Robert Kiyosaki Net Worth (Money & Salary)

What Is Robert Kiyosaki’s Net Worth?

An accomplished American investor, businessman, author, motivational speaker, and financial commentator, Robert Kiyosaki boasts a net worth estimated at $100 million. He gained fame with his book “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” which is regarded as a pivotal resource in personal finance. His career showcases a variety of entrepreneurial endeavors alongside a strong commitment to financial education. The philosophy he advocates is influenced by his experiences with two father figures: his biological father, who adhered to traditional academic and career paths, and his friend’s father, who embraced entrepreneurship and shared valuable financial wisdom.

The publication of “Rich Dad Poor Dad” in 1997 led to its recognition as an international bestseller and initiated a series of books under the “Rich Dad” brand. These works emphasize financial independence, real estate, investing, and the necessity of financial literacy, often questioning standard beliefs about work and income. Kiyosaki’s impact transcends his writing; he has participated in various business enterprises and educational projects that stress practical financial education. While he has faced controversy and criticism, particularly in connection to his “Rich Dad” seminars, Kiyosaki continues to be a significant presence in personal finance and wealth building.

Early Life

Robert Kiyosaki was born on April 8, 1947, in Hilo, Territory of Hawaii, as Robert Toru Kiyosaki. He is the son of Ralph and Marjorie Kiyosaki and is a 4th-generation Japanese-American, or “Yonsei.” His father, an educator, held a Ph.D. at his passing in 1991. Kiyosaki later criticized those who pursued a Ph.D., indirectly pointing to his father’s challenges with poverty and unemployment as he grew older. Robert completed his high school education in 1965.

Following high school, Kiyosaki enrolled in Naval College and later joined the U.S. Marine Corps after his brother enlisted in the Air Force to serve in the Vietnam War. He became a helicopter gunship pilot, serving in Vietnam from 1972 to 1973. Kiyosaki has mentioned that his experience in the Marines shaped his character, providing him with the resilience required to thrive in business.

Upon returning from Vietnam, Kiyosaki studied at a college in Hilo, Hawaii. After obtaining an MBA, he entered the business world for the first time. He worked as a sales associate for Xerox until 1968, at which point he launched his first business.

Early Attempts at Entrepreneurship

Kiyosaki’s initial business endeavor involved the sale of nylon/velcro wallets, which were among the first of their kind and enjoyed moderate success initially. Ultimately, however, the enterprise went bankrupt. His second venture was a retail business selling t-shirts, licensing the rights to create merchandise for various rock bands, including caps, wallets, and bags. Unfortunately, like the first, this company also went bankrupt. By 1980, Robert began redirecting his focus toward education.

Early Educational Businesses

Kiyosaki’s entry into the education sector began with the establishment of the Accelerated Learning Institute. This marked his first venture in business education, with a focus on teaching students about social responsibility. The company was created in 1985 and sold in 1994.

In the mid-1990s, Kiyosaki began to construct the educational empire that would lead to his success. His first book, titled “If You Want to Be Rich and Happy, Don’t Go to School,” marked the beginning of this journey. The book adopted a critical stance toward traditional education, emphasizing different approaches to wealth and happiness.

of real estate as an alternative to traditional college education, encouraging readers to actively participate in this field instead. At this juncture, Robert and his second wife were already deeply engaged in the real estate market themselves.

The pivotal moment of advancement occurred with the establishment of Cashflow Technologies, Inc. by Kiyosaki in 1997. This company was dedicated to financial education and would manage the “Rich Dad” brand, among others. That same year saw the publication of Robert’s most renowned book, “Rich Dad Poor Dad.”

TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty Images

“Rich Dad Poor Dad”

This book has surpassed sales of 32 million copies and initially was self-published. After gaining traction, major publishing houses took interest, and it remained on the “New York Times” Best Sellers list for more than six years. Sales received a significant boost when the book was mentioned on “The Oprah Winfrey Show.” Clearly, this book played a crucial role in propelling Kiyosaki’s career forward, bringing him both fame and financial success.

The narrative follows two fathers: one impoverished and the other wealthy through smart investments and entrepreneurship. Eventually, Robert discloses that the “rich dad” is a fictional figure while the “poor dad” is purportedly based on his actual father. “Rich Dad Poor Dad” imparts several financial lessons, particularly those concerning real estate and business initiation.