March 17, 2024
5 min read
Matt Gray

Platform Payday: Exploring the Top Earning Social Media Platform of 2024

Social media isn’t for sharing funny videos or chatting with friends. It’s a place where people can make a living. It’s an online stage where talented people and smart businesses can share their ideas, connect with others, and even earn money. 

To find out which social media platform pays the most, keep reading.

Why Is Monetization Important on Social Media Platforms?

So, why is making money on social media a big deal? Imagine doing something you love and getting paid for it. Whether you’re good at baking or drawing or have a lot to say, social media can help you turn those talents into cash.

Let’s talk about the stars of social media. Influencers are people with followers because they’re interesting or share great stuff. They work with companies, create their own products, or offer special things to their fans… all through their social media accounts.

It’s not all about famous influencers, though. Businesses, big and small, know that social media is where people hang out online. They use it to share their products, talk to customers, and even sell things right on the spot. Learning how to make money on social media can make a big difference for businesses.

What Should You Know About Major Social Media Platforms for Earning?

Each social media platform has its own way of helping you earn, like a set of special tools. Let’s take a quick tour:

  • Facebook: Facebook is great for connecting with lots of people. You can earn money by putting ads in your videos, selling things from your page, or even getting fans to pay a monthly fee for exclusive content.
  • Instagram: Instagram is all about photos and videos. Influencers on Instagram get paid to partner with brands and promote their products. You can also use it to sell your own stuff.
  • TikTok: TikTok is the king of short, catchy videos. They have a special fund that pays creators for popular videos. You can also team up with brands or even sell your own products.
  • Snapchat: Snapchat is famous for disappearing messages, but it also has a cool feature called Spotlight for creators. If your video gets picked for Spotlight, you can earn some cash.
  • Twitter (X): Twitter is the place for short and snappy updates. You can earn money on Twitter if people want to tip you for your content, like a virtual high-five with a little bonus.
  • LinkedIn: LinkedIn is like an online job board. It’s fantastic for professionals to find work, but some even use it to create content and attract clients.
  • YouTube: YouTube is the original video-sharing giant. You can get paid for the ads that play before and during your videos. Plus, businesses will sometimes pay you to feature their products.

These are some of the most popular platforms. There are always new ones popping up. So, which one should you pick? I’ll give you some helpful tips for that in the next section, so stay tuned.

What Is the Monetization Potential of Each Social Platform?

Not all social media platforms are created equal when it comes to making money. Some offer a wider variety of tools, while others cater to specific niches.

Let’s take a deep dive into the most prominent social media sites and talk about how much you could earn on each one. We’ll look at how it works, what kind of potential you have, and what you need to do to get started.

Facebook

Let’s take a closer look at how you can turn your Facebook presence into a source of income. Facebook offers several different ways to monetize your content and connect with your audience. 

Here’s how it works:

  • In-Stream Ads: Put ads in your videos that play before or in the middle, kind of like commercials on TV. You can expect to earn between $1 to $10 per 1,000 views.
  • Fan Subscriptions: Your biggest fans can choose to pay a monthly fee to support you and get special perks. The amount you earn depends on how many subscribers you have.
  • Selling Products: Set up a virtual shop right on your Facebook page and sell your stuff. Your profit depends on what you sell and how well you market it.
  • Potential Earnings: This varies a lot. It is possible to pull in thousands of dollars, especially for businesses with large followings — but many smaller creators will see earnings closer to a few hundred dollars per month.

Facebook provides a diverse set of tools to help you make money doing what you love. Whether you’re focused on video content, building a loyal fanbase, or selling your own creations, there’s a path for you on this expansive platform.

Instagram

Instagram has become a favorite platform for businesses and creators to earn cash. Let’s break down the ways you can turn your eye-catching content into a paycheck:

  • Brand Partnerships: Companies pay you to post about their products or services. Influencers can earn a few hundred to several thousand dollars per sponsored post. But it depends on their following and engagement rate.
  • Affiliate Marketing: Get a special link to promote a product. You earn a bit of money every time someone buys using your link. Commissions can vary, but it’s a good way to supplement your income.
  • Selling Your Own Stuff: Turn your Instagram into a storefront for your creations, whether it’s art, clothes, or something else cool. Your profit depends on what you sell and your ability to market it.
  • Potential Earnings: Small accounts might start earning a few hundred dollars per month. Top influencers with millions of followers can pull in tens of thousands of dollars for one post.

Building an audience and securing those high-paying partnerships takes hard work and dedication. Start by creating awesome content and engaging with your followers. The money will follow.

TikTok

Let’s explore how you can turn your TikTok fame into cash. TikTok has its own special ways to help creators get paid for their awesome videos. 

Here’s the breakdown:

  • TikTok Creator Fund: TikTok pays some creators for content that goes viral and gets tons of views. You can expect to earn about 2 to 4 cents for every 1,000 views.
  • Brand Partnerships: Partner with companies to feature their products or services in your videos. The more followers you have, the more brands will want to work with you.
  • Selling Your Stuff: Did you create something cool? TikTok lets you connect with fans and sell those products right through your videos.
  • Potential Earnings: How much you earn on TikTok depends on how popular you are. It starts with pennies per view, but top creators can rake in thousands of dollars for a single video.

TikTok is a fun and creative platform where your talent can become your job. The more awesome videos you create, the more opportunities you’ll have to make money.

Snapchat

Snapchat is known for its fun filters and quick messages, but did you know it can also help you make some money? 

In fact, Snapchat pays content creators about $1 million every day. Here’s how their program works:

  • Spotlight: Spotlight is Snapchat’s special feature for viral videos and snaps. If your video gets picked for Spotlight, you can earn a share of a big cash prize.
  • Potential Earnings: Snapchat doesn’t have a set earning program like TikTok. But if your video hits the spotlight, you could make hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Snapchat is a great place to express your creativity. Your next video might be the one that goes viral and earns you some serious cash.

