Massachusetts has always been a center of wealth—stretching from the old merchant days of Boston’s early history to the billion-dollar companies that shape the state today. While the industries have changed, one thing hasn’t: Massachusetts consistently produces individuals who rank among the wealthiest in America.

Here’s a breakdown of the richest people in the state right now, along with a look back at some of the historical figures who shaped Massachusetts’ legacy of wealth.

1. Abigail Johnson — The Wealth Leader of Massachusetts

As of 2025, the wealthiest person in Massachusetts is Abigail Johnson, the CEO and Chair of Fidelity Investments. Her net worth is estimated at around $35 billion, placing her among the richest individuals in the country.

Fidelity is a multigenerational family company founded by her grandfather in 1946. Under her leadership, the firm has expanded globally, and her ownership stake keeps her firmly at the top of Massachusetts’ wealth rankings.

2. Edward Johnson IV — A Family Empire That Continues to Grow

Right behind Abigail is her brother, Edward Johnson IV, with an estimated net worth of about $14 billion. He runs Pembroke Real Estate, a company connected to the broader Fidelity empire.

The Johnson family, through finance and real estate, remains one of the most powerful and wealthy families in the state’s history.

3. Robert Kraft — Sports, Business, and Billion-Dollar Success

Robert Kraft, best known as the owner of the New England Patriots, is another one of Massachusetts’ top billionaires. Through the Kraft Group, he has investments across sports, entertainment, manufacturing, and real estate. Decades of strategic business growth have made him one of the state’s most influential and wealthiest individuals.

4. Other Notable Billionaires in Massachusetts

A handful of other business and tech leaders also rank among the richest in the state:

Robert Hale Jr. — CEO of Granite Telecommunications, known for both his business success and large-scale philanthropy. Amos Hostetter Jr. — Built his fortune through Continental Cablevision and later expanded into philanthropy and investment. Phillip T. Ragon — Made his wealth through health-tech software. Alan Trefler — Founder of a major enterprise software company.

These individuals highlight the diversity of Massachusetts’ modern sources of wealth: technology, telecommunications, finance, and large corporate enterprises.

Historic Wealth: The Early Giants of Massachusetts

Long before today’s billionaires, Massachusetts had some of the wealthiest individuals in early American history.

Thomas Hancock — The Merchant King of Colonial Boston

In the 1700s, Thomas Hancock (uncle of John Hancock) was one of the richest merchants in the colonies. His trading empire and business influence made him one of the most powerful men in Boston prior to the American Revolution.

Peter Chardon Brooks — The Richest Man in New England

In the 1800s, Peter Chardon Brooks became known as one of the richest men in New England. He built his fortune through marine insurance, proving that even before tech and finance, Massachusetts was a hub for major fortunes.

What This Says About Wealth in Massachusetts

The pattern is clear:

Massachusetts wealth has evolved, but it has always been concentrated in industries with long-term influence:

Finance and investment Real estate Technology and software Corporate leadership Early trade and shipping industries

From colonial merchants to modern CEOs, the state has a long history of creating—and sustaining—massive amounts of wealth. Today’s billionaires are part of a tradition that stretches back hundreds of years.