Overview of the Portfolio
At the time of his 2019 arrest, Jeffrey Epstein controlled real estate assets estimated at between $150 million and $300 million, depending on methodology. His portfolio was unusual not just for its scale but for its composition: multiple large-scale private properties designed for social isolation from public view.
Little Saint James Island (U.S. Virgin Islands)
Epstein’s most famous property, purchased in 1998 for approximately $7.95 million. A 75-acre island in the U.S. Virgin Islands, it was extensively developed with:
- A main villa complex with guest residences
- The widely photographed blue-and-gold striped structure (sometimes called the “temple”)
- A network of underground tunnels (documented in blueprints obtained in litigation)
- Helicopter pad and boat dock
- Extensive surveillance infrastructure
Epstein renamed the island “Little Saint Jeff” among close associates. After his death, the estate demolished all structures. The island sold in 2024.
Great Saint James Island (U.S. Virgin Islands)
A second adjacent island purchased in 1999 for approximately $22.5 million. Less developed but used to prevent neighboring construction that would compromise the privacy of Little Saint James. The USVI government pursued civil litigation over unpermitted construction on Great Saint James.
Manhattan Townhouse (9 East 71st Street, New York)
A nine-story mansion on 71st Street adjoining Central Park, originally owned by Les Wexner and transferred to Epstein in 1995 at a price that critics argued was far below market value. The mansion was:
- One of the largest private residences in Manhattan
- Valued at approximately $77 million at the time of Epstein’s death
- The site of documented abuse of multiple victims
- Contains rooms with photographic evidence seized in 2019
- Sold by the estate in 2020/2021 for approximately $51 million
Zorro Ranch (New Mexico)
A 10,000-acre property near Stanley, New Mexico, purchased in 1993. The main house was approximately 26,000 square feet. Epstein used it for:
- Extended stays hosting scientists and academics
- Meetings with politicians and business figures
- Activity with victims, as documented in civil litigation
New Mexico state authorities opened investigations into Epstein’s activities at Zorro Ranch. The property was eventually sold by the estate.
Palm Beach Mansion (358 El Brillo Way)
Epstein’s primary Florida residence, extensively renovated after purchase. Investigations into Epstein began here when a local mother contacted police after her 14-year-old daughter described being paid for sexual services at the property. The Palm Beach investigation became the foundation of the federal case.
Paris Apartment (Avenue Foch)
A luxury apartment on one of Paris’s most prestigious streets, used as Epstein’s European base. French investigators searched the property as part of their trafficking inquiry. Jean-Luc Brunel operated partially from Paris and used the apartment as a staging point for European victim recruitment.
Other Properties
Additional properties variously attributed to Epstein include:
- A property in New Mexico (additional to Zorro Ranch)
- Interests in aviation infrastructure at Opa-locka Executive Airport, Florida
- An abandoned property in the U.S. Virgin Islands
Post-Death Disposition
The estate — managed by executors Darren Indyke and Richard Kahn — engaged in a process of asset liquidation to fund the Epstein Victims’ Compensation Program. The Manhattan townhouse, aircraft, and other liquid assets were sold. The Virgin Islands properties were subject to extended litigation before sale.
Total distributions to victims from the compensation program exceeded $121 million as of 2022.