There’s something SO addictive about watching rich people simply live their luxurious, drama-filled lives. And we’re not ashamed to admit that! Is it the unnecessarily large but minimally decorated homes? The way they drop $50k on a purse without batting an eye? Or how they do the worst possible things to their friends but claim it to be “all in the name of love”?
Honestly, it’s probably all of it. There’s just this universal fascination with the rich and famous that the world can’t get enough of. So much so that it became its own genre of TV; we’re no longer just watching stories, we’re watching lifestyles. Just listen to this episode of the The Bossticks to see what we mean!
Whether it’s full-blown reality chaos or fictionalized luxury, we want it all. That’s why today, we’re sharing a list of shows about rich people that we’re unapologetically obsessed with. Plus, we’re gonna get into the real reasons we’re all drawn to this world that feels so… untouchable. And, spoiler alert: it’s not just about the money! Let’s get into it.
8 Shows About Rich People: Luxe Lifestyles and Dark Secrets
Whether you’re here for fashion, chaos, or opulent fantasy, there’s a rec in this list everyone will enjoy. However, before we dive in, we need to discuss one other thing. Like why do we even care about watching rich people on TV? It’s not often that someone watches Serena van der Woodsen buy the most expensive gown for her high school cotillion and thinks, “Ugh, relatable.” So, why are we SO connected to these characters and storylines?
We joked earlier about the money and the drama, and while there’s some truth to it, it’s so much deeper than that. Let’s get real about why we really like to watch rich people on TV.
Why Do We Like To Watch Rich People On TV?
It feels like free therapy with better outfits.
Here’s something you weren’t expecting: it’s relatable. In a weird sort of out-of-touch way, right? Yeah, okay, your favorite character may be crying about the wrong shade of a designer bag. But it makes you feel seen! And, a liiittlleee bit better about yourself, let’s just be honest.
For instance, you may have spiraled about a lack of seasoning on your avocado toast (relatable, BTW). But at least you didn’t scream-cry over someone showing up to the Met Gala in a similar outfit as yours, right? Nonetheless, we love it, we relate on a smaller scale, and we click “keep watching.”
Speaking of the Met Gala, it’s ALL everyone is talking about. Tune into “The Real Life Devil Wears Prada with Cynthia Smith” from Everything Is the Best! This episode talks about all things Sex and the City, Met Gala chaos, Paris Fashion Week, and, The Devil Wears Prada—obvi.
It’s a form of luxurious escapism.
Life is exhausting; that’s just the cold, hard truth. We have bills, kids, situationships, jobs—it never ends. But when we turn on that TV show about the rich and unbothered, we get to momentarily check out of our lives and check in to someone else’s–someone who just happens to have everything they could ever want at their fingertips.
Watching the rich live in their aesthetic fantasylands is like slipping into a cozy, immersive daydream. Sure, it’s not really your life, but it’s fun to pretend it is for an hour at a time.
The drama is unhinged but not our problem.
We love watching shows about rich people for the same reason we’re all addicted to Love Island—the drama is JUICY. (Speaking of juicy drama, check on Pepe Garcia’s podcast episode on The Toast!) And look… sometimes the drama is about real-deal sh*t, and we get that. But most of the time, it’s about stuff like improper seating arrangements at galas, social hierarchies, and battles of inheritance. Like are you kidding??? Of course we’re tuned in!
Also, a super interesting little fun fact: watching drama in shows can actually release endorphins. So if you feel like you actually CRAVE those high-energy and intense moments, it’s not just in your head. Basically, go enjoy those vibes without the negative emotional labor–you deserve it.
We can’t deny a pleasing aesthetic.
The drama may be meh, the characters may be insufferable, but those huge, gorgeous houses with perfectly placed decor? Give us more. Shows about rich people basically feel like a visual mood board in motion. The marble floors, vintage convertibles, one-of-a-kind designer dresses–we’re in awe.
There’s also this underlying fascination with the unknown and unattainable. Like, what do you mean Kendall Jenner has a $40,000 gold bathtub??? Not that most of us can relate, but damn if we don’t love seeing it.
Deep down, we’re all a little nosy.
At the end of the day, there’s no shame in being curious–especially when it comes to the filthy rich. It feels like they live in a totally different universe from us at times, and it’s hard not to wanna peek behind that curtain!
