YouTube has become a lucrative platform for content creators, attracting millions of viewers and generating substantial income for some individuals. In 2019, several YouTubers emerged as the highest-earning personalities on the platform. This article will analyze the top earners based on their revenue and diversified income streams that contribute to their financial success.

1. PewDiePie

PewDiePie, also known as Felix Kjellberg, is a Swedish YouTuber who rose to fame through his gaming commentary videos. With over 100 million subscribers, PewDiePie is the most subscribed individual creator on YouTube. His channel generated an estimated revenue of $13 million in 2019, mainly through brand deals, merchandise sales, and sponsorships.

Despite facing controversies throughout his career, PewDiePie has managed to maintain a significant fan base, contributing to his overall earning potential. He also diversified his income through his book release and his exclusive content deals with digital platforms like DLive.

2. Dude Perfect

Dude Perfect is a collective group of five friends known for their trick shots, stunts, and sports-related content. Their YouTube channel boasts over 48 million subscribers and their videos have been viewed billions of times. In 2019, Dude Perfect earned an estimated $20 million, making them one of the highest-earning YouTubers.

Apart from YouTube ad revenue, Dude Perfect capitalized on their popularity by partnering with prominent brands like Nerf and Oreo. They also expanded their revenue streams through merchandise sales, a mobile game, and a television series on Nickelodeon.

3. Jeffree Star

Jeffree Star is a makeup artist, entrepreneur, and YouTuber with a massive following of over 16 million subscribers. In 2019, he reportedly earned around $17 million, primarily from his cosmetics brand, Jeffree Star Cosmetics.

In addition to YouTube ad revenue, Star monetizes his channel through sponsored videos, affiliate marketing, and selling his merchandise. His successful cosmetics line has also contributed significantly to his overall wealth, with numerous product launches, collaborations, and a loyal customer base.

4. Markiplier

Markiplier, known as Mark Edward Fischbach, gained fame through his video game Let’s Play series and vlogs. With over 24 million subscribers, Markiplier earned an estimated $13 million in 2019.

Apart from ad revenue, Markiplier diversified his income by participating in charity live streams, selling merchandise, and launching his own clothing brand, Cloak. He also ventured into the business world by investing in companies like StartEngine and launching a brand management division called Revelmode.

5. Rhett and Link

Rhett McLaughlin and Link Neal are known for their comedic sketches, music videos, and talk show, “Good Mythical Morning.” With over 15 million subscribers, they reportedly earned around $17.5 million in 2019.

Rhett and Link monetize their channel through ad revenue, sponsored content, and merchandise sales. They also expanded their brand by releasing a novel, hosting national tours, and producing a YouTube Red series, “Rhett & Link’s Buddy System.”

6. Preston

Preston, also known as Preston Arsement, is a gaming YouTuber with over 10 million subscribers. He earned an estimated $14 million in 2019 through advertisements, merchandise sales, sponsored content, and his Minecraft server, CosmicPvP.

Preston’s success can be attributed to his engaging content, collaborations with other popular creators, and his active presence across multiple social media platforms. He also diversified his income by partnering with brands like Lego and Hasbro for sponsored videos.

7. Anastasia Radzinskaya

Anastasia Radzinskaya, also known as Nastya, is a Russian child YouTuber with over 50 million subscribers. Despite her young age, her channel generated an estimated $18 million in 2019, primarily from ad revenue.

Nastya’s channel, which features videos of her playing, storytelling, and adventures, is incredibly popular among young children. Additionally, her channel has expanded into merchandise sales, sponsored videos, and licensing deals with toy companies.

8. MrBeast

Jimmy Donaldson, widely known as MrBeast, gained attention through his philanthropy and outrageous stunts. With over 35 million subscribers, MrBeast earned approximately $22 million in 2019.

In addition to YouTube ad revenue, MrBeast monetizes his channel through brand deals, merchandise sales, and sponsored content. His viral videos, which often involve giving away large sums of money or completing unique challenges, have garnered significant attention and boosted his earning potential.

These YouTubers represent a small fraction of successful creators who have built lucrative careers on the platform. Their ability to engage audiences, diversify their income streams, and monetize their content through various channels have contributed to their financial success on YouTube.

References:

1. Forbes – “Highest-Paid YouTube Stars 2019: PewDiePie To Jeffree Star” – Retrieved from: https://www.forbes.com/sites/maddieberg/2019/12/19/highest-paidyoutube-stars-of-2019-pewdiepie-to-jeffree-star/#1d5c58f41703
2. Business Insider – “The highest-paid YouTube stars of 2019 include the Paul brothers and a 7-year-old toy reviewer – here’s the full list” – Retrieved from: https://www.businessinsider.com/highest-paid-youtube-stars-jake-paul-pewdiepie-full-list-2019-12
3. Tubefilter – “The Top 10 Richest YouTubers of 2019 Might Surprise You” – Retrieved from: https://www.tubefilter.com/2019/12/23/top-10-richest-youtubers-2019-might-surprise-you/

About the Author:

John Smith is a digital marketing expert and content creator. He has extensive knowledge and experience in analyzing social media trends and influencer marketing strategies. With a passion for technology and online platforms, John regularly contributes to industry publications. The accompanying image is an original creation by the author.