When people think of Sex and the City, they often associate it with glitz, glamour, and massive earnings.
However, Candace Bushnell net worth might surprise you. Despite creating the iconic book that inspired the HBO series, she didn’t make millions from it.
Instead, most of her fortune comes from her bestselling books and other ventures.
So, how much is she worth today, and where does her wealth come from? Let’s dive into her financial journey and explore her earnings, career highlights, and more.
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 2025, Candace Bushnell’s estimated net worth remains at $2.5 million. While this is a significant amount, it’s much lower than one might expect for the creator of Sex and the City. She sold the film and TV rights for just $100,000, meaning most of her earnings come from her other books.
In comparison, her peers in the literary and entertainment world have built much larger fortunes. Some well-known figures in related industries include:
- Sarah Jessica Parker
- Kim Cattrall
- Brooke Shields
- Kristin Davis
- Cynthia Nixon
- Ron Galotti
- Mark Gordon
- Simon & Schuster
- The CW
- HBO
For more insights on Hollywood’s wealthiest figures, check out our list of high-earning celebrities.
Candace Bushnell Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Did She Become a Successful Author?
Bushnell’s journey to success wasn’t easy. She started as a freelance writer, struggling to make ends meet in New York City. Her big break came when she landed a column in The New York Observer in the 1990s, which became the foundation for Sex and the City.
At 19 years old, she sold a children’s story to Simon & Schuster, though it was never published. She spent years writing for publications like Mademoiselle before gaining mainstream success.
What Are Her Most Notable Books and Their Impact?
After Sex and the City became a cultural phenomenon, Bushnell continued writing bestselling novels, including:
- 4 Blondes (2001) – A deep dive into the lives of four high-profile women.
- Trading Up (2003) – A tale of ambition and social climbing.
- Lipstick Jungle (2005) – Later turned into an NBC series starring Brooke Shields.
- One Fifth Avenue (2008) – A look at Manhattan’s elite.
- The Carrie Diaries (2010) – A prequel to Sex and the City.
- Summer and the City (2011) – A continuation of The Carrie Diaries.
Her books have been translated into multiple languages, and her stories continue to shape modern conversations about relationships, power, and ambition.
How Did Sex and the City Influence Pop Culture?
The success of Sex and the City cannot be overstated. It redefined how women’s relationships, careers, and dating lives were portrayed in media. Starring Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Kristin Davis, and Cynthia Nixon, the show ran for six seasons, spawned two movies, and later led to the sequel And Just Like That….
Bushnell’s work has influenced countless other books and shows, proving that her writing remains relevant decades later.
What Challenges Did She Face in Her Career?
Despite her success, Bushnell has faced many financial and professional hurdles:
- Earnings from Sex and the City: She only made $100,000 from selling the rights.
- Legal Disputes: She was sued by her former manager over profit-sharing issues.
- Industry Changes: Transitioning from print media to digital platforms posed challenges.
- Divorce Impact: After her divorce from Charles Askegard, she struggled financially and had trouble securing a mortgage.
What Awards and Recognitions Has She Received?
Her contributions to literature and entertainment have earned her notable awards, including:
- Matrix Award (2006) – Recognizing influential women in media.
- Albert Einstein Spirit of Achievement Award – Honoring creative excellence.
Her books continue to be celebrated worldwide, and her influence remains strong in pop culture.
What Is Her Personal Life Like?
Bushnell was married to Charles Askegard, a principal dancer with the New York City Ballet, from 2002 to 2012. After their divorce, she spoke about the challenges of being single in middle age, a theme she explored in her book Is There Still Sex in the City?.
She has owned multiple properties, including:
- A Greenwich Village co-op (sold in 2015).
- A Connecticut farmhouse (bought in 2005 for $661,500, sold for $600,000 in 2020).
- A New York City apartment (purchased in 2016 for $770,000).
What Are Her Current Projects and Future Plans?
Bushnell remains active in writing and public speaking. She continues to write books, make media appearances, and share her insights on modern dating and relationships.
She has hinted at potential new TV and film projects, keeping fans excited for what’s next.
Conclusion
While Candace Bushnell net worth may not be as high as some expected, her impact on literature and pop culture is undeniable. Her books, TV adaptations, and bold storytelling have left a lasting mark.
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