TikTok may have started as a hub for short, lighthearted videos, but in 2025 it has become a serious money-making machine. Some of its biggest U.S. stars are pulling in millions of dollars each year and landing major brand partnerships.
The term influencer is no longer niche — it’s mainstream. Politicians, celebrities, and entrepreneurs all recognize social media as a powerful tool for communication and business.
TikTok, in particular, has evolved from a trendy app into a launchpad for lucrative careers. Many of its top creators have built empires through endorsements, product lines, and entertainment projects.
Below are the Top 10 highest-paid TikTok stars in the U.S. for 2025. Figures are based on estimates from outlets including Forbes and Influencer Marketing Hub, but they cannot be independently verified by Hindustan Times.
1. Charli D’Amelio
Charli tops the list with an estimated $23.5 million in annual earnings and more than 216 million followers, according to Influencer Marketing Hub. She is preparing for her Broadway debut in the Tony Award-nominated pop musical & Juliet, reported Hollywood Reporter. Charli continues to collaborate with Prada, Kate Spade, and her family’s D’Amelio Brands.
2. Khaby Lame
One of the most-followed TikTok creators worldwide, Khaby is known for his silent comedy and partnerships with Hugo Boss, Binance, and major studios. His estimated earnings reach around $20 million, according to Forbes.
3. Dixie D’Amelio
Charli’s sister Dixie is also a top earner, bringing in about $14.5 million annually, per Forbes. She has modeled for Pull&Bear and Puma, co-founded Be Happy Snacks Co. (now sold in Walmart), and is teasing new music for 2025.
4. Josh Richards
Josh, once known mainly for lip-sync and dance videos, now earns about $6 million a year, according to Forbes. He co-founded Ani Energy and Talent X, runs a venture capital firm, and co-hosts the rebranded BFFs Podcast.
5. Bella Poarch
Bella rose to fame in 2020 with her viral lip-sync to Millie B’s M to the B, a video that has nearly 45 million likes, reported Forbes. She now earns about $5 million annually, according to Influencer Marketing Hub. Bella is set to star in the horror film Six Till Midnight, directed by Andrew Donoho, reported Variety.
6. Addison Rae
Addison brings in about $5 million a year, as estimated by Forbes. She has worked with YSL Beauty and Chanel, released her debut album Addison in June, and will appear alongside Ryan Reynolds in Animal Friends, reported Hollywood Reporter.
7. Zach King
Known for his magic-style editing, Zach holds the record for the most-viewed TikTok video, with 2.2 billion views on his “Magic Broomstick” clip, according to the Guinness World Records website. His annual earnings exceed $5 million, estimated by Influencer Marketing Hub.
8. Kris Collins
Former hairdresser turned comedian, Kris earns about $4.75 million annually, according to Influencer Marketing Hub. Her family-inspired skits have earned her a dedicated following.
9. Avani Gregg
Avani, famous for her “clown girl” video and creative makeup content, brings in roughly $4.75 million each year, according to Influencer Marketing Hub. She is set to star in the survival action-thriller Breathe Deep, reported Variety.
10. Loren Gray
Among TikTok’s earliest breakout stars, Loren Gray continues to thrive with music, her jewelry line, and fragrance brand Loren’s Scents. Her annual earnings fall between $3 million and $4 million, estimated by Influencer Marketing Hub. She has also acted in films such as Incoming, Outsiders, and 100% Wolf.
FAQs
Q1. Who is the highest-paid TikTok star in 2025?
According to Forbes, Charli D’Amelio leads the list with estimated annual earnings of $23.5 million.
Q2. How does Forbes calculate TikTok earnings?
Forbes bases its estimates on brand deals, sponsored content, merchandise, acting, music, and other ventures tied to creators’ TikTok fame.
Q3. Why isn’t MrBeast on this TikTok list?
MrBeast is primarily known as a YouTube creator. The Forbes ranking highlights stars who built their fame and businesses mainly on TikTok.
