Jimmy Carter’s Modest Lifestyle Contrasts with Other Former Presidents

Former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 on December 29, lived a remarkably modest life in his rural Plains, Georgia home, a stark contrast to the opulent lifestyles of other former U.S. presidents. Carter, the nation’s 39th president, spent 43 years in a two-bedroom ranch house he built himself in 1961, valued at just $167,066 in 2018 and now estimated at $239,700.

The home, located about two-and-a-half hours south of Atlanta, is where Carter lived until his death. He will be buried on the property next to his late wife, Rosalynn, who died in 2023. The Washington Post noted in 2018 that the home’s value was “less than the value of the armored Secret Service vehicles parked outside.”

Carter’s frugal lifestyle extended beyond his home. He often dined with neighbors on paper plates with bargain-brand wine, made his own yogurt, and shopped at the local Dollar General. Despite receiving a $246,400 annual pension and allowances for expenses like travel and office space, Carter declined most speaking fees and donated the proceeds from his appearances to charity.

In contrast, other former presidents have embraced more lavish lifestyles. Donald Trump resides at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, valued at $325 million in 2023, while Barack Obama purchased a $12 million estate on Martha's Vineyard. Bill Clinton, who left the White House $16 million in debt, quickly erased it through lucrative speaking engagements and book deals, earning $13.7 million in his first year out of office.

Carter’s income largely came from writing books, with over 30 titles to his name, including memoirs and works on human rights. He also received the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize for his humanitarian efforts. His commitment to simplicity and public service has left a lasting legacy, inspiring leaders and citizens worldwide to prioritize values over material wealth.