5 YouTube Video Ideas That Still Work and Actually Make Money

5 YouTube Video Ideas That Still Work and Actually Make Money

2 January 2026 Views: 0

1️⃣Evergreen How-To Tutorials

Teach step-by-step solutions that people search for every day. These videos rank, build loyalty, and keep earning for years. Monetize with ads, affiliate links, and your own digital products.

  • High search demand all year
  • Low production costs
  • Evergreen traffic compounding
  • Easy affiliate tie-ins
  • Strong RPM in problem-solving niches
  • Broad topics are competitive
  • Requires SEO-friendly titles and thumbnails

2️⃣Product Comparisons and Best-Of Lists

Create buyer guides, head-to-head comparisons, and best-of roundups. Audiences arrive with purchase intent, so conversions and sponsorships stack fast. Works across tech, beauty, home, fitness, and more.

  • High conversion intent
  • Brands pay for placements
  • Repeatable series format
  • Scales across niches
  • Easy to batch produce
  • Must disclose affiliate relationships
  • Hands-on testing builds trust and takes time
  • Affiliate program changes can affect revenue

3️⃣Reaction and Expert Breakdown

React to trending clips or news and add expert analysis. You ride existing demand while positioning yourself as the go-to explainer. Great for growth but timing is critical.

  • Fast to produce
  • Taps into existing interest
  • Builds authority and personality
  • Limited shelf life
  • Fair-use and copyright risk if you overuse footage
  • Requires frequent posting to keep momentum
  • Possible demonetization on sensitive topics

4️⃣Documented 30-Day Challenges

Run a 30-day challenge and document progress daily. The story arc keeps viewers returning and binge-watching. Sponsors love practical, tool-focused integrations.

  • Bingeable narrative
  • Strong watch time and session duration
  • Natural hooks for sponsors and affiliates
  • Demanding schedule and burnout risk
  • Results may be underwhelming
  • Needs confident on-camera presence
  • CPM can swing wildly by niche

5️⃣Local Guides and Small-Business Spotlights

Feature neighborhood gems and entrepreneurs while optimizing for local search. You can land recurring deals with local sponsors and chambers. Travel vlogs and foodie content mix well here.

  • Low competition in many cities
  • Strong community goodwill
  • Recurring sponsor opportunities
  • PR and cross-promotion from featured businesses
  • Geographic ceiling limits scale
  • Travel and scheduling overhead
  • Permissions and releases add friction
  • Seasonal interest
  • Lower ad rates in some regions