Xiran Jay Zhao Net Worth & Earnings (2025)

Xiran Jay Zhao has emerged as a dynamic force in the digital and literary landscapes. Known for their insightful critiques and engaging storytelling, Zhao captivates audiences with a unique blend of humor and cultural commentary. Their YouTube channel, which started in 2020, quickly gained popularity, drawing in viewers with its sharp analysis and entertaining content. Beyond YouTube, Zhao's literary works have also made waves, with their debut novel becoming a New York Times bestseller.

As a multifaceted creator, Xiran Jay Zhao's influence extends across various platforms, resonating with a diverse audience. Their ability to connect with people through both video and literature has solidified their status as a prominent figure in discussions about identity and representation. With a growing fanbase and a strong online presence, Zhao continues to inspire and engage audiences worldwide.

While the exact figures of their financial success remain speculative, estimates suggest that Xiran Jay Zhao's net worth is substantial. According to industry insights, their net worth is estimated to be around $119 thousand, with potential earnings reaching as high as $166.7 thousand. These figures highlight Zhao's impressive achievements and the significant impact they have made in the entertainment and literary fields.

With 637 thousand subscribers, Xiran Jay Zhao is a popular YouTube channel. The Xiran Jay Zhao YouTube channel started in 2020 and is based in Canada.

So, you may be wondering: What is Xiran Jay Zhao's net worth? Or you could be asking: how much does Xiran Jay Zhao earn? Not many have a proper understanding of Xiran Jay Zhao's total net worth, but a few have made estimations.

What is Xiran Jay Zhao's net worth?

Xiran Jay Zhao has an estimated net worth of about $119 thousand.

Net Worth Spot's data estimates Xiran Jay Zhao's net worth to be over $119 thousand. Although Xiran Jay Zhao's actual net worth is not known. Net Worth Spot's industry expertise suspects Xiran Jay Zhao's net worth at $119 thousand, that said, Xiran Jay Zhao's actualized net worth is unknown.

The $119 thousand estimate is only based on YouTube advertising revenue. Realistically, Xiran Jay Zhao's net worth could possibly be much higher. In fact, when including additional revenue sources for a influencer, some estimates place Xiran Jay Zhao's net worth as high as $166.7 thousand.

How much does Xiran Jay Zhao earn?

Xiran Jay Zhao earns an estimated $29.8 thousand a year.

Many fans ask how much does Xiran Jay Zhao earn?

The YouTube channel Xiran Jay Zhao receives more than 496 thousand views each month.

If a channel is monetized through ads, it earns money for every thousand video views. On average, YouTube channels earn between $3 to $7 for every one thousand video views. If Xiran Jay Zhao is within this range, Net Worth Spot estimates that Xiran Jay Zhao earns $2 thousand a month, totalling $29.8 thousand a year.

Our estimate may be low though. On the higher end, Xiran Jay Zhao could possibly make as high as $53.6 thousand a year.

However, it's unusual for YouTube stars to rely on a single source of revenue. Additional revenue sources like sponsorships, affiliate commissions, product sales and speaking gigs may generate much more revenue than ads.

How Does Xiran Jay Zhao Make Money?

Xiran Jay Zhao generates income through various channels, primarily as a writer and content creator. Their success stems from a combination of book sales, YouTube revenue, and social media engagement.

1. Book Sales

Zhao is a bestselling author. Their debut novel, Iron Widow, quickly became a New York Times bestseller. This book, along with their subsequent works, contributes significantly to their earnings. Each sale adds to their income, especially with the popularity of their stories that blend sci-fi and Chinese history.

2. YouTube Channel

Zhao runs a successful YouTube channel where they discuss Chinese history, culture, and critique media representations. With over 437,000 subscribers, they earn money through ad revenue and sponsorships. Their engaging content attracts a wide audience, boosting their visibility and income.

3. Social Media Presence

Zhao is active on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. They share snippets of their life, cosplay, and insights into their writing process. This presence not only builds their brand but also opens doors for partnerships and promotional deals, adding to their financial success.

4. Public Speaking and Events

As a recognized author and influencer, Zhao often participates in panels, workshops, and conventions. These events provide additional income through speaking fees and book signings, allowing them to connect with fans and promote their work.

