for his contributions to music, and in 2022, he received an honorary Doctor of Music degree from Berklee College of Music. Today, he continues to tour and create music, proving that his passion for his craft remains as strong as ever.