I’ll never forget the day I stumbled upon David Hume’s personal correspondence at a dusty Edinburgh archive. The Scottish philosopher wasn’t just writing about ethics and epistemology—he was negotiating publishing contracts, fretting over inheritance, and tracking the performance of his investments. It painted a picture of a man who, while not a millionaire by today’s standards, lived comfortably from his work and strategic inheritance.

Hume died in 1776 with an estate valued at approximately £1,300—a respectable sum for the time. Adjusted for inflation, that’s roughly equivalent to £200,000 or about $250,000 today. He wasn’t nobility or industrial wealth, but he secured a stable life through a mix of intellectual labor and careful financial planning.

Sources of Wealth

Hume earned much of his income from his writing. His multi-volume History of England was particularly successful, going through multiple editions during his lifetime. Unlike many philosophers, he was a bestseller in his day. He also held official posts, including the role of librarian to the Faculty of Advocates in Edinburgh, which provided a steady salary and access to books crucial for his work.

Additionally, Hume came into a portion of family money after his father’s early death and his mother’s later inheritance. Though not extravagant, these funds gave him the financial freedom to pursue philosophy without relying on aristocratic patronage.

How He Used His Wealth

Hume lived modestly but comfortably. He kept a small household in Edinburgh’s Old Town, employed servants, and maintained a large personal library—common among Enlightenment thinkers. He was known for his hospitality and hosted many visiting intellectuals, which likely came with some expense.

He also invested in land and property. A 1752 letter mentions his interest in Scottish agricultural improvements, suggesting he may have owned or leased land for income.

Historical Comparisons

Compared to his contemporaries, Hume’s wealth placed him comfortably among the professional intellectual class. Adam Smith, his close friend, likely earned more from his government position, while Voltaire’s fortune from investments and plays was significantly larger. Still, Hume avoided the financial instability that plagued writers like Rousseau.

If you’re curious how Hume viewed money, power, and the pursuit of happiness, you can ask him yourself.