When it comes to the modern hip-hop scene, few artists have made quite the impact that NBA YoungBoy has achieved. Born Kentrell DeSean Gaulden, this Baton Rouge rapper has built an empire that’s left fans and critics alike wondering about his financial success. If you’re curious about NBA YoungBoy net worth in 2026, you’re in the right place. From his humble beginnings in Louisiana to becoming one of YouTube’s most-streamed artists, YoungBoy Never Broke Again has certainly lived up to his moniker. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about the rapper’s wealth, career milestones, personal life, and the remarkable journey that’s seen him accumulate an estimated fortune of £15 million.
What makes NBA YoungBoy’s story particularly fascinating isn’t just the numbers—it’s the authenticity and raw talent that got him there. Despite facing numerous legal challenges and personal struggles, he’s managed to build a loyal fanbase that consistently propels his music to the top of streaming charts. Let’s dive deep into the life and financial success of one of hip-hop’s most prolific young talents.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts About NBA YoungBoy
Before we explore the details of NBA YoungBoy net worth and career, here’s a snapshot of essential information about the rapper:
| Category | Details |
| Real Name | Kentrell DeSean Gaulden |
| Date of Birth | 20 October 1999 |
| Age (2026) | 26 years old |
| Birthplace | Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA |
| Height | 5’8″ (173 cm) |
| Profession | Rapper, Songwriter, Record Producer |
| Net Worth (2025) | £15 million |
| Record Labels | Never Broke Again, Motown Records |
| Children | 11 |
| Marital Status | Married to Jazlyn Mychelle Hayes (2023) |
What Is NBA YoungBoy Net Worth in 2026?
As of 2026, NBA YoungBoy net worth is estimated to be approximately £15 million ($20 million USD). This impressive figure represents the culmination of his relentless work ethic, streaming dominance, and savvy business ventures. What’s particularly remarkable about his wealth is that he’s accumulated it by the age of 26, making him one of the most financially successful young rappers in the industry.
The rapper’s net worth has fluctuated over the years, with various sources reporting figures ranging from £6 million to £20 million. However, the most credible estimates from Celebrity Net Worth and industry analysts place his fortune at the £15-20 million mark. This wealth comes from multiple revenue streams that we’ll explore in detail throughout this article.
It’s worth noting that NBA YoungBoy’s financial situation is somewhat unique in the hip-hop world. Unlike many rappers who capitalise on touring and brand endorsements, much of his income comes from digital streaming platforms. He’s consistently ranked as one of YouTube’s most-watched artists, with billions of streams that translate into substantial revenue. His ability to generate wealth primarily through music releases, rather than live performances, sets him apart from his peers.
How NBA YoungBoy Built His Fortune
Understanding how NBA YoungBoy amassed his wealth requires looking at several key income sources:
- Streaming Revenue: With billions of plays across YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, and other platforms, streaming royalties form the backbone of his income. He reportedly earns millions annually from streaming alone.
- Album Sales: His studio albums, including chart-toppers like ‘Until Death Call My Name’ and ‘Top’, have sold hundreds of thousands of copies, generating significant revenue.
- Record Deals: His previous deal with Atlantic Records was reportedly worth over £1.6 million ($2 million), and his current partnership with Motown Records adds to his earnings.
- Business Ventures: His Never Broke Again record label not only releases his music but also manages other artists, creating an additional revenue stream.
- Real Estate: Strategic property investments, including his £4.1 million mansion in Salt Lake City, Utah, contribute to his overall wealth.
Early Life and Biography: From Baton Rouge to Stardom
Kentrell DeSean Gaulden was born on 20 October 1999 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, into circumstances that would shape both his music and his character. His early life was marked by hardship and struggle, themes that would later become central to his artistic identity. With his father sentenced to 55 years in prison when Kentrell was just a toddler, he was primarily raised by his maternal grandmother in one of Baton Rouge’s toughest neighbourhoods.
One particularly defining moment in his childhood occurred when he was wrestling and broke his neck. This injury required him to wear a head brace for several years, leaving permanent scars on his forehead that are visible to this day. These scars have become part of his identity, representing the physical and emotional battles he’s fought throughout his life.
The loss of his grandmother, who passed away whilst he was still a teenager, proved to be another pivotal moment. Without her stabilising presence, Kentrell found himself navigating a difficult path. He dropped out of high school during his freshman year and, faced with limited options, turned to crime to survive and fund his budding music career.
Education and Early Challenges
NBA YoungBoy’s education was cut short when he made the difficult decision to leave school during his ninth grade. This wasn’t a choice made lightly—it was born out of necessity and circumstance. Without proper guidance and facing economic hardship, he saw music as his only viable path to a better life.
