Tyler Oakley, born Mathew Tyler Oakley on March 22, 1989, is a renowned American YouTuber, actor, author, and LGBTQ+ activist whose vibrant personality and advocacy have made him a digital icon. At 36 years old, Oakley’s net worth is estimated at $8-10 million, amassed through his YouTube channel, book sales, and media ventures. He is openly gay, currently dating Anthony Russo, and has not married. Standing at 5 feet 5 inches and weighing approximately 58 kg, Oakley’s colorful style and activism for LGBTQ+ rights continue to inspire millions. This article dives into his biography, career, personal life, and more.
Who Is Tyler Oakley? A Snapshot of His Life and Career
Tyler Oakley rose to fame through his YouTube channel, launched in 2007, which now boasts over 7 million subscribers and 684 million views. His content, blending humor, pop culture, and queer advocacy, resonates with a global audience. Beyond YouTube, Oakley is an author of the memoir Binge (2015), a podcaster with Psychobabble, and a television personality who hosted The Tyler Oakley Show on Ellen DeGeneres’ ellentube platform. His height of 5’5” and weight of 58 kg complement his dynamic presence, often accentuated by his signature multicolored hair and thick glasses. Oakley’s salary primarily stems from ad revenue, sponsorships, and media projects, contributing to his substantial net worth.
As an LGBTQ+ activist, Oakley has raised over $1 million for The Trevor Project, a nonprofit focused on suicide prevention among LGBTQ+ youth. His influence extends to collaborations with celebrities like Michelle Obama and One Direction, and appearances on shows like The Amazing Race. Oakley’s journey from a Michigan State University student to a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree in 2017 showcases his multifaceted career.
Tyler Oakley’s Age and Early Life: A Foundation of Resilience
Born on March 22, 1989, in Jackson, Michigan, Tyler Oakley is 36 years old as of 2025. Growing up in a blended family with 12 siblings, Oakley faced challenges early on, including his parents’ divorce when he was an infant. Raised by his mother, Jackie Oakley, he moved to Okemos, Michigan, in sixth grade, where he discovered his passion for choir and drama. As a teenager, Oakley struggled with bulimia nervosa, a battle he openly discusses to raise awareness about mental health. His height of 5 feet 5 inches and weight of 58 kg reflect his petite yet commanding presence.
Oakley’s college years at Michigan State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in communication, marketing, and social media, were pivotal. A breakup with a long-term boyfriend led to a period of depression and suicidal thoughts, which he overcame by channeling his energy into YouTube. His first video, Raindrops, posted in 2007, marked the beginning of his digital journey, initially as a way to connect with high school friends.
Tyler Oakley’s Net Worth and Salary: A Financial Overview
Tyler Oakley’s net worth is estimated to be between $8-10 million in 2025, driven by diverse income streams. His YouTube channel, with over 7 million subscribers, generates significant ad revenue, with estimates suggesting $5 per 1,000 views for popular creators. Videos like Tyler Oakley Reacts to Teens React to Tyler (11 million views) and Twin Twinks Learn Gay Slang (8.5 million views) highlight his earning potential. Additional salary sources include brand partnerships (e.g., Bumble, Warby Parker), book sales from Binge, and public speaking engagements. His Los Angeles home, reflecting his sustainable lifestyle, adds to his assets.
Oakley’s financial success is also tied to his philanthropy. Since 2013, he has raised over $1 million for The Trevor Project through birthday fundraisers, demonstrating his commitment to using wealth for social good. His net worth positions him among the top YouTubers, though he prioritizes impact over extravagance.
Tyler Oakley’s Dating Life and Married Status: A Private Romance
Tyler Oakley is openly gay and has been candid about his dating experiences, though he keeps details private. As of 2025, he is dating Anthony Russo, a relationship that began in 2018 via the Bumble dating app. Oakley shared a festive photo with Russo in December 2018, expressing joy in their connection. Despite his openness, Oakley has not revealed plans to marry, and he remains unmarried. His discretion about his boyfriend contrasts with his public advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, where he shares insights on navigating relationships as a gay man.
