America, detiksatu.com || Jimmy Carter is remembered as one of the most modest presidents in the history of the United States. At a time when global leadership is often associated with luxury, power, and exclusive privileges, Carter chose a life far removed from grandeur. He was frequently referred to as the poorest president in U.S.
History not due to a lack of achievement or integrity, but because of his conscious decision to live simply and devote his life to humanitarian service.
Unlike most former U.S. presidents, Jimmy Carter was the only one who did not own a luxury home or mansion after leaving office. Following his presidency, Carter and his wife, Rosalynn Carter, returned to a small and modest house in Plains, Georgia.
The house was valued at approximately USD 167,000, far below the standard residence of national leaders. It was not a newly built home; its condition was simple and even considered outdated. Most of the furniture inside the house consisted of old items inherited from Carter’s parents. Many household appliances were aged and frequently malfunctioned, requiring regular repairs almost every month.
In terms of living standards, Jimmy Carter’s quality of life was reportedly lower than that of the average American citizen. In his daily life, Carter did not display an elite lifestyle. He was often seen shopping at supermarkets and purchasing discounted items an uncommon sight for a former President of the United States.
The Carter family’s primary source of income was the presidential pension, amounting to approximately USD 217,000 per year, a relatively modest figure compared to the earnings of other former presidents who benefited from business ventures, investments, or corporate contracts.
Jimmy Carter also rejected luxury in travel. He did not use private jets and preferred to fly economy class. Even in his later years, he queued like ordinary passengers when boarding flights and firmly refused special treatment.
In his daily routine, Carter drove a used Ford Taurus that was more than 25 years old an unmistakable symbol of his simple way of life.
Where Did Jimmy Carter’s Wealth Go?
The answer lies in his extraordinary humanitarian dedication.
Jimmy Carter was the founder of the Carter Center, an international humanitarian organization focused on peace, global health, and disease eradication. Through this institution, Carter reportedly spent no less than USD 30 million to combat deadly diseases such as river blindness and Guinea worm disease, which have afflicted millions of impoverished people in developing countries.
Beyond financial contributions, Carter was directly involved in the field. He personally helped build homes for low-income families through social housing programs. Even at an advanced age, he continued to work hands-on, constructing dozens of houses himself demonstrating that service, for him, was not merely symbolic but deeply practical.
In addition, Jimmy Carter donated a significant portion of his speaking fees and other income to charitable causes. His total donations amounted to millions of U.S. dollars, all given for the welfare of people he had never personally met.
Jimmy Carter passed away peacefully at his home in Georgia on December 29, 2024, at approximately 3:40 p.m. Eastern Time.
His passing leaves profound sorrow not only for the American people, but also for communities around the world that directly benefited from his lifelong dedication.
Jimmy Carter may not have been the wealthiest president, but he was among the most meaningful. He proved that true power is not measured by material wealth, but by how much one’s life serves others.
Today, the world honors a leader who lived simply, worked selflessly, and left behind an enduring humanitarian legacy.
Farewell, Jimmy Carter.
Your service will never be forgotten.
Source: Indra Irsan
Editor: Ervinna
