Usha Vance, born Usha Bala Chilukuri, is an accomplished attorney, devoted mother, and the wife of Vice President JD Vance.
Her journey from a suburban upbringing in San Diego to becoming the Second Lady of the United States is a testament to her dedication, intellect, and resilience.
This article delves into her background, education, career, and the pivotal role she plays alongside her husband.
Early Life and Family Background
Born on January 6, 1986, in San Diego County, California, Usha Vance is the daughter of Telugu Indian immigrants, Radhakrishna “Krish” Chilukuri and Lakshmi Chilukuri. Her father is a mechanical engineer and lecturer at San Diego State University, while her mother is a microbiologist and provost at the University of California, San Diego .
Growing up in the Rancho Peñasquitos neighborhood, Usha was known for her academic prowess and leadership qualities. She graduated from Mt. Carmel High School in 2003, where she was active in the marching band and various academic clubs.
Academic Achievements
Usha’s academic journey is marked by excellence:
- Yale University: She earned her Bachelor of Arts in History, graduating summa cum laude and being inducted into Phi Beta Kappa in 2007. During her time at Yale, she volunteered in local schools and served as a Girl Scouts troop leader .
- University of Cambridge: As a Gates Cambridge Scholar, she pursued an MPhil in Early Modern History at Clare College, Cambridge, completing it in 2010 .
- Yale Law School: Returning to Yale, she obtained her Juris Doctor in 2013. She held editorial positions in several law journals and participated in clinics focusing on Supreme Court advocacy and media freedom .
Jd Vance Net Worth
As of 2025, Vice President J.D. Vance’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. This wealth stems from multiple sources, including his bestselling memoir Hillbilly Elegy, his career in venture capital, and various investments
📚 Literary Success
Vance’s 2016 memoir, Hillbilly Elegy, detailing his upbringing in Appalachian Ohio, became a significant financial success. The book sold over 1.6 million copies and earned him nearly $500,000 in royalties. Additionally, Netflix acquired the film rights for $45 million, further boosting his earnings.
💼 Venture Capital and Investments
After graduating from Yale Law School, Vance transitioned into venture capital. He co-founded Narya Capital, a firm that raised $93 million to invest in startups, particularly in the Midwest. His investment portfolio includes real estate holdings valued at approximately $4 million and interests in cryptocurrency.
🏛️ Political Career
Vance’s political journey began with his election to the U.S. Senate in 2022, representing Ohio. In 2025, he assumed the role of Vice President of the United States under President Donald Trump. His annual salary as Vice President is $235,100.
Usha Vance Net Worth
As of 2025, Usha Vance—Second Lady of the United States and a distinguished attorney—is estimated to have a net worth between $1 million and $5 million. This valuation encompasses her earnings from a successful legal career, strategic investments, and shared assets with her husband, Vice President J.D. Vance.
🏛️ Legal Career and Professional Achievements
Usha Vance boasts an impressive legal background. After earning her Juris Doctor from Yale Law School, she clerked for prominent figures such as Chief Justice John Roberts and Judge Brett Kavanaugh. She later joined the esteemed law firm Munger, Tolles & Olson, where she handled complex civil litigation and appellate cases across various sectors, including higher education and entertainment.
🏡 Real Estate Holdings
Together with her husband, Usha Vance owns two notable properties:
- Washington, D.C. Residence: Purchased in 2014 for approximately $590,000, this property is now valued at around $850,000.
- Cincinnati, Ohio Home: Acquired in 2018 for about $1.4 million, this residence is situated in the East Walnut Hills neighborhood.
These assets contribute significantly to the couple’s combined wealth.
Legal Career Of Usha’s
Usha’s legal career is distinguished by prestigious clerkships and significant roles in private practice:
- Clerkships:
- Judge Amul Thapar, U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky (2013–2014)
- Judge Brett Kavanaugh, U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit (2014–2015)
- Chief Justice John Roberts, U.S. Supreme Court (2017–2018)
- Private Practice: She worked as an associate at Munger, Tolles & Olson, focusing on complex civil litigation and appeals in sectors like higher education, local government, entertainment, and technology. She resigned from the firm in July 2024 to focus on her family .
JD Vance and Family Life
Usha met JD Vance at Yale Law School, and their relationship blossomed through shared academic interests and discussions on societal issues. They married in 2014 in Kentucky, incorporating both Hindu and Christian traditions into their ceremony .
The couple has three children:
- Ewan: Born in June 2017
- Vivek: Born in February 2020
- Mirabel Rose: Born in December 2021
Usha and JD strive to provide a nurturing environment for their children, balancing their professional commitments with family life.
Cultural and Religious Identity
Raised in a Hindu household, Usha maintains her religious practices while supporting her husband’s Catholic faith. Their interfaith marriage reflects mutual respect and understanding. JD Vance has credited Usha with helping him reconnect with his faith, leading to his conversion to Catholicism in 2019 .
Political Involvement and Public Role
Initially a Democrat, Usha’s political alignment evolved over the years. She registered as an Independent in 2014 and later as a Republican in 2022, aligning with her husband’s political journey .
As Second Lady, Usha maintains a low public profile but actively supports her husband’s political endeavors. She introduced JD Vance at the 2024 Republican National Convention, highlighting their shared values and commitment to public service .
Recognition and Public Perception
Usha’s intellect and poise have garnered admiration from various quarters. Maye Musk, Elon Musk’s mother, praised her as “smart and charming,” acknowledging her role as the first Hindu and Indian American Second Lady of the United States .
Despite facing challenges, including racially insensitive attacks, Usha remains steadfast in her support for her husband and dedication to their family.
Conclusion
Usha Vance’s journey from a studious child in San Diego to the Second Lady of the United States is a narrative of perseverance, intellect, and grace.
Her multifaceted identity as a lawyer, mother, and public figure exemplifies the evolving role of women in American society.
Through her support of JD Vance and her own professional accomplishments, Usha continues to inspire many.