ow Much YouTube Pays in 2025? Shorts vs Long Videos CPM

YouTube is not just a video platform anymore. For millions of creators, it has become a full-time earning source. If you are new to YouTube, you might have heard terms like monetization, AdSense, RPM, and CPM. Let’s break these in very simple words so you can start your journey and understand how much you can earn.

✅ What is YouTube Monetization?

Monetization means making money from your YouTube channel. Once your channel meets YouTube’s rules, you can apply for the YouTube Partner Program (YPP) and earn money from ads, memberships, and other features.

Requirements (2025 update):

• 1,000 subscribers
• 4,000 watch hours (last 12 months) OR 10M Shorts views (last 90 days)
• Must follow all YouTube community guidelines

✅ What is CPM on YouTube?

CPM = Cost Per Mille → how much advertisers pay YouTube for 1,000 ad views.

For example:

• If your channel CPM = $5, advertisers pay $5 per 1,000 ad views.
• But YouTube takes a share, and you get RPM (Revenue Per Mille), usually 45–55% of CPM.

👉 CPM depends on:

• Your niche/topic (finance has higher CPM than memes).
• Your audience country (USA > UK > India in CPM rates).
• Video type (long videos vs. Shorts).

Monetization

Shorts

Revenue share from Shorts ads, sponsorships, and affiliate links.

Long Videos

Standard YouTube ads (pre/mid/post-roll), memberships, Super Thanks, and more.

Typical RPM (Revenue Per 1,000 Views)

Shorts

Lower — approx. ₹5-₹40

Long Videos

Higher — approx. ₹80-₹1,500+

Audience Growth

Shorts

Excellent for rapid subscriber growth and reaching new audiences quickly.

Long Videos

Builds a loyal, engaged community through deeper, search-driven content.

Top 3 Niches with Highest CPM in 2025

After researching trends and advertiser demand, here are the highest paying YouTube niches right now:

1. Finance & Investment 💰

• Topics: Stock market, Crypto, Personal finance, Credit cards.
• CPM: $10 – $25+ (USA audience can even cross $30).
• Why: Advertisers like banks, apps, and fintech companies pay more for finance-related content.

2. Tech & Online Business 💻

• Topics: AI tools, Freelancing, Online earning, Software tutorials.
• CPM: $6 – $15.
• Why: Tech brands, SaaS tools, and e-learning platforms spend heavily on ads.

3. Education & Career 🎓

• Topics: Online courses, Study tips, Language learning, Jobs abroad.
• CPM: $5 – $12.
• Why: EdTech startups and coaching platforms are big advertisers.

✅ Tips to Increase CPM & Earnings

• Target Tier-1 Countries → USA, Canada, UK, Australia.
• Make Long, Engaging Videos (8+ minutes = mid-roll ads = higher income).
• Choose the Right Niche → Don’t just chase views; focus on high-paying topics.
• Add Multiple Income Streams → Sponsorships, Affiliate links, Courses.
• Consistency Wins → Upload 2–3 times weekly and follow trends.

Final Thoughts

YouTube is a golden opportunity for creators in 2025. Even though CPM varies, choosing the right niche and making quality content can help you earn much more than average creators. If you are serious, focus on Finance, Tech, or Education, mix Shorts + Long videos, and build a loyal audience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about YouTube Monetization & CPM

1. How do beginners make money on YouTube?

Beginners can earn by joining the YouTube Partner Program (YPP) once they have 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours OR 10M Shorts views in 90 days. They can also use affiliate marketing, sponsorships, and digital product sales.

2. What is a good CPM on YouTube?

A good CPM depends on your niche and audience. In India, CPM usually ranges between ₹10 – ₹100 ($0.20 – $1.5). For USA/UK audiences, CPM can go as high as $10 – $25 in finance or tech topics.

3. Why is my YouTube CPM so low?

Your CPM may be low if:

• Most of your viewers are from countries with low ad rates (like India, Pakistan, Philippines).
• Your niche has less advertiser demand (entertainment, memes, music).
• Your videos are short (less ad slots).

4. Do YouTube Shorts make money?

Yes, but CPM for Shorts is much lower (around $0.10 – $0.50). Shorts are great for getting views and subscribers quickly, but long videos generate more income from ads.

5. Which YouTube niches earn the highest CPM?

The top high-CPM niches are:

• Finance & Investment ($10 – $25+)
• Tech & Online Business ($6 – $15)
• Education & Career ($5 – $12)

6. Can I earn without monetization on YouTube?

Yes! Even without YPP, you can earn through:

• Affiliate links in video descriptions
• Sponsorships
• Selling digital products or courses
• Promoting freelance services

7. How much can I earn from 1 million views on YouTube?

It depends on CPM.

• Entertainment channel (low CPM): $500 – $1,000.
• Finance channel (high CPM): $10,000 – $20,000.
• 👉 Audience country and niche decide the final income.