Terry Pegula is a prominent figure in the world of business, sports, and philanthropy. Born on March 27, 1951, in Carbondale, Pennsylvania, he has carved out an impressive career that spans across various industries. Pegula is best known as the owner of the Buffalo Bills, an NFL team, and the Buffalo Sabres, an NHL team. However, his wealth and influence extend beyond sports. Let’s take a closer look at his journey, his career earnings, and how he built his impressive net worth.
Early Life and Career
Terry Pegula was born into a working-class family, and his early life was marked by the challenges of growing up in a small town in Pennsylvania. He attended Penn State University, where he earned a degree in petroleum and natural gas engineering. After graduation, Pegula took a job with a small oil company, where he gained valuable industry experience. His big break came when he decided to venture out on his own and found his own company, East Resources, in 1983.
East Resources became a highly successful oil and gas exploration company, primarily focused on shale oil. Under Pegula’s leadership, the company grew exponentially, and its success laid the foundation for his future wealth. In 2010, Pegula sold East Resources to Royal Dutch Shell for $4.7 billion. This sale significantly boosted his net worth and provided him with the capital to pursue other interests, including his passion for sports.
Rise to Prominence in Sports
In 2011, Pegula made headlines when he purchased the Buffalo Sabres for $189 million. The acquisition marked the beginning of his involvement in the world of sports ownership. Pegula’s investment in the Sabres was followed by his purchase of the Buffalo Bills in 2014 for $1.4 billion after the death of former owner Ralph Wilson. Pegula’s ownership of these teams has made him a key figure in Buffalo’s sports scene.
Through his leadership, both teams have seen significant investments in their facilities and management. Pegula’s passion for sports is evident, and his commitment to improving the teams has earned him respect among both fans and fellow owners. Although his tenure with the Sabres has seen ups and downs, Pegula’s commitment to the team and the city of Buffalo remains unwavering.
Career Earnings and Investments
While sports ownership has been a significant part of Terry Pegula’s financial success, it is far from the only source of his wealth. Pegula’s primary source of income was derived from his success in the oil and gas industry. After the sale of East Resources, Pegula invested his money in various ventures, including natural gas exploration, real estate, and sports ownership.
As of 2025, Terry Pegula’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 billion. This substantial wealth comes not only from his sports teams but also from his ongoing investments in various industries. In addition to his sports ventures, Pegula’s real estate portfolio is vast, and he continues to hold significant stakes in several energy-related companies.
Terry Pegula’s wealth is also supported by his family’s business operations. His wife, Kim Pegula, is involved in the management of the teams and serves as the president and CEO of Pegula Sports and Entertainment. Their joint leadership has been instrumental in the continued growth of their assets and their impact on the Buffalo area.
Family Life
Terry Pegula’s personal life is as dynamic as his business career. He married his wife, Kim Pegula, in 1993, and the couple has three children. Kim, who was adopted at the age of 5, has played a crucial role in the family’s sports ventures. She is not only involved in the day-to-day operations of Pegula Sports and Entertainment but also serves on various boards and charitable organizations.
Kim Pegula is an accomplished businesswoman in her own right, having helped drive the success of the Buffalo Bills and Sabres. She and Terry’s combined efforts have allowed them to make significant contributions to both sports and philanthropy. The Pegulas’ joint involvement in the Buffalo community, especially with the sports teams, has made them a beloved power couple in the region.
In addition to their three children, the Pegulas have expanded their family’s business interests through various philanthropic activities. They have donated millions to causes related to education, healthcare, and the local community. The family’s commitment to philanthropy has earned them recognition for their efforts to improve the lives of those in need.
Real Estate and Lifestyle
Terry Pegula’s wealth allows him to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle. The Pegulas own several properties, including a large estate in Florida and a luxurious home in Buffalo. The couple has also invested in a number of business ventures in the real estate sector. Their properties are a testament to their success and have become key pieces of their portfolio.
Terry Pegula’s lifestyle is reflective of his success in business and sports. He has a deep love for the game of hockey, and his ownership of the Sabres is one of his greatest passions. Pegula has made significant improvements to the team’s facilities, and his commitment to bringing a championship to Buffalo has driven much of his focus.
Philanthropy and Legacy
Beyond his business and sports ventures, Terry Pegula is also known for his philanthropic work. He and his wife, Kim, have donated millions to various causes, including healthcare, education, and the arts. Their contributions have helped improve the lives of many individuals in Buffalo and beyond.
Terry Pegula’s legacy is still being written. With a net worth of $5 billion and his ownership of two major sports franchises, his impact on both the business world and the Buffalo community will continue for years to come. Whether through sports, energy, or philanthropy, Pegula’s contributions to society are vast and far-reaching, making him one of the most influential figures in contemporary American business.
