Tom Steyer Biography: Net Worth, Career, Age, Personal Life & Facts (2025) in 2025

Tom Steyer is a renowned American billionaire investor, philanthropist, environmental activist, and former presidential candidate. Recognized for his extensive work in finance and climate advocacy, Steyer has made a significant impact on both Wall Street and Washington, D.C. His leadership in sustainable investing and political activism has positioned him as a key figure in progressive circles across the United States.

Quick Facts

Full Name	Thomas Fahr Steyer
Profession / Occupation	Investor, Philanthropist, Environmentalist, Political Activist
Birth Date	June 27, 1957
Age	68 (as of September 2025)
Birth Place	New York City, New York, USA
Nationality	American
Famous For	Billionaire investor, climate change activism, 2020 presidential campaign
Known For	Founder of Farallon Capital Management; Founder of NextGen America
Ethnicity	White (German-Jewish and Scottish descent)
Zodiac Sign	Cancer
Height & Weight	6 ft 0 in (183 cm); approx. 165 lbs (75 kg)
Hair Color	Light Brown / Gray
Eye Color	Blue
Education	Yale University (BA), Stanford University (MBA)
Religion	Episcopalian
Marital Status/Spouse	Married to Kathryn Taylor
Relationship	None reported
Children	4
Relatives	Father: Roy Henry Steyer; Brother: Jim Steyer
Hobbies	Environmental activism, hiking, reading
Employer/Organization	Farallon Capital Management (Founder), NextGen America (Founder)
Years Active	1983–present
Net Worth (Estimated)	$1.6 billion (2025)

Early Life & Education

Tom Steyer was born on June 27, 1957, in New York City. Raised in a family that valued education and public service, his father Roy Steyer was a partner at the white-shoe law firm Sullivan & Cromwell and served as an attorney in the Nuremberg Trials. Tom attended the Buckley School and Phillips Exeter Academy, where he excelled academically and developed an early interest in economics and social justice. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Political Science from Yale University, graduating summa cum laude in 1979. Steyer later received his MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business in 1983, further sharpening his business acumen.

Career Journey

Beginnings in Finance

After completing his MBA, Steyer began his career at Morgan Stanley as an analyst, quickly moving to Goldman Sachs in their risk arbitrage department. His keen financial instincts and analytical skills set the stage for his future success.

Farallon Capital Management

In 1986, Steyer founded Farallon Capital Management in San Francisco, which became one of the world’s largest and most successful hedge funds.
Farallon was known for its innovative investment strategies, including global macro and value investing, and managed over $20 billion at its peak.
Steyer built a reputation for ethical investing and was an early proponent of integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into portfolio management.

Transition to Philanthropy & Activism

In 2012, Steyer left Farallon to focus on philanthropy and climate advocacy.
He founded NextGen America, a nonprofit aimed at mobilizing young voters and promoting progressive causes, especially climate change action.
Steyer has donated hundreds of millions to environmental initiatives, education, and political campaigns.

Political Involvement

Steyer emerged as a leading voice in the movement to impeach President Donald Trump, funding national campaigns and media initiatives.
He ran for the Democratic nomination in the 2020 U.S. presidential election, focusing on climate change, economic justice, and political reform.
Though he did not secure the nomination, Steyer’s campaign raised awareness of climate policy on the national stage.

Recent Activity & Current Position

As of 2025, Steyer continues to lead climate advocacy through NextGen America and serves on the boards of several environmental and educational organizations.
He is a frequent commentator on climate policy and sustainable investing, appearing on major news networks and at global forums.

Personal Life

Tom Steyer has been married to Kathryn Taylor, a philanthropist and former CEO of the San Francisco Public Library, since 1986. The couple has four children and is known for their deep involvement in community service and charitable causes. Steyer enjoys hiking, reading, and spending time outdoors with his family. He is also active in his local church and supports numerous educational and environmental organizations.

Awards & Achievements

Named to Forbes’ list of the World’s Billionaires
Recipient of the Environmental Leadership Award from the Sierra Club
Honorary Doctorate from Stanford University
Recognized by Time magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential People in Climate Policy

Physical Statistics

Height: 6 ft 0 in (183 cm)
Weight: Approximately 165 lbs (75 kg)
Hair Color: Light Brown / Gray
Eye Color: Blue
Build: Slim

Quotes

“If we want to solve the climate crisis, we have to put people and communities at the center of our solutions.”
“We need to restore the American dream by investing in our people and protecting our planet.”
“Democracy only works when everyone has a voice and a vote.”

Controversies

Tom Steyer has faced criticism from some quarters for his significant financial influence in politics, especially regarding his funding of impeachment campaigns and progressive initiatives. Opponents have questioned the efficacy and motives of billionaire-led activism. However, Steyer has consistently maintained that his activism is driven by a commitment to public service and climate action.

Favorites

Favorite Book: “The Grapes of Wrath” by John Steinbeck
Favorite Movie: “An Inconvenient Truth”
Favorite Food: Organic California cuisine
Favorite Hobby: Hiking in national parks

Salary & Net Worth

As of 2025, Tom Steyer’s net worth is estimated at $1.6 billion, according to Forbes and Bloomberg. His wealth primarily stems from his success at Farallon Capital Management, along with investments in renewable energy and real estate. While Steyer has not drawn a traditional salary since leaving Farallon, he continues to earn from various investments and speaking engagements.

Interesting Facts

Tom Steyer was a varsity soccer player at Yale University.
He and his wife have signed The Giving Pledge, committing to donate the majority of their wealth to charitable causes.
Steyer’s brother, Jim Steyer, is the founder of Common Sense Media.
He is known for wearing plaid ties as a personal trademark.
Steyer speaks Spanish fluently and has supported bilingual education initiatives.

Social Media Links

Facebook: Tom Steyer Official
Twitter/X: @TomSteyer
Instagram: @tomsteyer
LinkedIn: Tom Steyer
YouTube: Tom Steyer on YouTube

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is Tom Steyer in 2025?
Tom Steyer is 68 years old as of September 2025.
What is Tom Steyer’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated at $1.6 billion, largely from his hedge fund and investments.
What is Tom Steyer known for?
He is known for founding Farallon Capital, leading climate change activism, and running for president in 2020.
Who is Tom Steyer’s wife?
He is married to Kathryn Taylor, a philanthropist and civic leader.
What are Tom Steyer’s main philanthropic interests?
His philanthropy focuses on climate change, education, and youth civic engagement.
Has Tom Steyer held any public office?
No, but he has been a major political donor and activist, including a 2020 presidential run.

Conclusion

Tom Steyer’s journey from Wall Street to Washington has made him a prominent force in American finance, philanthropy, and politics. His commitment to climate action and social change continues to shape public discourse and inspire future leaders. If you found this biography helpful, please share it with others interested in impactful changemakers.

Sources: Forbes, Bloomberg, The New York Times, Stanford University, Yale University, Sierra Club, Time Magazine