Life in Montecito may look glamorous from the outside, but new reports suggest finances behind the scenes are becoming increasingly complicated for Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. As the couple continue balancing business ventures, philanthropy, security costs, and their luxury lifestyle, insiders claim financial pressure is mounting while Meghan reportedly searches for fresh opportunities to keep revenue flowing after recent professional setbacks.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Reportedly Dealing With Rising Expenses
According to a report from Page Six, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are facing growing financial demands tied to their California lifestyle. Sources told the outlet that the couple’s annual expenses are enormous, with one insider estimating they require at least $6 million yearly to maintain operations in Montecito.
A major portion of that reportedly goes toward protecting the family. The outlet claimed nearly half of those expenses are linked to private security costs for the couple and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. Mortgage payments on their lavish mansion reportedly add another significant burden.
One source familiar with the situation bluntly told the outlet, “Money is tight,” while another insider reportedly described Meghan as “basically the breadwinner” in the household.
The report comes shortly after Netflix reportedly stepped away from its “As Ever” partnership with Meghan in April. The streaming giant had already reduced support after deciding not to move forward with a third season of “With Love, Meghan.” Sources connected to Meghan reportedly insisted she had been left to “carry the whole thing by herself” during the partnership, which allegedly frustrated Netflix staffers.
Since then, Meghan has been leaning harder into her lifestyle brand and other business opportunities. Recent Instagram posts promoting her “As Ever” products showed the duchess carefully curating a polished image online, complete with designer jewelry and luxury fashion pieces that quickly drew attention across social media.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Continue Expanding Business Ventures
The Sussexes’ recent Australia visit reportedly doubled as both a public appearance tour and a strategic business opportunity. During the trip, Meghan promoted her partnership with AI-powered fashion platform OneOff, where followers can purchase clothing inspired by her wardrobe selections.
The collaboration sparked mixed reactions online. While supporters praised Meghan’s entrepreneurial efforts, critics accused her of turning royal attention into another money-making venture. According to the report, the platform generated intense traffic shortly after Meghan joined.
OneOff cofounder and CEO Emir Talu told WWD, “OneOff surpassed 1-plus million views of outfits on the site in the first three days since Meghan launched her page on the platform.”
Several products linked to Meghan’s Australian appearances reportedly sold out, further proving her influence in the fashion space remains powerful despite ongoing criticism.
Still, the Australia trip also generated controversy after Meghan participated in the Her Best Life Retreat in Sydney. Guests reportedly paid as much as $3,199 to attend the event, though reports claimed the duchess stayed for only about two hours.
At the same time, rumors have continued swirling around Meghan potentially returning to acting. Reports recently suggested the former “Suits” actress had been speaking with Hollywood executives about securing a more stable television role following a cameo appearance in the upcoming film “Close Personal Friends.” Sussex insiders, however, denied claims that she was actively seeking acting work again.
The duchess has also continued surrounding herself with wealthy and influential businesswomen. Her growing circle reportedly includes high-profile entrepreneurs and investors who are helping support her next phase professionally as she searches for long-term financial stability outside the royal family structure.
Prince Harry’s Passion Projects Reportedly Bring Less Income
While Meghan appears focused on expanding commercial opportunities, Prince Harry is reportedly still dedicating much of his energy to charitable work and passion projects.
Page Six states that Harry did not receive payment for his appearance at Melbourne’s InterEdge Summit during the Australia trip. Much of his attention reportedly remains centered on the Invictus Games and mental health advocacy.
The prince is still connected to BetterUp, the Silicon Valley mental health startup where he serves as Chief Impact Officer. Reports claim he earns a rumored $1 million annual salary from the company, though questions about his role there have surfaced repeatedly.
A previous report cited former staffers who allegedly questioned Harry’s day-to-day responsibilities within the company. One former employee reportedly claimed the prince’s responsibilities involved “zero things.”
Those comments surfaced during a difficult stretch for BetterUp after reports emerged that the company had missed revenue projections and reduced part of its workforce. Contractors connected to the business also reportedly pushed back against changes to compensation structures.
Despite the financial speculation surrounding the Sussexes, Harry is still said to be planning ahead for future Invictus Games events. Reports claim he hopes to bring Meghan and their children back to the United Kingdom in 2027 for celebrations tied to the Birmingham Invictus Games, though security arrangements remain a major concern.
For now, the couple appear focused on finding balance between public image, philanthropy, and the growing demands of maintaining their high-profile California lifestyle.