Ultimately, we’re just being observant… right? Show us your perfectly organized closet and your new $1,000 anti-aging serum! We can’t get enough of it.
What Are The Best Shows About Rich People?
Gossip Girl
Where to watch: Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Netflix
You didn’t think we’d start this list off with anything other than Gossip Girl, did you? This show gives us the inside scoop on the Upper East Side’s most elite teens. Think: two-story penthouses, top-shelf champagne, and a level of drama that typical high schoolers wouldn’t dream of.
Even Dan Humphrey, who lives in a Brooklyn loft but claims he’s poor, has this unattainable level of wealth. This series serves up a dish of loud luxury like we’ve never seen. Oh, and there’s Gossip Girl herself, who anonymously dishes the latest Upper East Side gossip like it’s her job. Can’t forget that part!
If you end up loving it as much as we do, check out a handful of shows like Gossip Girl for a similar vibe! And, check out this post where Chace Crawford dishes out his feelings on teen fame—or “The Leighton Meester Episode” on The World’s First Podcast.
Big Little Lies
Where to watch: Max, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Hulu
This hit HBO series based on the Liane Moriarty novel (which you can read more about here) gives us major rich family energy. Big Little Lies follows a group of women as they navigate wealth, privilege, and hidden secrets.
If you love watching shows about rich people with a touch of murder mystery–this one’s allll for you. The dark comedy and central theme of friendship also make you forget that these upper-class moms are, well, upper-class. It’s the perfect blend of relatability and out-of-touch wealth!
LOVE the cast as much as the storyline? Then you’ll appreciate “Shailene Woodley on Health, Healing, and Empowering Young Women” from SHE MD. This Big Little Lies star offers a candid approach on all things personal health struggles, trauma, and the impact of fear on the body.
Selling Sunset
Where to watch: Netflix
If reality TV shows about real estate aren’t really up your alley, we get it. However, “Selling Sunset” isn’t just about buying and selling homes–it’s actually considered a “docusoap.” Yeah, we get to see ultra-wealthy homeowners and lavish California properties, but the real drama lies in the Oppenheim Group office.
But what did you expect? Put a group of highly motivated and successful women in a room, and there’s bound to be some competition. If you thought this drama was solely work-related, though, you’ve got another thing comin’. From reputations and livelihoods to millions in commission, “Selling Sunset” dishes luxury and drama.
For more on selling sunset, check out these podcast episodes!
The White Lotus
Where to watch: Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
The entire plot of The White Lotus is basically expensive resorts and rich people drama–everything we love at once. Okay, well, technically, that’s not the entire plot. There are unexpected twists, dark satire, anndddd typically a murder mystery in the very beginning. What more could you want???
It kind of relates to what we were saying earlier; we can’t help but lock in when rich people spiral. And if they do at a top-secret luxurious resort? Even better. Once you’re done binge-watching this series, check out shows like The White Lotus for some more recs! Oh, and check out Patrick Schwarzenegger’s thoughts about this series, because why would you wanna miss that?
Succession
Where to watch: Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
Succession is like if Dynasty had a touch more dark humor and complexity. Similar in status, different in depth. This series follows the Roy family, owners of a super-successful global media conglomerate. Simple, right? Except the founder faces health problems, and his four children claw their way to ownership.
It balances the fun of watching rich people with a deeper look at what “more money, more problems” truly means. It’s a great pick if you’re looking for an immersive experience of the glamour and the dark side of luxury. If you want an inside scoop of Succession, check out Justin Lupe in this episode of The World’s First Podcast!
The Perfect Couple
Where to watch: Netflix
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to plan a wedding without a budget? Us, too–which is why we love The Perfect Couple. Amelia is planning her once-in-a-lifetime wedding to Benji Winbury, a man from one of the wealthiest families in Nantucket.
That’s until someone’s murdered, and the focus of the show completely shifts. TBH, that would give us those major bridezilla moments that Remi was talking about in this episode of Pretty Basic. But don’t worry–there’s still all of that extravagance and luxury each step of the way. The private beaches, giant mansions, and “rich person entitlement” won’t let you forget it.
TV Series About Wealthy Families
The Kardashians
Where to watch: Hulu, Disney+
Love ‘em or hate ‘em, the Kardashians live and breathe luxury, which is exactly what makes their show so addicting. The best part? It’s not fictionalized. What you see is what you get–right down to the customized sports cars and multi-million dollar mansions.