Following his grandmother’s death, he moved in with his friend and fellow rapper NBA 3Three (OG 3Three Never Broke Again). Together, they engaged in criminal activities to finance studio time and equipment. It was during this period that Kentrell was arrested for robbery and sent to a detention centre in Tallulah, Louisiana. Paradoxically, this incarceration became a turning point—he used his time there to write lyrics and develop his craft.
Upon his release, he discovered that his grandmother had passed away, leaving him without his primary parental figure. This loss intensified his focus on music as both an escape and a means of survival. His experiences during this period—the pain, the struggle, the raw emotion—would become the foundation of his authentic storytelling in his music.
NBA YoungBoy’s Music Career and Rise to Fame
The story of NBA YoungBoy’s career is one of unprecedented productivity and streaming dominance. Between 2015 and 2017, he released an astonishing six independent mixtapes, establishing himself as one of the most prolific young artists in hip-hop. This work ethic hasn’t slowed down—by 2025, he’s released eight studio albums, dozens of mixtapes, and hundreds of individual tracks.
Breakthrough Success (2017-2019)
NBA YoungBoy’s career trajectory changed dramatically in 2017 with the release of his mixtape ‘AI YoungBoy’. The project peaked at number 24 on the Billboard 200 and featured hit singles like ‘Untouchable’ and ‘No Smoke’. This success caught the attention of Atlantic Records, who signed him to a lucrative deal.
His debut studio album, ‘Until Death Call My Name’, dropped in April 2018 and became his first major commercial success. The album’s lead single, ‘Outside Today’, broke into the Billboard Hot 100, reaching number 31—his highest-charting single at the time. The album itself climbed to number seven on the Billboard 200, selling over 38,000 copies in its first week and earning platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
The momentum continued in 2019 with his collaboration with the late Juice Wrld on ‘Bandit’. The track became his highest-charting single to date, reaching number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. Just weeks later, he released ‘AI YoungBoy 2’, which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 with approximately 110,000 album-equivalent units, including 144 million on-demand audio streams in its first week alone.
Streaming Dominance and YouTube Success
What truly sets NBA YoungBoy apart is his unprecedented streaming numbers. By January 2019, he was listed as one of YouTube’s Top Music Artists, a position he’s maintained through consistent, exclusive releases on the platform. His strategy of releasing music videos frequently—sometimes multiple times per week—has cultivated a devoted fanbase that eagerly anticipates each drop.
His YouTube channel boasts over 12 million subscribers and has accumulated billions of views. This digital dominance translates directly into revenue, with estimates suggesting he earns several million pounds annually from YouTube ad revenue alone. On Spotify, he maintains over 16 million monthly listeners, and his tracks have been streamed billions of times across all platforms.
The ‘YB Better’ phenomenon on social media has become a cultural touchstone amongst hip-hop fans. Whenever another artist is mentioned online, YoungBoy’s fans flood the comments with ‘YB Better’, demonstrating the fierce loyalty he’s inspired. This organic marketing has only amplified his reach and contributed to his streaming success.
Recent Albums and Chart Success
NBA YoungBoy’s productivity hasn’t waned. His 2020 album ‘Top’ debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, whilst ’38 Baby 2′ also claimed the top spot, making him one of the few artists to achieve multiple number-one albums in a single year. Subsequent releases like ‘Sincerely, Kentrell’ (2021), ‘The Last Slimeto’ (2022), and multiple 2023 projects have all performed well commercially.
His most recent album, ‘MASA’, dropped in 2024 and continues his tradition of high-charting releases. Despite limited promotional activities due to legal restrictions, his music consistently finds its audience, testament to both his talent and his fanbase’s dedication.
Personal Life, Age, and Family
At 26 years old (as of 2026), NBA YoungBoy has lived a life that many would find hard to comprehend. His personal life has been as tumultuous and publicised as his music career, with complex family dynamics that have drawn significant media attention.
Marriage and Relationships
In January 2023, NBA YoungBoy married his long-time girlfriend Jazlyn Mychelle Hayes, who is the mother of two of his children. Their relationship had been public for several years before they formalised their union. Hayes has been a stabilising presence in his life, standing by him through legal troubles and house arrest.
The rapper is father to eleven children with nine different women, a fact that’s been both celebrated and criticised in the media. His sons Kacey and Kayden have appeared in his music videos, including the emotional ‘Kacey Talk’, which showcases his softer, paternal side. Despite the unconventional family structure, YoungBoy has expressed his commitment to being present in his children’s lives and providing for them.
