Connect with us

Entertainment

Meet America’s Top 11 Self-Made Teenage Millionaires of 2024

Published

on

four person standing at top of grassy mountain
Photos: Getty Images

In 2024, a remarkable group of American teenagers has risen to the top with self-made fortunes through ventures in tech, entertainment, and online platforms. These teens have leveraged creativity and business savvy to build net worths ranging from millions to tens of millions, setting an inspiring example for Generation Z.


Brooklynn Prince, at just 14 years old, has achieved a remarkable net worth of $18 million, largely from her successful acting career. She rose to fame with her breakout performance as Moonee in The Florida Project, a role that earned her critical acclaim for portraying the resilience and innocence of a young girl growing up in poverty. Prince’s portrayal won her multiple awards, including the Critics’ Choice Movie Award for Best Young Performer, and established her as one of the most promising young talents in Hollywood.

Advertisement

Beyond The Florida Project, Prince continued to build her career with lead roles in high-profile projects, including the horror-comedy Cocaine Bear and the Apple TV+ series Home Before Dark, where she plays a young journalist inspired by real-life investigative journalist Hilde Lysiak. Her ability to take on complex roles has set her apart in Hollywood, making her one of the most sought-after young actors in the industry.

Close behind Brooklynn Prince, Evan Moana, known to millions as EvanTubeHD, has built a $12 million fortune through a unique combination of family-friendly content, toy reviews, and gaming videos. Starting his channel at just 7 years old, Evan initially focused on reviewing toys, which quickly captivated a young audience and their parents alike. Over the years, his channel diversified into gaming and lifestyle content, including vlogs that feature his family and even science experiments, all aimed at younger viewers.

EvanTubeHD grew into a family brand with additional channels like EvanTubeGaming and The Tube Family, expanding the Moana family’s presence across multiple social media platforms. His engaging and relatable approach made him a pioneer among young YouTubers, allowing him to attract lucrative brand partnerships and sponsorship deals with toy companies, gaming brands, and educational products. His channel’s sustained success has turned Evan into one of YouTube’s highest-earning young stars and solidified his place in digital entertainment.

Advertisement

At 19, Alina Morse has built an impressive $6 million net worth as the founder and CEO of Zolli Candy, a line of sugar-free, tooth-friendly treats. Inspired at just 7 years old to create candy that wouldn’t harm teeth, Alina launched Zolli Candy by the age of 10, with her flagship product, Zollipops, designed to help prevent tooth decay through ingredients like xylitol and erythritol, which balance mouth pH. The brand quickly expanded to include Zolli Drops and Zolli Caramelz, diversifying its offerings and appealing to health-conscious parents and kids alike.

Her entrepreneurial journey has earned her widespread recognition, including appearances on Shark Tank and Good Morning America, and she has become a role model for young entrepreneurs, often speaking about her business experiences to inspire others. Zolli Candy products are now available in major retailers like Walmart, Kroger, and Amazon, with international distribution that has allowed the brand to reach millions of consumers worldwide. Morse’s commitment to promoting oral health through Zolli Candy has not only shaped a profitable business but has also created a positive impact by encouraging healthier candy alternatives for kids and adults.

Iain Armitage, at just 15, has already accumulated a $6 million fortune thanks to his starring role as the young Sheldon Cooper in CBS’s hit show Young Sheldon. His portrayal of the precocious, socially awkward genius won over audiences and critics, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Iain’s work on Young Sheldon earned him a Young Artist Award and solidified his position as one of the top-earning young actors in television. The show’s popularity across multiple seasons has contributed significantly to his wealth, with Iain receiving both a salary boost and residuals due to the show’s syndication.

Advertisement

In addition to his work on Young Sheldon, Iain has appeared in films like The Glass Castle and Our Souls at Night, showcasing his range beyond television. His talents have also extended to stage and theater review; Iain is a passionate theater enthusiast and posts critiques of productions on his YouTube channel, where he shares his love for the performing arts. His success at such a young age has not only earned him financial security but also respect within the industry, making him a rising star with a bright future in Hollywood.

Steven “BabySantana” Lewis, at just 17, has amassed an estimated net worth of $5 million, a testament to his rapid rise in the music industry. Known for his signature blend of catchy hooks and relatable lyrics, BabySantana gained popularity on platforms like YouTube and SoundCloud, where his music first went viral among Gen Z listeners. His breakout success on social media led to record deals with Republic Records and Galactic Records, allowing him to release multiple singles and EPs that have collectively garnered millions of streams on Spotify and Apple Music.

Beyond streaming, BabySantana’s income includes concert tours, brand partnerships, and collaborations with other popular young rappers, solidifying his place in the music industry. Songs like “Antisocial” and “Prada” have not only resonated with fans but also attracted significant media attention, propelling him into the mainstream rap scene. With millions of monthly listeners, BabySantana’s music speaks to the experiences of his generation, making him one of the top teenage rappers to watch. His talent and growing influence have earned him not only financial success but also a solid fan base that eagerly awaits his next projects.

Advertisement

Similarly, 17-year-old Zackary Arthur has achieved a $5 million net worth thanks to his prominent role in the Chucky television series, where he portrays Jake Wheeler, a teen grappling with supernatural horrors brought on by the infamous doll. Arthur’s performance in Chucky has drawn critical acclaim, earning him a Saturn Award nomination and helping the show become a hit among horror fans. The series, a continuation of the classic Child’s Play franchise, has been praised for balancing horror with complex themes, allowing Arthur to showcase his range and emotional depth as an actor.

Arthur’s acting career extends beyond Chucky; he has also appeared in films like The 5th Wave, where he starred alongside Chloë Grace Moretz, and in Amazon Prime’s Transparent. These roles have contributed to his reputation as a versatile young actor and opened doors for future projects. His talent and commitment to diverse roles have allowed him to stand out in Hollywood, making him one of the most promising young actors today and solidifying his position as a prominent figure in television and film.

