According to a new Impact Report released by YouTube, the platform’s creator economy contributed $45 billion to the U.S. gross domestic product in 2024. The study was conducted by Oxford Economics and commissioned by YouTube.
The report states that YouTube supported more than 400,000 full-time equivalent jobs across the United States. These jobs include content creators, editors, marketers and other roles linked to video production and publishing.
YouTube Partner Program continues to drive revenue
YouTube credits much of the economic impact to its Partner Program. Since its launch in 2007, the program has paid out over $70 billion to creators and rights holders worldwide. The platform says this payout has supported independent creators in developing long-term careers.
According to the report, 79 percent of surveyed U.S.-based creators said YouTube offers meaningful opportunities to build a business. Additionally, 55 percent said the platform allows them to reach audiences they wouldn’t otherwise be able to access.
Caleb Simpson, known for apartment tour videos, is one of the creators mentioned in the report. He said YouTube gave him the structure to go full time and scale his content operation.
The report also highlights the role of YouTube in learning and professional development. About 78 percent of viewers said the platform helps them acquire new skills. Among Gen Z respondents, 59 percent said YouTube is their most helpful resource for education and career growth.
Roughly 70 percent of surveyed creators agreed that YouTube provides economic opportunities regardless of their background, location or financial situation. YouTube stated that this reach supports its goal of making the creator economy more accessible.
U.S. remains a key market
While the Impact Report covered 19 countries, YouTube noted that the U.S. remains the largest contributor to its global creator economy. The company stated that it will continue to develop tools and policies designed to help creators build sustainable businesses on the platform.