YouTube’s creative ecosystem generated more than $60 billion for the U.S. economy and supported over 540,000 full-time equivalent jobs in 2025, according to a recently released study.
The report, prepared by Oxford Economics for YouTube and published on July 16, highlights the platform’s widespread economic influence across every state in the country.
All 50 states now have at least 10 YouTube channels with more than 1 million monthly views. Among small- and medium-sized businesses using the platform, 76% said YouTube helped them grow their customer base by reaching new audiences. Additionally, 77% of creators reported that their media and entertainment careers began on YouTube.
The study also found strong cultural and educational impacts. Eighty-seven percent of viewers watched music videos, festivals, or awards shows on YouTube in the past year, while 67% discuss YouTube videos with friends or family monthly (rising to 72% among Gen Z).
In education, 94% of teachers who use YouTube incorporate its content into lessons or assignments, with 81% saying it gives students access to material they wouldn’t otherwise have. At home, 78% of parents say YouTube or YouTube Kids provides quality educational or entertainment content for their children.