Jeffree Star, an American model, fashion designer, DJ, singer-songwriter, and makeup artist, has built a multifaceted career that has led to a substantial net worth. With an estimated net worth of $200 million, Jeffree Star is one of the highest-paid YouTube stars and oversees a highly successful cosmetics empire. This article explores Jeffree Star’s career, earnings, and the factors contributing to his significant wealth.
Early Life and Background
Jeffree Star was born Jeffrey Lynn Steininger Jr. on November 15, 1985, in Orange County, California. His early life was marked by tragedy when his father, Jeffrey Steininger Sr., committed suicide when Jeffree was just six years old. He was raised by his mother, Marra Shubyann Lindstrom Steininger, who was a model. From a young age, Jeffree was fascinated with makeup, often experimenting with his mother’s cosmetics. By junior high, he was wearing makeup to school every day.
After graduating from high school, Jeffree moved to Hollywood to pursue a career in modeling and makeup artistry. He worked at several makeup counters and booked gigs at weddings and fashion shoots. Jeffree’s skills and unique style quickly garnered attention, leading to opportunities to work with celebrities.
Rise to Fame: MySpace and Music Career
Jeffree Star first gained widespread attention on MySpace, where he posted makeup tutorials, fashion tips, and his music. His bold personality and striking appearance helped him amass a large following. By 2006, he was one of the most connected profiles on MySpace, with photo posts garnering tens of thousands of comments. His music also gained popularity, and he became one of the most followed unsigned artists on the platform.
In September 2009, Jeffree released his debut album, “Beauty Killer,” on Popsicle Records. The album debuted at #2 on the Top Heatseekers chart and peaked at #122 on the Billboard 200. It also reached #22 on the US Independent Albums chart and made it to the top 10 of the US Dance/Electronic Albums. Despite the album’s success, his music career was short-lived. Jeffree signed a record deal with Akon’s Konvict Muzik in 2010 but walked away from the deal and the music industry due to personality clashes with Akon.
Jeffree Star Cosmetics
In 2014, Jeffree Star founded his eponymous cosmetics company, Jeffree Star Cosmetics, using his life savings. At the time, he felt his music career was over and he was nearly bankrupt. Leveraging his social media presence, particularly on YouTube, Jeffree began promoting his cosmetics line. His early YouTube videos focused on his music but gradually shifted to makeup tutorials and product reviews, helping him build a substantial following.
Jeffree Star Cosmetics launched its first product line, a collection of velour liquid lipsticks, which sold out almost immediately. The success of this launch paved the way for subsequent products, including lip scrubs, highlighter palettes, and eyeshadow palettes. Jeffree also expanded into accessories and clothing, including makeup bags and mirrors.
The brand’s growth was exponential, with annual gross revenues reportedly surpassing $100 million, according to an interview with YouTuber Shane Dawson. Jeffree’s YouTube channel, which features makeup tutorials, product reviews, and lifestyle content, has over 15 million subscribers and more than 2.6 billion views, making it a significant platform for promoting his brand.
Business Ventures and Investments
Beyond Jeffree Star Cosmetics, Jeffree has diversified his income streams through various business ventures and investments. He has invested in marijuana, real estate, and merchandise. Jeffree owns the shipping and fulfillment center used by Jeffree Star Cosmetics and other drop shipment companies, which adds to his revenue.
In 2019, Jeffree and Shane Dawson launched a line of eyeshadows and liquid lipsticks, generating significant sales. Jeffree claimed that the initial launch could earn them $35 million, with $10 million going to Shane. The line’s success further cemented Jeffree’s status as a top entrepreneur in the beauty industry.
Earnings and Financial Success
Jeffree Star’s earnings come from multiple sources, including his cosmetics company, YouTube channel, merchandise sales, and investments. His annual earnings have consistently placed him among the highest-paid YouTube stars:
2018: Jeffree earned $18 million, making him the 5th highest-paid YouTube star.
2019: He earned $17 million, ranking 4th on the platform.
2020: Jeffree earned $15 million, placing him 10th among the highest-paid YouTube stars.
Real Estate Portfolio
Jeffree Star has made significant investments in real estate, reflecting his substantial wealth. He lived in an expansive mansion in Calabasas, California, which he purchased for $3.62 million in 2016 and sold for $3.4 million in 2020. In December 2019, Jeffree bought an impressive property in Hidden Hills, California, for $14.6 million. The estate spans nearly three acres and includes eight bedrooms and 13 bathrooms within its 25,000 square feet.
In June 2021, Jeffree listed the Hidden Hills mansion for $19.5 million. He eventually sold it for $16.7 million in June 2022. Around the same time, he acquired a 70-acre ranch in Wyoming, later expanding his holdings by purchasing an additional 500 nearby acres.
Car Collection
Jeffree Star boasts an impressive car collection, featuring luxury vehicles such as Bentleys, Aston Martins, Lamborghinis, and Ferraris. His collection is estimated to be worth around $2.4 million and includes a total of 25 vehicles, reflecting his penchant for high-end automobiles.
Feuds and Controversies
Jeffree Star is known for his high-profile feuds with other celebrities and influencers. He has publicly clashed with Kylie Jenner, often criticizing her makeup products. He has also feuded with Kim Kardashian, fellow YouTuber James Charles, and former friend Kat Von D. These controversies, while contentious, have often kept him in the public eye, contributing to his fame and follower base.
Conclusion
Jeffree Star’s wealth, estimated at $200 million, is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit, business acumen, and ability to leverage social media to build a global brand. From his early days on MySpace to his success with Jeffree Star Cosmetics, Jeffree has continuously evolved and expanded his influence in the beauty industry. His investments in real estate, merchandise, and other ventures further solidify his financial success.
As Jeffree Star continues to innovate and grow his empire, his wealth and influence in the beauty industry are likely to increase, cementing his legacy as a pioneering entrepreneur and social media personality.
