Check Out the Top 10 Highest-Paid YouTube Stars- See Who’s Earning Millions and Why

In today’s digital-first world, YouTube creators are no longer just online entertainers—they're global influencers, brand powerhouses, and millionaires in their own right. Gone are the days when traditional celebrities like actors, singers, and athletes dominated the earnings charts. Now, content creators with millions of subscribers and billions of views are raking in earnings that rival, and in some cases surpass, those of Hollywood A-listers.

According to a Forbes report, the top 10 highest-earning YouTubers in 2021 collectively earned an astonishing $300 million, marking a staggering 40% increase from the previous year. This surge highlights not just their growing popularity but also the increasing value brands place on digital platforms for advertising and influence. These creators make money not just from YouTube’s ad revenue, but also through brand sponsorships, merchandise lines, exclusive content deals, and even launching their own companies.

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Here’s a List of the Highest-Paid YouTubers

The list will cover the names of the top 10 YouTube stars, according to Forbes, who are making money in millions from just one video and content.

1. MrBeast 

Jimmy Donaldson, who is commonly known as MrBeast, has topped the list with a huge earning of around $54 million. He is known for his extreme stunts and jaw-dropping giveaways, his videos got over 10 billion views in 2021. His most well-known videos include spending 50 hours buried alive and hosting a real-life Squid Game. He has also launched MrBeast Burger, a virtual restaurant chain that has sold over 5 million sandwiches.

2. Jake Paul 

Jake Paul has also made a massive comeback thanks to boxing, which is responsible for nearly 90% of his income. In 2021, he also won three high-profile matches against MMA fighters Ben Askren and Tyron Woodley. Despite past controversies, Jake has rebranded himself through the sport while using YouTube mainly to market his bouts.

3. Markiplier 

Markiplier, aka Mark Fischback, has earned around $38 million, which is just double of his previous earnings through a mix of merchandise and multimedia ventures. His Unus Annus merch line got him huge sales, and he’s now aiming for TV with a show based on his podcast The Edge of Sleep.

4. Rhett and Link 

The comedic duo behind Good Mythical Morning expanded their brand to $30 million with spinoffs like Mythical Kitchen and launched the Mythical Accelerator Fund to invest in emerging creators.

5. Unspeakable 

With a worth around $28.5 million, Minecraft content creator Nathan Graham, aka Unspeakable, has debuted on the list after selling his video catalog to Spotter, a company that acquires YouTube rights for upfront cash. 

6. Nastya 

Seven-year-old Nastya had gained around $28 million with a massive 87.5 million subscriber base with kid-friendly content. Alongside a Spotter deal, she diversified into merchandise and NFTs, all while posting videos of everyday activities like decorating cupcakes or playing with friends.

7. Ryan Kaji 

Once the highest-paid YouTuber, Ryan has now slipped to No. 7 with earnings around $27 million but still earned big through Ryan’s World. Now 10, Ryan's brand is shifting from toy reviews to animated characters like Red Titan, who has become a Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade balloon. His merchandise remains a major revenue source.

8. Dude Perfect

The sports-comedy crew is known for insane stunts and trick shots and is earning around $20 million. In 2021, they kept fans engaged with a live tour across 24 cities and released their book 101 Tricks, Tips, and Cool Stuff. Their five-man team continues to blend athleticism and entertainment.

9. Logan Paul

Logan Paul, who is earning $18 million, has re-entered the rankings through boxing and NFTs. His exhibition fight with Floyd Mayweather brought massive attention, and his podcast Impaulsive hit 100 million views. Despite past scandals, Logan is redefining his career beyond traditional YouTube content.

10. Preston Arsement

Known for Minecraft gameplay on his PrestonPlayz channel, Arsement attracted nearly 12 million subscribers by staying on trend, like creating a playable Minecraft version of Squid Game. With multiple YouTube channels, he continues to grow his digital empire.

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Conclusion

Together, these top earners reflect a major shift in the entertainment world. With a collective income of $300 million, they show that YouTube creators are no longer just internet personalities; they’re global entertainers rivaling the likes of Billie Eilish, BTS, and Kim Kardashian.