The world of celebrities and the rich and famous have always been a source of curiosity and interest for the public; we like to know where they live, where they entertain, who their friends are, and where they shop. Many celebrities and their wealthy counterparts do indeed use their wildly high income to purchase only the best for themselves. However, there are some rich and famous out there who earn a large sum and are worth even more but decide to lead more modest lifestyles. Instead of multi-million dollar palatial surroundings, these celebs decided to live in more humble digs that are far more fitting for the size of their families (if they have one). Now, do not get us wrong, the homes may be more modest but they are far from the average living arrangements. These homes are large, beautiful and surely in the best of areas, they just are not the giant mansions we are used to seeing celebrities live in.
Jennifer Garner
Following her divorce with her ex Ben Affleck, Jen decided to buy herself an empty lot in Brentwood California where she built a modest family home for her and her kids. Instead of an elaborate Hollywood mansion, her home is modest with just enough room for her and the kids.
On holidays it isn’t unusual to catch the family decorating the house with decorations. It’s obvious that even though the house is modest by celebrity standards, this house is a real family home.
Christina Ricci
Christina Ricci has been in the public eye most of her life, starting her acting career at a young age. At present, she is thought to be worth around $18 million, which is a very nice net worth when most of us do not hit the million mark.
Christina, however, decided not to go over the top with her home and instead opting for a $1.5 million home that she could easily afford and maintain. Many people still consider this an expensive home, but when you are worth $18 million, that is the definition of modesty and we love her responsible nature.
John Krasinski
Prior to meeting and marrying actress Emily Blunt, John Krasinski owned a bachelor pad that he left quite unfurnished for the majority of the time as he was often traveling.
His old bachelor pad had two bedrooms and two bathrooms, which is a small spot for all intents and purposes when you make the kind of money that can afford you something quite a bit larger. John and Emily live in a house that is quite a bit larger since they also have children.
Simon Helberg
The Big Bang Theory alum, who wowed us as Howard Wolowitz on the sitcom, is worth around $45 million due to his long stint on the show. Along with his growing fandom and income, Simon wanted to finally find a place to settle into.
He bought this modest home for $950,000. He did not live there long and has since moved into a larger home with his wife and kids, but this first home is the one to remember.
Pete Wentz
Pete Wentz is not your typical rock star. The Fall Out Boy musician never did the rock star over-indulgence that we see in most, especially in their home selection. Pete bought a $1 million home when he first started earning the big bucks.
The home has since been sold has Pete got married and started a family, but even today, the home he lives in is worth peanuts in comparison to his $16 million net worth.
Elijah Wood
Elijah Wood earned mega-money when he starred in The Lord of the Rings films. He is said to be worth at least $18 million and is set for life. The home he bought with some of that money is worth $698,750.
Elijah does not act as much these days, shifting his focus to music and recording, which is why he decided to buy a home in Austin of all places. Modesty at its finest.
Ellen Pompeo
you would think that Ellen Pompeo would live in the lap of luxury as she held her own (and more) on Grey’s Anatomy for so many years and paychecks. In this case, we are talking about Ellen’s trailer, not her home. Ellen redid her trailer with an airy and simple design.
Ellen is worth $40 million and could have done much more than just redecorate, which is why we are impressed with her design skills and her humble vibes.
Kesha
The hit singer and songwriter may write songs that we party to, but her lifestyle is far from the glitz and glam. Kesha surprised her fans when she decided that this modest bungalow was the house she wanted for herself. She bought the property for $1.6 million, small pennies in comparison to other celebrity homes.
Kesha has since moved into a larger home but kept her low key lifestyle and style the same, with a focus on open and peaceful living space with a spa-like feel throughout the house. Kesha has been through a lot, so it makes sense that she would want her home to be an oasis.
Elliot Page
Another day another Elliot in the acting world. Actor Elliot Page has worked very hard over his career to reach a net worth of $18 million. He has also spent his money very wisely and does not get dazzles by unnecessary expenses.
He bought his home for $885,000; he did not want an oversized home that would feel too big, but rather a home he could feel comfortable enough and he could design the way he wanted.
