KEY POINTS

  • Michelle Obama's net worth is estimated to be $70 million
  • Her book "Becoming" has sold more than 10 million copies
  • She also earns massive paychecks from public speaking events

Michelle Obama’s net worth is at least $70 million. A big portion of it came after her husband left the White House.

Michelle’s ability to capture an audience and tell a story is a trait that she shares with her husband, former president Barack Obama. The two earned millions off royalties from the books they wrote or took part in. When the Obamas entered the White House in 2008, they were only worth $1.3 million, per South China Morning Post. Aside from writing books, the former first couple earned decent money from public speaking and guest appearances.

Born Michelle LaVaughn Robinson, the former first lady is a lawyer by profession who earned her undergraduate degree at Princeton University. On the other hand, she earned her law degree at Harvard University, where she allegedly met and fell in love with Barack. Her tragic life experiences propelled her to pursue a career in public service.

Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama shared her close encounter with the royal family. Pictured: Queen Elizabeth II and Barack and Michelle Obama in the Oak Room at Windsor Castle ahead of a private lunch hosted by the Queen on April 22, 2016 in Windsor, England. Getty Images/John Stillwell

Before entering the political scene, Michelle had stints in the academe as Associate Dean of Student Services at the University of Chicago. Later on, she would become the Executive Director of Community Relations and External Affairs for the University of Chicago Hospitals.

As the wife of the ex-president, the former first lady appeared in numerous public speaking events. Her grace and eloquence were admired by people from all walks of life. She hosted several events in support of women's rights. Mrs. Obama is also a vocal backer of the LGBT community as well as an advocate of humanitarian work. Moreover, one of her worldwide campaigns focused on fighting obesity among children.

It is no coincidence that the Obamas received a massive advance paycheck in 2017 worth $65 million for the rights of their autobiographies. Although it is normal for a popular politician to produce a book once his or her public office ends, there is no other power couple that can match the influence of the Obamas. According to Celebrity Net Worth, her autobiography entitled "Becoming" has sold more than 10 million copies worldwide.

Due to book royalties, the Obamas saw their combined income skyrocket to at least $65 million in 2017. That’s a big difference compared to what the couple registered as their joint income in 2015, which was $436,065.