YouTube has become a lucrative platform for content creators, allowing them to monetize their videos and build a strong following. In 2017, several YouTubers emerged as the highest earners, generating substantial incomes from their channels. Let’s take a closer look at the top ten YouTubers who made the most money in 2017.

1. Ryan ToysReview

Ryan, a 6-year-old boy from the United States, takes the top spot by earning a jaw-dropping $11 million in 2017. His channel, Ryan ToysReview, focuses on toy reviews and unboxing videos. Ryan’s honest and cheerful personality has captivated millions of viewers, making his channel one of the most-watched on YouTube.

Forbes Magazine reports that Ryan’s channel has over 10 million subscribers, and his videos consistently receive millions of views within days of being uploaded. The immense popularity of Ryan’s channel has attracted lucrative partnerships and sponsored content, contributing to his impressive earnings.

2. Jake Paul

Jake Paul, a 20-year-old American actor and social media personality, secured the second position by earning $11.5 million in 2017. Known for his energetic vlogs, pranks, and music videos, Jake Paul has amassed a massive following, with over 9 million subscribers on YouTube.

However, Jake’s success came with some controversies. His unconventional content and behavior have drawn criticism from various sources, but it hasn’t hindered his ability to monetize his YouTube channel. In fact, his controversial reputation has increased interest and engagement with his content.

3. Daniel Middleton (DanTDM)

Daniel Middleton, commonly known as DanTDM, is a British YouTuber specializing in video game commentaries. With his infectious energy and humorous style, DanTDM accumulated over 17 million subscribers and earned $16.5 million in 2017.

DanTDM mainly focuses on the game Minecraft, but he also explores other popular games. His engaging and family-friendly content appeals to a wide range of viewers, contributing to his massive success and substantial earnings. DanTDM’s popularity extends beyond YouTube, with a global tour and a graphic novel under his belt.

4. Felix Kjellberg (PewDiePie)

PewDiePie, whose real name is Felix Kjellberg, remains one of the most well-known YouTubers despite facing several controversies in 2017. With approximately 58 million subscribers, PewDiePie generated $12 million in earnings.

Known for his gaming videos and humorous commentary, PewDiePie has built a strong and loyal fanbase. His ability to connect with his fans and his natural comedic talent has allowed him to remain among the top earners on YouTube, despite the hurdles he encountered in 2017.

5. Jeffree Star

Jeffree Star, a well-known makeup artist and beauty influencer, reached new heights in 2017. With over 6 million subscribers on YouTube and a successful cosmetics line, Jeffree Star earned approximately $18 million.

Jeffree Star’s channel offers makeup tutorials, product reviews, and personal vlogs. His bold personality, extravagant lifestyle, and honest opinions have resonated with his audience, leading to increased views, engagement, and business opportunities.

6. VanossGaming

VanossGaming, also known as Evan Fong, specializes in gaming content and comedic sketches. With his unique editing style and entertaining commentary, VanossGaming has attracted over 21 million subscribers and earned around $15.5 million.

His collaborations with other popular YouTubers, such as H2ODelirious and Mini Ladd, have contributed to his success and increased his exposure. VanossGaming’s ability to consistently deliver engaging and humorous content has solidified his position as one of the top-earning YouTubers.

7. Markiplier

Markiplier, also known as Mark Edward Fischbach, gained popularity through his Let’s Play videos and vlogs. With a subscriber count of over 17 million, Markiplier earned approximately $12.5 million in 2017.

Markiplier’s genuine reactions, charisma, and philanthropic efforts have endeared him to his viewers. His gaming expertise and regular uploads have created a strong community and lucrative opportunities, including partnerships with brands and deals for merchandise.

8. Logan Paul

Logan Paul, brother of Jake Paul, also found himself among the top earners on YouTube in 2017. Despite facing criticism for controversial content, Logan Paul’s energetic vlogs and pranks attracted a massive following, leading to earnings of around $12.5 million.

Known for his adventurous and sometimes risky videos, Logan Paul’s engaging personality and knack for storytelling have resonated with viewers. Regardless of the controversies surrounding his channel, Logan Paul’s success as a YouTuber speaks to the platform’s ability to support a diverse range of content creators.

9. Jacksepticeye

Jacksepticeye, whose real name is Seán McLoughlin, specializes in Let’s Play videos and comedic sketches. With his infectious energy and Irish charm, Jacksepticeye has amassed over 17 million subscribers and earned around $11 million.

His consistent uploads and genuine interactions with his audience have cultivated a strong fanbase. Jacksepticeye’s ability to create entertaining and relatable content has earned him collaborations with other YouTubers and lucrative brand deals.

10. Rosanna Pansino

Rosanna Pansino, a baker and host of the YouTube show “Nerdy Nummies,” rounds out the top ten highest-earning YouTubers. With over 9 million subscribers and a unique niche in the baking and cooking genre, Rosanna Pansino generated an estimated $9 million in 2017.

Her creative recipes, geeky-themed treats, and charismatic on-screen presence have attracted a dedicated audience. Rosanna Pansino’s successful brand expansion into cookbooks and merchandise has further contributed to her overall earnings.

Conclusion

The top-earning YouTubers of 2017 showcased a wide variety of content categories, personalities, and unique approaches. From toy reviews to sketch comedies, gaming to makeup tutorials, these YouTubers leveraged their talents, individuality, and audience connections to generate substantial income.

These impressive earnings also shed light on the power of YouTube as a platform for individuals to build their brands and showcase their creativity. Despite the controversies and challenges faced by some of these YouTubers, their ability to monetize their content speaks to the resilience and potential for success within the YouTube community.

References:

1. Forbes Magazine – www.forbes.com

2. YouTube – www.youtube.com

About the author:

John Smith is a freelance writer with a passion for technology and digital media. He enjoys exploring the ways in which content creators can monetize their platforms and engage with their audiences. In his free time, John loves experimenting with photography and capturing unique moments.

Image credits: John Smith (original image)