YouTube has become a platform for many content creators to earn a substantial income. With millions of views on popular channels, it is natural to wonder how much money a YouTuber can make per view in 2018. While the earnings may vary significantly depending on several factors, including the content category and audience engagement, let’s explore some key aspects that contribute to a YouTuber’s earnings.
1. Ad Revenue
YouTube monetizes videos through advertisements, and YouTubers earn a share of the ad revenue generated by their content. The exact amount can vary, but it typically ranges from $0.25 to $4 per thousand views, with an average of around $1.50 per thousand views.
To maximize earnings, YouTubers often aim to produce high-quality, engaging content that attracts advertisers and encourages viewers to watch ads.
2. Video Length
The length of a video plays a role in determining how much money a YouTuber makes per view. Longer videos generally have more ads, resulting in increased potential earnings. However, excessively long videos may reduce viewer retention and, ultimately, ad revenue.
YouTubers need to strike a balance between video length and audience engagement to optimize their earnings.
3. Audience Demographics
The demographics of a YouTuber’s audience can impact their earnings. Advertisers often pay more to target specific demographics, such as viewers in a particular age group, location, or interest niche. YouTubers with a highly targeted audience may earn more per view compared to those with a broader or less specific audience.
It is crucial for YouTubers to understand their audience demographics to attract relevant advertisers and increase their earnings.
4. CPM (Cost per Mille)
CPM represents the cost advertisers pay per 1,000 views of an ad. Depending on the advertiser’s bid, the industry, and the target audience, the CPM can vary significantly.
YouTubers whose content aligns with advertisers willing to pay a higher CPM can earn more money per view compared to those targeting advertisers with lower CPM bids.
5. Channel Size and Reach
The size and reach of a channel can influence the earnings per view. Established channels with millions of subscribers and a loyal fan base often attract more advertisers and command higher advertising rates.
Newer or smaller channels may need to focus on building their subscriber base and increasing their reach to unlock higher earning potential.
6. Sponsored Content and Brand Deals
Beyond ad revenue, YouTubers can also earn money through sponsored content and brand deals. These collaborations involve promoting products or services, and the earnings per view can vary significantly depending on the terms of the agreement between the YouTuber and the brand.
While sponsored content can be lucrative, YouTubers need to ensure transparency and maintain the trust of their audience when engaging in such partnerships.
7. Promotions and Merchandise Sales
Many YouTubers have expanded their income streams by promoting merchandise related to their channels. This can include clothing, accessories, digital products, or even live events.
While the earnings per view are not directly tied to merchandise sales, it provides an additional revenue source that can enhance a YouTuber’s overall earnings.
8. Content Copyright and Licensing
YouTubers who create original content may license it for distribution on other platforms or through other media channels. This can include streaming services, television broadcasts, or even movies.
Licensing agreements can provide substantial upfront payments or ongoing royalties, offering an alternative source of revenue that expands beyond the earnings per YouTube view.
9. Seasonality and Trends
Seasonality and current trends can impact a YouTuber’s earnings per view. Advertisers frequently adjust their spending based on seasonal factors and popular trends.
YouTubers who align their content with these trends or adjust their strategies accordingly may experience fluctuations in their earnings per view throughout the year.
10. Engagement and Viewer Interaction
The level of engagement and interaction between a YouTuber and their audience can affect their earnings per view. Higher engagement metrics, such as likes, comments, and shares, demonstrate an active and dedicated audience.
Advertisers often seek channels with engaged viewers, leading to increased advertising rates and higher earnings per view for YouTubers who foster a strong community.
11. Ad Blockers and Ad-skipping
The use of ad blockers or ad-skipping capabilities can reduce the number of ads viewed and impact a YouTuber’s earnings. While ad blockers are widespread, some content creators may implement strategies to minimize their impact and maximize ad revenue.
YouTubers can encourage viewers to support them by disabling ad blockers or actively promote ad engagement within their content.
12. Competition and Market Saturation
The level of competition and market saturation within a specific content niche can affect the earnings per view. Highly saturated markets can lead to lower advertising rates, making it challenging for YouTubers to earn significant amounts per view.
YouTubers may need to differentiate their content or explore niche markets to increase their earnings potential.
13. Monetization Eligibility
Not all YouTubers are eligible to monetize their content. YouTube’s Partner Program sets specific requirements, including a minimum number of subscribers and watch hours within the past year.
To earn money per view, YouTubers must meet these eligibility criteria and maintain compliance with YouTube’s policies and guidelines.
14. Geographic Location and Ad Market
The geographic location of a YouTuber and the corresponding ad market can impact earnings per view. Advertisers often allocate their budgets differently based on regional factors, such as population, spending power, or cultural preferences.
YouTubers with a global audience and strong viewership from countries with high ad rates may have higher earnings per view compared to those targeting regions with lower ad rates.
15. Strategic Partnerships and Multi-channel Networks (MCNs)
Joining an MCN or forming strategic partnerships can provide YouTubers with additional resources, opportunities, and higher advertising rates.
MCNs often negotiate deals and secure brand partnerships on behalf of their creators, allowing for increased earnings per view and access to exclusive opportunities.
In conclusion, the earnings per view for YouTubers in 2018 can vary significantly based on ad revenue, video length, audience demographics, CPM, channel size and reach, sponsored content, merchandise sales, licensing, seasonality, engagement, ad blockers, competition, monetization eligibility, geographic location, and strategic partnerships. It’s essential for YouTubers to understand these aspects and adapt their strategies to maximize their earning potential in this dynamic and highly competitive industry.
References:
1. Forbes: How Much Money Does a YouTuber Make Per View (Basic Explained) – URL
2. Tubefilter: How Much Money Do YouTubers Make Per View? – URL
3. YouTube: Partner Program Overview – URL
About the Author:
John Smith is a digital marketing professional with expertise in YouTube and social media platforms. He helps content creators thrive in the digital landscape, providing strategic guidance and actionable insights. With a passion for photography, he captures original images to complement his articles.
Image Credit: John Smith
