Kimbal Musk may not dominate headlines like his brother Elon, but behind the scenes, he’s quietly built a fortune that now tops $900 million in 2025 — and it’s not just because of Tesla stock. He ranks #1 on our list of the Top 50 Richest Chefs in the World.
A visionary entrepreneur, philanthropist, and restaurateur, Kimbal is best known for blending tech savvy with sustainable food innovation. From co-founding Zip2 with Elon in the ’90s to launching The Kitchen Restaurant Group and championing urban farming through Square Roots and Big Green, Kimbal has forged a unique path that bridges Silicon Valley and farm-to-table living.
So how did Kimbal Musk grow his wealth in 2025? Beyond his Tesla board seat and early tech ventures, Kimbal’s business empire spans multiple industries — and he’s recently made headlines with his expanding nonprofit initiatives and renewed focus on climate-conscious entrepreneurship.
In this article, we’ll break down Kimbal Musk’s net worth in 2025, including his income sources, Tesla salary, restaurant empire, luxury assets, real estate, and personal life milestones. Let’s dig into how this cowboy-hat-wearing mogul became one of the most interesting figures in sustainable wealth.
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Kimbal Musk’s Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Kimbal Musk’s net worth is estimated to be between $900 million, according to Forbes. The higher end attributed to his significant holdings in Tesla Inc. and early involvement in other high-growth ventures like SpaceX. While his fortune doesn’t approach the astronomical wealth of his brother Elon, Kimbal has steadily built a diverse portfolio that spans tech, hospitality, nonprofit innovation, and sustainable agriculture.
Estimated Net Worth Over the Years
| Year | Estimated Net Worth | Key Factors |
| 2015 | $50 million | Proceeds from Zip2 sale, early Tesla shares, restaurant expansion |
| 2018 | $120 million | Growth in Tesla stock value, launch of Square Roots |
| 2020 | $300 million | Big Green impact, rising Tesla valuation, national media exposure |
| 2022 | $600 million | Tesla peaks, board-level influence, increased restaurant footprint |
| 2025 | $900M | Tesla and SpaceX equity, board roles, diversified income sources |
Contributors to Kimbal Musk’s Wealth
Tesla Equity – Kimbal owns approximately 1.5 million shares of Tesla (TSLA), valued at over $450 million in 2025. His long-term board membership also brings additional influence and compensation.
Restaurant Ventures – His company, The Kitchen Restaurant Group, which includes Next Door American Eatery, has expanded nationally, contributing to steady business revenue and brand equity.
Nonprofit & Urban Farming Innovation – While not major cash earners, Big Green and Square Roots elevate his public profile and access to strategic partnerships and philanthropic funding.
Tech & Early Investments – Profits from past ventures such as Zip2 and OneRiot, as well as indirect exposure to SpaceX, have played a foundational role in building his early wealth.
Board Memberships & Media Presence – Serving on the boards of Tesla and Chipotle, along with various public speaking and TV appearances, reinforces his reputation and influence in sustainability and business circles.
“Kimbal Musk’s Tesla holdings alone put him in the upper echelon of boardroom billionaires—not for headlines, but for strategic wealth-building.”
— John Hyatt, Senior Contributor, Forbes April 2025
How Kimbal Musk Makes Money
Kimbal Musk’s income streams are as diverse as his career—spanning public board salaries, long-held stock positions, entrepreneurial ventures, and sustainable food innovation. Though he maintains a lower profile than his brother Elon, Kimbal’s earnings reflect a strategic mix of tech wealth and mission-driven business.
Salaries and Compensation
Tesla Board Member Salary: As a long-time board member of Tesla Inc., Kimbal receives compensation largely in stock options rather than a base salary. According to Tesla’s SEC filings from previous years, board members like Kimbal typically receive annual stock awards valued between $200,000 and $300,000, though actual value varies based on vesting and stock performance.
Chipotle Board Member Compensation: Kimbal also serves on the Board of Directors for Chipotle Mexican Grill, where the average annual compensation for board members ranges from $250,000 to $300,000 in cash and stock, depending on committee roles and tenure.
