A Life of Simplicity: Jimmy Carter's Modest Home

Former President Jimmy Carter, who served from 1977 to 1981, spent the last 43 years of his life in a humble two-bedroom ranch house he built himself in rural Plains, Georgia. At 100 years old, Carter became the first U. S. president to reach a centennial birthday. After his death on December 29, 2024, his funeral is planned at the National Cathedral in Washington, D. C. , on January 9. President Joe Biden declared the day a national day of mourning. Carter lived a simple and thrifty life even after his presidency. His home in Plains, about a two-and-a-half-hour drive south of Atlanta, is currently valued at around $239, 700, according to Zillow. This is significantly lower than the median home price in Georgia, which is approximately $326, 280. The Carters were known for their modest lifestyle. They enjoyed dining with neighbors using paper plates and bargain wine, and even made their own yogurt. Carter often shopped for clothes at his local Dollar General and flew commercially. In his later years, he earned income from writing books, with 66 titles credited to him, including children's books and reflections on his presidency. In addition to his book earnings, Carter received a presidential pension of $246, 400 per year, like other former presidents. The federal government also provides an allowance for travel and office expenses, with Carter receiving around $118, 000 last year, according to the National Taxpayers Union Foundation. Carter's commitment to simplicity extended to his final wishes. He will be buried on his property next to his late wife, Rosalynn, who passed away in 2023.