How Much Do Millionaires Read? The Real Numbers and Simple Habits

Ever wonder if rich people actually sit down with a book or just chase deals all day? Turns out most of them read a lot. Studies show millionaires average 12‑25 books a year, and the best‑selling titles on their shelves are about finance, health, and personal growth. Let’s break down what they read and how you can steal a few tricks.

What the Numbers Really Say

Combined surveys of high‑net‑worth individuals reveal a clear pattern: the more successful you are, the more you read. A 2023 poll of 1,200 millionaires found that 78 % read at least one book per month, and the average reading time is 30‑45 minutes a day. Most of that time isn’t spent on novels but on non‑fiction that helps them stay sharp and make better decisions.

Why the focus on non‑fiction? Money‑makers claim that knowledge is a direct investment. Every chapter they finish feels like a tiny ROI – a new strategy, a fresh perspective, or a health tip that could save a costly doctor’s visit. The habit also provides a mental break from high‑pressure work without losing productivity.

What Millionaires Actually Read

Here’s a quick snapshot of the top categories:

• Finance & Investing: Classics like "The Intelligent Investor" and newer titles on crypto or ESG investing.
• Health & Longevity: Books on nutrition, sleep, and bio‑hacking keep them at peak performance.
• Leadership & Psychology: Works on mindset, negotiation, and emotional intelligence.
• Biographies: Stories of other high achievers give both inspiration and cautionary lessons.

Even leisure reads sneak in. Crime thrillers or sci‑fi provide a mental reset, but they’re usually limited to a few pages each week.

If you’re looking to mimic these habits, start small. Pick a 200‑page finance book and read a chapter each night before bed. Or swap out one TV episode for a 20‑minute podcast version of a bestseller. The key is consistency, not marathon sessions.

Another trick millionaires love is “reading on the go.” They keep an e‑reader or phone app in the pocket, turning commute time into learning time. Audiobooks are a favorite for gym sessions or long flights – you get the same knowledge while moving.

Finally, most rich readers keep a simple system: a notebook or digital list of “books to read next.” When a title finishes, the next one is already queued, so there’s never a gap. Try a short spreadsheet or a note‑taking app to track your own list.

Bottom line: reading isn’t a luxury for millionaires; it’s a habit that fuels their success. By carving out 15‑30 minutes a day, focusing on high‑impact topics, and using tech to read anywhere, you can adopt the same routine without needing a private jet.