A Hollywood Icon and Businesswoman
Kathy Hilton is more than just a reality TV star or the mother of Paris Hilton—she’s a successful entrepreneur, former actress, and fashion designer. As of 2025, Kathy and her husband Rick Hilton have a combined net worth of around $350 million. While she’s often seen in the spotlight, Kathy has built a strong foundation of wealth and influence on her own.
From Child Star to Hilton Heiress
Born on March 13, 1959, Kathy Hilton (née Kathleen Avanzino) started her journey in Hollywood as a child actress. She appeared in classic TV shows such as Bewitched, Happy Days, and The Rockford Files. But by the age of 15, Kathy stepped away from acting.
That same year, she met Rick Hilton, heir to the Hilton hotel empire. The two married in 1979, and Kathy’s life quickly shifted from acting to fashion, family, and high society.
A Return to the Spotlight
Although Kathy left acting early, she never left the public eye. In the early 2000s, she returned to TV by hosting I Want to Be a Hilton and appearing in The World According to Paris, alongside her daughter.
She became a household name again when she joined The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Though not a full-time cast member, Kathy’s larger-than-life personality made her a fan favorite. Her humorous moments and glamorous lifestyle stole the show. However, in June 2023, she announced her departure from the series.
Building a Fashion Empire
Since 2012, Kathy has run the Kathy Hilton Collection, a line of elegant party dresses sold at top stores like Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, and Saks Fifth Avenue. Her fashion success led to a feature in Vogue in 2020 with daughters Paris and Nicky, modeling pieces from top designer brands.
The Hilton Legacy and Family Wealth
Kathy and Rick have four children: Paris, Nicky, Barron, and Conrad, along with seven grandchildren. The Hilton family’s wealth extends beyond fame. Their lavish real estate holdings include:
- Hamptons Estate: Bought for $3.385 million in 1999, listed in 2024 for nearly $15 million.
- Bel-Air Mansion: Purchased for $9.2 million in 2015, sold in 2024 for $25 million.
- NYC Apartment at The Pierre Hotel: Acquired in 2014 for $2.5 million.
More Than Just Glamour
Kathy is also deeply involved in charity work. She supports the Make-A-Wish Foundation and has been honored for her philanthropy by the Starlight Children’s Foundation.
Final Thoughts
Kathy Hilton is living proof that there’s more to her than being a Hilton. With a mix of business success, family legacy, and giving back, she stands tall as one of the wealthiest and most influential Real Housewives—if not the richest of them all.
