Jacob Frey was born on July 23, 1981, in Arlington County and raised in nearby Oakton. Growing up in a supportive family, he developed a strong interest in running at a young age—something that would later shape both his discipline and identity.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jacob Lawrence Frey |
| Born | July 23, 1981 – Arlington County / Oakton, Virginia, USA (age 44 in 2026) |
| Current Position | 48th Mayor of Minneapolis (since 2018; re-elected for third term in 2025) |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) – athletic build from professional marathon running background |
| Education | B.A. in Government, College of William & Mary (track scholarship); J.D. cum laude, Villanova University School of Law |
| Previous Career | Professional long-distance runner (Team USA, Pan American Games); civil rights & employment attorney |
| Family | Wife: Sarah Clarke (married 2016; lobbyist/government relations professional); Daughters: Frida Jade Frey (born 2020) and Estelle Bloom Frey (born 2025); First marriage to Michelle Lilienthal (2009–2014, divorced) |
| Net Worth (est.) | $1 – 3 million (primarily from mayoral salary ~$140,000–$187,000, prior legal career, and investments; exact figures not publicly disclosed) |
| Lifestyle | Family-oriented and community-focused; lives in southwest/Northeast Minneapolis with wife and two young daughters; balances high-pressure public role with parenting; maintains an active, grounded lifestyle rooted in running and public service |
| Political Party | Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) |
| Social Media Links | |
| @jacobfrey1 – Official account (253K+ followers; family moments, city updates, and public appearances) | |
| X (Twitter) | @MayorFrey or @Jacob_Frey – Official mayoral and personal handles for announcements and engagement |
| Mayor Jacob Frey or campaign page – Regular updates, live sessions, and family-related posts | |
| YouTube | Search “Jacob Frey Minneapolis Mayor” for official city channels, press conferences, interviews, and campaign videos (no personal channel) |
Education and Athletic Career
Frey attended the College of William & Mary, where he earned a degree in government while competing in track. He later pursued law at the Villanova University School of Law, graduating with honors. During this time, he balanced academics with professional running and even represented Team USA, finishing fourth in the marathon at the Pan American Games 2007.
Move to Minneapolis
Frey’s connection with Minneapolis began through the Twin Cities Marathon. Drawn to the city’s energy and welcoming community, he made a life-changing decision to move there shortly after completing law school around 2008–2009.
Early Career and Community Work
Before entering politics, Frey worked as a civil rights and employment attorney, including roles at Faegre Drinker and Halunen Law. Beyond his legal work, he was deeply involved in community initiatives, including organizing events that supported equality and helping raise funds to oppose discriminatory legislation.
Political Career and Rise to Mayor
Frey entered politics in 2013, winning a seat on the Minneapolis City Council. Serving from 2014 to 2018, he built a reputation for being energetic, responsive, and focused on housing, small businesses, and neighborhood growth.
In 2017, he was elected as the 48th mayor of Minneapolis and took office in 2018. He has since been re-elected twice, securing a third term in 2025. His tenure has involved tackling major challenges such as public safety reform, affordable housing, and economic development.
Leadership Style and Achievements
Known for his pragmatic and hands-on approach, Frey combines policy knowledge with accessibility. His administration has focused on expanding early childhood programs, supporting local businesses, and encouraging residential development. His athletic background is often reflected in his disciplined, high-energy work ethic.
Height and Physical Presence
Jacob Frey stands approximately 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) tall. His lean, athletic build—shaped by years of marathon running—adds to his confident yet approachable presence in public life.
Family Life
Frey was previously married to long-distance runner Michelle Lilienthal, with the marriage ending in 2014.
In 2016, he married Sarah Clarke. Together, they have two daughters: Frida (born in 2020) and Estelle (born in 2025). Frey often shares how fatherhood has influenced his priorities, especially around education and building a safer city for future generations.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
As of 2026, Frey’s estimated net worth ranges between $1 million and $3 million. His income primarily comes from his mayoral salary and previous legal career. Despite his public role, he maintains a modest and grounded lifestyle, focusing on family, community engagement, and staying active.
Social Media Presence
Frey actively connects with residents through social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter). His content blends official updates with personal moments, making his leadership style feel more relatable and transparent.
Legacy and Current Role
As a three-term mayor, Jacob Frey remains a prominent figure in American city leadership. His journey—from a runner in Virginia to leading Minneapolis—reflects determination, adaptability, and public service.
While opinions on his policies vary, his continued focus remains on building a stronger, safer, and more inclusive Minneapolis—approaching leadership much like a marathon: with endurance, consistency, and long-term vision.