How To Start an OnlyFans as a Guy and Make Money: What You Need to Know

Thinking about starting an OnlyFans as a guy but unsure if there’s space for you? You’re not alone! This platform is often seen as a women’s or couples’ game, but solo male creators are making some serious waves and cash. 

From fitness & lifestyle to adult content and beyond, men are thriving by carving out unique niches and connecting authentically with fans. The opportunities are real, but so are the challenges: standing out, overcoming stigma, and finding your audience.

If you’re ready to break stereotypes and build your brand, here’s how to start an OnlyFans as a guy, confidently and strategically.

Key Statistics on Male Creators & Earnings on OnlyFans

Male creators are increasingly making their mark on OnlyFans, with significant growth in both earnings and subscriber engagement. Here’s a snapshot of the current statistics:

• Around 14-29% are male (varies by source)
• Male users account for 60-87% of subscribers, creating demand for male creators.
  

Earnings Potential

• Male creators typically earn between $1,500 – $7,500 a month.
  
• Top 1% of creators: ~30% are male, with earnings exceeding $1M annually (e.g., Reno Gold at $1.2M/year)
  
• 33% of total earnings go to the top 1% of creators.
  

Growth Trends

• Male creators tripled during the pandemic, outpacing female creator growth.
  
• Approval rates: ~32% of creator applications get approved monthly, with stricter vetting in 2024.
  

Challenges

• Pay disparity: Female creators earn 78% more on average due to audience demographics
  
• Market saturation: Top 10% of creators generate 73% of total revenue.
  

Market Research: Know Your Audience

Before you jump into creating content on OnlyFans, it’s crucial to understand who your audience is and what they’re looking for. While the platform is often associated with adult content, there’s a wide range of niches catering to diverse tastes. 

Male creators see strong support from men, particularly in the LGBTQ+ community, who value authenticity and consistent interaction. Additionally, women and couples are also a significant audience, especially for creators focusing on fitness, romance, and lifestyle content. 

Knowing who pays for your content and what they’re looking for will help you tailor your offerings to attract the right subscribers.

Popular Niches for Male Creators in OnlyFans

Once you have an understanding of your audience, it’s time to explore the types of content that are currently in demand on OnlyFans. Here are some of the most popular niches for male creators:

• Fitness: Workout routines, transformation journeys, and personalized coaching are top draws. Fitness remains the most dominant & lucrative niche for male creators, appealing to both male & female subscribers.
• LGBTQ+ Content: Many successful male creators often connect with gay men, offering everything from lifestyle vlogs to explicit content. Building a brand that resonates can boost engagement and earnings.
• Fetish & Kink: Fetish content, ranging from feet and muscle worship to specific roleplays has a dedicated following. These niches often attract loyal, high-spending fans.
• Romance & Companionship: Some subscribers seek intimacy, emotional connection, or “boyfriend experience” content, which can be less explicit but highly engaging for certain audiences.
• Gaming, Cosplay, & Entertainment: Gamers, cosplayers, and entertainers can thrive by adding creativity, personality, and exclusive live streams or behind-the-scenes content.
• Lifestyle and Advice: Sharing insights into your daily life, fashion, or self-improvement tips can attract subscribers interested in more than just adult content.

Setting Up Your OnlyFans Account as a Guy

As a male creator, you’ll need to make an Onlyfans profile that stands out, appeals to your target audience, and effectively monetizes your content. Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up your OnlyFans account as a guy:

Step #1 Sign Up:

Visit the OnlyFans website and create an account using your email address. You’ll need to be at least 18 years old and provide essential personal details.

Step #2 Identity Verification:

Upload a government-issued ID and a clear selfie for verification. This step is mandatory to ensure you’re of legal age and to activate earning features.

Step #3 Payment Setup:

Link your bank account or payment platform so you can receive payouts. OnlyFans keeps your personal information private and uses it solely for verification and payments.

Step #4 Username:

Choose a memorable, easy-to-search username that fits your brand. Avoid numbers or complicated characters.

Step #5 Profile Photo & Banner:

Use high-quality, professional-looking images that reflect your niche and personality. A clear, engaging profile photo can help attract subscribers.

Step #6 Bio:

Write a concise, enticing bio that tells subscribers what to expect. Highlight your unique qualities, content style, and any special offerings (e.g., fitness tips, exclusive chats, custom content).

Step #7 Content Preview:

Consider sharing a few free teaser posts to give new visitors a taste of your content and encourage subscriptions.

Equipment & Setup

Starting your OnlyFans as a guy doesn’t require a massive investment, but quality gear can set you apart. Most creators start with a modern smartphone, recent iPhones or Google Pixels offer impressive cameras and 4K video, making them a solid choice for beginners.

As you grow, consider upgrading to a DSLR or mirrorless camera like the Canon EOS M50 or Sony A6400 for even sharper images and greater creative control.

Lighting is crucial. A ring light (like the Neewer 18″ LED) or softbox ensures your content is bright and flattering, while a tripod keeps your shots steady.  Choose a clean, uncluttered backdrop or add LED strips and props to reflect your personality and niche.

For editing, free apps like InShot or VN Editor are user-friendly, while Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve offer advanced features as you scale up. Always film in natural light when possible, keep your lens clean, and experiment with angles to find your best look. 

Quality visuals and a consistent style will help you stand out and attract loyal subscribers.

Content Strategy for Male Creators

Male creators have found success on OnlyFans by offering a wide range of content that goes far beyond traditional adult material. Popular SFW (safe-for-work) options include fitness routines, workout tips, meal plans, comedy sketches, lifestyle vlogs, and BTS  glimpses into daily life or creative projects.

