Teens are making big money as influencers, leaving babysitting behind

In today’s digital age, teenagers are finding new and innovative ways to make money online, surpassing traditional first jobs like mowing lawns or delivering newspapers. According to recent research from the digital marketing platform Whop, there is at least one “ultra-high-earning” teenager in every U.S. high school making $10,000 or more each year without ever leaving their bedroom. This shift in earning potential is largely attributed to platforms like TikTok, Depop, and Twitch, which have opened up a world of opportunities for young entrepreneurs.

The report from Whop also reveals that around 42% of American teenagers are now earning money through digital channels, with some starting as young as 12 years old. This trend is reshaping the landscape of teenage employment, with only 38% of teens opting for traditional jobs. While some teenagers are making thousands of dollars from their online side hustles, the average teen has earned $718 in the past year through various digital channels.

One of the most popular ways for teenagers to make money online is through influencing. Brands are increasingly approaching teenagers to sponsor products through their digital channels, with one in three students under 18 having been approached for sponsorship. While influencing may not be the most popular method of earning money among teens, it has the potential to be the most lucrative, with nearly half a million U.S. teens hitting the “high-earning” threshold through brand-sponsored posts.

The top money-making schemes for teens include selling clothes, footwear, or apparel accessories, streaming video games, earning in-game currency, participating in video game tournaments, and reviewing products on their channels for cash. Other popular methods include brand sponsorship earning through social media accounts, affiliate marketing, dropshipping, and paid unboxing videos.

This shift towards online entrepreneurship among young people is reflective of a broader trend of rejecting traditional career paths. Recent studies have shown that many Gen Z workers are not interested in climbing the corporate ladder or stepping into management roles. Instead, they prefer to cultivate their own personal brand or pursue entrepreneurial endeavors.

The entrepreneurial spirit among young people is evident in the growing number of teens who are choosing trades like landscaping, HVAC, and auto maintenance over traditional college paths. These trades offer the opportunity to be one’s own boss and earn six-figure salaries without the burden of student debt.

In conclusion, the way teenagers make a living is evolving, with younger generations embracing opportunities to make money online and pursue non-traditional career paths. The rise of online entrepreneurship among teens is a sign of the times, reflecting a shift towards financial independence and creative self-expression. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it is clear that young people are not just passive consumers but active creators shaping their own futures.