Endorsements and Brand Deals
Kimbal Musk does not currently engage in traditional celebrity endorsements or commercial brand partnerships, which aligns with his image as a socially conscious entrepreneur rather than a commercial influencer. However, his restaurants and nonprofits have partnered with local and national brands for sustainability initiatives and farm-to-table events. These collaborations often support community goals more than direct income.
Investments and Business Deals
Kimbal’s most lucrative income source comes from equity investments, particularly:
Tesla Inc.: He owns around 1.5 million shares of Tesla, worth approximately $450–$480 million as of mid-2025 (based on $300–$320/share estimates). This stake has grown significantly since he first invested early and joined the board in the 2000s.
SpaceX (Indirect Exposure): Though not directly confirmed as a shareholder, Kimbal was involved in early discussions and has been cited in media as having some private equity exposure to SpaceX, potentially via early seed rounds or family holdings.
The Kitchen Restaurant Group: This includes restaurants like Next Door and Hedgerow, contributing steady business income. While financials are private, estimates suggest the group generates multi-million dollar annual revenue.
Square Roots: As co-founder, he has helped grow this modular urban farming startup, attracting venture capital and sustainability grants. Though not yet a public company, Square Roots adds long-term equity value to his portfolio.
Other Income Sources
Speaking Engagements and TV Appearances: Kimbal has appeared on shows like 60 Minutes, Chopped, and To Dine For. While these aren’t major cash generators, high-profile speaking engagements at food, tech, and climate summits can bring $25,000–$50,000 per appearance.
Nonprofit Funding: While Big Green is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and not a personal income source, Kimbal’s leadership has helped secure millions in donations and grants, increasing his visibility and long-term influence—often leading to business partnerships.
“Most people know him as Elon Musk’s brother, but Kimbal has built a solid revenue stream from his food ventures and early tech investments.”
— Emily Grant, Financial Analyst at Bloomberg
Kimbal Musk Career Timeline
1972 – Born on September 20 in Pretoria, South Africa.
1989 – Moves to Canada for college; later becomes a naturalized U.S. citizen.
1995 – Co-founds Zip2 with brother Elon Musk; provides online city guides for newspapers.
1999 – Compaq acquires Zip2 for $307 million; Kimbal earns an estimated $15–20 million from the sale.
2001 – Enrolls at the French Culinary Institute in New York, pivoting toward food and hospitality.
2004 – Opens The Kitchen restaurant in Boulder, Colorado—a pioneer in farm-to-table dining.
2006 – Becomes CEO of OneRiot, a real-time search engine and social media analytics platform.
2011 – Walmart Labs acquires OneRiot; financial terms undisclosed.
2011 – Co-founds The Kitchen Community, later rebranded Big Green, a nonprofit building school gardens across the U.S.
2013 – Joins the Tesla, Inc. Board of Directors.
2015 – Launches Next Door American Eatery, a casual restaurant chain under The Kitchen brand.
2016 – Co-founds Square Roots, a startup focused on urban, modular indoor farming.
2017 – Named a Global Social Entrepreneur by the World Economic Forum.
2018 – Marries environmental activist Christiana Wyly; expands both business and nonprofit work.
2019 – Appears as a guest judge on Food Network’s Chopped, boosting public recognition.
2020 – Big Green reaches over 700+ school gardens nationwide.
2022 – Estimated net worth surpasses $600 million, largely from Tesla equity.
2023 – Square Roots expands into multiple urban U.S. hubs; gains more VC funding.
2024 – Steps up public advocacy for regenerative agriculture and climate-resilient food systems.
2025 – Net worth estimated between $900 million; maintains board roles at Tesla and Chipotle, while leading ventures in food and sustainability.
“Kimbal Musk’s Tesla holdings alone put him in the upper echelon of boardroom billionaires—not for headlines, but for strategic wealth-building.”
