The shocking amount of money Meghan Markle and Prince Harry spend on security at Frogmore

Updated

Although Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are seemingly happy to be living in Frogmore Cottage, the move from Kensington Palace took a lot of work and reportedly a lot of money.

The royal couple moved into their new home back in late April, just a few weeks before the birth of their son Archie Harrison. Prior to moving in, however, the couple completely renovated the space and reportedly added a yoga studio, new grand fireplaces, alcove bookcases, state of the art soundproofing and security. The home was previously divided up apartment-style to house royal staffers.

All in all, the total cost of renovations came to nearly $3.06 million, all of which was paid for by British taxpayers, according to the royal family's annual financial report released on Tuesday.

“The property had not been the subject of work for some years and had already been earmarked for renovation in line with our responsibility to maintain the condition of the occupied royal palaces estate,” Michael Stevens, the keeper of the Privy Purse said.

“The building was returned to a single residence and outdated infrastructure was replaced to guarantee the long-term future of the property,” he said. “Substantially all fixtures and fittings were paid for by Their Royal Highnesses.”

Technically, the money actually came from the Sovereign Grant, money the British people pay each year to the queen to fulfill royal duties. This year, the total grant totaled $104.5 million, and while that sounds like a lot, that came down to each taxpayer handing over about $1.58 each.

The grant will also continue to cover security for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, as it does other members of the royal family. The Sussexes have reportedly hired 20 bodyguards from London's Met Police and the Thames Valley force to stand on duty. The guards cost about $952,000 per year in total.

For a comparison, CNN Money reported in 2016 that it cost New York City roughly $1 million per day to protect US President Donald Trump and his family.

The former head of royalty protection, retired Chief Superintendent Dai Davies, told The Daily Mail that "many might question the wisdom of moving out of a perfectly adequately guarded royal residence," in regards to Meghan and Harry leaving Kensington Palace. The couple's royal offices are still located in Kensington Palace, which is also home to Prince William and Kate Middleton.

However, Frogmore Cottage, which is located about 20 miles west of London in Berkshire Country, has been hailed as a more private sanctuary for Meghan and Harry. The couple spent about $317,000 on security inside the property and a little over $25,000 on planting shrubs, trees and outdoor security lights for added privacy, according to another palace source who also spoke with The Daily Mail.

Frogmore Cottage was built in the 18th century for Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III, who was said to use the home as a retreat for her and her unmarried daughters.

However, the home is something special to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as well. Harry and Meghan invited a group of nearly 200 guests for a wedding reception hosted by Prince Charles to the property in May 2018. The home also sits on the grounds of Windsor Castle, where the couple also took their engagement photos.

It's been rumored that we'll get a look inside at the new renovations at Frogmore in the September issue of British Vogue, of which Meghan will be a guest editor.

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