Grant Cardone has become a household name in the world of sales, real estate, and self-made success. Known for his relentless hustle, bestselling books, and real estate ventures, Cardone has built a massive empire that now boasts an estimated net worth of $600 million. From overcoming addiction in his twenties to managing over $4 billion in assets through Cardone Capital, his story is one of personal transformation and business mastery.
So how did this Louisiana native go from car sales to private jets and oceanfront mansions? Here’s a look inside Grant Cardone’s career, companies, and the empire that made him one of America’s top entrepreneurial voices.
Early Life and Education
Grant Cardone was born on March 21, 1958, in Lake Charles, Louisiana. He grew up in a middle-class family alongside four siblings, including his twin brother, Gary. Tragedy struck early when Grant’s father passed away in 1968, shaping much of his future motivation. He graduated from McNeese State University in 1981 and was later recognized with the Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2010.
Although trained in accounting, Grant didn’t pursue that path. Instead, he moved to Chicago in 1987 and later worked in Houston and La Jolla before settling in Los Angeles. During this time, he faced drug addiction and entered rehab at age 25. By age 30, he had not only gotten clean but was already on his way to becoming a millionaire.
The Road to Wealth
Cardone’s fortune began with car sales, but his real success came from real estate, training programs, and media ventures. After gaining experience in sales, he founded several companies including:
- Cardone Enterprises
- Cardone Training Technologies
- Cardone Acquisitions
- The Cardone Group
He developed a reputation as a sales master and became a go-to trainer for car dealerships across the country. In 2011, he appeared on National Geographic’s reality show “Turnaround King,” further boosting his profile.
His real breakthrough came through Cardone Capital, a real estate investment firm he founded in 2016. Today, the company claims over $4 billion in assets under management, primarily in multi-family residential properties. While not all claims are independently verified, Cardone’s firm reportedly owns more than $2.7 billion worth of apartment complexes.
Bestselling Author and Motivational Powerhouse
Cardone has written eight business and self-help books, many of which became bestsellers. Some of his most notable titles include:
- The 10X Rule
- Sell or Be Sold
- If You’re Not First, You’re Last
These books have made him a staple on Amazon’s bestseller lists and have been featured in The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times. He also runs thirteen business training programs and hosts The G&E Show with his wife, actress Elena Lyons.
With millions of followers across YouTube, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), Cardone’s influence extends well beyond print. His motivational content and financial advice are consumed by a global audience looking to level up their income and mindset.
Television and Media Appearances
In 2021, Cardone was featured in Season 2 of Undercover Billionaire on Discovery Channel. The show challenged him to build a business from scratch in a new city without using his name or wealth. While neither he nor Season 1’s Glenn Stearns were actual billionaires, the show highlighted Cardone’s grit and strategic thinking.
He has also been featured on shows like How’d You Get So Rich? and frequently appears in interviews and podcasts discussing sales psychology, real estate, and wealth creation.
Real Estate Holdings and Malibu Mansion
Cardone’s real estate investments are not limited to multi-family housing. In January 2022, he purchased a Malibu mansion on Carbon Beach for $40 million. The 9,500-square-foot oceanfront estate sits near some of the most elite names in tech and entertainment, including Larry Ellison and Jeffrey Katzenberg.
The mansion had previously been listed for $50 million by Ukrainian oligarch Vadim Shulman, who purchased it for $25 million in 2014. In 2024, Cardone listed the property for sale at $65 million, or $250,000 per month for rent.
This acquisition underscores his position as one of the most high-profile real estate investors outside of traditional celebrity circles.
Personal Life
Grant Cardone is married to actress Elena Lyons, and the couple has two daughters, Scarlett and Sabrina. The family often shares their life, business insights, and travels on social media.
Cardone is also a member of the Church of Scientology, a detail he’s publicly acknowledged. He had a brief first marriage at age 35, which ended in divorce and a $1 million settlement.
Legacy and Impact
Cardone’s legacy is more than just his bank account. As of 2025, he’s helped thousands of individuals through his 10X Growth Conferences, online training programs, and real estate education platforms. He’s also influenced countless entrepreneurs who credit him with changing their approach to business and wealth-building.
He was ranked #7 on Richtopia’s list of the world’s most influential CEOs and named Forbes’ “#1 Marketer to Watch” in 2017.
Final Thoughts
Grant Cardone’s net worth of $600 million reflects decades of work across multiple industries. From battling addiction to building a real estate empire, he’s proven that with focus, resilience, and sales savvy, anyone can turn their life around.
Whether you follow him for business advice, real estate tips, or just pure motivation, one thing is clear—Grant Cardone has built more than just wealth. He’s built a movement.