Wolf Blitzer
Wolf Blitzer has lived in his modest home since 1990. He bought the property that is set in Bethesda, Maryland for $710,000. The newsman is known to most from his television appearances, providing us with in-depth articles.
He could afford a much larger home than the one he has been in for so long but does not see the need to add more square footage into his life, he is exactly as he wants to be.
Cher
She may be a living legend and an ageless beauty, but Cher has at times lived quite humbly. Before The actress/singer/ goddess moved into her Malibu estate the star once lived in a humble $900,000 home in Beverly Hills. The 4 bedroom, Tudor-style home with ivy-lined walls was a welcome retreat for Cher and her young family.
While today Cher owns magnificent homes all over the globe, sources close to the star have shared that her Beverly hills cottage will always hold a special place in her heart. We can see why, this humble cottage looks like a wonderful place to escape the world!
Vincent Kartheiser and Alexis Blendel
Vincent was living in a small bungalow home for a long time, ten years exactly, when he moved out to be in a larger home with his now-wife Alexis Bledel. The home was so modest that he had a murphy bed which he happened to love as a feature in his home.
Now that he is married and a father, the home he shares with his family is much larger yet still within the realm of reason.
Robert Pattinson
Robert Pattinson is said to be worth over $100 million thanks to his Twilight film series roles and the ones thereafter. He may not be a huge fan of the role he played, but he sure did benefit from it. Using a tiny piece of his income, Rob bought himself a $2.17 million home in Hollywood.
The home is constructed in the Spanish style and has everything Rob wants in it now. We may see an upgrade as his personal life expands as well.
Shaquille O’Neal
Everyone knows who Shaq is. The basketball legend is worth over $250 million so you would expect him to own a mansion with 20 rooms and 19 cars, right? Wrong in his case. Shaq bought a five-bedroom home in Florida for $235,000 and said he does not need more space than what he has which is pretty incredible coming for such a tall man.
He used to have a much bigger home but decided he did not need that much space anymore.
Tom Blyth
Tom Blyth, the acclaimed actor known for his role as Coriolanus Snow in “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes,” leads a surprisingly modest lifestyle, especially in contrast to his rising fame. Born in Birmingham, England, Blyth grew up in Nottingham and pursued his passion for acting through training at the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City. His career highlights include not just “The Hunger Games,” but also a leading role in the series “Billy the Kid”.
Tom Holland
Tom Holland, known for his role as Spider-Man, prefers a simpler living style than expected. Instead of a sprawling mansion, Tom has chosen a cozy home in London. This place reflects his down-to-earth personality, offering comfort without excessive luxury. It’s a nod to his roots and a space where he can unwind away from the spotlight.
His choice underscores a desire for privacy and normalcy, highlighting that not all celebrities crave extravagant homes. Tom’s house is a personal retreat, embodying his modest approach to fame and fortune.
Doja Cat
Doja Cat, the vibrant and talented artist known for her hit songs and unique style, surprisingly opts for a more modest living situation than her flamboyant stage persona might suggest. Her home is stylish yet understated, providing a peaceful sanctuary away from the chaos of her public life. It’s equipped with just enough to offer comfort and creativity without extravagance.
This choice reflects Doja Cat’s appreciation for simplicity and functionality over sheer opulence. Her home is a testament to her belief that happiness and creativity flourish in simplicity, showcasing her grounded approach to life amidst her rising fame.
Shawn Mendes
Shawn Mendes, the heartthrob singer-songwriter, has always been known for his humble beginnings and grounded nature. Despite his global fame, Shawn’s choice of residence remains surprisingly modest. His home is cozy, welcoming, and devoid of unnecessary luxuries, emphasizing comfort over ostentation.
It serves as a haven where he can escape the demands of his career and focus on his music and personal growth. Shawn’s living space reflects his straightforward and sincere personality, proving that happiness doesn’t necessarily come from lavish possessions. It clearly states his values, prioritizing personal well-being and genuine connections over material wealth.
Olivia Colman
Olivia Colman, the esteemed British actress known for her versatile performances, has chosen a lifestyle that reflects modesty and a preference for a quieter, more private life. After portraying Queen Elizabeth II in “The Crown,” Colman and her husband Ed Sinclair moved from their family home in Peckham, South-East London, to a historic Grade II-listed barn in Norfolk. Their new home, which they purchased for £1.3 million, is close to the Queen’s Sandringham Estate. This move marks a significant change from their previous life in London, as Colman had earlier expressed her fondness for the community in the capital.