In summary, Xiran Jay Zhao's income comes from a mix of book sales, YouTube ad revenue, social media partnerships, and public speaking engagements. Their diverse approach to monetization reflects their creativity and ability to engage with a broad audience.

Behind the Scenes: The Life of Xiran Jay Zhao

Xiran Jay Zhao leads a vibrant and multifaceted life. As a Chinese-Canadian, they embrace their cultural heritage while navigating their identity in a diverse society. Born on September 29, 1997, Zhao immigrated to British Columbia, Canada, from a small town in China. This transition shaped their worldview and inspired their creative pursuits.

Currently residing in Vancouver, Zhao is known for their love of cosplay, anime, and Chinese history. They often share their passion through various platforms, including YouTube, where they engage with a growing audience. Zhao identifies as nonbinary and uses they/them pronouns, reflecting their journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

Education played a significant role in Zhao's life. They studied biochemistry at Simon Fraser University, graduating in 2020. However, the pandemic shifted their focus from science to storytelling. This change led to the creation of their popular YouTube channel and the writing of their bestselling novels.

In their personal life, Zhao enjoys connecting with fans and fellow creators. They often share glimpses of their daily experiences, including their love for fashion and unique outfits, particularly their stunning hanfu. Zhao's online presence is characterized by humor and authenticity, making them relatable to many.

Through their work, Zhao aims to inspire others, especially those from marginalized backgrounds. They hope to foster a sense of belonging and encourage self-acceptance among young readers and viewers. Zhao's journey is a testament to the power of creativity and the importance of embracing one's identity.

From Small Town to Social Media Stardom: The Early Life of Xiran Jay Zhao

Xiran Jay Zhao was born on September 29, 1997, in a small town in China. They immigrated to British Columbia, Canada, at the age of ten. This transition marked a significant change in their life. Growing up, Xiran faced challenges related to cultural identity and acceptance. They often felt caught between two worlds, struggling to find their place in a new environment.

In Canada, Xiran developed a passion for storytelling. They were inspired by their love for anime and Chinese history. This interest blossomed during their teenage years, especially after attending an anime convention at the age of 15. It was there that they received encouragement to start writing. Xiran pursued higher education at Simon Fraser University, where they studied biochemistry. However, their true calling lay in creative expression.

Throughout their early life, Xiran grappled with their gender identity. They identify as nonbinary and prefer the pronouns they/them. This aspect of their identity has influenced their work and public persona, allowing them to connect with a diverse audience.

Xiran's background as a first-generation immigrant and their experiences navigating cultural differences have shaped their unique voice as a creator. Their journey from a small town in China to becoming a prominent figure in the literary and online communities is a testament to their resilience and creativity.

The Meteoric Rise of Xiran Jay Zhao

Xiran Jay Zhao's journey to fame began in September 2020. They launched their YouTube channel with a video critiquing Disney's live-action adaptation of Mulan. This video quickly gained traction, amassing over 3.5 million views. Zhao's sharp commentary highlighted cultural inaccuracies in the film, resonating with many viewers who shared similar sentiments. Their unique perspective as a Chinese-Canadian added depth to the discussion, making their content both relatable and insightful.

As a self-described "Chinese history memer," Zhao's content blends humor with education. They focus on Chinese history, culture, and media critique, attracting a diverse audience. Their engaging style and ability to connect with viewers helped them grow a substantial following. Within a short time, Zhao's channel gained hundreds of thousands of subscribers, establishing them as a prominent voice in online discussions about representation and cultural authenticity.

In addition to their YouTube success, Zhao's literary career also took off. Their debut novel, "Iron Widow," was published in September 2021 and quickly became a New York Times bestseller. The book, a sci-fi reimagining of the life of Wu Zetian, China's only female emperor, drew on Zhao's passion for history and storytelling. The success of "Iron Widow" further solidified their status as a multifaceted creator, blending their interests in writing, history, and media critique.

Overall, Xiran Jay Zhao's rise to fame is marked by their ability to engage audiences through both video and literature. Their unique blend of cultural commentary and storytelling continues to inspire many, making them a significant figure in contemporary discussions about identity and representation.