Beyond the glam, the series also gives us that peek behind the curtain that we all so desperately want. And, the whole gang has a knack for taking unrealistic standards and making them feel personal and relatable. We’re obsessed; what can we say?
For more Kardashian content, check out this episode of The World’s First Podcast. And, don’t forget to check out Khloe’s new Dear Media-produced show, Khloé in Wonder Land! Itching for some family drama? Check out the best TV series about family drama.
Dynasty
Where to watch: Netflix, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video
You may have heard of the OG Dynasty from the 80s, but this reboot gives us even more glitz and glam. This show focuses on Atlanta’s two most affluent families, the Carringtons and the Colbys, as they fight for power and control.
Between the interfamily feuds, dynamic power struggles, and give-and-take inheritance battles, you can’t help but get hooked. Not to mention Fallon Carrington’s boss babe energy! She’s the wealthy corporate queen we all dream of being.
Feeling a little inspired? Us too. Check out “THIS Is How You Build Generational Wealth ft. Vivian Tu” from She’s So Lucky! They dish allll the secrets on changing your mindset on money and building a multi-platform empire.
Downton Abbey
Where to watch: Netflix, Peacock, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video
If you love period dramas and shows about rich people, you’re in luck—Downton Abbey blends both beautifully. The series follows the lives of the Crawley family, an aristocratic household, and the staff who keeps their sprawling estate running. The themes consist of things like class dynamics, estate inheritance, and real-world historical events.
But as far as extravagance and wealth go? Oh, they’ve got it all. The generational hierarchy, the non-working lifestyle, the thousands of acres of opulent land—they’re literally the definition of 20th century luxury. And don’t even get us started on their multi-course dinners, insanely expensive ballgowns, and rotating cast of maids, cooks, and footmen. If you want rich, they’re here to deliver.
Already binged the series? No biggie, just check out our post on shows like Downton Abbey, we’ve got PLENTY of similar recommendations.
The Gilded Age
Where to watch: Hulu, HBO Max, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video
Another period drama, but can you blame us? Money was just… different back then! And The Gilded Age is proof of this. Set in New York City in the 1880s, the series shows the dynamic between The Russells (new money aristocrats) and the Van Rhijns and Astors (old money tycoons). The entire plot is basically all about social battles, industrialization, and what money can make people do.
Ultimately, The Gilded Age is THE show about rich people to binge-watch if you crave a little history with your wealth. Not only is it incredibly well-written (it is created by the same producers of Downton Abbey, after all!), but it’s also super intriguing. Massive fortunes, European-style traditions, and prestigious families? Yes, please!
The O.C.
Where to watch: Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video
The O.C. isn’t JUST one of the best shows about rich people—it’s one of the few series that truly defined early 2000s tv. The show follows Ryan Atwood, a troubled teen who gets arrested for breaking into a car. Stick with us, it’s not what it sounds like. After his mom gives him up, super-rich public defender, Sandy Cohen, takes Ryan in.
After this, Ryan is immersed in the world of Newport Beach luxury. Of course, his surroundings match his new experience. He meets a ton of other teens who, like Ryan, can thank their parents for their super luxurious lifestyles. Think: relaxed beach days, designer clothing, and super elite private schools. It’s funny, it’s high-stakes, and it’s the ultimate Y2K rich-people show you’ve been wanting.
Of course, we have other recs to follow. First, tune into “Rachel Bison From 2000s Nostalgia to Her Mom Era” from Let’s Be Honest. After that, check out our post, “Shows Like The O.C.” for more.
Shows About Rich People Reality TV
The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills
Where to watch: Peacock, Bravo, Netflix, Hulu, Apple TV
If you’re craving reality shows about rich people, Bravo is EXACTLY where you want to be. More specifically, The Real Housewives franchise will be your sweet spot. You have The Real Housewives of Atlanta, of Salt Lake City, Orange County, New York City, New Jersey, Miami, Potomac, Dubai, Rhode Island… did we miss one? Oh yeah, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.