Noah Schnapp, now 19, has built an impressive $3 million net worth, primarily through his iconic role as Will Byers in Netflix’s Stranger Things and his business ventures, including co-founding the snack brand TBH (“To Be Honest”). As one of the core cast members, Schnapp played a pivotal part in the series’ global success, which became a defining pop culture phenomenon. His portrayal of the sensitive and haunted Will Byers across multiple seasons earned him widespread recognition, significantly contributing to his earnings through salary increases and residuals as the show gained popularity worldwide.

Advertisement

Outside of acting, Schnapp leveraged his platform to launch TBH, a sustainable, vegan hazelnut spread aimed at providing a healthier and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional spreads. The brand emphasizes ethical production, reducing palm oil reliance, and using plant-based ingredients, aligning with current eco-conscious consumer trends. Schnapp’s entrepreneurial initiative with TBH not only expanded his professional portfolio but also allowed him to connect with fans on a new level, engaging in the growing movement for responsible consumerism. His dual success in Hollywood and business reflects his adaptability and ambition, positioning him as one of the most versatile young talents today.

Young entrepreneur Mia Talerico, only 15 years old, has built a $2.5 million net worth from her early acting career, primarily through her beloved role on Disney Channel’s Good Luck Charlie, and her strategic brand partnerships. Cast in the show at just 11 months old, Mia captured viewers’ hearts as the adorable Charlie Duncan, with her performance becoming a hallmark of the family-friendly series that ran for four seasons. Her role launched her into early stardom, establishing a strong foundation for her career and securing her a place in the entertainment industry.

As she grew, Mia adapted her public image, engaging with fans on social media platforms where she partners with popular brands in fashion and lifestyle. She promotes various products that align with her audience, allowing her to maintain a consistent presence and grow her income. Balancing a youthful public image with a professional approach to her brand partnerships, Mia’s unique path from childhood star to teenage influencer showcases her ability to evolve with her fanbase. Her early achievements and continued influence have not only secured her financial success but positioned her as a role model for young actors looking to navigate the entertainment industry.

Advertisement

Isabella Barrett, now 17, first gained the public’s attention on the TLC reality show Toddlers & Tiaras, where her pageant appearances made her a standout personality. Using her early fame as a launchpad, Isabella went on to create House of Barretti, a clothing brand that caters to young women with a focus on high-end suits and fashion pieces for teens. Her brand has achieved recognition, even making its mark at New York Fashion Week, where her designs showcased her ability to merge youthful style with professional wear.

With House of Barretti, Isabella has positioned herself as a young mogul in the fashion industry, capitalizing on her entrepreneurial instincts and eye for style. Her journey from reality TV star to successful business owner has inspired a new generation of young entrepreneurs who look up to her for transforming pageant fame into a sustainable business model. Through savvy social media marketing, brand collaborations, and consistent engagement with her fans, Isabella has built a $2 million net worth. Her story underscores the potential for young influencers to translate media exposure into lasting entrepreneurial success.

McKenna Grace, with a net worth of $2 million at age 17, has made a name for herself in Hollywood through a wide array of roles that showcase her versatility and emotional depth as an actress. Known for her remarkable ability to portray younger versions of iconic characters, McKenna has starred in Gifted opposite Chris Evans, in which her portrayal of a young math prodigy garnered critical acclaim. Additionally, she played young Carol Danvers in Captain Marvel and young Tonya Harding in I, Tonya, earning her recognition as a go-to actress for nuanced roles. Her work extends to television, with memorable performances in shows like The Handmaid’s Tale, for which she received Emmy nominations for her complex portrayal of a character living in a dystopian society.

Advertisement

Beyond acting, McKenna has ventured into music, releasing singles such as “Haunted House,” which was featured in Ghostbusters: Afterlife, in which she also starred. This role marked another milestone as she played a lead character in a major franchise film, further solidifying her position as a talented young actress capable of handling diverse roles in both film and television. Known for her professionalism and dedication on set, McKenna has earned respect within the industry, contributing to her steady rise in Hollywood and her growing fanbase. Her extensive filmography at such a young age highlights her dedication to her craft and her ability to balance high-profile roles with projects that reflect her personal interests and values.

Marsai Martin, at 19, has already established herself as a powerhouse in Hollywood. Widely recognized for her role as Diane Johnson on Black-ish, Marsai made history as the youngest executive producer in Hollywood with her 2019 film Little, a project she pitched herself and oversaw from concept to screen. Her work on Black-ish earned her several NAACP Image Awards, making her one of the most celebrated young actors on television. Beyond acting, her producer role with her company, Genius Productions, reflects her commitment to changing the landscape of Hollywood, particularly by creating opportunities for young Black talent and female-driven stories.

Marsai has utilized her platform to inspire young creators and promote diverse storytelling. With Little, she showcased her ability to tackle mature themes through comedy, and her projects continue to center around empowering young women and underrepresented voices. As a role model, she frequently speaks about the importance of self-confidence, ambition, and breaking boundaries, especially for young girls of color in entertainment. Her blend of talent, business acumen, and commitment to representation has not only earned her a $5 million net worth but has also made her a leading voice in advocating for inclusivity in Hollywood. Marsai’s influence extends far beyond her roles, as she consistently uses her success to mentor and inspire the next generation of creators.

Advertisement

This wave of teenage millionaires reflects the expanding opportunities in digital media, music, and consumer brands, demonstrating that young innovators can achieve financial success by harnessing their unique skills.

Stacker | NewsBreak | KnowInsiders.

Advertisement