Making money on YouTube in 2017 isn’t as straightforward as many people think, but understanding the payment structure can help set realistic expectations for content creators.
The Basic YouTube Payment Structure
YouTube typically pays content creators through their AdSense program, with rates ranging from $0.10 to $0.30 per view, though this can vary significantly based on several factors. On average, creators earn around $3-5 per 1,000 video views (CPM), but remember – this is before YouTube takes its 45% cut.
Factors That Affect YouTube Earnings
Audience Location
Views from countries like the United States, UK, and Canada typically generate more revenue than views from developing nations. This is because advertisers pay more to reach audiences in these markets.
Video Topic and Niche
Finance, business, and technology videos often earn more per view than entertainment or gaming content. Why? Advertisers are willing to pay premium rates to reach viewers interested in high-value topics.
Viewer Engagement
It’s not just about views – watch time and engagement matter tremendously. Videos that keep viewers watching longer tend to earn more through YouTube’s algorithm.
Real Numbers From 2017
Let me break this down with a practical example. A channel with 100,000 views per month might earn anywhere from $300 to $2,500, depending on these factors. I’ve seen creators with similar subscriber counts earning vastly different amounts based on their content strategy and audience engagement.
Additional Revenue Streams
Smart YouTubers in 2017 aren’t relying solely on ad revenue. They’re diversifying with:
– Sponsored content
– Merchandise sales
– Patreon supporters
– Affiliate marketing
– Brand deals
Monetization Requirements
Remember, to start earning in 2017, channels need:
– 10,000 lifetime views
– Adherence to YouTube’s community guidelines
– Original content that’s advertiser-friendly
The Reality Check
Here’s something many don’t talk about – only about 3% of YouTubers in 2017 make enough to consider it a full-time income. The key is to approach it as a long-term investment rather than a get-rich-quick scheme.
Think of YouTube like a business – it takes time to build an audience and optimize your content for maximum revenue. I’ve seen creators start with barely any earnings and grow to making substantial income by consistently delivering value to their audience and adapting to platform changes.
The most successful YouTubers in 2017 are those who focus on building a community first and monetization second. They’re creating content they’re passionate about while staying informed about industry trends and advertising rates to maximize their earning potential.