Consistently ranked as one of the most popular franchises in the Bravoverse, RHOBH blends luxury mansions, high-end fashion, and lavish dinner parties with high-stakes drama and authentic chaos. In other words, it gives you the vibe of a scripted series, but the authenticity of Beverly Hills’ most elite. It’s SO good—and totally deserving of a spot on your must-watch list.
Craving a little BTS information? Check out “Kyle Richards on the Truth About Her Life, Family, & What You Don’t See on RHOBH” from The Bossticks!
Selling the OC
Where to watch: Netflix
Earlier, we told you all about Selling Sunset. Now, let us introduce you to its sister show: Selling the OC! The series follows agents who sell high-end properties throughout Orange County while simultaneously navigating personal relationships, in-office drama, and social media rivalries. It’s juicy, it’s energetic, and it’s one of the best reality tv shows about rich people.
And we don’t just mean “these houses are worth millions of dollars” rich. The agents’ lives exude luxury, featuring their own beachfront mansions, designer clothes, and ultra-lavish lifestyles. If you want to live vicariously—both in drama and lifestyle—tune into Selling the OC ASAP.
Next Gen NYC
Where to watch: Hulu, Peacock, Bravo, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video
If you’re already a fan of The Real Housewives franchise, then you NEED to tune into Next Gen NYC. This Bravo reality docuseries follows 20-something influencers as they navigate relationships, friendships, careers, and transitional life phases in Manhattan. But the most exciting part? A lot of them are famous children of Real Housewives stars.
Think: Gia Giudice, Brook Marks, Ariana Biermann, and Ava Dash. It’s got that “repo-baby” vibe with just the right dose of relatability. We get a first row seat to what luxurious NYC life truly looks like, complete with high-rise apartments, triple digit brunches, and lavish nights out. It’s basically the best way to live vicariously through a TV show.
You can hear a little more about Next Gen NYC (and just Real Housewives drama) in “Special Forces Winner Gia Giudice on The World’s Toughest Test, Next Gen NYC, & More” from The Pre-Game with Kayla Nicole!
Southern Charm
Where to watch: Hulu, Peacock, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video
Nothing screams luxury quite like Charleston, South Carolina—and Southern Charm captures this perfectly. The series follows the personal and professional lives of Charleston socialites, where family names mean EVERYTHING. Of course, we get to experience the cast’s personal lives, as the show touches on dating, friendships, and professional relationships.
But we also get to keep behind the luxe Charleston curtain, watching southern aristocracy, extravagant parties, and that classic “old money vs. new money” vibe play out in real time. It’s SO good—and so hard to try and not watch all in one sitting.
Already seen the series? Then check out Shep Rose’s podcast episode on Not Skinny But Not Fat! After that? Tune into “LIVE: I Get Myself Into Some Serious Pickles — Let’s Be Honest Live with Austen Kroll and Craig Conover.“
Rich People’s Lifestyle
So, the real reason people like to watch shows about rich people? Because it’s good TV! Like we said earlier, it offers a form of escapism. We can basically live vicariously through the characters, real or scripted, along with their lavish purchases, 10-course meals, and sprawling estates.
Sure, WE can’t afford to drop thousands of dollars on a last-minute vacation. But when we turn on the TV and see someone else doing it? Hand us our sunnies and give us a beach towel—we’re (metaphorically) right there with ’em.
Ultimately, we’re all naturally fascinated with other people’s lives’. It’s the same reason you scroll on Instagram, spend hours on TikTok, and keep Facebook downloaded. We just want to know what other people are up to. And if they just so happen to be up to something way out of our tax bracket? It becomes even more intriguing. Point blank period.
Who are we kidding? Watching shows about rich people is our guilty pleasure!
No matter what vibe you’re into, there’s one thing each series here has in common: they’re allll about rich people. From private jets and hidden beaches to designer items and exclusive events, we’re obsessed with all of it.
Check out Dear Media for all things pop culture updates to essential relationship advice. And, don’t forget to check out the DM shop for tons of must-have products! Imagine binge-watching your new fave show in the “Valley Girl” bathrobe, face mask on, and “Men Could Never” mug in hand. Now that’s luxury, baby!
Also, don’t forget to tune into our incredible Dear Media podcast hosts. And if you wanna see them live and in-person? You can do JUST that by keeping up with Dear Media IRL—where we bring your favorite hosts to a city near you. Trust us, you definitely don’t want to miss out.
