Kimbal Musk, a South African-born entrepreneur, chef, and philanthropist, has a net worth of approximately $500 million as of 2025. At 52 years old, he is widely recognized for his contributions to both the food and technology industries. Best known as the younger brother of Elon Musk, Kimbal has carved out his own legacy through innovative restaurant ventures, urban farming initiatives, and board memberships in high-profile companies like Tesla and SpaceX. But who exactly is Kimbal Musk, and how did he build his fortune? Let’s dive into his story.
Who is Kimbal Musk?
Born on September 20, 1972, in Pretoria, South Africa, Kimbal Musk is the son of Errol Musk, an engineer, and Maye Musk, a model and dietician. He grew up alongside his two siblings, Elon and Tosca Musk. His entrepreneurial journey started early when he moved to Canada and studied business at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario. After graduating in 1995, he teamed up with Elon Musk to co-found Zip2, marking the beginning of his tech success.
How Did Kimbal Musk Make His Fortune?
Kimbal Musk’s wealth is primarily derived from his early investments in technology, his restaurant empire, and his involvement in high-growth companies like Tesla. His financial success can be attributed to several key ventures:
- Zip2 Sale: Kimbal and Elon launched Zip2 in 1995, an online city guide that was eventually sold to Compaq in 1999 for $307 million. Kimbal personally netted $15 million from this deal.
- PayPal Investment: He invested part of his earnings into X.com, which later became PayPal. When eBay acquired PayPal for $1.5 billion in 2002, Kimbal gained significant returns.
- Tesla Stock Holdings: As a longtime board member of Tesla, Kimbal has accumulated substantial wealth through his stock ownership. Over the years, he has sold over $100 million worth of Tesla shares while still maintaining a large stake. As of 2023, he owned 1.7 million Tesla shares, which remain a significant part of his net worth.
- Restaurant Ventures: His hospitality businesses, including The Kitchen Restaurant Group and Next Door American Eatery, have also contributed to his wealth.
What Businesses Does Kimbal Musk Own?
Kimbal Musk has always been passionate about food sustainability and accessibility. His business ventures focus on revolutionizing the food industry:
1. The Kitchen Restaurant Group
Founded in 2004, The Kitchen is a group of community-centric restaurants with locations in Illinois and Colorado. The restaurants prioritize locally sourced ingredients and sustainable farming.
2. Big Green
Kimbal co-founded Big Green, a nonprofit organization that has built over 700 Learning Gardens in schools across the U.S. The initiative aims to teach children about healthy eating and urban gardening.
3. Square Roots
A leader in urban farming, Square Roots specializes in modular hydroponic farms. These climate-controlled farms allow for year-round food production in urban settings, addressing food scarcity and sustainability concerns.
What is Kimbal Musk’s Role at Tesla and SpaceX?
Kimbal has been a Tesla board member since 2004 and continues to influence the company’s growth. While not directly involved in day-to-day operations, he plays a strategic role in decision-making. He also sits on the board of SpaceX, further cementing his influence in the technology sector.
Did Kimbal Musk Face Any Controversy?
Like many high-profile figures, Kimbal Musk has faced his share of controversy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, his restaurant group faced criticism for how it handled employee hardship funds. Employees claimed they were unable to access financial aid after being laid off. However, Musk defended the company’s actions, stating that the fund had distributed over $27,600 in grants to 69 workers.
Who is Kimbal Musk Married To?
Kimbal Musk married Christiana Wyly in 2018. She is an environmental activist and the daughter of former billionaire businessman Sam Wyly. Prior to this, Kimbal was married to Jen Lewin, with whom he shares three children.
What is Next for Kimbal Musk?
Kimbal Musk continues to focus on sustainability, food innovation, and philanthropy. With his ongoing work in urban farming and restaurant businesses, his influence in the industry is expected to grow. Whether through Tesla, SpaceX, or his food ventures, Kimbal Musk remains an entrepreneur with a mission to create a better future.
Kimbal Musk’s journey is an inspiring mix of tech success, sustainable entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. As he continues to innovate in the food industry and contribute to Tesla’s growth, his influence will likely only expand in the years to come.