— John Hyatt, Senior Contributor, Forbes, April 2025
Also See: Top 50 Richest Chefs in the World
Kimbal Musk’s Assets and Luxury Lifestyle
While Kimbal Musk keeps a relatively low profile compared to other multimillionaires, his asset portfolio reveals a comfortable, eco-conscious lifestyle rooted in sustainability and quiet wealth. Unlike his brother Elon’s flashy purchases and global headlines, Kimbal’s luxury is more understated—focused on purpose-driven choices, high-quality living, and functional investments.
Real Estate
Primary Residence: Boulder, Colorado: Kimbal resides in the progressive and eco-friendly city of Boulder, close to the headquarters of The Kitchen and Big Green. The exact value of his home isn’t publicly disclosed, but high-end real estate in Boulder typically ranges from $2 million to $5 million for custom-built, energy-efficient homes—aligning with Kimbal’s sustainable values.
Additional Properties (Speculated): While not confirmed, it’s likely that Kimbal owns additional properties in New York and California, given the locations of his restaurants and speaking commitments. However, he appears to favor a minimalist footprint over excessive real estate.
Cars: Tesla Fleet, Naturally
As a Tesla board member and sustainability advocate, Kimbal Musk unsurprisingly drives several electric vehicles:
- Tesla Model S Plaid – Estimated value: $90,000+
- Tesla Model X or Y – Family-friendly electric SUV models
- Cybertruck (Pre-ordered) – Kimbal has hinted at being among the first in line for Tesla’s highly anticipated Cybertruck
Private Jets
There’s no public record of Kimbal Musk owning a private jet. However, he likely has access to private air travel through Tesla corporate networks or shared charters. This contrasts with Elon’s well-documented jet usage and reflects Kimbal’s more grounded public persona.
Jewelry & Fashion
Signature Look: Kimbal is almost always seen wearing a cowboy hat, a personal branding choice that reinforces his farm-to-table identity.
Wardrobe Style: Earth-toned blazers, button-down shirts, and denim—smart casual with a Western flair.
Jewelry: No known collections of high-end watches or flashy jewelry; his style leans toward minimalist and functional.
Unusual or Purposeful Purchases
Farm Technology: Through Square Roots, Kimbal has invested in modular hydroponic farms, costing upwards of $150,000 per unit, used to promote urban agriculture.
School Garden Infrastructure: His nonprofit Big Green has built over 700 school gardens—though these are nonprofit projects, they reflect his preference for using wealth to drive impact over indulgence.
Lifestyle Philosophy
Kimbal’s luxury lifestyle is centered on conscious consumption, environmental values, and well-being. Rather than acquiring trophy assets, he channels resources into building a better food system, sustainable cities, and educational tools for the next generation.
“Kimbal’s not flaunting superyachts or art collections—his money goes into hydroponic farms, school gardens, and community-focused real estate.”
— Dr. Monica Hayes, Wealth Trends Analyst, Bloomberg Commentary, 2024
Kimbal Musk’s Personal Life
Born on September 20, 1972, in Pretoria, South Africa, Kimbal Musk is 52 years old as of 2025. He comes from a highly accomplished family: his brother is Elon Musk, the billionaire founder of Tesla and SpaceX, while his sister, Tosca Musk, is a successful filmmaker and CEO of streaming platform Passionflix. Their mother, Maye Musk, is a renowned model and dietitian.
Education and Early Life
After emigrating to Canada in his late teens, Kimbal studied at Queen’s University in Ontario, where he began his entrepreneurial journey. He later pursued a culinary degree from the French Culinary Institute in New York, reflecting a major career shift from tech to food.
Relationships and Family Life
Kimbal was previously married to Jen Lewin, with whom he has two children. In 2018, he married Christiana Wyly, an environmental activist and daughter of Texas billionaire Sam Wyly. Together, they maintain a public image centered on sustainability, community impact, and environmental values. Kimbal also has a third child from a previous relationship.
Lifestyle and Philanthropy
Known for his signature cowboy hat, Kimbal leads a low-key yet purposeful lifestyle in Boulder, Colorado, where he focuses on wellness, sustainable food systems, and civic engagement. He avoids extravagant displays of wealth, channeling much of his energy—and capital—into nonprofit work.