Vanessa Kirby
Vanessa Kirby, acclaimed for her riveting portrayal of Princess Margaret in “The Crown,” has carved a niche in the acting world with her intense performances. Born on April 18, 1988, in Wimbledon, London, Kirby’s career skyrocketed with roles that showcase her depth and versatility. Her breakthrough in “The Crown” and the emotionally charged “Pieces of a Woman” exemplify her capacity for complex characters.
Kacey Musgraves
Despite her fame and a successful career spanning over a decade, American country singer Kacey Musgraves embraces simplicity and charm over opulence. With a string of awards, including six Grammy Awards, and an impressive net worth estimated at $12 million, one might expect Musgraves to opt for a lavish mansion.
Instead, she has settled for a quaint estate in Nashville, purchased for $1.9 million from interior designer Louisa Pierce. Built in 2012, Musgraves’ home is a testament to old-world charm, enveloped by mature trees and exuding an aura of serenity. This choice reflects a grounded lifestyle, preferring character and tranquility over grandeur, a rare choice among celebrities of her stature.
Martha Stewart
From 1971 to 2007, Martha Stewart nurtured her creative and domestic empire from the quaint Turkey Hill farmstead in Connecticut. What began as a humble farmhouse acquisition for $46,750 blossomed into a four-acre haven, eventually encompassing the entire street. This cherished property, Martha’s initial venture into homeownership alongside her then-husband and daughter Alexis, held profound significance in her journey.
Turkey Hill was more than just a residence; it was a canvas for Martha’s evolving aesthetic and culinary philosophies. Adorned with antiques, boasting meticulously designed landscapes, and seasonal gardens, including a vegetable patch and a greenhouse, the property was a living embodiment of Martha’s brand.
Margot Robbie
Margot Robbie’s foray into the Hollywood Heights real estate market marked an astute investment. She purchased a picturesque bungalow for $950,000 from “Milk” screenwriter Dustin Lance Black, known for his marriage to British Olympic champion Tom Daley. Despite its modest footprint of 945 square feet, featuring two bedrooms and one bathroom, the property’s appeal was undeniable.
Robbie embarked on a comprehensive renovation project, revitalizing the hardwood floors, modernizing the kitchen, and applying a fresh coat of paint.
Lisa Kudrow
Lisa Kudrow, widely recognized for her iconic role as Phoebe Buffay in “Friends,” leads a life that’s quite different from her on-screen character. Born on July 30, 1963, in Encino, Los Angeles, Kudrow has established herself as a versatile actress and producer. Her career has spanned various genres, including the cult comedy film “Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion” and the mockumentary series “The Comeback” on HBO. She has been acclaimed for her performances, receiving nominations for several prestigious awards like the Primetime Emmy Award and the Independent Spirit Award.
Emma Stone
Hollywoods golden girl may seem like a natural-born star but this red-headed beauty is actually pretty down to earth. Instead of decadent digs, once bought herself a humble home 4 bedroom home in Beverly hills.
The home featured a homely kitchen, family room, 2 car garage and a pool in the back yard. According to sources the actress enjoyed cooking for friends and family and every so often the paparazzi have spotted the star shopping for her own groceries.
Tori Spelling
It’s public knowledge that Tori Spelling and her family have had to move around a lot. Going from modest house to the next, it seems she is a fan of renting a property rather than owning one. Spelling has been gracing our screens for years now, and not only is she an actress, but also a tv personality as well as a socialite.
It appears that her main priority is that her children each have their own room, but other than that, she’s not too bothered about having a big fancy house. Perhaps she has a moving addiction though, she reportedly moved around a lot in the last six years. Eight times to be exact!
Brooke Shields
The Hamptons has always been a hotspot for the A-list, and when summer comes around, a load of celebs heads to the famous spot. For Brooke Shields, visiting is easy as it is the place she calls home. Of course, her house is far from normal, but it certainly is nowhere near as extravagant as it could be.
