Maye Musk, mother of billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, is no stranger to sacrifice. Despite her son’s immense wealth, when she visits him at his modest home near SpaceX’s launch site in Texas, she sleeps in the garage. But for Maye, this is nothing new—and it certainly doesn’t bother her.
Maye, a model, dietitian, and author who has graced the covers of major magazines well into her seventies, was not raised in luxury and never expected it. Growing up in South Africa, she traveled with her family in search of adventure, even sleeping outdoors in the wild. Later, she survived an abusive marriage, raised three children as a single mother, and rebuilt her life across continents.
Elon, who has pledged to live simply and gave up most of his personal possessions, stays in a small, \$50,000 house near the SpaceX site. “You can’t have a fancy house near a rocket site,” Maye explained. And her son agrees—he’s stated that material things don’t define his life.
Maye’s story goes beyond her famous son. It’s a testament to resilience, simplicity, and choosing purpose over possessions. Her grounded lifestyle, even in the orbit of extreme wealth, serves as a reminder that strength and character are worth more than comfort or luxury.