Through his nonprofit Big Green, Kimbal has helped establish over 700 Learning Gardens in U.S. schools. He is also co-founder of Square Roots, an urban farming startup that aims to bring fresh, local food to urban populations. These ventures reflect not just passion, but strategic investments in long-term social and environmental returns, reinforcing his reputation as a “mission-driven millionaire.”
“I’m not trying to change the world with a tweet. I’d rather grow real food and teach kids how to do the same.”
— Kimbal Musk To Dine For with Kate Sullivan, 2021
Fun Facts About Kimbal Musk
He’s rarely seen without his cowboy hat—it’s become his signature look and a subtle nod to his farm-to-table ethos.
He went from tech founder to trained chef, attending culinary school after making millions from Zip2.
He’s the only Musk sibling on Tesla’s board, giving him insider influence over one of the world’s most valuable companies.
His nonprofit once built 100 school gardens in 100 days, a philanthropic sprint powered by Big Green’s mission.
Despite a net worth approaching $900M, he prefers investing in food systems over flashy luxuries—more soil than superyachts.
Net Worth Comparison Table
| Celebrity | Profession | Net Worth (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Kimbal Musk | Entrepreneur, Chef, Tesla Board | $900 Million |
| Tobias Lütke | CEO of Shopify | $7.5 Billion |
| David Chang | Celebrity Chef, Restaurateur | $20 Million |
| Laurene Powell Jobs | Businesswoman, Investor | $14 Billion |
| Reed Hastings | Co-founder of Netflix | $5 Billion |
FAQs
What is Kimbal Musk’s net worth in 2025?
As of 2025, Kimbal Musk’s net worth is estimated between $900 million, driven largely by his Tesla stock holdings and business ventures like The Kitchen Restaurant Group and Square Roots.
How does Kimbal Musk make his money?
Kimbal earns through Tesla board compensation, restaurant businesses, early tech investments (like Zip2), and equity stakes in sustainable ventures. His Tesla shares alone are worth over $450 million.
Does Kimbal Musk own any luxury homes or property?
Yes, Kimbal resides in Boulder, Colorado, and is rumored to own other properties. His main residence reflects a sustainable, high-end lifestyle typical of the region, estimated in the $2M–$5M range.
Is Kimbal Musk married?
Yes, Kimbal Musk is married to Christiana Wyly, an environmental activist. He also has children from previous relationships, maintaining a blended family life rooted in shared sustainability values.
Does Kimbal Musk do brand endorsements?
Kimbal Musk does not participate in traditional endorsements. Instead, he focuses on mission-driven partnerships aligned with food systems, sustainability, and nonprofit impact.
What are Kimbal Musk’s biggest career achievements?
Kimbal co-founded Zip2, served on Tesla’s board, launched The Kitchen restaurant chain, and co-founded Square Roots and Big Green, combining entrepreneurship with philanthropy.
Conclusion
Kimbal Musk’s journey from tech startup co-founder to sustainable food advocate showcases a rare blend of innovation, impact, and long-term strategy. With an estimated net worth between $900 million in 2025, his financial success is rooted not only in early wins like Zip2 and Tesla stock but also in purpose-built ventures like The Kitchen, Square Roots, and Big Green.
Unlike many high-net-worth individuals, Kimbal has chosen a path focused on community, climate resilience, and meaningful entrepreneurship. As he continues to expand his food-tech footprint and lead philanthropic efforts in schools and urban agriculture, it’s clear his influence will grow, both in wealth and in real-world impact.
Explore more celebrity net worth profiles on our site to see how today’s leaders are shaping industries—and their bank accounts.
Mohit is a media researcher and co-founder of TheNetWorths.com, with over 5 years of experience analyzing celebrity income, brand deals, and the creator economy. He delivers data-backed insights on how today’s stars grow their wealth and influence—trusted by readers and digital entrepreneurs.
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