Jeff Bezos, the billionaire founder of Amazon, owns an impressive portfolio of properties spread across the United States, and his neighbors have a lot to say about what it’s like living near him. Surprisingly, their opinions all converge on one common complaint.
Bezos, who divides his time between his many luxurious homes, has an extensive real estate empire. Reports estimate that he owns a staggering 420,000 acres in total. Among his notable properties are three homes in Miami and eight in Seattle, the city he once called home.
Last year, Bezos announced his decision to relocate from Seattle to Miami, marking a significant shift in his personal life. “I’m planning to return to Miami, leaving the Pacific Northwest,” Bezos wrote on Instagram. “I’ve lived in Seattle longer than I’ve lived anywhere else and have so many amazing memories here. As exciting as the move is, it’s an emotional decision for me. Seattle, you will always have a piece of my heart.”
The move was motivated by family and business considerations. Bezos shared that his parents had recently returned to Miami, where he grew up, and he wanted to be closer to them. Miami also appealed to Bezos and his partner, Lauren Sanchez, for its personal and professional opportunities. “Lauren and I love Miami,” he explained, “and Blue Origin’s operations are increasingly shifting to Cape Canaveral.”
A Lavish Real Estate Investment in Seattle
Before deciding to leave Seattle, Bezos made headlines in 2019 when he purchased a $37.5 million waterfront mansion in Hunts Point, a wealthy enclave on the outskirts of the city. Known for its exclusivity, Hunts Point is home to fewer than 400 residents who often participate in community events such as Cleanup Day, an initiative where locals gather to plant trees and pick up trash.
However, according to his neighbors, Bezos has yet to make an appearance at these events. “I’ve seen a billionaire pick up trash on Cleanup Day. Not Jeff Bezos,” one resident remarked.
“Jeff Bezos Acts Like He Owns Hunts Point”
Despite rarely being seen in the area, the common sentiment among neighbors is that Bezos behaves as though the neighborhood revolves around him. “Jeff Bezos acts like he owns Hunts Point,” one resident told Insider. Another added, “He’s not much of a neighbor. He’s too busy with all this national stuff.”
Yet not all feedback about the Amazon magnate is negative. While Bezos might not participate in local gatherings, his philanthropy has been appreciated. According to one neighbor, he contributed to a charity following a fundraising event hosted in Hunts Point.
Additionally, his heightened security presence has offered an unexpected perk. “We did feel a lot more secure knowing that he had all these people watching his property,” a resident shared.
While Bezos continues to divide his time among his properties and high-profile projects, his neighbors’ experiences reflect the challenges of living near one of the world’s most influential figures.