YouTube Shorts Monetization: A Complete Guide

YouTube Shorts have taken the platform by storm, offering creators a fast, fun, and powerful way to reach new audiences. But the real question on every creator's mind is: Can I make money with YouTube Shorts? The answer is yes—and in 2025, YouTube has introduced even more ways to monetize your Shorts content. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about YouTube Shorts monetization, including view thresholds, eligibility criteria, and tips to boost your earnings.

What Is YouTube Shorts?

YouTube Shorts are vertical videos that are 60 seconds or less. They’re designed to compete with TikTok and Instagram Reels and can quickly go viral due to their short-form, easily consumable format. You can upload Shorts directly through the YouTube mobile app or on desktop using the Shorts camera or standard upload method.

How Does YouTube Shorts Monetization Work in 2025?

As of 2025, YouTube has expanded its monetization options for Shorts creators. Here's how you can make money from Shorts:

  • Through the YouTube Partner Program (YPP)
  • Via the YouTube Shorts revenue sharing model
  • Using Super Thanks for Shorts
  • With brand partnerships and sponsorships

Joining the YouTube Partner Program (YPP)

To start earning ad revenue from Shorts, you need to join the YouTube Partner Program. In 2025, creators can qualify through one of two pathways:

  • Earn 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 public watch hours in the last 12 months (standard path)
  • Or earn 1,000 subscribers and 10 million public Shorts views over the past 90 days (Shorts-specific path)

Once you meet either threshold, you can apply to join the YPP and start monetizing both long-form videos and Shorts.

YouTube Shorts Ad Revenue Sharing

Instead of direct ads placed on Shorts (which would interrupt the flow of content), YouTube introduced a shared ad revenue pool model. Here's how it works:

  • All ads shown between Shorts in the Shorts Feed are collected into a shared revenue pool.
  • That pool is distributed to creators based on their share of total Shorts views.
  • YouTube deducts a portion to cover music licensing if music is used in the Shorts.

This model allows for scalable monetization while keeping the viewing experience seamless for users.

Super Thanks for Shorts

Starting in 2025, YouTube has rolled out Super Thanks for Shorts videos. Viewers can now tip their favorite Shorts creators directly, even on mobile, by purchasing Super Thanks stickers. This gives creators another revenue stream outside of ad revenue and helps build a loyal fan base.

Tips to Maximize YouTube Shorts Earnings

1. Create Engaging, Loopable Content

Shorts that loop seamlessly and encourage repeat views tend to perform better in the algorithm. Focus on content that’s catchy, funny, or surprising to boost watch time and total views.

2. Use Relevant Hashtags

Hashtags like #Shorts help your videos get discovered. Include niche-specific hashtags and trends to increase visibility in the Shorts Feed.

3. Post Consistently

Publishing frequently can help your channel gain traction faster. Try posting 3–5 Shorts per week to stay top of mind with viewers and feed the algorithm.

4. Track Performance in YouTube Analytics

Use YouTube Studio to monitor your Shorts’ view counts, audience retention, and revenue performance. Identify what content works best, and double down on those formats or topics.

5. Engage with Your Audience

Reply to comments, pin top feedback, and encourage viewers to like and subscribe. Community engagement helps improve visibility and build loyalty—both of which are vital for monetization.

How Much Can You Earn From YouTube Shorts?

Earnings from Shorts vary depending on several factors:

  • Your share of total Shorts views across YouTube that month
  • Geography and audience demographics
  • Use of music in your videos
  • Additional revenue from Super Thanks or sponsorships

While CPM (cost per thousand impressions) and RPM (revenue per thousand views) for Shorts tend to be lower than for long-form content, high view volume can still translate into meaningful earnings.

Common Questions About Shorts Monetization

Do I need to enable monetization for each Short?

No, once you're in the YouTube Partner Program, Shorts monetization is automatically enabled for eligible content.

Can I monetize Shorts with copyrighted music?

Yes, but your share of ad revenue may be reduced depending on the music licensing agreements YouTube has in place.

Is there a minimum view count for earning from Shorts?

There's no minimum per video, but you need to hit 10 million views in the last 90 days to qualify for monetization via the Shorts pathway to the Partner Program.

Gist

With the rapid growth of vertical content, YouTube Shorts monetization is a golden opportunity for creators in 2025. Whether you're new to the platform or looking to expand your revenue, understanding the view thresholds, revenue model, and success strategies will help you make the most of Shorts. Keep creating, experimenting, and connecting with your audience—and you could turn 60-second clips into serious income.