Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are reportedly “fuming with jealousy” over Prince William’s effortless annual income of approximately $30 million from the Duchy of Cornwall, while the Sussexes continue to hustle through a string of high-profile projects just to make ends meet. An exclusive source close to the couple told The Sun on January 18, 2026, that Harry and Meghan “confidently insist they work extremely hard — even harder than his brother,” but the harsh reality of their financial situation has exposed a stark contrast between the two royal households.
The Duchy of Cornwall, a vast private estate established in the 14th century, generates massive revenue from property, agriculture, and investments across England. As Duke of Cornwall, William inherited full control of the Duchy upon the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, with its annual income now estimated at £30 million (around $38 million USD) after tax and expenses. The funds support William’s official duties, his family’s lifestyle, and charitable work through the Duchy of Cornwall Charitable Trust. In contrast, Harry and Meghan have no access to royal funding since stepping back from senior roles in 2020 and have relied on private ventures — Netflix deals, Spotify podcasts, Archewell Foundation initiatives, speaking engagements, and Meghan’s upcoming lifestyle brand — to generate income.
The source claims the Sussexes feel “frustrated and overlooked” when comparing their situation to William’s “guaranteed” wealth. “They believe they’re working harder than anyone else in the family — endless meetings, content creation, charity events, brand partnerships — while William simply collects millions from an ancient estate he was born into,” the insider said. “They see it as unfair. Meghan in particular feels the system is rigged against them.”
The couple’s financial journey has been turbulent. Their initial multi-million-dollar deals with Netflix and Spotify were highly publicized, but the Spotify partnership ended in 2023 after one season of Archetypes, with Spotify executives reportedly describing the output as “low effort.” Netflix has continued to back them, but projects have been slower than anticipated. Archewell has faced criticism over transparency, and their book Spare (2023) and Meghan’s The Bench (2021) generated significant revenue but also controversy. Recent estimates place their combined net worth at around $60 million, largely from pre-royal deals, book advances, and media contracts — far below the Duchy’s annual income.
William, 43, has kept a low profile on personal finances but uses Duchy funds transparently for official duties, including supporting the Prince’s Trust and environmental initiatives. The Palace has declined to comment on the alleged jealousy claims, with a spokesperson stating: “The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are private individuals pursuing their own endeavors.”
The report has reignited debate over royal finances, privilege, and the Sussexes’ post-royal independence. Supporters argue the couple is building a self-made legacy; critics point to the contrast between William’s inherited wealth and Harry and Meghan’s struggle for financial stability. Social media reaction has been swift: #SussexJealousy trending with 600k posts, memes comparing William’s “passive income” to the Sussexes’ “hustle,” and heated discussions about fairness in the royal family.
As 2026 begins, the rift between the Waleses and Sussexes appears wider than ever. Whether the jealousy is real or exaggerated, the public contrast between inherited fortune and hard-earned income continues to fuel fascination — and division.
