Bill Gates: 7 Expenses He Spends the Most Money On
Written by
Crystal Mayer
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Molly Sullivan
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According to Forbes’ World’s Billionaire List, Bill Gates is the seventh wealthiest person on the planet. He made his money in technology and became the world’s youngest self-made billionaire (at the time) at 31. The former Microsoft CEO has pledged to give away most of his fortune throughout his lifetime, already donating over a billion dollars to notable causes.
His private charitable foundation, The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, started by him and his then-wife is the world’s largest. It has done undeniable good across the globe. A successful investor and philanthropist, Gates is often noted for his unique take on money. He often blends frugality with a mix of extravagance, spending money where he sees fit.
In addition to his long-standing pledge to give back to communities throughout the world, Bill Gates spends the most money on the following purchases and expenses.
Bombardier BD-700 Global Express
- Approximate price: $40 million
It is widely reported that Gates owns several private jets. One of his purchases includes a Bombardier BD-700 Global Express. The luxury aircraft can seat 19 people and may be one of a few to his name. Gates once told Ellen DeGeneres the purchase of his private jet was a “guilty pleasure” and a “big splurge.” Simple Flying says he also owned two Gulfstream G650ERs.
While he may own private jets, the philanthropist is not giving up on effecting change. He explained in GatesNotes, “Personally, I know I have a high carbon footprint, and I’m taking several steps to reduce my own emissions and offset the ones I can’t eliminate. When I fly, I buy low-carbon sustainable air fuel that’s made from alternatives to fossil fuels.”
Rancho Paseana
- Approximate price: $18 million
In 2014, Forbes reported that the billionaire had purchased a horse ranch previously owned by well-known weight loss expert Jenny Craig for $18 million. The property expanded his already impressive real estate portfolio. Located in Rancho Santa Fe near San Diego, the 228-acre equestrian dream houses multiple barns and a ¾-mile racing track.
Xanadu 2.0
- Approximate price: $127 million
One of Gates’ most impressive properties is his mansion located in Medina, Washington. Named Xanadu 2.0, the massive home is reportedly 66,000 square feet and has seven bedrooms. He is believed to have purchased the land in 1988 for $2 million. An assessment in 2018 reported on by Business Insider placed the current value of the home and lot at $127.48 million.
Grand Bogue Caye
- Approximate price: $25 million
Multiple sources, including USA Today, report that Bill Gates owns a private island. Grand Bogue Caye, located off the coast of Belize, is valued at approximately $25 million. It is 314 acres of exquisite beauty. Gates joins a long line of billionaires who have all purchased private islands for themselves or their families.
Codex Leicester
- Approximate price: $30 million
In 1994, Gates was reported to have purchased “Codex Leicester” at auction for $30.8 million. Leonardo da Vinci‘s manuscript was the most expensive book ever bought at the time. The scientific journal is believed to have been written by the Renaissance painter between 1506 and 1510.
While this may be the priciest book in his collection, it is far from the only one. His Washington mansion houses a library larger than most people’s homes. The 2,100-square-foot masterpiece is one of many unique features in the home.
Winslow Homer’s ‘Lost on the Grand Banks’
- Approximate price: $30 million
Gates is considered an art aficionado, having purchased a large number of pieces for his collection. One of the priciest is Winslow Homer’s “Lost on the Grand Banks,” which features two fishermen in tumultuous waters. The oil painting is believed to have cost the billionaire over $30 million.
Porsche 911
- Approximate price: $55,000
The other item that Gates once confessed to DeGeneres as a “huge indulgence” was his Porsche 911. He regularly acknowledges that the Porsche 911 was his first big splurge after he became wealthy. His love for cars is evidenced by his garages at Xanadu 2.0, which can hold up to 23 vehicles.
Many sources note that he owns multiple luxury vehicles. The Richest reports that Gates has at one point had multiple Porsches along with a Tesla, Ford Focus and Chevrolet Suburban.
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