The financial situation of Prince Andrew, Duke of York, remains a point of public scrutiny following his removal from royal duties and the resurfacing of his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Despite no longer receiving public funds since 2019, Andrew has maintained a lifestyle that suggests continued access to significant wealth, raising questions about potential inheritances from Queen Elizabeth II.
The Queen’s Estate and Succession
Queen Elizabeth II’s vast fortune – estimated at over $856 million as of March 2023, according to The Independent – was primarily transferred to her heir, King Charles III, through the Duchy of Lancaster. This transfer avoids inheritance tax due to a 1993 agreement between the monarchy and the U.K. government. While the bulk of the estate went to Charles, reports indicate that Princess Anne, Prince Edward, and Andrew expressed discontent over receiving minimal direct inheritance.
Andrew’s Financial Situation After the Fall
Andrew’s position is unique. He was effectively sidelined by his mother following his disastrous 2019 interview on BBC’s Newsnight, which further fueled allegations related to Epstein. By October 2025, he was stripped of his titles and evicted from Royal Lodge, relocating to a private residence at Sandringham Estate.
However, Andrew is far from destitute. Sources claim he negotiated a substantial financial settlement from King Charles to relinquish his long-term lease on Royal Lodge – an asset that included his daughter’s potential inheritance.
Limited Income and Future Prospects
Currently, Andrew’s only confirmed income source is his naval pension, totaling approximately $26,000 per year. While he is permitted to pursue private employment, his association with Epstein presents a significant barrier to securing professional opportunities.
The situation highlights a broader dynamic within the royal family: despite public backlash, financial arrangements ensure that even disgraced members maintain a degree of stability. The case underscores the opacity surrounding royal finances and the mechanisms by which wealth is preserved and transferred within the institution.
The ongoing scrutiny of Prince Andrew’s finances serves as a stark reminder of the complex interplay between privilege, scandal, and the enduring power of inherited wealth.
