If you’ve been following the political buzz, you’ve probably heard of Karoline Leavitt—Trump’s firebrand press secretary. But what’s turning heads isn’t just her aggressive stance at the podium—it’s her 32-year age gap with her husband, Nicholas Riccio.
So, who is this millionaire real estate tycoon who went from homelessness to beachfront property empire, and why is his name suddenly making headlines? Let’s dive in.
From Sleeping in His Car to Owning an Empire
Before Riccio was flipping luxury homes, he was flipping through couch cushions for change. Raised in a struggling household, he didn’t have a trust fund to fall back on. By 18, he was homeless, bouncing between friends’ houses just to shower. He put himself through Plymouth State University while stocking grocery store shelves at night.
Then came a single real estate course in 1990—the moment that changed everything. Armed with a new obsession, he started buying rundown properties in Hampton Beach, New Hampshire, before anyone else saw the potential. Fast forward to today, and his company Riccio Enterprises LLC is worth millions.
Key Facts About Riccio’s Real Estate Empire:
- Owns Nautical Beach Properties, a major rental operation on New Hampshire’s coastline.
- Expanded holdings into Boston, West Virginia, and other East Coast markets.
- Built wealth without inherited money, making him a true self-made millionaire.
How Did Nicholas Riccio Meet Karoline Leavitt?
Picture this: a high-powered political event, handshakes all around, and somewhere in the crowd, a real estate mogul meets a rising conservative star. That’s how Riccio and Leavitt connected—through a mutual friend at a political gathering.
It didn’t take long for sparks to fly. By Christmas 2023, they were engaged, and just a few months later, they privately tied the knot. In July 2024, they welcomed their first child, Niko.
Despite the whispers about their 32-year age difference, Leavitt insists their relationship isn’t about money or power. On social media, she’s called Riccio her “number one fan, the best dad, and just the best man I’ve ever met.”
Why Is Nicholas Riccio in the Headlines Now?
The spotlight on Riccio isn’t just about his wealth—it’s about his connection to Trump’s inner circle.
When Ryan Shead, a progressive commentator, posted photos of Riccio and Leavitt with a snarky caption about “how she got the job,” the internet erupted. Some critics claim their marriage is an example of money and influence at play in Washington. Others see it as a private matter blown out of proportion.
What’s undeniable? Riccio has quietly bankrolled Leavitt’s political ambitions. Reports show he funded her failed 2022 congressional campaign, and now, as Trump’s press secretary, she wields unprecedented influence at just 27 years old.
FAQs About Nicholas Riccio
How much older is Nicholas Riccio than Karoline Leavitt?
Riccio is 32 years older than his wife. He was born in 1965, while Leavitt was born in 1997.
What does Nicholas Riccio do for a living?
He is a real estate developer and entrepreneur, owning Riccio Enterprises LLC and Nautical Beach Properties, specializing in beachfront rentals.
How did Nicholas Riccio become successful?
He started flipping houses in the early 2000s in New Hampshire, growing his portfolio into a multimillion-dollar empire.
Does Nicholas Riccio have kids?
Yes. He and Karoline Leavitt welcomed their son, Nicholas “Niko” Robert Riccio, in July 2024.
Was Nicholas Riccio involved in politics before meeting Karoline Leavitt?
Not directly. While he’s donated to Republican candidates, he was never a major political figure before marrying Leavitt.
