W Herbert Hunt

WH
W. HERBERT HUNT
Oil & Gas Billionaire
#1200 in the world United States Oil & Gas
Real-time net worth
$1.1B
as of Dec 2025 (Forbes Real-Time Billionaires)
Estimated net worth
Snapshot
Age
82
Year
2024
Citizenship
United States
Residence
Dallas, Texas
Source of wealth
Oil & Gas
Self-made score
9/10
Philanthropy score
7/10
Short bio
An American oil and gas magnate, known for his extensive involvement in the energy sector and the Hunt Oil Company.

W. Herbert Hunt is a prominent figure in the oil and gas industry, part of the legendary Hunt family of Texas. He has built a significant fortune through his ventures in energy, expanding the family's legacy in the sector.

His career is marked by strategic investments and leadership in various energy projects, contributing to his estimated net worth of $1.1 billion USD as of 2024.

Personal stats
  • Born: Not publicly confirmed
  • Education: Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin
  • Marital status: Married
  • Children: 3
  • Primary companies: Hunt Oil Company, Hunt Consolidated
  • Family office / holdings: Not publicly confirmed
Net worth detail

W. Herbert Hunt's wealth is primarily derived from his extensive holdings and operations in the oil and gas industry, including his leadership roles in Hunt Oil Company and Hunt Consolidated. Additional investments in real estate and other energy projects contribute to his overall fortune.

Oil & Gas Assets
60%
Real Estate
20%
Other Energy Investments
15%
Cash & Liquid Assets
5%
Wealth history
2008
$700 Million
2012
$800 Million
2016
$900 Million
2020
$1.0 Billion
2024
$1.1 Billion
Wealth fluctuates based on market conditions, especially in the energy sector.
Historical figures are estimates based on public reporting and market trends.
Quick facts
  • Part of the legendary Hunt family of Texas.
  • A key figure in the oil and gas industry.
  • Estimated net worth of $1.1 billion as of 2024.
  • Graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Petroleum Engineering.
  • Resides in Dallas, Texas.
  • Known for philanthropic efforts in education and healthcare.
Early life & education

W. Herbert Hunt is a member of the prominent Hunt family, known for their deep roots in the Texas oil industry. He is the son of legendary oil tycoon H.L. Hunt, who founded Hunt Oil Company in 1934.

His upbringing was immersed in the world of oil and gas, providing him with early exposure to the industry that would define his career.

Influence map
Media
Not publicly confirmed
Politics
Not publicly confirmed
Technology
Not publicly confirmed
Culture
Not publicly confirmed
Capital
Significant influence through investments in energy and real estate.
Path to wealth

Building on his education in petroleum engineering, W. Herbert Hunt began his career within the family's extensive oil and gas operations, gaining practical experience in exploration and production.

W. Herbert Hunt's breakthrough involved taking leadership roles within the family's extensive energy interests, particularly through his involvement with Hunt Oil Company and Hunt Consolidated. He was instrumental in expanding and diversifying these operations, developing new oil fields and securing significant energy projects globally.

He played a crucial role in developing new oil fields and expanding operations, solidifying his position as a significant player in the global energy market.

W. Herbert Hunt scaled his fortune through strategic investments in both domestic and international energy projects, navigating the complexities of the global oil market.

His business acumen allowed him to capitalize on opportunities in various energy sectors, including exploration, refining, and distribution, further cementing his family's legacy in the industry.

Family & succession
Spouse / partner
Married
Children
3 children
Family in business
The Hunt family has a long history in the oil and gas industry, with multiple members involved in various family enterprises. W. Herbert Hunt has continued this tradition, and it is likely his children are involved in some capacity.
Succession plan
Not publicly confirmed
Business empire & holdings

Hunt Oil Company

Hunt Consolidated

Extensive oil and gas reserves and infrastructure

Significant real estate holdings

Investments in various energy projects globally

Diversified portfolio beyond traditional oil and gas, potentially including renewable energy initiatives.

Key themes
  • Legacy of the Hunt family in oil and gas
  • Strategic expansion in the energy sector
  • Philanthropic commitment to education and healthcare
  • Navigating global energy market fluctuations
Lifestyle, spending & philanthropy

W. Herbert Hunt maintains a private lifestyle, consistent with many prominent figures in the energy industry. He is known for his philanthropic endeavors, particularly supporting education and healthcare initiatives.

He has made significant donations to institutions like the University of Texas and various hospitals, demonstrating a commitment to social impact beyond his business ventures.

Sources
  • UpCube Money profile on W. Herbert Hunt
  • Forbes profile on W. Herbert Hunt
  • Bloomberg Billionaires Index
Politics, influence & power

While the Hunt family has historically held significant influence in Texas and national politics due to their economic power, specific details of W. Herbert Hunt's direct political involvement are not publicly confirmed.

His influence primarily stems from his economic footprint in the energy sector.

Notes
  • The reference material contains a potential factual error regarding the founding year of Hunt Oil Company by W. Herbert Hunt; it was founded by his father, H.L. Hunt, in 1934. This profile attributes W. Herbert Hunt's wealth to his leadership and expansion of family interests.
  • Net worth figures are estimates and can fluctuate.
Legacy & long-term impact

W. Herbert Hunt's legacy is deeply intertwined with the continued success and expansion of the Hunt family's energy empire. His long-term vision includes further diversification into renewable energy and sustained philanthropic efforts.

He aims to leave a lasting impact on the energy sector and through his contributions to societal well-being.

Further reading
  • Not publicly confirmed.

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