Prince William has officially become wealthier than his father, King Charles III, following the release of the latest Sovereign Grant financial accounts. The Prince of Wales is now estimated to have a net worth of approximately £1.2 billion ($1.6 billion), largely due to his inheritance of the Duchy of Cornwall when Charles ascended to the throne in 2022. The historic estate, which serves as William’s primary source of private income, generated around £21.6 million ($28.5 million) for him during the 2025–26 financial year.

The newly published accounts also reveal that William has contributed more than £20 million ($26 million) in taxes since becoming Prince of Wales four years ago, highlighting increased transparency surrounding royal finances.

In comparison, King Charles III’s personal fortune is estimated at around £640 million ($846 million), according to the latest Sunday Times Rich List. His wealth has grown in recent years, particularly after inheriting the private assets of Queen Elizabeth II, including Balmoral Castle and the Sandringham Estate. However, he remains significantly behind his eldest son in overall wealth.

Established in 1337 by King Edward III, the Duchy of Cornwall was created to provide an independent income for the heir to the British throne. Today, the estate spans approximately 205 square miles across more than 20 counties in the United Kingdom and helps fund the official, charitable, and private activities of William, Catherine, Princess of Wales, and their three children.

William is also looking to reshape the future of the Duchy. Reports indicate that he intends to sell up to 20 percent of the estate over the next decade, with plans to invest more than £500 million ($670 million) into affordable housing and environmental initiatives.

The projects will focus on five key regions often referred to as the Duchy’s “heartlands” — Cornwall, Dartmoor, the Isles of Scilly, the Bath area, and Kennington. The Prince has emphasized his desire to use the estate’s resources to improve local communities and create long-term benefits for residents.

“There is so much good we can do,” William said, explaining that his priority is supporting projects that will improve the lives of people living in these areas.

Before William inherited the Duchy, King Charles managed the estate for more than five decades. He assumed control in 1969 at the age of 21 and oversaw its operations for 53 years before passing responsibility to his son when he became monarch following Queen Elizabeth II’s death in September 2022.

The latest financial disclosures offer a clearer picture of the royal family’s private wealth and underscore the significant role the Duchy of Cornwall continues to play in supporting the future king.