Purchased back in 2013, she has totally renovated the cottage and made it just perfect. The home was purchased on the basis that Shields and her husband, Christ Henchy, wanted their girls to grow up in the area.
Jack White
Musician Jack White initially studied to become an upholstery master, which came from his love of art, construction, and architecture. So when it was time to buy himself a home, he found what he was after in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
The home he bought cost a mere $510,000 despite the fact that he could afford a whole lot more. Jack cared more for the structure of the home than its cost, which means his priorities are in check.
Don Cheadle
Don Cheadle is not only an actor but a budding fixer-upper. Joining forces with his wife, Bridgid Coulter, they married couple has found a hobby in buying small and old housing, and renovating them to make them eco-friendly, and then, of course, selling them and making a hefty profit.
The projects wouldn’t be fair if they didn’t create something for themselves. One of their purchases was a 1950s bungalow in California. Buying the Venice space for $894,00, they worked on it for themselves. Even though it is on the smaller side, it is designed perfectly.
Amber Heard
Amber Heard is a prime example of a celebrity opting for a more modest living situation. She recently sold her luxurious Mojave Desert property for a solid $1.5 million, swapping it for a rented villa in Spain where she now resides with her daughter. Although it’s a downsizing of sorts, the move was more than just a lifestyle choice.
Speculation suggests that the sale of the Mojave home was instrumental in helping Heard pay off a hefty $8 million settlement she owes her ex-husband, Johnny Depp. This goes to show that even in the world of glitz and glamour, practical financial decisions can lead celebs to adopt a simpler, albeit still elegant, way of living.
Warren Buffett
Seeing as Warren Buffett is one of the world’s richest people, you would expect him to live in a mansion as big as some small towns. However, this modest man went the complete other direction. Buffett, who is estimated to be worth over $85 billion, bought his current home for $38,000 back in 1958 and still lives there.
Today, the home is worth $250,000 but even that sum is tiny when compared to his income. The man donates his billions to charity, with the goal of donating half his fortune during his lifetime; he believes he has enough and that is beautiful.
Meghan Markle
Before she married into the Royal Family and long before the era of ‘Megxit’, Meghan Markle had much humbler beginnings. In fact, that’s why her story of how she went from pauper to actress to duchess is so amazing.
However, when she was still a Hollywood actress, Meghan lived in a humble home in a family-friendly suburb of Toronto. Here 3 bedroom, 2 story home sold for a little over $1,3 million. Now that Meghan and Harry have turned their backs on their Royal life, we can’t help but wonder if the couple will move into something more similar to this.
Joseph Gordon Levitt
Actor Joseph Gordon Levitt has been entertaining viewers since he was a young boy. Unlike his fellow A-List actors, Joseph decided to find himself a comfortable home he could retreat to.
While his small Franklin Hills home may look quite average on the outside, on the inside the home has been expertly styled to suit the actor’s tastes and interests. The home was designed in 1940s style by noted architect Arthur W. Hawes and cost the actor approximately $3 million after he bought and remodeled it.
Lauren Conrad
Lauren Conrad first entered our worlds on one of the first reality shows, Laguna Beach and then she went to have her own spin-off show called The Hills. As one of the shows main characters, fans got to follow her around as she went about her daily glamorous life.
Now more of a fashion designer than a reality star, she lives in a three-bedroom condo over in the famous Beverly Hills. Of course, due to its location, it still would have cost a lot of money, but it is much smaller than what she can afford.
Nicky Hilton
The Hilton family have been rolling in dollars for as long as we can remember and they have certainly never been shy about showing off their wealth. Paris Hilton has always been the one who seems to feed off the attention while her sister Nicky has always just had a foot in the door of the celebrity world.
Wanting to continue her low-key life, Nicky purchased this three-bedroom home in 2007, over in Los Angeles.
Chris Daughtry
Country singer Chris Daughtry, who got his start on American Idol, was living in this humble home with his family. While we call it humble, it is still a beauty and is more than enough for any family to live in.
Today, Chris is worth $10 million and can afford a much larger and more impressive home than this $699,000 property but chooses to remain in his home as he just knows he does not need anything more.
