Money quotes have the ability to encapsulate powerful meanings in a few simple words. They can inspire, motivate, and transform our mindset toward money and success. Here, I have curated a collection of the top 35 quotes about money. These quotes, gathered from renowned individuals throughout history, provide invaluable insights that can help shape your financial journey.
Top 10 Money Quotes to Live By
Here are some of the best money quotes related to money and happiness.
1. “Too many people spend money they earned…to buy things they don’t want…to impress people that they don’t like.” – Will Rogers
Will Rogers, a prominent humorist and social commentator, emphasizes the futility of seeking validation through material possessions. His words remind us to align our spending with our true values and aspirations, which I discuss in-depth in this guide.
2. “A wise person should have money in their head, but not in their heart.” – Jonathan Swift
Jonathan Swift, a renowned writer, and satirist, highlights the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective on money. While financial intelligence is crucial, it should not overshadow matters of the heart and emotional well-being.
3. “Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants.” – Epictetus
Epictetus, a Stoic philosopher, offers a profound perspective on wealth. True wealth lies not in accumulating possessions but in cultivating contentment and minimizing our desires. This quote challenges the notion that material abundance equates to true happiness.
This quote is brought to life by Pete Adney aka Mr. Money Mustache in this talk.
4. “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.” – Thomas Edison
Thomas Edison, an iconic inventor, emphasizes the value of hard work and recognizing opportunities disguised as challenges. This quote serves as a reminder that success often requires perseverance and a willingness to embrace the effort required to achieve our goals.
5. “Everyday is a bank account, and time is our currency. No one is rich, no one is poor, we’ve got 24 hours each.” – Christopher Rice
Christopher Rice, an author and entrepreneur, presents a thought-provoking analogy between time and money. This quote reinforces the idea that time is our most valuable resource, and how we choose to invest it determines our true wealth.
6. “It’s how you deal with failure that determines how you achieve success.” – David Feherty
David Feherty, a professional golfer turned commentator, highlights the critical role of failure in the journey to success. This quote reminds us that setbacks and challenges are opportunities for growth and resilience, ultimately shaping our path to financial success.
7. “Frugality includes all the other virtues.” – Cicero
Cicero, a Roman philosopher, and statesman, emphasizes the virtue of frugality. By practicing restraint and wise resource allocation, we can cultivate discipline and develop a strong foundation for financial stability and prosperity.
8. “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” – Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, emphasizes the value of investing in education and personal growth. This quote reminds us that expanding our knowledge and skills yields long-term benefits that surpass the immediate gains of financial transactions.
9. “What we really want to do is what we are really meant to do. When we do what we are meant to do, money comes to us, doors open for us, we feel useful, and the work we do feels like play to us.” – Julia Cameron
Julia Cameron, a renowned author and artist, encourages us to align our careers with our true passions and purpose. By pursuing work that fulfills us, financial abundance becomes a natural byproduct of our authentic contribution to the world.
10. “I will tell you the secret to getting rich on Wall Street. You try to be greedy when others are fearful. And you try to be fearful when others are greedy.” – Warren Buffett
Warren Buffett, one of the most successful investors of all time, shares his wisdom on contrarian investing. This quote encourages us to think independently and make strategic financial decisions based on rational analysis rather than succumbing to market trends driven by fear or greed.
Money Quotes on The Pursuit of Financial Independence
Here are the best money quotes related to the pursuit of wealth and financial independence.
11. “Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure nineteen six, result happiness. Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure twenty pounds ought and six, result misery.” – Charles Dickens
While this quote may need to be read twice to be fully grasped, Charles Dickens, a renowned novelist, highlights the importance of living within our means. By spending less than we earn, we can create a positive financial trajectory that leads to happiness and financial security.
12. “I never attempt to make money on the stock market. I buy on the assumption that they could close the market the next day and not reopen it for ten years.” – Warren Buffett
Warren Buffett shares his investment philosophy, which focuses on long-term value and the intrinsic worth of companies. This quote underscores the importance of patience and a buy-and-hold strategy, rather than succumbing to short-term market fluctuations.
