YouTube is one of the most popular platforms for content creators to share their videos and reach a large audience. However, many people wonder how much money YouTube makes from these creators. In this article, we will explore the various revenue streams and factors that contribute to YouTube’s earnings from YouTubers.

Ad Revenue
One of the main ways YouTube generates income is through advertising revenue. YouTube displays ads before, during, or after videos and shares a portion of that revenue with YouTubers. The exact amount a YouTuber earns per ad view depends on factors such as the viewer’s location, the ad format, and the targeting options chosen by advertisers. Typically, YouTubers receive around 55% of the ad revenue, while YouTube keeps the remaining 45%.
YouTube Premium subscriptions also contribute to ad revenue. Subscribers pay a monthly fee to access ad-free content, and YouTube shares a portion of that revenue with YouTubers based on watch time.
Channel Memberships
Another source of income for YouTubers is channel memberships. This feature allows viewers to become members of a YouTuber’s channel for a monthly fee, gaining access to exclusive perks like badges, emojis, and members-only live chats. YouTube takes a percentage of the membership fee, while the rest goes to the YouTuber. The exact percentage depends on the YouTuber’s agreement with YouTube.
Merchandise Sales
Many YouTubers capitalize on their popularity by selling merchandise, such as t-shirts, hats, and other branded items. YouTube provides a platform called the Merch Shelf, where creators can showcase their products below their videos. The revenue generated from merchandise sales goes directly to the respective YouTuber, with YouTube not taking a cut.
Sponsorships and Brand Deals
YouTubers often partner with brands for sponsorships and brand deals. These collaborations can involve promoting products or services in their videos or creating dedicated content sponsored by a brand. The income generated from sponsorships and brand deals varies widely, depending on factors such as the YouTuber’s audience size, engagement rate, and negotiation skills.
YouTube does not directly participate in the revenue generated from sponsorships and brand deals. However, by facilitating the connection between creators and brands, YouTube indirectly benefits from the increased advertising activity.
YouTube Red Originals
YouTube Red, now known as YouTube Premium, offers original content created by YouTubers and professionals. YouTube pays YouTubers upfront for their involvement in these original productions. While the exact terms and amounts are not disclosed publicly, this serves as an additional income stream for many YouTubers.
Super Chat and Super Stickers
YouTubers who livestream their content can receive additional revenue through the Super Chat and Super Stickers features. Viewers can purchase these digital goods to stand out in chat messages or show support during a livestream. YouTube shares a portion of these purchases with the YouTuber.
YouTube Music and Content ID
YouTube Music is a streaming service similar to Spotify or Apple Music, which allows users to listen to music without ads. YouTube pays royalties to music right holders based on the number of streams. YouTubers who create and own music can make money from the usage of their songs on YouTube Music.
Content ID is a digital fingerprinting system that allows copyright owners to identify and manage their content on YouTube. Content ID can be used by YouTubers who own copyrighted music or videos to monetize the usage of their content by others.
YouTube Premium Revenue Sharing
YouTube shares a portion of its revenue generated from YouTube Premium subscriptions with YouTubers based on watch time. This encourages creators to produce high-quality content that attracts and retains YouTube Premium subscribers, benefiting both parties.
YouTube Partner Program Requirements
In order to monetize their content on YouTube, YouTubers need to meet certain requirements and apply to join the YouTube Partner Program (YPP). These requirements include having at least 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours within the past 12 months. Once accepted into the YPP, YouTubers can start earning revenue from ads and other monetization features.
Monetization Policies and Guidelines
YouTube has specific policies and guidelines that YouTubers must adhere to in order to monetize their content. This includes avoiding content that violates copyright laws, containing sexual or violent content, or promoting hate speech. Failure to comply with these policies may result in demonetization or removal of the video.
Risk of Demonetization
Due to the changing landscape of ad policies and the subjective nature of content moderation, YouTubers face the risk of demonetization. YouTube periodically reviews the content of YouTubers to ensure compliance with its policies. If a video is deemed unsuitable for advertising, the YouTuber will not earn revenue from ads displayed on that video.
While demonetization can impact a YouTuber’s earnings, it is important to note that ad revenue is not the sole source of income for many creators. Diversifying revenue streams, such as through sponsorships and merchandise sales, can help mitigate the impact of demonetization.
Conclusion
YouTube generates significant revenue from YouTubers through various channels, including ad revenue, channel memberships, merchandise sales, sponsorships, and YouTube Premium subscriptions. While ad revenue is a significant source of income, YouTubers also rely on other monetization options to maximize their earnings. The exact amount of money YouTube makes off YouTubers varies greatly depending on individual circumstances, but the platform provides opportunities for creators to monetize their content and earn a living.
References:
1. YouTube Advertising Policies: https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/6162278
2. YouTube Help Center: https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/72857
About the Author:
John Smith is a digital marketing expert with several years of experience in the industry. He specializes in helping content creators and businesses optimize their online presence. In his free time, John enjoys creating original illustrations and photography.