Notable Milestones in Xiran Jay Zhao's Journey

Xiran Jay Zhao has achieved significant milestones in their career as a writer and content creator. Their debut novel, Iron Widow, quickly became a New York Times bestseller. This book, a reimagining of the life of Wu Zetian, China's only female emperor, resonated with readers and critics alike. It won the 2021 BSFA Award for Best Book for Younger Readers and has been praised for its unique blend of sci-fi and Chinese history.

Following the success of Iron Widow, Zhao released a middle-grade novel titled Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor. This book debuted at #4 on the New York Times Best Seller list in the Children's Middle Grade Hardcover category. It showcases Zhao's ability to connect with younger audiences while exploring themes of cultural identity and heritage.

In addition to their literary accomplishments, Zhao gained fame on YouTube. Their first video, which critiqued Disney's live-action adaptation of Mulan, went viral, amassing millions of views. This video not only highlighted cultural inaccuracies but also established Zhao as a prominent voice in discussions about representation in media.

Zhao's influence extends beyond their books and videos. They have been recognized as a finalist for the Astounding Award for Best New Writer and won the award in 2024 after the eligibility criteria were adjusted. Their work has sparked important conversations about diversity and representation in literature and media.

Through their engaging storytelling and critical insights, Xiran Jay Zhao continues to inspire a new generation of readers and creators, making a lasting impact in both the literary and online communities.

Frequently Asked Questions about Xiran Jay Zhao

What is Xiran Jay Zhao's estimated net worth?

Xiran Jay Zhao has an estimated net worth of about $119 thousand. This figure is based on YouTube advertising revenue alone. However, the actual net worth may be higher, with some estimates suggesting it could reach as much as $166.7 thousand.

How much does Xiran Jay Zhao earn annually?

Xiran Jay Zhao earns an estimated $29.8 thousand a year. This estimate is derived from the channel's monthly views and typical ad revenue rates. The channel receives over 496 thousand views each month, contributing to this income.

Are there other sources of income for Xiran Jay Zhao?

Yes, Xiran Jay Zhao likely has additional revenue sources beyond YouTube ads. These may include sponsorships, affiliate commissions, product sales, and speaking engagements. Such sources can significantly increase overall earnings, potentially exceeding the estimated $53.6 thousand per year.

Who is Xiran Jay Zhao?

Xiran Jay Zhao is a Chinese-Canadian writer, cosplayer, and YouTuber known for their content that critiques the live-action Disney film Mulan for its cultural inaccuracies. They are passionate about Chinese history, cosplay, and anime. Zhao is also a New York Times bestselling author, recognized for their debut novel "Iron Widow."

What is "Iron Widow" about?

"Iron Widow" is a young adult sci-fi novel that reimagines the rise of Wu Zetian, China's only female emperor. The story combines elements of Chinese history with science fiction, featuring themes of female empowerment and cultural identity.

What is "Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor" about?

"Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor" is a middle-grade fantasy novel that follows a boy named Zachary Ying. He embarks on a mission to seal a portal to the Chinese underworld while discovering his heritage and learning about Chinese culture.

What inspired Xiran Jay Zhao to write their books?

Zhao draws inspiration from their love of anime, Chinese history, and personal experiences as a first-generation immigrant. They aim to create stories that resonate with the Chinese diaspora and address themes of identity and self-acceptance.

What is Xiran Jay Zhao's background?

Xiran Jay Zhao immigrated to British Columbia, Canada, from a small town in China. They studied biochemistry at Simon Fraser University before pursuing a career in writing and content creation.

What type of content does Xiran Jay Zhao create on YouTube?

Zhao's YouTube channel features commentary and educational content, often focusing on Chinese history, culture, and critiques of media representations. They have gained a significant following for their engaging and informative videos.

What are Xiran Jay Zhao's pronouns?

Xiran Jay Zhao uses they/them pronouns and identifies as nonbinary.

How did Xiran Jay Zhao gain popularity?

Zhao gained popularity through their viral critiques of Disney's Mulan and their engaging presence on social media platforms. Their unique blend of humor, cultural commentary, and storytelling has attracted a diverse audience.

What themes are prevalent in Xiran Jay Zhao's writing?

Themes in Zhao's writing often include cultural identity, empowerment, and the exploration of personal and historical narratives. They aim to create relatable characters who navigate complex cultural landscapes.