13. “A nickel ain’t worth a dime anymore.” – Yogi Berra
Yogi Berra, a legendary baseball player, presents a lighthearted reflection on the changing value of money. This quote reminds us of the need to adapt to the evolving economic landscape and make informed financial decisions.
Money Quotes on The Psychology of Money
Here are the best money quotes related to our psychology around money.
14. “Money never made a man happy yet, nor will it. The more a man has, the more he wants. Instead of filling a vacuum, it makes one.” – Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin offers a profound reflection on the nature of money and happiness. This quote urges us to seek fulfillment beyond material possessions and acknowledges that the pursuit of wealth can sometimes lead to insatiable desires.
15. “Many people take no care of their money till they come nearly to the end of it, and others do just the same with their time.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, a German writer and statesman, draws a parallel between our treatment of money and time. This quote reminds us of the importance of managing our financial resources and utilizing our time wisely to create a prosperous future.
16. “Formal education will make you a living; self-education will make you a fortune.” – Jim Rohn
Jim Rohn, a renowned motivational speaker, and author, emphasizes the transformative power of self-education. This quote encourages us to pursue continuous learning and personal growth, as it is the key to unlocking opportunities for financial success.
17. “Money is only a tool. It will take you wherever you wish, but it will not replace you as the driver.” – Ayn Rand
Ayn Rand, a philosopher, and novelist, provides a powerful metaphor for money as a tool. This quote reminds us that while money can facilitate our goals and aspirations, it is our actions and choices that ultimately shape our journey toward success.
18. “The reason I’ve been able to be so financially successful is my focus has never, ever for one minute been money.” – Oprah Winfrey
Oprah Winfrey, a renowned entrepreneur, and philanthropist, emphasizes that the primary focus in her career was not the pursuit of money. Rather, she found success by focusing on her strengths, passions, interests, and sense of purpose.
19. “I love money. I love everything about it. I bought some pretty good stuff. Got me a $300 pair of socks. Got a fur sink. An electric dog polisher. A gasoline-powered turtleneck sweater. And, of course, I bought some dumb stuff, too.” – Steve Martin
Steve Martin, a comedian and actor, humorously reflects on the allure and absurdity of excessive spending. This quote serves as a reminder that while money can provide enjoyment and comfort, it is important to maintain a sense of perspective and avoid frivolous expenditures.
Money Quotes on The Power of Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Here are the best money quotes related to obtaining money through entrepreneurship and innovative ventures.
20. “It is not the man who has too little, but the man who craves more, that is poor.” – Seneca
Seneca, a Stoic philosopher, challenges the conventional definition of poverty. This quote suggests that true poverty lies in an insatiable desire for more, rather than a lack of material possessions. It reminds us to appreciate and find contentment in what we already have.
21. “It’s not the employer who pays the wages. Employers only handle the money. It’s the customer who pays the wages.” – Henry Ford
Henry Ford, the founder of Ford Motor Company, highlights the fundamental role of customers in sustaining businesses. This quote emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs and delivering value to ensure financial success.
22. “He who loses money, loses much; He who loses a friend, loses much more; He who loses faith, loses all.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
Eleanor Roosevelt, a former First Lady of the United States, offers a perspective on the relative value of money, friendship, and faith. This quote reminds us that while money holds significance, it cannot replace the invaluable aspects of human connection and personal beliefs.
23. “Happiness is not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States, emphasizes the role of achievement and creative endeavor in finding happiness. In this quote, he encourages us to pursue meaningful work and creative expression, which can ultimately lead to both personal fulfillment and financial success.
24. “Empty pockets never held anyone back. Only empty heads and empty hearts can do that.” – Norman Vincent Peale
Norman Vincent Peale, a renowned author and minister, challenges the notion that financial limitations restrict our potential. This quote underscores the importance of mindset and inner strength, suggesting that it is our thoughts and beliefs that truly shape our journey toward success.
25. “Money often costs too much.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Ralph Waldo Emerson, a renowned essayist, and philosopher, warns against the potential pitfalls of an excessive pursuit of wealth. He reminds us that the relentless pursuit of money can come at a high cost to our well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life.
Strategies for Investment and Wealth-Building
Here are the best money quotes related to building wealth through investing.
