Candace Bushnell, the mind behind Sex and the City, has built a career that spans books, television, and journalism.
But despite the global success of her work, has she truly profited from it? Many assume she made millions from the HBO series, but the reality is different.
Her financial journey isn’t just about TV rights. Bushnell’s book sales, real estate investments, and other media projects contribute to her overall wealth.
This article breaks down her earnings, salary, and financial standing, giving a complete picture of how she makes her money in 2025.
Candace Bushnell Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Candace Bushnell |
| Popular Name | Candace Bushnell |
| Birth Date | December 1, 1958 |
| Age | 66 |
| Birthplace | Glastonbury, Connecticut, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Italian descent (from mother’s side) |
| Education | Rice University, Glastonbury High School, New York University |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Charles Askegard (m. 2002–div. 2012) |
| Children | N/A |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Lolly Bushnell |
| Parents | Camille Bushnell, Calvin Bushnell |
| Height | N/A |
| Net Worth | $2.5 million |
| Source of Wealth | Writing, Books, TV Adaptations, Real Estate |
What is the Net Worth Of Candace Bushnell in 2025?
As of 2024, Candace Bushnell’s net worth is estimated at $2.5 million. While many assume she profited heavily from Sex and the City, she actually sold the TV and film rights for just $100,000. The majority of her wealth comes from her bestselling books and other media ventures.
Compared to other authors and media personalities, her net worth is modest. Many TV show creators earn significantly more, but Bushnell’s financial decisions focused on long-term literary success rather than franchise control.
Other Related Figures in the Industry:
- Sex and the City Cast: Sarah Jessica Parker, Cynthia Nixon, Kim Cattrall, Kristin Davis
- Authors & Media Figures: Brooke Shields, HarperCollins, The New York Observer, HBO
- TV Show Creators: Darren Star (creator of Sex and the City)
Interested in more insights about wealthy celebrities? Check out our list of top-earning stars in entertainment.
Candace Bushnell Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Does She Earn and What Are Her Income Sources?
Bushnell’s income primarily comes from book sales, television adaptations, and speaking engagements. She started her career writing a humor column for The New York Observer, which later became Sex and the City. Though the HBO adaptation skyrocketed in popularity, her financial gain from it was minimal.
Instead, her real earnings come from:
- Best-selling books: Lipstick Jungle, Trading Up, The Carrie Diaries
- Television adaptations: Lipstick Jungle (NBC), The Carrie Diaries (CW)
- Media work: Hosting on Sirius Satellite Radio, reality TV judging
- Real estate investments
Did She Profit from Sex and the City?
Surprisingly, Bushnell did not make millions from Sex and the City. She sold the rights for $100,000 and did not receive ongoing royalties. While the franchise became a billion-dollar success, she wasn’t part of the financial upside.
Compared to TV creators who retain rights, like Shonda Rhimes or Aaron Sorkin, her decision resulted in lower earnings. However, Bushnell’s career remained lucrative in publishing.
What Are Her Most Profitable Books and Projects?
Bushnell’s most financially successful works include:
- Sex and the City (book) – became an HBO series
- Lipstick Jungle – adapted into an NBC TV show
- The Carrie Diaries – prequel to Sex and the City
- One Fifth Avenue – optioned for a TV series
- Trading Up – international bestseller
While TV adaptations brought visibility, book sales generated the majority of her wealth.
What Role Does Real Estate Play in Her Financial Portfolio?
Bushnell has invested in real estate, though not always profitably:
- Bought a Connecticut farmhouse for $661,500 in 2005, but sold it for a loss at $600,000 in 2020.
- Sold a NYC apartment in 2015 for $2.6 million.
- Purchased another NYC property in 2016 for $770,000.
Her real estate dealings show moderate investments rather than high-end luxury properties.
What Other Financial Endeavors Has She Pursued?
Beyond books and real estate, Bushnell has earned money from:
- Hosting a Sirius Satellite Radio show (Sex, Success, and Sensibility)
- Judging reality TV (Wickedly Perfect, 2005)
- Writing a web series (The Broadroom, 2009)
She has also been involved in brand collaborations and speaking engagements, adding to her financial portfolio.
What Is Her Current Financial Standing and Lifestyle?
Bushnell lives comfortably, but not extravagantly. She maintains a New York City residence, stays active in publishing, and engages in new media projects. Unlike some celebrities who rely on passive income, she remains hands-on with her work.
Her financial standing is solid, but compared to other top-earning authors, she has missed out on long-term franchise wealth.
Conclusion
Candace Bushnell’s wealth story is a mix of smart publishing moves and missed TV profits.
While she didn’t make millions from Sex and the City, she has built a steady career through books, media work, and real estate.
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