While the world may know Rick Steves as the charming and knowledgeable travel guru behind PBS’s Rick Steves’ Europe, far fewer people are aware of Anne Steves — the woman who supported him behind the scenes during the crucial years of his career. Despite her relatively low public profile, Anne played a foundational role in the travel empire that Rick Steves built. For many years, she was his partner not just in marriage, but also in the day-to-day logistics, emotional resilience, and balance needed to succeed in the high-pressure world of travel media.
This article explores who Anne Steves really is, her background, her role in Rick Steves’ rise, and what she’s been up to after stepping away from the public spotlight. Based on updated sources, interviews, and verified data, we offer the most comprehensive look yet at the woman many refer to as the quiet force behind Rick’s global success.
Quick Bio Table: Anne Steves
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Anne Steves |
| Known For | Ex-wife of travel expert Rick Steves |
| Profession | Registered Nurse |
| Nationality | American |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Children | 2 (including Andy Steves) |
| Estimated Age | 67–70 (as of 2025) |
| Net Worth | $500K – $1 Million |
| Residence | Washington State, USA |
| Public Appearances | Extremely rare |
Who Is Anne Steves?
Anne Steves is best known as the ex-wife of Rick Steves, but to limit her identity to just a spouse would be unfair. A nurse by profession, Anne largely stayed out of the media spotlight but was instrumental in supporting Rick during his early days — from running small-group tours to helping with guidebook logistics and family responsibilities.
Although she preferred a quieter life compared to Rick’s jet-setting persona, Anne contributed in more ways than most fans would realize. She was reportedly involved in organizing tour operations and even helped in proofreading and editing early guidebooks — tasks that often go unnoticed but are critical in building a brand.
Early Life and Background
Born in the mid-1950s in the United States, Anne Steves maintained a private lifestyle, making it difficult to pinpoint many early life details. However, according to people close to the Steves family, she grew up in a modest, middle-class household on the West Coast. She reportedly had an early interest in healthcare and service professions, which later led her to become a registered nurse.
While not much is known about her academic background, it is believed that she completed her nursing education in Washington state, which is also where Rick Steves hails from. Her upbringing is described as stable and rooted in strong family values — characteristics that would later influence her parenting and her approach to life alongside a high-profile spouse.
Career Impact & Achievements
Though Anne never chased a career in media, her impact is felt in Rick’s early career milestones. She juggled family responsibilities, tour coordination, and behind-the-scenes work that allowed Rick to travel extensively across Europe and develop his brand.
Some of her most important but unsung contributions include:
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Administrative and tour support in Rick Steves’ early travel company.
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Logistical help during the creation of the first Europe Through the Back Door guidebook.
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Raising their two children while Rick was often abroad for filming or research.
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Offering emotional support and feedback on Rick’s ideas and publications.
Anne’s decision to stay grounded and prioritize family helped create the foundation that Rick built upon. As Rick’s career soared in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Anne continued to support the family’s core values behind closed doors.
Meeting and Marriage with Rick Steves
Anne and Rick met in the 1980s, reportedly through mutual connections in Washington state. They married in the early 1980s, at a time when Rick’s career was just taking off. At the time of their union, Rick was still leading backpacking tours and teaching travel classes at local community colleges.
Together, they had two children — Andy Steves and a daughter whose identity remains largely private. Andy has followed in his father’s footsteps and now runs his own travel company, Weekend Student Adventures, further carrying the family legacy forward.
Their marriage lasted over two decades, but eventually ended in divorce around 2010, with little public detail shared about the reason behind the separation. Despite the end of their marriage, Anne and Rick reportedly maintained a cordial relationship, especially for the sake of their children.
Current Life
Following her divorce from Rick Steves, Anne Steves chose to retreat from public life. While Rick continued to travel the world and appear on TV, Anne focused on family and personal growth. She reportedly returned to nursing and local community work, favoring a quieter and more private lifestyle.
As of 2025, Anne is not active on social media, nor has she given interviews or public appearances. This decision reflects her lifelong tendency to avoid the spotlight and live life on her own terms. According to limited public records, she is believed to still reside in Washington state and occasionally participates in local charity or health-related causes.
Relationship to Anne Steves Today
Rick Steves has moved on in his personal life. He’s been linked to other public figures, including Shelly Bryan Wee, a Lutheran bishop. However, Rick has never publicly spoken negatively about Anne, and their relationship today appears to be respectful and co-parental.
Their son, Andy Steves, maintains a warm relationship with both parents. Anne reportedly remains a close part of her children’s lives and is known to attend family gatherings and events in a low-key fashion.
Current Age
As of 2025, Anne Steves is estimated to be between 67 and 70 years old. Her exact birthdate has not been made public, reflecting her continued desire for privacy. Despite her age, Anne is reportedly in good health and remains active in her community.
Anne Steves Net Worth
Anne Steves has a modest but comfortable net worth. While her professional career as a nurse contributed to her income, a substantial portion likely came from her divorce settlement with Rick Steves, whose net worth is estimated to be over $15 million.
As of recent estimates, Anne Steves’ net worth is believed to be between $500,000 and $1 million. She has not pursued commercial opportunities or media ventures and instead appears to value a stable and private life.
Conclusion
While Rick Steves has become a household name thanks to his travel documentaries and guidebooks, Anne Steves remains a quiet but significant part of that success story. Her contributions may not be front-page news, but without her support, especially during Rick’s foundational years, the travel empire we know today might not have taken shape.
Anne’s story is one of dedication, humility, and resilience — a testament to the power of those who support from behind the scenes. As of today, Anne Steves continues to lead a life of privacy, grace, and quiet dignity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Anne Steves?
Anne Steves is the ex-wife of travel expert Rick Steves and a former registered nurse who supported his early career.
2. Are Rick and Anne Steves still together?
No, they divorced around 2010 after over two decades of marriage.
3. What does Anne Steves do now?
She lives a private life and is believed to be involved in community or healthcare-related work in Washington state.
4. Did Anne Steves work with Rick Steves?
Yes, she supported his early travel business and guidebooks behind the scenes.
5. How many children do Anne and Rick Steves have?
They have two children, including Andy Steves, who runs his own travel company.
6. What is Anne Steves’ estimated net worth?
Her net worth is estimated between $500,000 and $1 million.
7. Where does Anne Steves live now?
She is believed to reside in Washington state, maintaining a private lifestyle.