Jennifer Lawrence
Jennifer has been in more hit films than a lot of Hollywood but has remained her delightfully quirky and humble self. Jennifer’s home was purchased by her for around $879,000, a good deal when you think that the girl is worth millions upon millions of dollars.
She prefers the minimalistic style and understated beauty (just like her!) and her home is a reflection of exactly who she is. Now that she and Cooke Maroney have gotten married the happy couple plan to buy a simple house in upstate New York.
Nate Ruess and Charlotte Ronson
Fashion designer Charlotte Ronson was never one to overspend on a pad just for the looks of it. She used to live in a modest apartment in New York City where the world saw how she worked hard to be savvy with her space since in the city it is such a hot commodity.
However, when she and Nate Ruess moved into a new place when they learned that they were expecting, they still decided to keep the square footage within the realm of reason and keep the design minimalistic.
Michael Symon
Television chef Michael Symon has been on the air, which means he makes most than most chefs do and therefore can afford one nice house with a kitchen befitting a professional cook. Michael owns a beautiful country estate the boasts a simple interior and everything he would want and need from a home.
He brought the house for $500,000, which is just a small chip of his $4 million net worth. Michael wanted a home more than a big house.
Zooey Deschanel
New Girl, Zooey Deschanel, can flip a house better than she ever knew possible. The sitcom and rom-com beauty bought one of the homes she has lived in for $1.69 million. She then got married and decided she needed more space.
As such, she sold her house for a huge profit at $5 million and upgraded her bank account and her living space all in one moment. Her style is an eclectic one, and her new home shows it.
Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds
Now, this is one celebrity couple that we just love. The pair are forever making jokes and seem to take themselves a lot less serious than most other celebs. One of the most high profile couples in Hollywood, they will soon be welcoming another child to their family.
With a joint network of $90million, you would have thought that their family home would be ginormous, but not for these two. They live in a quaint, modest house that doesn’t scream celebrity at all.
Keanu Reeves
Most popularly known for his star role in The Matrix, Keanu is known for donating a lot of his money to various charities. Being one of the most relaxed celebrities there is, he often stares clear of the spotlight and likes to keep to himself.
More recently, he joined the cast of Toy Story and will play the newest toy to join our favorites characters.
Matthew McConaughey
Everyone knows who Matthew McConaughey is. The blockbuster hitting actor is rich, famous, and one cool dude. He has always loved traveling and doing so in trailers.
The simple guy likes trailers and smaller homes and even today, married with children, his home is not an oversized monstrosity, but rather a simple home for a family. He is a humble man who continues to wow the world with his talent, ambition, and relaxed demeanor.
Adrian Peterson
NFL player Adrian Peterson makes a seriously impressive paycheck thanks to his profession. He is worth approximately $30 million and counting yet his home is very much an understatement to his wealth. Adrian and his wife love this home and want to continue to be in it to raise their children.
The home is in a very good neighborhood and school district, which most parents value above all else. Priorities are where they should be is what we say!
Lea Michele
Glee alum, Lea Michele, decided to use her television money to buy herself a humble yet stunning bungalow. The property is covered in all things green and has a pool for those hot Los Angeles days. Lea has since upgraded her living situation as she is now a married woman looking for more space.
Her new home is larger but still not a monster of a place with the same bungalow vibe that she so cherished. She sold her original home for a cool $1.8 million. Perhaps the fact that she lived there also raised the property value.
Kristen Bell
Beloved actress Kristen Bell and her charismatic husband, Dax Shepard, collectively boast a net worth of $40 million. Yet, they continue to shine a light on the allure of simplicity. Renowned for their modest approach to life, they swapped the typical extravagant celebrity wedding for an intimate courthouse ceremony, costing just a humble $142.
Ever the savvy shopper, Bell gleefully finds joy in navigating everyday purchases with an arsenal of discount coupons, procuring savings of 20% and more. This golden couple is a testament to the value of financial prudence, even amidst a sea of wealth.
Leonardo DiCaprio
The actor sits on an astounding net worth of $260 million, amassed through a successful Hollywood career. His expansive portfolio includes a personal island and lucrative real estate properties. But the ‘Titanic’ star, a fervent environmental activist, has deliberately crafted a lifestyle that reflects his passion for the planet.
