Category: Finance | Title: Top YouTubers by Revenue and Audience in 2017 | Tag: YouTube | Meta Description: Data-driven list of the highest-earning and most-subscribed YouTube creators in 2017, with revenue sources and platform metrics...
Highest-Earning YouTubers in 2017
Forbes estimated that the top-earning YouTubers in 2017 included PewDiePie, Markiplier, and Dude Perfect, with Forbes reporting that the platform's highest earners could make tens of millions of dollars per year through ad revenue, merchandise, and brand deals Forbes. PewDiePie led the list with an estimated $12 million, driven by gaming commentary, vlogs, and a massive global audience, while Markiplier and Dude Perfect followed with diversified content and strong brand partnerships Forbes.
Most-Subscribed Channels in 2017
In 2017, PewDiePie remained the most-subscribed individual creator on YouTube, surpassing 60 million subscribers, while T-Series became the most-subscribed channel overall with a library of music videos and Bollywood content Statista. Other highly subscribed channels in 2017 included Smosh, HolaSoyGerman, and JennaMarbles, each with tens of millions of subscribers and consistent upload schedules that fueled long-term audience growth Statista.
Revenue Models and Platform Metrics in 2017
AdSense and Brand Deals
Most top YouTubers in 2017 relied on YouTube AdSense as a primary revenue stream, supplemented by sponsored integrations and merchandise sales, with Forbes noting that diversified income allowed creators to earn beyond ad payouts Forbes.
Audience and Watch Time
YouTube reported that watch time and audience retention were key factors in 2017 for channel monetization and algorithmic promotion, pushing creators to publish frequent, long-form content that kept viewers on the platform YouTube.
Multi-Channel Networks
Several top creators in 2017 were part of multi-channel networks that helped manage licensing, cross-promotion, and ad optimization, though independent channels like PewDiePie and Markiplier maintained direct control over their brands Forbes.
Global Reach and Localization
In 2017, channels with localized content in Spanish, Portuguese, and Hindi, such as HolaSoyGerman and T-Series, expanded global reach by targeting non-English-speaking audiences with culturally relevant videos Statista.