In the history of hip-hop, few figures are as transformative as Nicki Minaj. Known globally as the “Queen of Rap,” Nicki (Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty) has redefined the commercial and cultural boundaries for female artists.

As of January 2026, fresh off the record-breaking success of her Pink Friday 2 World Tour, Nicki continues to dominate both the charts and the business world.

This comprehensive guide covers Nicki Minaj’s net worth, her age, her complex family history, and her life with husband Kenneth Petty.

 

Early Life and Heritage: From Trinidad to Queens

Born on December 8, 1982, in Saint James, Trinidad and Tobago, Nicki Minaj’s age of 43 in 2026 marks over two decades in the entertainment industry. She was born to Robert Maraj, a financial executive and gospel singer, and Carol Maraj, also a gospel singer and nursing assistant. Nicki lived with her grandmother in Trinidad until the age of five, when she joined her parents in the South Jamaica neighborhood of Queens, New York.

Nicki Minaj’s parents had a profound impact on her life. Her father, Robert, struggled with substance abuse for years—a topic Nicki has addressed in tracks like “Autobiography.” Tragically, Robert Maraj passed away in February 2021 after a hit-and-run accident in Long Island. Her mother, Carol Maraj, remains a close confidante and has since launched a foundation to support victims of domestic violence.

 

The Career of a Legend: The Rise of Young Money’s First Lady

Nicki’s journey began at the prestigious LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts. After releasing three influential mixtapes between 2007 and 2009, she was discovered by Lil Wayne and signed to Young Money Entertainment. Her debut album, Pink Friday (2010), debuted at #1, birthing the “Barbie” persona and the “Barbz” fanbase.

Fast forward to 2026, Nicki Minaj has sold over 100 million records worldwide. Her most recent era, Pink Friday 2, solidified her status as the highest-grossing female rapper in touring history. She has successfully balanced hardcore rap with pop sensibilities, winning dozens of BET Awards, MTV VMAs, and Billboard Music Awards.

 

Nicki Minaj Net Worth 2026: A Business Empire

As of 2026, Nicki Minaj’s net worth is estimated to be between $150 Million and $190 Million. While music sales and her massive 2024-2025 world tour are primary drivers, her wealth is diversified through high-stakes business ventures:

  • Pink Friday Nails: Her luxury press-on nail line launched in 2024 has become a retail giant.
  • Endorsements: Multi-million dollar deals with Pepsi, Adidas, MAC Cosmetics, and Myx Fusions.
  • Real Estate: Owns a massive $19.5 million mansion in Hidden Hills, California, along with properties in New York and New Jersey.
  • Streaming Stake: Her early investment in Tidal continues to yield significant returns.

 

Personal Life: Kenneth Petty and “Papa Bear”

One of the most frequent searches regarding the rapper is about the Nicki Minaj husband. In 2019, Nicki married her high school sweetheart, Kenneth “Zoo” Petty. Despite public scrutiny regarding Petty’s legal past, Nicki has remained his fiercest defender, often referring to him as her soulmate. In September 2020, the couple welcomed their first child, a son affectionately known to the public as “Papa Bear.”

Before her marriage, Nicki had long-term relationships with Safaree Samuels (2000–2014) and Meek Mill (2015–2017), both of which heavily influenced the lyrics of her mid-career albums like The Pinkprint.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Nicki Minaj a billionaire in 2026?
While Nicki has referred to herself as a billionaire in lyrics and social media posts, most financial outlets like Forbes estimate her 2026 net worth closer to $150M – $190M. However, with her private business holdings, the true figure could be higher.

What is Nicki Minaj’s real name?
Her birth name is Onika Tanya Maraj.

How many children does Nicki Minaj have?
As of 2026, Nicki Minaj has one son, born in 2020, whom she calls Papa Bear.

Is Nicki Minaj still married to Kenneth Petty?
Yes, as of January 2026, Nicki Minaj and Kenneth Petty remain married.

Who is Nicki Minaj’s father?
Her father was Robert Maraj, who tragically passed away in 2021.

 

Conclusion: The Undisputed Queen

From the streets of Queens to global icon status, Nicki Minaj has proven that longevity in hip-hop is possible through reinvention and business savvy. At age 43, with a massive net worth and a loyal “Barbz” army, she remains the gold standard for success in the music industry. As we look forward to her rumored late-2026 projects, the “Queen of Rap” shows no signs of relinquishing her throne.