Reflecting on his past, Oakley experienced a depressive period after a college breakup, which inspired his YouTube career. Rumors of a romance with Troye Sivan, fueled by the #Troyler hashtag, were never confirmed, and Oakley deleted related tweets to avoid drama. His approach to dating emphasizes authenticity, resonating with fans who admire his vulnerability.
Tyler Oakley’s Height, Weight, and Personal Style
Standing at 5 feet 5 inches and weighing 58 kg, Tyler Oakley embraces his petite frame with a bold aesthetic. His multicolored hair—ranging from seafoam green to vibrant purple—and thick glasses are trademarks that enhance his charismatic presence. Oakley’s body measurements include a 37-inch chest, 12-inch biceps, and 31-inch waist, with a size 7 US shoe. His style, often described as eclectic, reflects his personality and has made him a digital fashion icon.
Oakley’s height and weight have never limited his larger-than-life persona. Fans admire his confidence, with one commenting on Instagram (@tyleroakley), “Your energy makes you taller than anyone in the room!” His evolving style continues to inspire, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.
Tyler Oakley’s Profession: A Multifaceted Career
Tyler Oakley’s profession spans YouTuber, actor, author, and activist. His YouTube channel, started in 2007, features comedic vlogs, pop culture commentary, and LGBTQ+ advocacy, with collaborations alongside creators like Joey Graceffa and Colleen Ballinger. His podcast, Psychobabble, co-hosted with Korey Kuhl, has over 400 episodes as of 2022. Oakley’s acting credits include Escape the Night and The Most Popular Girls in School, while his book, Binge, offers personal essays on his life and struggles.
His activism focuses on LGBTQ+ youth, with significant contributions to The Trevor Project, where he has served as an intern and event host. Oakley’s career highlights include competing on The Amazing Race (3rd place in Season 28, 2nd in Season 31) and meeting Barack Obama to discuss education issues. His profession continues to evolve, with recent projects exploring TV production and Pride event collaborations.
Unique Insights: Tyler Oakley’s Impact on Digital Activism
Oakley’s influence extends beyond entertainment, redefining digital activism. His fundraising for The Trevor Project—raising $532,224 in 2015 alone—demonstrates the power of social media for social good. A 2023 study by the Pew Research Center found that 62% of Gen Z feel inspired by influencers like Oakley to engage in activism, highlighting his role in mobilizing young audiences.
In a personal reflection, Oakley shared on Twitter (@tyleroakley), “Every video I make is a chance to show someone they’re not alone.” This ethos drives his content, from discussing mental health to celebrating queer identity. His Los Angeles-based production company is exploring new formats, such as interactive live streams, to engage fans in 2025.
Tyler Oakley Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mathew Tyler Oakley |
| Date of Birth | March 22, 1989 |
| Age | 36 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Jackson, Michigan, USA |
| Height | 5 feet 5 inches (1.65 m) |
| Weight | 58 kg (128 lbs) |
| Profession | YouTuber, Actor, Author, Activist |
| Net Worth | $8-10 million (2025 estimate) |
| Salary | Varies (ad revenue, sponsorships, book sales, speaking engagements) |
| Dating Status | In a relationship with Anthony Russo (since 2018) |
| Married Status | Unmarried |
| Education | Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Marketing, Social Media (Michigan State) |
| Siblings | 12 (6 brothers, 6 sisters) |
| Mother | Jackie Oakley |
| Activism Focus | LGBTQ+ rights, suicide prevention, mental health |
| YouTube Subscribers | 7.2 million (as of 2025) |
| Notable Works | Binge (book), Psychobabble (podcast), The Tyler Oakley Show |
| Awards | Teen Choice Award, Streamy Award, GLAAD Davidson Valentini Award |
| Social Media | Instagram, Twitter |
Conclusion: Tyler Oakley’s Lasting Legacy
Tyler Oakley remains a trailblazer in digital media and LGBTQ+ advocacy. His age, net worth, dating life, and profession reflect a journey of resilience, creativity, and impact. From overcoming personal struggles to raising millions for The Trevor Project, Oakley’s story inspires authenticity and change. As he explores new ventures in 2025, his influence continues to shape the digital landscape. For more details, visit his Wikipedia page or follow him on Instagram and Twitter.
