These Royals Don’t Have Jobs—But They’re Still Getting Paid
While the top royals like King Charles and Prince William handle official engagements and get their expenses covered, the lesser-known or lower-ranked members of the royal family have to do regular jobs, start businesses, and pursue personal interests to earn a living. Here’s how they actually bring in the bucks.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry
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After stepping back from royal duties in 2020, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry made several big moves to earn independently. They signed a multi-million-dollar Netflix deal, created a Spotify podcast, and recently transitioned to Lemonada Media. Meghan introduced a lifestyle brand called American Riviera Orchard in early 2024 and launched cookbooks through Archewell.
Zara Tindall
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Zara Tindall, daughter of Princess Anne, has made her mark in the equestrian world by winning silver at the 2012 London Olympics. In addition to competitive riding, she collaborates with prominent brands such as Rolex and Land Rover. She’s also designed equestrian-themed jewelry and supports her family through various sponsorship and ambassador roles.
Princess Eugenie
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Princess Eugenie, Prince Andrew’s younger daughter, studied at Newcastle University. She began her career in the art world at an online auction house and is now a director at Hauser & Wirth, a renowned gallery in London.
Princess Beatrice
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With a history degree from Goldsmiths College, Princess Beatrice carved out a corporate path in tech. She balances this with her family life and low-key royal appearances, while maintaining a solid career in finance. She currently works as the Vice President of Strategy and Partnerships at Afiniti, a software company specializing in AI.
Peter Phillips
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Peter Phillips has never held a royal title, but he’s been part of the working world for years. He’s held roles at Jaguar and Williams F1 and was a manager at the Royal Bank of Scotland. Peter also ran Sports and Entertainment LTD.
Lady Gabriella
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Daughter of Prince Michael of Kent, Lady Gabriella attended Brown University in the U.S. and has built a career in journalism. Her articles have appeared in the Sunday Telegraph, Evening Standard, and Country Life. She lives more like a freelancer than a royal.
Lady Sarah Chatto
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Lady Sarah Chatto, Princess Margaret’s daughter, studied art and became a painter. She’s exhibited with The Redfern Gallery and holds a reputation for serious talent. Beyond painting, she’s the vice-president of the Royal Ballet, whereas her mother was once its patron.
Samuel Chatto
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Samuel Chatto, the grandson of Princess Margaret, also went on to study art, like his mother, Sarah. He specifically went for art history at the University of Edinburgh. He now runs a ceramic studio that handcrafts minimalist pottery, and teaches occasional workshops. His pieces have gained attention for their clean design and thoughtful craftsmanship.
Kate Middleton
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Before becoming the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton worked in retail. She was an accessories buyer for Jigsaw, a British fashion label. She also helped with her family’s business, Party Pieces, in marketing and photography. Her degree in art history from the University of St. Andrews shaped her early creative interests.
Prince William
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Prince William worked as a Royal Air Force search-and-rescue helicopter pilot from 2009 to 2013. He later flew for the East Anglian Air Ambulance as a co-pilot and donated his salary to charity. This grounded approach to service helped prepare him for leadership without depending solely on royal privilege.
Princess Diana
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Before marrying into royalty, Princess Diana worked modest jobs. She was a nanny, a mother’s helper, and then a nursery assistant at Young England Kindergarten in Pimlico. Her genuine connection with children was clear long before she became the “People’s Princess.” She lived in a shared apartment in London at the time.
Jack Brooksbank
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Jack Brooksbank, Princess Eugenie’s husband, has a background in hospitality. He worked in bars and nightclubs and even became a brand ambassador for George Clooney’s tequila company, Casamigos. Currently, he’s part of the wine business and balances parenting with supporting Eugenie’s royal and art commitments.
Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi
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Husband of Princess Beatrice, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, is a property developer. He runs Banda Property, which specializes in luxury homes and restoration. His company works with high-end clients across London and internationally. While he keeps a low profile, his firm is known among elite real estate circles.
Mike Tindall
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Zara Tindall’s hubby, Mike Tindall, a former England rugby captain, now appears on reality TV and corporate speaking circuits. He was a finalist on “I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!” and co-hosts a podcast called The Good, The Bad & The Rugby. His media work adds to the family income.
James Middleton
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Kate’s younger brother, James Middleton, isn’t technically royal but is closely tied to the family. He’s an entrepreneur who started Boomf, a marshmallow gifting business, and now focuses on Ella & Co, a pet nutrition company.