Jill Biden, born Jill Tracy Jacobs on June 3, 1951, in Hammonton, New Jersey, grew up in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. She was the eldest of five daughters in a middle-class family. Her father, Donald Carl Jacobs, was a bank teller and later the head of a savings and loan association. Her mother, Bonny Jean Jacobs, was a homemaker. Jill’s upbringing was rooted in strong family values and a dedication to education, which would later become central themes in her life.
Jill attended Upper Moreland High School, where she developed a passion for English and writing. She continued her education at Brandywine Junior College, later transferring to the University of Delaware, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English in 1975. Jill was known for her determination and strong work ethic, balancing her studies with part-time jobs.
Career
Jill Biden has had a long and impactful career as an educator. After graduating from the University of Delaware, she began teaching high school English. In the late 1970s, she earned a Master’s degree in Education from West Chester University and later pursued another Master’s in English from Villanova University.
In 2007, Jill achieved a significant milestone by earning a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree from the University of Delaware. Her dissertation focused on maximizing student retention in community colleges, reflecting her deep commitment to education.
Throughout her career, Jill taught in various institutions, including public high schools and community colleges. Even as the wife of a U.S. senator, vice president, and later the president, she continued teaching, becoming the first First Lady of the United States to maintain a full-time job outside the White House. Jill’s dedication to education and her students has been a cornerstone of her professional life.
Relationships
Jill met Joe Biden on a blind date set up by Joe’s brother, Frank. At the time, Joe was a widower with two young sons, Beau and Hunter, following the tragic death of his first wife, Neilia, and their daughter Naomi in a car accident. Jill and Joe’s relationship blossomed, and they married on June 17, 1977, in a small ceremony at the Chapel at the United Nations in New York City.
Jill embraced her role as a stepmother to Beau and Hunter, and the couple later welcomed their daughter, Ashley Biden, in 1981. The Bidens have weathered many challenges together, including Beau’s death from brain cancer in 2015. Their enduring partnership has been marked by mutual support, love, and shared values.
Real Estate
The Bidens have invested in real estate over the years, owning several properties that reflect their roots and aspirations. One of their most notable homes is in Greenville, Delaware, where they have lived for decades. The Georgian-style house has been a central hub for family gatherings and a symbol of their connection to their community.
In addition to their Delaware home, the Bidens own a beach house in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Purchased in 2017, the property serves as a retreat where the family can relax and spend time together. The home’s location near the ocean reflects Jill’s love for nature and the outdoors.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Jill and Joe Biden’s combined net worth is estimated to be around $9 million. Much of their wealth comes from Joe’s career in public service, speaking engagements, and book deals. Jill has also contributed to their income through her teaching career and authorship. Her books include a memoir, “Where the Light Enters,” and children’s literature inspired by her family and experiences.
Age and Height
Jill Biden is 73 years old as of January 2025. She stands approximately 5 feet 6 inches (167 cm) tall, presenting herself with poise and grace in her public appearances.
Other Interests and Advocacy
Beyond her career in education, Jill Biden is an advocate for numerous social causes. She has been a strong supporter of military families, cancer research, and education reform. As the Second Lady of the United States during Joe Biden’s vice presidency, Jill co-founded the Joining Forces initiative with then-First Lady Michelle Obama to support service members, veterans, and their families.
Jill is also passionate about promoting community colleges and ensuring access to quality education for all. Her initiatives often focus on creating opportunities for underserved communities and empowering women through education.
Jill’s love for family and community is evident in her personal interests. She enjoys running, cycling, and spending time with her grandchildren. Her creative side is showcased through her writing, which often reflects her values and experiences.
Legacy and Influence
Jill Biden’s journey from a middle-class upbringing to becoming the First Lady of the United States is a testament to her resilience, dedication, and compassion. Her commitment to education, advocacy for social causes, and support for her family have made her a role model for many.
As an educator, author, and public figure, Jill has used her platform to inspire others and bring attention to important issues. Her groundbreaking role as the first First Lady to continue working while in the White House underscores her belief in the power of education and the importance of pursuing one’s passions.
Jill Biden’s biography is a story of perseverance, love, and service, reflecting the values she holds dear and the impact she continues to have on the world.
