One of the most common questions brands ask is: "How much should we pay a YouTube influencer?" There are many variables that influence prices, and it can be difficult to understand the rates charged.
We'll give you a complete overview of cost of YouTube influencersoptions available and best practices for negotiating. ValueYourNetworkan expert in influence marketing since 2016, supports you in this process by providing you with accurate data and powerful tools to identify and collaborate with the best YouTube influencers.
You'll discover :
✅ Types of content and services you can buy from YouTubers
✅ Factors that influence their rates
✅ Current price ranges
✅ Tips on how to negotiate the best deal for your collaborations
Thanks to ValueYourNetworkYou'll have access to all the information you need to run a successful influencer campaign on YouTube.
What can you buy from YouTube influencers?
YouTubers offer several types of sponsored content. Here are the main formats you can buy:
Dedicated videos
A dedicated video is a format where the YouTuber creates content entirely focused on your product or brand.
✔ Benefits
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In-depth storytelling to explain a product or service in detail.
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More exposure for your brand, leading to greater engagement.
✖ Disadvantages
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This format is the most expensive.
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It may get fewer views than the creator's classic videos, especially if the audience isn't used to sponsored content.
Embedding in non-dedicated videos
All integrations are advertising placements integrated into videos already planned by the influencer. They can appear before, during or after the videoand usually last between 30 and 90 seconds.
There are two types of integration:
1️⃣ Natural integration The product placement is fluid and integrated into the YouTuber's content.
2️⃣ Separate commercials The influencer announces the sponsor in a more explicit way.
✔ Benefits
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Cheaper than a dedicated video.
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Reach a wider audience while benefiting from the video's natural context.
✖ Disadvantages
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Less control over the message and the overall video environment.
YouTube Shorts
All YouTube Shorts, the equivalent of Reels Instagram and TikTok are short videos (less than 3 minutes).
✔ Benefits
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An excellent complement to campaigns on TikTok and Instagram.
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Reach a wider mobile audience.
✖ Disadvantages
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Engagement is often lower than with longer videos.
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Less effective for direct conversions.
Live stream mentions
All streams live allow influencers to interact with their audience in real time.
✔ Benefits
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A unique opportunity to create a strong bond with your audience.
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Possible sponsorships for special events or collaborations.
✖ Disadvantages
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Audiences can drop out quickly if the sponsored mention comes late in the live show.
Other complementary formats
Some additional options can be added to a YouTube influencer campaign:
🔹 Community posts publication on the YouTube "Community" tab.
🔹 Links in the description : essential for driving traffic to your website.
🔹 Pinned comments : displays a clearly visible link below the video.
What criteria influence YouTube influencer rates?
The YouTube Influencer Awards are mainly based on the number of views from their videos. However, there are several other factors that influence rates:
🎯 Target market influencers based in United States, United Kingdom and Canada are generally more expensive.
📍 Ad placement an advertisement in pre-roll (start of video) will cost more than an investment in post-roll (end of video).
🎥 The influencer's niche sectors such as beauty, tech or parenting are often more expensive.
🏆 The status of the influencer If the influencer has a celebrity outside YouTube (artist, sportsperson, etc.), he or she can charge more.
⏳ Production lead times An urgent request often entails an additional cost.
How much does an ad placement on YouTube cost?
Prices for YouTube influencers vary enormously depending on their audience. Here's an estimate of the rates charged in the United States:
| Influencer Type | Price per integration | Typical CPM |
|---|---|---|
| Top influencers (1M+ subscribers) | 20K - 80K+ $ | 30 - 60 $ |
| Mid-tier (500K - 1M subscribers) | 5K - 20K $ | 20 - 50 $ |
| Micro-influencers (100K - 500K subscribers) | 500 - 5K $ | 10 - 30 $ |
| Nano-influencers (<100K subscribers) | <500 - 1.5K $ | <10 - 15 $ |
How do you negotiate YouTube influencer rates?
💡 Tips for getting the best price :
1️⃣ Group your orders Ordering several videos often allows you to negotiate a discount.
2️⃣ Reduce requirements If the rate is too high, adjust the integration time or format.
3️⃣ Take a look at recent campaigns If the influencer has a lot of sponsors, check to see if his or her views are dropping.
4️⃣ Offer mixed payment combining a fixed payment and affiliation model can reduce the initial cost.
5️⃣ Make a long-term deal A collaboration lasting several months means better rates.
Save time with ValueYourNetwork
ValueYourNetwork allows you to quickly identify the right influencers thanks to its advanced analysis and matchmaking tools. You can :
✅ Find YouTubers suited to your market.
✅ Check influencers' statistics before contacting them.
✅ Track the performance of your campaigns in real time.
Thanks to our expertise since 2016, we've helped dozens of brands collaborate effectively with influencers.
Ready to launch your YouTube campaign?
📢 Contact ValueYourNetwork today to build a high-performance influencer marketing strategy and maximize your return on investment!