Martin Garrix Reveals His Social Class: The Millionaire DJ Who Still Calls Himself “Middle Class”

In a world where fame and fortune often reshape how celebrities perceive themselves, Martin Garrix, one of the most recognized DJs on the planet, has offered a surprisingly humble take on his own identity. Despite headlining major music festivals, topping international charts, and amassing what many estimate to be a multi-million-dollar fortune, Garrix insists he still considers himself part of the middle class. His statement has sparked curiosity and debate across social media, with fans questioning whether modesty or authenticity drives such self-perception.

The DJ Who Redefined Global EDM Success

Garrix, whose real name is Martijn Gerard Garritsen, rose to fame in his teens after the explosive success of his track “Animals,” which became an anthem of the global EDM movement. Since then, he has become a fixture at festivals like Tomorrowland, Ultra Music Festival, and Coachella, commanding massive audiences and collaborating with global icons. His career trajectory is the definition of a modern success story: from a bedroom producer in the Netherlands to performing on the world’s largest stages. Yet, even after achieving what most can only dream of, Garrix’s words suggest that his perception of wealth is deeply personal and far removed from his bank balance.

“I Still See Myself as Middle Class”

When asked about his social standing, Garrix’s response surprised many: he doesn’t see himself as rich, at least not in the traditional sense. While the DJ openly acknowledges the privileges and opportunities that come with his career, he maintains that his mindset and upbringing keep him grounded. Growing up in Amstelveen, a suburb near Amsterdam, Garrix was raised in a stable, middle-income family — one that valued hard work and humility over luxury. That foundation, he says, still defines how he views success today.

His remarks reveal more than modesty. They hint at a cultural and psychological phenomenon often seen among self-made artists: a reluctance to fully identify with wealth, especially when their success originated from passion rather than pursuit of money. For Garrix, fame may have expanded his world, but it hasn’t changed how he identifies himself socially.

The Psychology Behind His Self-Image

Garrix’s statement fits within a larger trend observed among global celebrities — a tension between financial status and emotional belonging. Many stars who come from modest backgrounds struggle to reconcile their newfound wealth with their early identity. Garrix’s insistence on being “middle class” reflects a desire for normalcy in a world that constantly pushes celebrity excess.

Moreover, his lifestyle choices reinforce that notion. While he owns luxury properties and travels via private jets for performances, Garrix often spends time with childhood friends, avoids public scandals, and keeps his personal life remarkably private. His humility, paired with professional discipline, has become part of his brand — a contrast to the ostentatious displays typical of high-earning entertainers.

Wealth in the Eyes of the Young Millionaire

To understand Garrix’s statement, it’s worth examining what “middle class” means in today’s context. Economically, the term typically refers to individuals with stable income, moderate comfort, and financial security — not necessarily those who possess millions. Yet, for Garrix, being middle class seems to represent more than a number. It reflects a mindset: grounded, hard-working, and unpretentious.

His approach challenges the perception that success must distance one from one’s roots. Even after performing in front of hundreds of thousands of fans and collaborating with superstars like Dua Lipa, Usher, and Khalid, Garrix often reminds interviewers that he still feels connected to the same values he grew up with. To him, money may have changed the opportunities he has — but not who he is.

Fans React: Humble or Detached from Reality?

Unsurprisingly, Garrix’s statement ignited a storm of reactions online. Some praised his humility, saying it’s refreshing to see a world-famous DJ remain down-to-earth despite his fame. Others, however, questioned whether it’s disingenuous for someone worth millions to call themselves “middle class.” Critics argue that such claims reflect a form of “rich person modesty” — an attempt to appear relatable while enjoying the privileges of the elite.

This divide exposes the blurred lines between perception and privilege. Garrix’s net worth, frequently reported to be in the tens of millions, places him among the wealthiest DJs in the world. Yet, in an industry where extravagant lifestyles are the norm, his quieter form of success — focused on creativity, not consumption — sets him apart.

Success Beyond Wealth: The Garrix Philosophy

Garrix has long emphasized that his motivation has never been driven by money. His passion for music began at age eight when he first picked up a guitar. Later, inspired by Tiësto’s performance at the 2004 Olympic Games, he discovered electronic music — a spark that led him to produce beats from his bedroom. That sense of purpose and passion, rather than profit, seems to define his outlook.

He’s also known for investing heavily in his craft rather than indulgence. Garrix founded his own label, STMPD RCRDS, in 2016 to promote creative freedom and give young producers a platform — a move that reflects his belief in building community over personal gain. When asked about fame and fortune, he often downplays the glamour, describing the touring lifestyle as exhausting and emphasizing balance and authenticity over wealth accumulation.

The Contrast with the DJ World

In the EDM world, where image and luxury often overshadow artistry, Garrix stands out. Many top DJs flaunt designer fashion, sports cars, and opulent mansions, projecting an image of constant celebration. Garrix, by contrast, maintains a polished but understated public persona. He avoids controversy, prioritizes music over media spectacle, and rarely comments on his personal wealth. His self-perception as middle class might therefore be his way of rejecting the excess-driven narrative that dominates his industry.

Redefining Richness: What It Means to Martin Garrix

Perhaps what Garrix truly means when calling himself “middle class” is that wealth does not define worth. In interviews, he has often spoken about finding happiness in creativity, friends, and family rather than material possessions. He credits his team and upbringing for keeping him grounded, acknowledging that fame can easily distort one’s sense of self. His view aligns with a broader generational shift among younger artists who value mental well-being, authenticity, and purpose over status symbols.

In many ways, Garrix’s attitude redefines what success looks like in modern celebrity culture. While he undoubtedly belongs to the financial elite, his identification with the middle class underscores a philosophy of humility and self-awareness. It’s a message that resonates with fans who crave genuine personalities in an industry often accused of superficiality.

A Modern Paradox of Fame and Modesty

Martin Garrix’s assertion that he’s “middle class” despite global stardom raises questions about how we measure success and identity. Is wealth purely about money, or does it include mindset, values, and lifestyle? His self-description reveals not ignorance but a refusal to let fame redefine him. Whether seen as humble or naïve, Garrix’s stance sparks meaningful reflection in a culture obsessed with financial hierarchy.

In the end, his story reminds us that authenticity can be the rarest luxury of all. While many chase prestige and power, Garrix continues to chase passion and simplicity — a millionaire DJ who still sees himself as the same boy who started making beats in his bedroom. And perhaps, in that contradiction, lies the secret to his enduring appeal.