He forgoes private jets, chooses commercial flights, and is often seen behind the wheel of his hybrid Toyota Prius. This preference for a less lavish lifestyle underlines DiCaprio’s unyielding commitment to a sustainable future.
Sarah Michelle Gellar
Sarah Michelle Gellar, a television darling of the 90s and accomplished film actress, alongside her husband, Freddie Prinze Jr., share a combined fortune of $50 million. Despite their fame and affluence, they opt for a lifestyle that reverberates with modesty and simplicity.
Raising their children away from the glare of extravagance, they embody the essence of grounded living. Gellar’s mother played a pivotal role in shaping this perspective, teaching her to lead a simple, fulfilling life regardless of the extent of her resources.
Tiffany Haddish
Comedic powerhouse Tiffany Haddish has risen from humble beginnings, turning adversity into a vibrant Hollywood career. Remembered for her days of living in her car, Haddish embodies resilience and authenticity.
The charming comedian shatters the taboo of outfit-repeating among celebrities, unabashedly wearing her $4,000 Alexander McQueen white gown to numerous high-profile events. Her everyday life mirrors this grounded approach; she drives a practical Honda HR-V, sports a faux Michael Kors purse, and wisely maximizes her dollars through savvy Groupon deals.
Hilary Swank
Oscar-winning actress Hilary Swank, who came from modest roots, has never forgotten the lessons of her financially restrained childhood. Her astute money management practices have been a cornerstone of her journey, even with her now substantial wealth.
Not one to splurge needlessly, Swank exemplifies the art of couponing, often spotted browsing grocery store aisles with her stash of discount coupons. Her commitment to a frugal lifestyle serves as a reminder of the charm of living within one’s means.
Ed Sheeran
With a formidable net worth of $200 million, multi-platinum musician Ed Sheeran personifies humility amidst fortune. Once homeless, Sheeran navigates his wealth with a disciplined $1,000 monthly allowance and a penchant for shopping in discount aisles.
With a firm belief that money can breed evil, he primarily focuses on nurturing relationships with family and friends over accumulating material possessions. Through his lifestyle choices, Sheeran emphasizes the importance of modest living, regardless of one’s financial status.
Mark Zuckerberg
Despite being one of the world’s wealthiest individuals, Enigmatic Facebook mogul Mark Zuckerberg embraces a surprising simplicity regarding his personal abode. Residing in the heart of Palo Alto, California, his family home, purchased for a relatively modest $7 million, exudes a comforting charm that many middle-class American families would find familiar.
Shunning the typical billionaire extravagance, Zuckerberg’s homely residence offers a refreshing divergence from the ostentatious mansions often associated with his financial league.
Elijah Woods
The silver screen sensation swapped the glamor of his posh Santa Monica home for the rustic charm of a renovated Victorian house in Austin, Texas.
The actor’s new abode, acquired for a modest $698,750, shows his preference for a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle. This bold shift showcases Wood’s intriguing choice of simplicity over opulence, a testament to his grounded nature.
Paul McCartney
Renowned music icon and billionaire Paul McCartney has continued to hold onto his London townhouse for decades, shunning the allure of grandeur. Nestled among similar homes in an upscale neighborhood, it bears no pretentious standout features.
Noted for his frugal habits by friends who dub him ‘thrifty’ or even ‘cheap,’ McCartney’s humble dwelling echoes his financial prudence, defying the expectation of luxurious celebrity homes.
Shaquille O’Neal
Basketball superstar Shaquille O’Neal, known for his towering stature and presence, shows a surprising modesty in his choice of residence. Although he owns multiple properties as seen in his other home in this list, we see again he has chosen another relatively modest home, although a significant step up we think.
His preference for such ‘standard’ houses underlines O’Neal’s relatability, proving that a celebrity’s wealth does not always translate into ostentatious living.
Dave Grohl
He may have just sold this spot but he lived there for a while. Dave Grohl’s net worth sits pretty at an astounding $280 million. The home he just sold was sold for $4 million, which is a modest sum when considering his truly incredible bank account.
He bought the house for $3 million so he even made a profit on the property! The most important thing to Dave is that he wakes up to a great view.