Carole King is one of the most influential singer-songwriters in music history. With a career spanning over six decades, she has written and performed some of the most iconic songs of all time.
From co-writing hits in the 1960s to achieving solo stardom with Tapestry, her contributions to music have led to substantial financial success.
In this article, Aupeo breaks down Carole King net worth, her earnings from royalties, and her major financial assets. Let’s explore how she accumulated her wealth and continues to profit from her legendary career.
Carole King Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Carol Joan Klein |
| Popular Name | Carole King |
| Birth Date | February 9, 1942 |
| Age | 83 (As of 02/21/2025) |
| Birthplace | Manhattan, New York City, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Jewish |
| Education | Queens College (dropped out) |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Gerry Goffin (1959-1968), Charles Larkey (1970-1976), Rick Evers (1977-1978), Rick Sorenson (1982-1989) |
| Children | Louise Goffin, Levi Larkey, Sherry Goffin, Molly Larkey |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | Sidney N. Klein (Father), Eugenia Klein (Mother) |
| Height | N/A |
| Net Worth | $100 million (estimated) |
| Source of Wealth | Music royalties, songwriting, album sales, concerts, Broadway musical |
What is the Net Worth of Carole King in 2025?
Carole King’s estimated net worth is around $100 million, making her one of the wealthiest musicians of her generation. She has earned millions through album sales, live performances, and royalties from hundreds of hit songs.
Compared to other legendary songwriters, her wealth is on par with industry icons like James Taylor and Paul Simon.
As a songwriter, she continues to earn royalties from classic songs performed by major artists. Additionally, her Broadway show, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, has added another revenue stream to her fortune.
Related Artists & Music Industry Figures
- James Taylor
- Gerry Goffin
- Aretha Franklin
- Paul Simon
- Neil Sedaka
- The Monkees
- Joni Mitchell
- Billy Joel
- Elton John
- Bruce Springsteen
Want to know more about other successful musicians and songwriters? Check out our list of the wealthiest artists in entertainment.
Carole King Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Did She Build Her Wealth?
Carole King began her career as a songwriter in the 1960s, co-writing hits like Will You Love Me Tomorrow and The Loco-Motion with her then-husband Gerry Goffin. Her talent for crafting timeless melodies allowed her to build a steady income through music publishing and royalties.
Her solo breakthrough came in 1971 with the release of Tapestry, which sold over 30 million copies worldwide. This album alone generated millions in revenue and solidified her place as a successful recording artist.
She has since released over 20 albums, collaborated with top artists, and continued to earn from songwriting. Even decades later, her music catalog remains highly valuable, contributing to her wealth.
How Much Does She Earn from Music Royalties?
Carole King’s royalties come from multiple sources, including:
- Classic hits performed by other artists (Aretha Franklin’s (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, James Taylor’s You’ve Got a Friend)
- Streaming and digital sales of her albums
- Licensing deals for movies, TV shows, and commercials
Her songwriting catalog includes over 400 songs recorded by 1,000+ artists, generating millions in royalties over the years.
What Are Her Major Financial Assets?
Beyond music, Carole King has invested in real estate, owning multiple properties over the years. She has also earned from:
- Broadway musical revenue (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical)
- Live album releases and special performances
- Publishing rights to some of her biggest hits
How Do Album Sales Contribute to Her Earnings?
King’s album sales have been a huge financial driver. Some of her highest-grossing records include:
- Tapestry – Over 30 million copies sold
- Wrap Around Joy – Reached #1 on Billboard
- Thoroughbred – Featured collaborations with James Taylor
With more than 75 million records sold worldwide, her music remains a lucrative asset.
How Has She Benefited from Tours and Live Performances?
Carole King’s concert tours have been major revenue sources, including:
- The Troubadour Reunion Tour (2010) – A massive success with James Taylor
- Live at Carnegie Hall (1971) – Released as an album
- Japanese Tour (2007) – With Mary J. Blige and Fergie
Even though she announced her retirement in 2012, her past tours continue to generate earnings through live recordings and re-releases.
How Has She Managed Her Finances Over the Years?
Carole King has maintained financial stability through smart investments and careful wealth management. She has also been actively involved in philanthropy, supporting environmental causes and advocating for wildlife conservation.
What Is the Financial Legacy of Her Career?
Her financial legacy extends beyond her personal wealth. As a trailblazer for female songwriters, she has paved the way for future generations. Her music catalog remains highly valuable, ensuring continued income through royalties and licensing deals.
Conclusion
Carole King’s wealth is a testament to her incredible talent and influence in the music industry. From songwriting royalties to album sales and Broadway success, she has built a lasting financial empire.
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