Three Louisiana billionaires make 2026 Forbes 400 richest list

Three business individuals from Louisiana have been named to the 2026 Forbes 400 list of the richest people in America, according to reports from 965kvki.com, 973thedawg.com, and 929thelake.com. The list highlights billionaires across the country, with Elon Musk once again holding the top spot with an estimated net worth of $908 billion.

Among the Louisiana billionaires, William Goldring and his family rank third in the state and 181st on the Forbes list for 2026. Their net worth increased by $3 billion from the previous year, rising from $6 billion to $9 billion. The family made their fortune in the liquor industry through the Sazerac Company, which owns around 500 alcohol brands and multiple distilleries across the U.S., Canada, France, Ireland, and India.

The reports also provide context on Louisiana's middle class, noting the median salary is $57,000, with most people earning between $38,000 and $115,704. Despite the wealth of the billionaires, everyday residents face challenges such as rising costs for groceries, gas, and rent, especially in areas like Lafayette.

The three Louisiana billionaires are recognized for their hard work in maintaining and growing their businesses. One billionaire has lost some net worth, while William Goldring and his family have seen their net worth grow significantly.