Twitter

Twitter is a place for quick updates and sharing your thoughts. But did you know it can help you earn money, too? 

Here’s how it works:

  • Tips: Tips is a cool feature that lets your followers send you money to show their appreciation for your great tweets. It’s a virtual way to earn a little bonus.
  • Potential Earnings: How much you earn with Tips depends on how much your fans love what you do. Some people make a little extra spending money, while others who create super valuable content can earn more.

Twitter is an excellent way to earn money for people who are good with words — share advice or information others might find useful.

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a bit different from other social media sites. It’s like an online workspace where people connect to find jobs and share professional knowledge. But it can also open doors to making money:

  • Freelance Work: Many people use LinkedIn to find freelance jobs, like writing, editing, or designing. Your profile works like your resume, and clients can hire you.
  • Creating Content: If you’re an expert at something, share your knowledge. Writing articles or making videos on LinkedIn can attract clients who want to pay you for your expertise.
  • Potential Earnings: Earning potential on LinkedIn depends on your skills and what type of services you offer. Freelancers set their own rates, and content creators can earn money through courses or coaching.

LinkedIn is best for earning money if you already have some skills or professional experience. It’s a place to build your reputation and get noticed by potential clients or employers.

YouTube

YouTube is the original and still one of the biggest video-sharing platforms out there. They have a well-established system for creators to make money from their videos. 

Let’s see how it works:

  • Ads: YouTube places ads before, during, or around your videos. You earn a small amount of money every time someone watches an ad. You can expect to make around $6 per 1,000 ad views, which averages to $10 to $30 per 1,000 video views.
  • Channel Memberships: Your biggest fans can become paying members of your channel. They’ll get special perks, and you’ll earn a monthly fee from each member.
  • Selling Your Stuff: Got cool t-shirts or other products? Promote them on your videos, and YouTube makes it easy for fans to buy directly from you.
  • Potential Earnings: How much you can earn on YouTube depends a lot on how many views your videos get and how engaged your audience is. Some creators make a little pocket money, while major channels with millions of subscribers can bring in some serious cash.

YouTube is a great place to build an audience with your videos. The more people love what you do, the more money you can make.

How To Effectively Monetize on the Highest Paying Platform

TikTok has proven itself to be the highest-paying platform. Its fast-paced, viral nature gives creators incredible opportunities to earn money. 

Here are some strategies and tips to maximize your earnings:

  • Consistency Is Key: Post regularly. Consistent, high-quality content increases your chances of going viral and landing on people’s “For You” pages.
  • Ride the Trends: Keep an eye on popular sounds and challenges. Create your own cool spin on them to grab attention.
  • Partner with Brands: As your following grows, brands will start noticing. Build relationships and create sponsored content that feels natural and fun for your audience.
  • Don’t Forget Your Bio: Include links to your other online presences. These might be websites, shops, and so on. Your bio is prime real estate to direct people where to buy your stuff or learn more.

If you are ready to start maximizing your earnings, I have some vital tips to point you in the right direction. Follow these, and you’ll be well on your way to using social media to make money:

  1. Find Your Niche: What are you passionate about? Do you have a unique skill or perspective? Focusing on a specific niche helps you build a dedicated audience.
  2. Quality Counts: Good lighting, clear sound, and creative editing can make a big difference, even if you’re starting with your phone.
  3. Engage, Engage, Engage: Respond to comments, take part in challenges, and collab with creators. Building a community helps you grow faster.
  4. Be Patient: It takes time to build a significant following and start earning consistently. Focus on creating great content and having fun.

TikTok’s rules and payment structures can change, so stay updated on their latest monetization programs and policies.

Conclusion

Social media is a powerful tool to build your own business or side hustle. We’ve explored a ton of different platforms and how to make money on each one. Right now, TikTok holds the crown as the top earner for many creators. The potential for brand partnerships provides incredible opportunities.

Are you ready to turn your creativity into cash? Experiment with different content, follow the trends, and build a community around your passions. The money will follow as your audience grows and opportunities start to appear.

At Founder OS, we’re all about helping entrepreneurs like you thrive — and the Founder OS newsletter can help you stay informed about powerful growth strategies.

Even more exciting, if you’re serious about turning your ideas into a profitable venture, apply to our Founder OS Program for guidance, mentorship, and a proven roadmap to build a business you love. Fill out our application, and let’s see if you’re a fit.

Topics & categories

Matt Gray

Founder & CEO of Founder OS

I’ve built 4 successful companies and a community of over 14 million people. My mission is to help 100,000,000 founders automate their business and hit $5,000,000 profit per year. I help you grow your personal brand and business in just 3 minutes a week.

Join 60,000+ founders and marketers getting actionable growth insights every week.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
5 star

The proof is in the pudding. Matt’s approach has helped grow Herb to 14 million people and he has one of the fastest-growing personal brands I’ve ever seen.

Sahil Bloom

Investor | Entrepreneur | Creator

5 star

Matt’s advice is super on point because it’s practical. He’s gone through and done everything that he preaches. If you don’t want to spend hours digging up frameworks on content, growth, marketing, and general startup advice - talk to Matt, read his newsletter, or sign up for his course.

Luba

Founder, Zarta

5 star

Matt is an absolute beast when it comes to audience and community growth. He has one of the fastest growing brands online and is an incredible teacher. He goes above and beyond to help founders - you can tell he genuinely cares. Would highly recommend working with him.

Brett Adcock

Founder, Figure, Archer, Vettery