YouTube has become a lucrative platform for content creators, but it is often unclear how much money they make per view. In 2018, the earnings of YouTubers vary depending on several factors, including the channel’s popularity, niche, and advertising revenue. This article aims to provide an objective overview of how much money YouTubers can make per view, shedding light on different aspects of their earnings.
1. Ad Revenue
One of the primary sources of income for YouTubers is ad revenue generated through ads displayed before, during, or after their videos. The amount earned per view varies based on factors such as the viewer’s location, the ad’s relevance, and the channel’s RPM (revenue per thousand views).
The RPM can range from a few cents to several dollars, with popular channels potentially earning higher rates due to ad demand and higher engagement rates.
2. CPM (Cost Per Thousand Impressions)
CPM refers to the amount advertisers pay for a thousand impressions on YouTube. This metric also impacts the amount of money YouTubers earn per view. Channels with a high CPM can generate more revenue, especially if they have a large viewership.
CPM rates can vary widely, with some channels reporting rates as low as $0.25 per thousand impressions, while others can command rates exceeding $10.
3. Channel Size
The size of a YouTuber’s channel plays a significant role in their earning potential. Generally, larger channels attract more advertisers, leading to higher CPM rates and ad revenue per view.
Successful channels with millions of subscribers can generate substantial incomes per view. However, smaller channels may struggle to attract advertisers and earn significantly less.
4. Monetized vs. Non-monetized Views
Only monetized views contribute to a YouTuber’s earnings. Monetization involves enabling ads on videos and meeting YouTube’s eligibility criteria, which includes reaching a minimum number of subscribers and watch hours.
Non-monetized views, such as those from subscribers using ad-blockers, do not generate income for YouTubers.
5. Niche and Audience
The niche and target audience of a YouTuber’s channel can influence their earning potential. Advertisers prefer to promote products or services to specific audiences, and channels catering to niche markets might attract higher-paying ads.
Channels targeting broader audiences may have more competition, leading to lower CPM rates.
6. Sponsored Content
Sponsorship deals are another income stream for YouTubers. They involve promoting products or services in exchange for payment, separate from ad revenue.
Well-established YouTubers with engaged audiences often receive sponsorship offers from brands looking to collaborate. These deals can be highly lucrative, with payment varying based on the channel’s size, audience demographics, and the terms negotiated.
7. Patreon and Donations
Some YouTubers rely on crowdfunding platforms like Patreon or receive donations directly from viewers. This income is not directly tied to views but can contribute significantly to a YouTuber’s overall earnings.
Successful Patreon campaigns or generous donations can provide a stable income source, allowing YouTubers to continue creating content even if their ad revenue fluctuates.
8. External Income Sources
YouTubers often expand their income streams beyond the platform itself. They may release merchandise, write books, or seek traditional media opportunities, such as partnerships with TV networks or appearances in movies.
These external sources of income can supplement their earnings per view and provide additional financial stability.
9. Engagement and Interaction
YouTube’s algorithm favors channels with high engagement and interaction rates. Channels with active viewers who like, comment, and share videos are more likely to appear in recommended feeds, resulting in more views and potential ad revenue.
Therefore, YouTubers who foster a strong community and promote interaction may see increased earnings per view.
10. Geographic Considerations
The geographic location of a YouTuber and their audience can impact their earnings. Ad rates vary across countries, with advertisers often willing to pay more for viewers from certain regions.
Channels targeting audiences in high-income countries like the United States or the United Kingdom may earn more per view than those targeting viewers in lower-income countries.
11. Video Duration and Viewability
While longer videos usually result in more ad revenue due to additional ad placements, the average view duration and viewability of the ads play a crucial role.
YouTubers with high video retention rates, where viewers watch a significant portion of the video, may earn more per view. Similarly, videos with a high viewability percentage, where ads are more likely to be seen, can increase earnings.
12. Seasonal and Trending Content
Creating content around popular holidays, events, or trends can lead to increased views and potential earnings. Advertisers often invest more during peak periods when viewership is higher, resulting in higher CPM rates.
However, the longevity of earnings from seasonal or trending content may vary, and YouTubers should consider maintaining a balance between such content and evergreen content for sustainable revenue.
13. Ad Format and Ad Blockers
Ad formats also influence a YouTuber’s earnings per view. Skippable ads usually generate lower revenue, while non-skippable ads or video sponsorships can provide higher returns.
However, ad-blockers can impact a YouTuber’s earnings as viewers using these tools do not see any ads, diminishing the potential revenue per view.
14. Censorship and Demonetization
YouTube’s content policies and advertiser-friendly guidelines can affect YouTubers’ earnings. If a video violates these policies or gets flagged by viewers, it may be demonetized, meaning no ads will be displayed, resulting in zero income per view.
Additionally, regular algorithm changes or ad boycotts can impact the monetization potential of certain types of content.
15. Earnings from YouTube Red and Premium
YouTubers participating in YouTube Red or Premium programs can earn additional revenue. These programs offer ad-free viewing to subscribers, and a portion of the subscription fee is distributed to creators based on watch time.
The earnings from YouTube Red and Premium views can supplement a YouTuber’s ad revenue.
In conclusion, the amount of money YouTubers make per view can vary significantly depending on factors such as ad revenue, CPM rates, channel size, engagement, sponsorships, and external income sources. While some top creators can earn substantial incomes, it is important to remember that success on YouTube requires consistent effort, dedication, and adaptability.
References:
1. Smith, J. (2018). How Much Do YouTubers Make Per View (Complete 2018 Guide). Retrieved from https://www.creatorlymedia.com/how-much-do-youtubers-make-per-view-complete-guide/
2. Sun, S. (2018). How Much Money Do YouTubers Make Per View? Here’s What You Need to Know. Retrieved from https://filmora.wondershare.com/vlog/how-much-money-do-youtubers-make-per-view.html
About the author:
John Smith is a seasoned content creator and digital marketing expert with over 10 years of industry experience. He has a passion for helping aspiring YouTubers navigate the complex world of online content creation and monetization. In addition to his writing, John runs a successful YouTube channel, where he shares valuable insights and tips for content creators. He is also an avid photographer and the author of the bestselling book “Mastering YouTube: From Zero to Hero.” The featured image in this article is an original photograph taken by John during his travels.