Height and Physical Appearance
NBA YoungBoy stands at 5 feet 8 inches (173 centimetres) tall. Whilst not particularly tall by basketball standards—despite the ‘NBA’ in his stage name—his presence and intensity more than compensate for his average height. His distinctive appearance includes the aforementioned scars on his forehead from his childhood neck injury, extensive tattoos that tell his life story, and a signature style that’s influenced a generation of young fans.
Business Ventures and Investments
Beyond his music career, NBA YoungBoy has demonstrated business acumen that’s contributed significantly to his overall net worth. His entrepreneurial ventures show a strategic approach to wealth building that extends beyond album sales and streaming.
Never Broke Again Record Label
In a move that showcased his business savvy, NBA YoungBoy founded the Never Broke Again (NBA) record label. The label has signed several artists from the Baton Rouge area, including NoCap, Quando Rondo, Khris James, and Jason ‘Cheese’ Goldberg. Through a distribution deal with Universal Music Group, the label generates revenue from its roster’s releases whilst promoting local talent from YoungBoy’s hometown.
This venture serves multiple purposes: it diversifies his income streams, provides opportunities for artists he believes in, and strengthens his brand within the hip-hop community. The label’s success has added an estimated several million pounds to his overall wealth.
Real Estate Portfolio
NBA YoungBoy’s most significant tangible asset is his sprawling mansion in Salt Lake City, Utah, which he purchased in 2022 for an estimated £4.1 million ($5.2 million). The property features modern interior design, an open floor plan, and luxurious amenities befitting a millionaire rapper. In March 2024, he listed the property for sale at £4.6 million ($5.9 million), demonstrating his willingness to leverage real estate as an investment vehicle.
The choice of Utah wasn’t random—it provided him with a base during his extended house arrest, away from the distractions and legal troubles that had plagued him in Louisiana. The property’s value appreciation in just two years showcases the wisdom of his real estate investments.
Legal Challenges and Their Financial Impact
It would be impossible to discuss NBA YoungBoy’s career without addressing the legal issues that have significantly impacted both his personal life and his financial situation. His run-ins with the law have been numerous and costly, both in terms of legal fees and lost opportunities.
From his first arrest for robbery as a teenager to various charges including assault, kidnapping, weapons violations, and federal firearms charges, YoungBoy’s legal troubles have been well-documented. In 2019, he was placed on house arrest for 14 months, during which time he was prohibited from touring—a restriction that cost him millions in potential earnings.
The extended house arrest continued through 2020 and 2021, severely limiting his ability to perform live or capitalise on endorsement opportunities. Legal fees have reportedly cost him several million pounds over the years. However, in July 2022, he was found not guilty of federal firearms charges, and in March 2023, many restrictions from his house arrest were lifted, allowing him greater freedom.
Paradoxically, his legal troubles have also contributed to his ‘street credibility’, which in hip-hop culture can translate to increased fan loyalty and music sales. His ability to maintain and grow his net worth despite these challenges speaks to his resilience and the strength of his brand.
Impact on Hip-Hop Culture and Legacy
NBA YoungBoy’s influence on modern hip-hop extends far beyond his impressive streaming numbers and commercial success. He’s pioneered a new model for rap stardom—one that prioritises digital engagement over traditional industry metrics and maintains authenticity over mainstream appeal.
His refusal to play by conventional industry rules, combined with his prolific output, has inspired a new generation of artists. Young rappers now see that it’s possible to build a massive following and accumulate substantial wealth without extensive radio play, major media appearances, or industry gatekeepers’ approval. The ‘YouTube to riches’ path that YoungBoy has walked is now being followed by countless aspiring artists.
His emotional vulnerability in his music—openly discussing pain, loss, and struggle—has resonated particularly with younger listeners who appreciate his authenticity. Songs like ‘Lonely Child’, ‘Kacey Talk’, and ‘Make No Sense’ showcase his ability to convey raw emotion, setting him apart in an era often criticised for lacking substance.
Future Prospects and Career Trajectory
Looking ahead, NBA YoungBoy’s career trajectory appears promising despite the challenges he’s faced. With more freedom following the lifting of house arrest restrictions, he’s positioned to capitalise on opportunities that were previously unavailable to him, particularly touring and live performances.
His announcement of the ‘Make America Slime Again Tour’, scheduled to begin in September 2025, represents a significant opportunity to boost his earnings. Concert tours can be incredibly lucrative for artists of his stature, potentially adding millions to his annual income. Industry analysts suggest that a successful nationwide tour could see him earning between £15-30 million in gross revenue.
