GA is an extremely lucrative state for digital creators. Here’s why that’s important for you

The social media creator economy is estimated at about $250 billion a year, with projections nearing $480 billion by 2027, and Georgia has quietly become one of the influential and lucrative markets in the US.

A new analysis from BetMGM Casino reveals Georgia is in the global top 20, collectively pulling in almost 400 million followers across four platforms and ranks in the top 10 in the U.S. for producing top-tier online personalities across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitch.

The rankings show a positive shift away from traditional media and toward states like Georgia with strong creative entertainment infrastructures, like the state’s music scene and its film and TV production industry.

GA social media by the numbers

Bet MGM examined the top 500 creator accounts worldwide, tracking where each creator was born or originated, to find out which states are actually running the influencer game.

The numbers

The study found Georgia contributes roughly 3% of the top U.S. creators and is home to 17 creators in the global top 500

• YouTube: 2 creators, 85.6 million subscribers
• TikTok: 5 creators, 106.9 million followers
• Instagram: 6 creators, 177.6 million followers
• Twitch: 4 creators, 8.49 million followers

Georgia’s strongest platform is Instagram and now outpaces Colorado, Maryland, and New Mexico combined in top-ranked creator output.

Social media is good business for Georgia

Georgia has also been building creator momentum for years, not just recently and the industry makes the state both a launchpad for new talent and could offer a significant boost to the local economies.

A 2024 analysis by Metro Atlanta CEO found Georgia residents rank second in the US in searchers about how to become an influencer and a The New York Times article highlighted Atlanta in 2020 as a “rising influencer capital,” especially with Black Gen Z creators.

Influencers and the economy

Georgia’s creator presence can strengthen the economy with ripple effects across multiple industries.

Positive effects

• More spending as creators turn local audiences into paid partners regionally and nationally
• Support new jobs in video production, editing, photography, management, marketing and event work
• Creator-led ads often feel more authentic and drive stronger engagement to local advertisers
• Boosts tourism and local visibility when creators film content in Georgia places
• Keeps young talent in Georgia by giving people another career path that does not require an out-of-state move
• Attracts more investment in digital infrastructure, production support and training programs
• Expands Georgia’s cultural brand nationally, helping the state compete for media attention, partnerships and creative business

Georgia’s place in the creator economy reveals how digital influence can democratizing, so maybe it’s time to start your own influencing career.

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