• 9 min read

YouTube Sponsorship Rates in 2026: How Much Do YouTubers Charge?

YouTube sponsorships command the highest rates in influencer marketing. Here's what you should charge for dedicated videos, integrations, and shorts.

YouTube Sponsorship Types and Rates

YouTube offers the best CPM rates because of its long-form content, searchability, and evergreen nature. Videos can generate views for years after publishing.

Dedicated Video Rates

The premium option — an entire video focused on the sponsor's product or service. Average CPM: $20.

  • Nano (1K-10K): $100 - $500
  • Micro (10K-50K): $500 - $2,500
  • Mid-tier (50K-500K): $2,500 - $25,000
  • Macro (500K-1M): $25,000 - $50,000
  • Mega (1M+): $50,000+

Integration Rates (30-60 second mentions)

A sponsored segment within a larger video. Most common sponsorship format. Average CPM: $12.

  • Nano (1K-10K): $50 - $250
  • Micro (10K-50K): $250 - $1,500
  • Mid-tier (50K-500K): $1,500 - $15,000
  • Macro (500K-1M): $15,000 - $30,000
  • Mega (1M+): $30,000+

YouTube Shorts Rates

Short-form content competing with TikTok and Reels. Growing in popularity but lower CPM. Average CPM: $4.

  • Nano (1K-10K): $25 - $100
  • Micro (10K-50K): $100 - $400
  • Mid-tier (50K-500K): $400 - $3,000
  • Macro (500K-1M): $3,000 - $6,000
  • Mega (1M+): $6,000+

Why YouTube Rates Are Higher

1. Evergreen Content

Unlike Stories that disappear in 24 hours, YouTube videos can generate views and clicks for years. Brands pay for this longevity.

2. SEO Value

YouTube is the second largest search engine. Sponsored videos can rank for product-related searches, providing ongoing value.

3. Higher Production Quality

YouTube videos typically require more equipment, editing, and time. This justifies higher rates.

4. Detailed Analytics

YouTube provides detailed watch time, retention, and click-through data that helps brands measure ROI.

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YouTube Pricing Strategies

  1. Quote based on average views — Not just subscribers. If your videos average 100K views with 50K subs, price accordingly
  2. Charge for exclusivity windows — If a brand wants you not to work with competitors, charge extra
  3. Negotiate usage rights separately — Brands repurposing your content for ads should pay additional fees
  4. Offer performance bonuses — Get paid extra if the video exceeds expected views
  5. Bundle multiple videos — Series deals can provide steady income and better rates for brands