At just 32 years old, Cardi B, born Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar, has established herself as one of the most influential and highest-earning rappers in the world, with an estimated net worth of $80 million. Known for her magnetic personality, unmatched hustle, and relentless ambition, Cardi B has transformed from a viral social media figure into a Grammy-winning artist, businesswoman, and cultural icon.
How Did Cardi B Rise from Social Media Star to Global Fame?
Cardi B’s journey to stardom began long before she became a household name. Growing up in the Bronx, New York, Cardi was no stranger to hardship. Her Dominican and Trinidadian roots shaped her bold and outspoken demeanor. After attending Renaissance High School for Musical Theater & Technology, she worked various jobs before turning to stripping at 19—a decision she credits with giving her financial independence and saving her from difficult situations.
Her raw, unfiltered videos on Vine and Instagram in the early 2010s quickly caught the public’s attention, and Cardi B became an internet sensation. Her candid takes on life, relationships, and hustle resonated with millions. This internet fame led her to VH1’s “Love & Hip Hop: New York” in 2015, where she quickly became a fan favorite. After two seasons, Cardi left the show to focus fully on her music career, a gamble that paid off beyond expectations.
What Sparked Cardi B’s Explosive Music Career?
Cardi B’s official music career took off in 2017 with the release of “Bodak Yellow,” her breakout single under Atlantic Records. The song’s success was meteoric—it topped the Billboard Hot 100, making her the first solo female rapper to do so since Lauryn Hill in 1998. The track went on to achieve diamond status, cementing her place in music history.
Her debut album, “Invasion of Privacy,” dropped in 2018 and was a cultural phenomenon. It broke streaming records, debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, and went triple platinum. The album later won the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album, making Cardi B the first solo female rapper to receive the honor.
Since then, Cardi has released hit after hit and collaborated with industry heavyweights like Maroon 5, Megan Thee Stallion, DJ Snake, Migos, Nicki Minaj, and many more. With more number-one singles than any other female rapper, her discography continues to dominate charts globally.
What Business Moves Boosted Cardi B’s Fortune?
While Cardi B’s music has undoubtedly been lucrative, her sharp business sense has played a major role in growing her $80 million fortune. Beyond music royalties, Cardi has inked multiple endorsement deals. Early on, she partnered with brands like Romantic Depot, but her collaborations grew to include major names like Reebok, Pepsi, and MAC Cosmetics. In 2018, she launched a successful fashion collection with Fashion Nova that sold out almost instantly.
In 2022, she made headlines by becoming the first-ever creative director of Playboy, expanding her influence into the luxury and lifestyle industries. Cardi and her husband Offset also secured a major deal with McDonald’s, launching their own signature meal in 2023 that garnered viral attention.
Cardi also earns millions through her OnlyFans content, where she shares behind-the-scenes and personal content with her loyal fanbase.
How Has Cardi B Diversified Beyond Music?
Cardi B isn’t just a chart-topping rapper; she’s also made significant strides in the film and television world. In 2019, she starred in the critically acclaimed movie “Hustlers” alongside Jennifer Lopez. She also appeared in “F9,” the ninth installment of the “Fast & Furious” franchise, further broadening her appeal.
On the small screen, Cardi B co-judged Netflix’s hit music competition series “Rhythm + Flow” alongside Chance the Rapper and T.I. She also launched her own show, “Cardi Tries,” where she dives into various out-of-her-comfort-zone activities—from stunt driving to teaching preschool.
How Does Cardi B Spend Her Fortune?
Cardi is known for her lavish lifestyle but also for her generosity. In December 2019, she and Offset purchased a stunning $5.5 million mansion in Atlanta’s Buckhead suburb, a sprawling estate that was once listed for $10 million. Beyond real estate, Cardi is famous for her extravagant jewelry collection, including a $550,000 engagement ring from Offset.
Despite her luxurious spending, Cardi has never forgotten her roots. In 2022, she donated $100,000 to her former elementary school in the Bronx, emphasizing her commitment to giving back to her community.
What’s Next for Cardi B?
Although Cardi B confirmed her split from Offset in late 2023, her focus on career growth hasn’t slowed. In August 2024, she filed for divorce, marking a new chapter in her personal life. Professionally, Cardi continues to release chart-topping singles and headline major events. Notably, in December 2022, she earned $1 million for a private performance at Art Basel Miami, a testament to her still-growing demand.
As of mid-2024, Cardi’s music catalog alone is valued at approximately $50 million, and with streaming numbers that include 7 billion YouTube views and over 30 million monthly Spotify listeners, her influence shows no signs of fading.