Furthermore, his stated intention to seek rehabilitation and address his struggles with addiction demonstrates a maturity that could lead to more stable career management. If he can maintain his sobriety and avoid further legal troubles, there’s no ceiling to how high his net worth could climb. Brand endorsements, which have largely eluded him due to his legal issues, could become available, opening up entirely new revenue streams.
Frequently Asked Questions About NBA YoungBoy’s Net Worth
Here are the most commonly asked questions about NBA YoungBoy, his wealth, and his career:
How much is NBA YoungBoy worth in 2026?
NBA YoungBoy net worth in 2026 is estimated at approximately £15 million ($20 million USD). This figure comes from credible sources like Celebrity Net Worth and represents his earnings from music streaming, album sales, his Never Broke Again record label, and real estate investments. His net worth has grown consistently over the past several years despite legal challenges that have prevented him from touring extensively.
What is NBA YoungBoy real name and how old is he?
NBA YoungBoy real name is Kentrell DeSean Gaulden. He was born on 20 October 1999 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, making him 26 years old as of 2026. Despite his young age, he’s already established himself as one of the most successful and prolific rappers of his generation, having released eight studio albums and numerous mixtapes.
How tall is NBA YoungBoy?
NBA YoungBoy stands at 5 feet 8 inches tall (approximately 173 centimetres). Whilst this is considered average height for American men, it’s worth noting that the ‘NBA’ in his stage name doesn’t refer to basketball but rather to ‘Never Broke Again’, the name of both his movement and his record label.
How many children does NBA YoungBoy have?
NBA YoungBoy is the father of eleven children with nine different women. He married Jazlyn Mychelle Hayes in January 2023, who is the mother of two of his children. Despite the unconventional family structure, he’s expressed commitment to being involved in all his children’s lives and providing for them financially. Some of his children have appeared in his music videos, including his sons Kacey and Kayden in the video for ‘Kacey Talk’.
How does NBA YoungBoy make most of his money?
NBA YoungBoy makes most of his money through streaming revenue from platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Music. He’s consistently one of YouTube’s most-watched artists, with billions of streams that generate substantial ad revenue. Additionally, he earns from album sales, his record deal with Motown Records, his Never Broke Again record label, and real estate investments. Unlike many rappers, touring hasn’t been a major revenue source due to legal restrictions, though this may change with his upcoming 2025 tour.
Did NBA YoungBoy finish school?
No, NBA YoungBoy dropped out of high school during his ninth grade (freshman year). After his grandmother—who had been his primary caregiver—passed away, he faced difficult circumstances that led him to leave formal education. He’s since stated that he focused on his music career as his path to success, using his early life struggles as inspiration for his authentic, emotional lyrics.
What are NBA YoungBoy’s biggest hit songs?
Some of NBA YoungBoy’s biggest hit songs include ‘Bandit’ (featuring Juice Wrld), which reached number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, ‘Outside Today’ (number 31 on Billboard Hot 100), ‘No Smoke’, ‘Untouchable’, ‘Make No Sense’, ‘Kacey Talk’, and ‘Valuable Pain’. His prolific output means he has numerous popular tracks across streaming platforms, with many songs accumulating hundreds of millions of streams.
Is NBA YoungBoy still under house arrest?
As of March 2023, many restrictions from NBA YoungBoy’s house arrest were lifted, allowing him greater freedom. He was found not guilty of federal firearms charges in July 2022, which was a significant legal victory. Whilst he spent years under house arrest in Utah with strict limitations on his movements, he now has considerably more freedom and is planning a nationwide tour for 2026.
Conclusion
NBA YoungBoy’s journey from the challenging streets of Baton Rouge to accumulating a net worth of £15 million is nothing short of remarkable. At just 26 years old, he’s achieved what many artists spend decades pursuing—financial success, cultural impact, and a devoted fanbase that spans the globe.
What sets his story apart isn’t just the numbers, though they’re certainly impressive. It’s the authenticity with which he’s navigated an industry known for demanding conformity. By staying true to his roots, maintaining prolific output, and connecting with fans through raw, emotional storytelling, he’s built an empire on his own terms.
Author
Marcus Thompson is a music industry journalist and hip-hop analyst with over eight years of experience covering the financial aspects of rap culture. Specialising in artist net worth analysis, streaming economics, and the business side of hip-hop, Marcus has contributed to publications including Complex, HipHopDX, and The Source. His in-depth research combines publicly available financial data, industry insider knowledge, and comprehensive analysis to provide accurate, engaging content for music fans and industry professionals alike. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Marcus stays at the forefront of hip-hop’s evolution, tracking emerging artists and established stars with equal attention to detail.