26. “Buy when everyone else is selling and hold until everyone else is buying. That’s not just a catchy slogan. It’s the very essence of successful investing.” – J. Paul Getty
J. Paul Getty, an American industrialist and philanthropist, emphasizes the value of contrarian investing. This quote encourages us to remain calm and make sound investment decisions based on long-term trends rather than succumbing to market hysteria.
27. “If money is your hope for independence, you will never have it. The only real security that a man will have in this world is a reserve of knowledge, experience, and ability.” – Henry Ford
Henry Ford offers a powerful perspective on true independence and security. For example, this quote suggests that financial stability stems from a combination of knowledge, experience, and skills rather than relying solely on money. It encourages us to prioritize personal growth and self-reliance as the foundation for long-term financial success.
28. “If all the economists were laid end to end, they’d never reach a conclusion.” – George Bernard Shaw
George Bernard Shaw, a renowned playwright, humorously reflects on the varying opinions and disagreements among economists. This quote reminds us that economic predictions and theories should be cautiously approached, urging us to adopt a prudent and discerning approach to financial decision-making.
29. “How many millionaires do you know who have become wealthy by investing in savings accounts? I rest my case.” – Robert G. Allen
Robert G. Allen, a successful entrepreneur and author, challenges the conventional notion of wealth accumulation through traditional savings accounts. This quote encourages us to explore investment opportunities and diversify our financial portfolio to maximize long-term returns.
30. “I made my money the old-fashioned way. I was very nice to a wealthy relative right before he died.” – Malcolm Forbes
Malcolm Forbes, the former publisher of Forbes magazine, offers a humorous reflection on the idea of inheriting wealth. This quote reminds us that true financial success often requires hard work, strategic planning, and a willingness to take calculated risks.
Money Quotes on The Essence of Success and Personal Growth
31. “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” – Steve Jobs
Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple Inc., highlights the role of innovation in setting leaders apart from followers. This quote encourages us to embrace creativity and think outside the box to achieve success in our endeavors.
32. “The real measure of your wealth is how much you’d be worth if you lost all your money.” – Anonymous
This anonymous quote challenges conventional notions of wealth by emphasizing personal qualities and resources beyond material possessions. It reminds us that true wealth encompasses character, skills, relationships, and resilience, which endure even in the face of financial setbacks.
33. “Money is a terrible master but an excellent servant.” – P.T. Barnum
P.T. Barnum, a famous showman and entrepreneur, offers a reminder about the importance of maintaining a healthy relationship with money. This quote cautions us against becoming enslaved by the pursuit of wealth, emphasizing the need to view money as a tool to serve our goals and values.
34. “Try to save something while your salary is small; it’s impossible to save after you begin to earn more.” – Jack Benny
Jack Benny, a renowned comedian and actor, highlights the significance of developing a savings habit early in one’s career. This quote reminds us that establishing financial discipline from the outset can lay a solid foundation for long-term wealth accumulation.
35. “Wealth is the ability to fully experience life.” – Henry David Thoreau
Henry David Thoreau, a philosopher, and writer, offers a unique perspective on wealth. This quote suggests that true wealth lies in the ability to embrace life’s experiences and find fulfillment beyond material possessions. It encourages us to prioritize experiences, relationships, and personal growth on our financial journey.
The Bottom Line
These money quotes share valuable insight from across time about the role of money and happiness in our lives. From Will Rogers’ reminder to align spending with our true values to Benjamin Franklin’s emphasis on the importance of investing in knowledge, these quotes provide guidance on various aspects of financial success. They encourage us to seek balance, cultivate contentment, and approach money as a tool that, if used right, can give us the ability to fully experience and appreciate life.
Want More Resources Like This?
Get juicy success hacks and awesome resources related to passive income, personal finance, and positive psychology delivered straight from my brain to yours. Check it out and sign up here.
The Friendly Agreement
If you found value in this resource, please share it. It takes 10 seconds, and this post took me hours to write.
This post may contain affiliate links that allow this blog to earn money without a cost to you. Many thanks if you use them. Please read my disclosure for more info.
Disclaimer: The quotes provided are for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. As always, consult with a qualified financial professional before making any investment or financial decisions.
