14 Richest Families In El Salvador Jun 2026

An example of the international origins of the oligarchy, the family descends from an Englishman, James Hill, who arrived in El Salvador in 1889 to start a coffee-planting business. The family's influence has since expanded beyond agriculture, with members holding prominent positions in politics and philanthropy, underscoring the evolution of old coffee wealth into modern influence.

: Their influence is notable in the construction and real estate markets, reflecting their status among El Salvador's economic elite.

Another Palestinian-Salvadoran powerhouse. The Safies own Grupo Agrisal , which manages major hotels (Real Intercontinental), shopping malls (Metrocentro), and the country’s largest private industrial parks. 14 richest families in el salvador

: Through their holdings in retail and other consumer goods sectors, the Coto family has established a considerable presence in El Salvador's economy.

The family has deep roots as coffee barons from the 19th century. Today, however, their legacy is carried forward by a powerful philanthropic foundation, the Fundación Rafael Meza Ayau, which has donated over $105,000 to social causes in a single year, signifying a shift in how old money manifests its influence in modern society. An example of the international origins of the

The Salaverría family was a key member of the coffee-era oligarchy, and their name remains linked to significant landholdings and financial institutions. The family is estimated to have a net worth of around from their various holdings. They also have close ties to the Bukele administration through Mario Salaverría , a former minister under President Antonio Saca.

The story of El Salvador's richest families is a story of enduring power. It has evolved from the coffee plantations of the 19th century to the aviation and real estate conglomerates of the 21st century. The original "14 families" may have diversified and intermarried, but the concentration of wealth and political influence in the hands of a small minority remains a central reality of the nation, a legacy that continues to shape its social fabric and political battles today. Another Palestinian-Salvadoran powerhouse

Finally, the Choussys control and Laboratorios López , the only national drug manufacturer. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they became de facto gatekeepers for private vaccines. They also own a chain of private hospitals (Hospital de Diagnóstico). Their wealth surged 40% during the health crisis. Estimated net worth: $250 million .

When most people think of El Salvador today, they think of surfing, pupusas, and Nayib Bukele’s pioneering Bitcoin experiment. However, beneath the surface of this vibrant Central American nation lies a deeply entrenched economic reality: the concentration of wealth within a small group of powerful families.