Kathy Hochul was born and raised in Buffalo, New York, into a working-class family. She was the second of six children. Her father, John P. Courtney, was a clerical worker, while her mother, Patricia Ann (Rochford) Courtney, was a homemaker. Hochul’s family faced financial challenges, which instilled in her a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of the struggles faced by working families.
Hochul attended Syracuse University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. She later obtained a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from the Catholic University Columbus School of Law in Washington, D.C.
Kathy Hochul Wiki Table
| Full Name | Kathleen Courtney Hochul |
| Date of Birth | August 27, 1958 |
| Age | 66 years (as of 2024) |
| Place of Birth | Buffalo, New York, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Politician, Lawyer |
| Political Party | Democratic Party |
| Education | Syracuse University (BA), Catholic University (JD) |
| Spouse | William J. Hochul Jr. |
| Children | 2 |
| Notable Roles | Governor of New York, Lieutenant Governor of New York, U.S. Representative |
| Years Active | 1994–present |
Career
Kathy Hochul’s political career began with her work as a legal counsel and legislative aide. She served on the Hamburg Town Board from 1994 to 2007 and then became the Erie County Clerk, a position she held until 2011.
Hochul gained national attention when she won a special election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2011, representing New York’s 26th congressional district. Her victory was seen as significant because she won in a district that had traditionally leaned Republican. During her time in Congress, she was known for her moderate views and willingness to work across the aisle.
In 2014, Kathy Hochul was elected Lieutenant Governor of New York, serving under Governor Andrew Cuomo. She was re-elected in 2018. As Lieutenant Governor, Hochul focused on economic development, combating the opioid crisis, and advocating for women’s rights.
In August 2021, Hochul made history when she became the first female governor of New York, following Andrew Cuomo’s resignation amid a scandal. As governor, Hochul prioritized COVID-19 response efforts, economic recovery, and infrastructure development. She was elected to a full term in 2022.
Personal Life
Kathy Hochul is married to William J. Hochul Jr., a former U.S. Attorney for the Western District of New York and the current General Counsel at Delaware North, a global hospitality and food service company. The couple has two children.
Hochul is known for her strong advocacy for women’s rights and social justice issues. She is also an avid supporter of the Buffalo Bills, reflecting her deep roots in her hometown.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Kathy Hochul’s estimated net worth is around $2 million. Her wealth primarily comes from her salary as a public servant, investments, and her husband’s career in the legal and corporate sectors.
| Salary as Governor | $225,000/year |
| Investments and Savings | $500,000 |
| Spouse’s Income | $1.2 million |
| Real Estate and Assets | $300,000 |
| Total Estimated Net Worth | $2 million |
