Home » Remote Investing Insights » Gore Vidal Net Worth

Gore Vidal Net Worth

Marcus Vance • Sep 28, 2026 • 4 min read

Gore Vidal Net Worth and Career

What is Gore Vidal’s Net Worth?

Gore Vidal had a net worth of $30 million at the time of his death in 2012. As a multi-talented individual, Vidal made significant contributions to the literary world, politics, and film industry. His works were known for their wit and incisive take on various social and cultural issues throughout history.

Highlights

Gore Vidal was a highly accomplished writer, novelist, playwright, screenwriter, essayist, actor, journalist, author, and politician. He was renowned for his novels “The City and the Pillar,” “Julian,” “Myra Breckinridge,” and “Lincoln.” Vidal was actively involved in politics and even ran for the US House of Representatives and the US Senate, though he was unsuccessful in both attempts.

Early Life

Gore Vidal was born as Eugene Vidal on October 3, 1925, in West Point, New York. His father, Eugene Sr., was an Army officer and athlete, and his mother, Nina Gore, was a socialite and actress. Vidal grew up in Washington, DC, and attended prestigious schools such as Sidwell Friends School, St. Albans School, and Phillips Exeter Academy.

Instead of pursuing higher education, Vidal enlisted in the US Army at the age of 17. He served during World War II and later became a maritime warrant officer. After his military service, Vidal embarked on his literary career.

Career

Gore Vidal began his literary career in 1946 with his debut novel “Williwaw,” which he wrote during his time in the military. The book was a success, setting the stage for Vidal’s future endeavors. However, it was his third novel, “The City and the Pillar,” published in 1948, that caused controversy due to its frank portrayal of a young man exploring his homosexuality. Despite the backlash, Vidal continued to write thought-provoking works.

Throughout his career, Vidal wrote numerous novels, such as “Julian,” “Washington, D.C.,” and “Myra Breckinridge,” as well as essay anthologies, including “United States: Essays 1952-92.” He also contributed to the film industry as a screenwriter and actor, with notable credits including “Ben-Hur,” “Caligula,” and “Billy the Kid.”

Personal Life

Gore Vidal was known for his colorful personal life. He had a reputation for engaging in multiple sexual encounters and claimed to have had over 1,000 by the age of 25. Vidal was briefly engaged to actress Joanne Woodward before she married Paul Newman.

In 1950, Vidal met Howard Austen, who became his life partner for 53 years. They resided in Los Angeles and owned a cliff-top villa called La Rondinaia on the Amalfi Coast in Italy. Vidal believed that the absence of sexual intimacy was the secret to their long-lasting relationship.

Net Worth Over Time

Gore Vidal’s net worth fluctuated over the course of his life. In 2012, his net worth was estimated to be $30 million. However, it is essential to note that net worth calculations are estimates based on public information and might not accurately reflect an individual’s true financial status.

Components of Net Worth

Gore Vidal’s net worth comprised earnings from his successful literary career, participation in the film industry, and investments. As a prolific writer, Vidal’s novels, plays, and essays contributed significantly to his financial success. He also received income from his work as a screenwriter and actor in various films. Additionally, Vidal likely accumulated wealth through smart financial investments and property ownership, such as his Hollywood mansion and the luxurious villa La Rondinaia in Italy.

In conclusion, Gore Vidal was a multi-talented individual who achieved great success in the literary world, politics, and film industry. His net worth at the time of his passing was estimated to be $30 million, which was a reflection of his prolific career. Vidal’s contributions to literature and his involvement in various artistic and political endeavors secured his place as a notable figure in American culture.