TikTok has revolutionized influencer marketing and created a new generation of internet superstars. Top TikTok creators reach tens of millions of followers with their short, entertaining videos.
But how do these social media sensations actually make money and turn their TikTok fame into a profitable career?
There are a diverse array of income sources fueling the rise of TikTok influencer culture and creators are finding innovative ways to monetize their audience.
Key Takeaways
- Brand sponsorships, TikTok LIVE, merchandise sales and the Creator Fund allow stars to monetize followers.
- Top creators can make millions per year through their various earning methods.
- Building a loyal, engaged audience on TikTok is key before pursuing money-making opportunities.
- Diversification and leveraging fame across platforms helps maximize income long-term.
Cashing in with Brand Deals
One of the biggest ways TikTok stars earn money is through promotional deals and sponsorships with brands.
If a creator builds a large, targeted following in a specific niche, brands will pay big bucks to tap into their influential audience. A single sponsored TikTok video can earn anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, based on the creator’s reach and engagement.
Long-term brand endorsement deals are also common, with stars signing on as “influencers” to continuously promote products over months or years.
Companies are increasingly diverting marketing dollars into influencer campaigns with TikTok stars as the platform gains prominence.
TikTok’s Creator Fund
TikTok launched its Creator Fund in 2020, allowing popular creators on the platform to earn steady income from their videos.
TikTok sets aside over $200 million each year to pay users through the fund. To qualify, creators must:
- Have at least 100,000 authentic followers
- Post original videos that follow content guidelines
- Be 18 years or older
Earnings are based on video views, engagement and overall performance. It provides a passive revenue stream on top of other monetization methods.
Cashing in LIVE Streams
TikTok LIVE allows creators to broadcast real-time to their followers. Fans can purchase virtual “gifts” to show support during LIVE videos.
While gifts cost followers real money, TikTok stars receive a cut of the profits. Top creators can make huge money through LIVE gifting, especially on rare, expensive gifts that cost hundreds or thousands of coins.
LIVE gifting has become an extremely popular way for die-hard fans to donate to their favorite influencer.
Building an Online Merch Store
Capitalizing on their influencer brand, many stars create original merchandise that fans proudly sport and collect.
Things like custom clothing, phone cases, makeup palettes and other creative merch generate substantial passive income.
Platforms like Shopify make it easy to set up a professional online store linked through TikTok and seamlessly handle manufacturing, shipping and sales.
Limited edition merch “drops” will sell out instantly and create major revenue spikes for influencers.
| Revenue Stream | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand Sponsorships | Promoting brands through videos and endorsements. |
| TikTok Creator Fund | Share of ad revenue paid out by TikTok. |
| Merchandise | Custom apparel, accessories, and products. |
| TikTok LIVE Gifting | Fans pay for virtual gifts during live broadcasts. |
Leveraging Fame Across Platforms
Savvy influencers maximize their earnings by leveraging fame across multiple platforms, not just TikTok.
Instagram, YouTube, and other apps open up new opportunities for sponsorships, subscriptions, tipping, and more.
Cross-promoting through different channels expands reach and allows diverse monetization.
Long-term influencer success involves building an audience across multiple platforms.
A Glimpse at the Earnings
| TikTok Personality | Estimated Earnings Per Post |
|---|---|
| Dixie D’Amelio | $40,000 |
| Zach King | $30,000 |
| Briana Armbruster | Discover her earnings here |
FAQs
How much money can top creators make?
Highest-paid TikTok stars bring in millions per year. Charli D’Amelio earned around $17.5 million in 2021 from huge sponsorship deals.
How many followers do you need to get paid?
The TikTok Creator Fund requires 100,000 followers. But most sponsorship deals require 1 million+ engaged followers before paying 4-5 figures per post.
What’s better for making money: YouTube or TikTok?
Currently, top YouTube stars generally out-earn TikTokers due to YouTube’s more mature monetization options. However, TikTok is catching up as influencer marketing on the platform matures.
Do TikTokers only make money on TikTok?
No, branching out to other apps allows creators to diversify revenue streams. Cross-platform influencer marketing is key for long-term success.
How do normal people get famous on TikTok?
Posting viral-worthy content in line with current trends. Using hashtags/audios driving high views. Engaging with followers and consistently posting. Promoting account off of TikTok.
