Bill Gates Gave His Daughter a $16M Horse Farm for Graduation — But Melinda Gates Says They Were Raised ‘Middle Class’
While most graduates receive a heartfelt card or a celebratory dinner, Jennifer Gates, daughter of billionaire philanthropists Bill and Melinda Gates, received something a bit more extravagant: a 124-acre horse estate worth nearly $16 million.
A Lavish Graduation Gift: Inside the $15.82 Million Horse Farm
In 2018, after earning her degree from Stanford University, Jennifer Gates was gifted a stunning equestrian property in North Salem, New York. The estate, valued at $15.82 million, includes rolling pastures, three land parcels, and close proximity to New York City—perfect for her ongoing studies.
According to Architectural Digest, the horse farm was purchased as a graduation present by Bill and Melinda Gates. The gift reflects Jennifer’s passion for horses and years of training in competitive equestrian sports.
Raised With Middle-Class Values, Says Melinda Gates
Despite the multi-million-dollar real estate gifts and global family wealth, Melinda Gates insists her children were raised with a “middle-class” mindset. In a 2024 interview with The New York Times, she shared that the family prioritized values over luxury.
“I think it was much more of an upbringing like I grew up in—a very middle-class household where money dictated things like an extra pair of shoes,” Melinda said.
Allowances, Wish Lists, and Rules About Private Travel
Melinda explained that the Gates children had allowances and were encouraged to save or wait for special occasions. “We absolutely did not just buy them things,” she said. “They had to use their allowance or wish for it during birthdays or holidays.”
One unique rule? They weren’t allowed to talk about how they traveled. “Otherwise, it separates you from other kids,” Melinda told her children. The goal was to keep their privileged lifestyle in perspective.
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More Equestrian Real Estate: A $38 Million Florida Purchase
Jennifer’s New York estate wasn’t the family’s only horse-related property. In 2016, Bill Gates bought $38 million worth of property in Wellington, Florida, known as the “winter equestrian capital.” The purchase included a mansion, a 20-stall barn, paddocks, and a ring—all meant to support Jennifer’s elite training in show jumping.
The neighborhood is home to high-profile names like Michael Bloomberg and Bruce Springsteen. Clearly, the Gates family spared no expense in supporting Jennifer’s competitive goals.
Where Is Jennifer Gates Now?
At the time of her graduation gift, Jennifer was 22. Now 28, she’s a medical student and married to Olympic show jumper Nayel Nassar. Though still deeply involved in the equestrian world, Jennifer is also forging her path in medicine.
Despite the millions spent on real estate and training, Melinda Gates remains adamant: their children’s values were shaped by love, not luxury.
