From his early days with The Beatles to his successful solo career, acting roles, and shrewd business moves, Ringo Starr has proven that there’s more to his fortune than just being a member of the world’s most famous band. Today, as the wealthiest drummer in the world, Ringo’s estimated net worth of $350 million is a testament to his versatility, work ethic, and ability to stay relevant across decades.
Whether narrating children’s shows, performing with his All-Starr Band, or publishing books of his photography, Ringo Starr has never been content to rest on his laurels. In doing so, he has secured his place as a musical legend—and one of the wealthiest and most enduring figures in rock history.
Beyond his membership in The Beatles, Ringo Starr’s wealth is the result of years of hard work, smart investments, and diverse career ventures. A key contributor to his fortune is his savvy business moves, particularly in the 1990s when he began to explore opportunities outside of music.
Perhaps one of Starr’s more unexpected financial wins came through his role as the narrator of Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends. Though it may seem like an odd side gig for a legendary rock star, Starr’s involvement in the children’s television program turned out to be a lucrative one. Not only did he earn a significant salary for his narration and acting on the spinoff series Shining Time Station, but he also negotiated a 5.1% stake in the Britt Allcroft Company, which produced the shows.
In an interview, Starr recalled his initial reaction to the project: “I never thought it’d be so big. In fact, the first time Britt Allcroft came over and said, ‘I’d like you to read these stories about this train,’ I didn’t even know what Thomas was… I just did it, and it turned out to be a huge thing.”
In 2002, the company sold for $139 million, netting Starr more than $7 million from his shares. This windfall was a testament to Starr’s ability to diversify his income sources beyond the rock ‘n’ roll world.
Since leaving The Beatles in 1970, Starr has released 20 solo albums, with his most successful tracks—such as “It Don’t Come Easy,” “Photograph,” and “You’re Sixteen”—becoming staples of classic rock radio. While Starr’s solo career never reached the same heights as McCartney’s, he still managed to achieve notable success, both on the charts and with his extensive touring.
In addition to his solo albums, Starr formed the All-Starr Band, which features a rotating roster of musicians and continues to tour regularly. These tours, which often see Starr performing alongside other musical legends, provide a steady income stream and allow Starr to maintain his celebrity status among older and newer generations of fans.
Starr has authored several books over the years, including his well-received photography book Photograph and Ringo: With a Little Help. These books, combined with his ongoing public appearances, also contribute to his financial portfolio. In addition, Starr has capitalized on his public persona through various merchandise deals, including clothing, hats, and other Beatles-related memorabilia.