For those comfortable with NSFW (not-safe-for-work) content, there’s strong demand for tasteful nudes, explicit videos, fetish/kink content, and custom requests especially from the LGBTQ+ audience, which forms a significant subscriber base for male creators.

Custom content, such as personalized shoutouts or 1-on-1 chats, is highly valued and can boost both engagement and earnings.

1. Content Scheduling & Consistency

Consistency is a cornerstone of OnlyFans success. Top male creators post new content several times a week, if not daily, to keep subscribers engaged and coming back for more.

Consider the time zones of your target audience. Posting during peak hours like evenings or weekends can help maximize visibility. You can experiment to see what times get the best engagement.

Keep your content varied to maintain subscriber interest. Don’t just stick to one format; mix it up between photos, videos, and interactive content like polls or Q&A sessions. Offering a blend of SFW and NSFW content allows you to reach a broader audience.

2. Body Types and Presentation

There is no single “ideal” body type for male creators on OnlyFans. Audiences are diverse, and different niches appreciate different looks from athletic & muscular to “dad bods,” slim, or even alternative styles. 

The key is to present yourself authentically & confidently, leaning into your unique appeal and personality. High-quality visuals, good lighting, and thoughtful presentation matter more than conforming to any one standard. 

Building relatability and authenticity often resonates more with subscribers than simply aiming for perfection

How Can Guys Make Money on OnlyFans?

Male creators on OnlyFans have a variety of revenue streams to leverage, each catering to different audience preferences and maximizing earning potential:

1. Subscriptions:

The core income for most creators comes from monthly subscriptions. Rates typically start between $5 – $15, but top male creators often increase their fees as their audience grows and content becomes more exclusive.

2. Tips:

Fans can send tips in OnlyFans for standard posts, live streams, or as a thank-you for engaging directly. Offering special incentives like shoutouts or custom videos can significantly boost tip income.

3. PPV Content:

Creators can send locked content via direct messages or posts that subscribers unlock for a fee. PPV is especially lucrative for exclusive or highly requested material and is a major revenue driver for both free and paid pages.

4. Custom Content:

Personalized videos, photos, or experiences (such as one-on-one chats) command premium pricing and foster deeper fan loyalty.

5. Collaborations:

Working with other creators can attract new subscribers from each other’s audiences, increase exposure, and allow for special joint content that fans are willing to pay extra for..

6. Affiliate Marketing & Off-Platform Sales:

Some creators promote products, services, or their own merchandise, earning commissions or direct sales revenue. This can include branded items, fitness plans, or digital downloads.

7. Brand Deals & Sponsorships:

As your following grows, opportunities for partnerships with relevant brands or sponsors can add a significant revenue stream.

Setting Pricing Strategies

A thoughtful pricing strategy is crucial for growth and retention:

• Subscription Tiers: Offer multiple subscription levels (e.g., basic, premium, VIP) with increasing access to exclusive content or perks. This allows fans to choose their level of engagement and spending.
• Discounts & Promotions: Run limited-time discounts or bundle deals (e.g., three months for the price of two) to attract new subscribers and encourage longer commitments.
• Value Bundles: Package content such as a month’s worth of fitness videos or a themed photo set for a single price to increase perceived value and drive larger purchases.
• Tip Menus: List specific services or content (like custom videos, private chats, or shoutouts) with set prices, making it easy for fans to know what’s available and how much it costs.

With a strategic approach to monetization and pricing, male creators can build sustainable, high-earning profiles on OnlyFans regardless of niche or starting audience size.

Marketing & Audience Growth

Effective marketing & promotion is essential for male creators on OnlyFans, especially since the platform’s organic discovery is limited. The most successful male creators leverage multiple social media channels:

1. X (Twitter):

Ideal for adult content, X allows NSFW teasers, direct links, and community engagement. Consistent posting, using relevant hashtags, and interacting with fans and other creators can drive significant traffic to your OnlyFans.

2. Reddit:

Reddit is a powerhouse for OnlyFans promotion, especially in adult and niche subreddits. You can share both SFW & NSFW content, participate in community discussions, and tap into highly targeted audiences. Many creators credit Reddit as their top source of new subscribers.

3. TikTok:

While explicit content is prohibited, TikTok is excellent for building your personal brand, sharing SFW teasers, and directing viewers to your link-in-bio. Viral trends and creative short-form videos can attract a broad audience.

4. Instagram:

Use Instagram for lifestyle, fitness, and behind-the-scenes content. Stories and reels can tease premium content and funnel followers to your OnlyFans. While NSFW content isn’t allowed, strategic use of DMs and link stickers can convert fans.

Maintaining Engagement and Retaining Subscribers

Subscriber retention is as important as acquisition. The most successful male creators foster a sense of community and personal connection:

• Messaging Strategy: Respond promptly to DMs, offer personalized greetings, and check in with top fans. Exclusive messages and custom content requests make subscribers feel valued.
• Polls and Interactive Content: Use polls, Q&As, and feedback requests to involve your audience in content decisions. This not only boosts engagement but gives you direct insight into what your fans want.
• Special Content and Perks: Offer subscriber-only perks such as live streams, behind-the-scenes footage, or early access to new content. Regularly update your feed to keep fans coming back for more.
• Community Building: Engage with comments, shout out loyal fans, and create a welcoming environment. A vibrant, interactive community encourages ongoing subscriptions and word-of-mouth growth.

Tips, Tools, and Pro Advice To Start An OnlyFans As A Guy

Starting and maintaining a successful OnlyFans page as a male creator requires dedication, consistency, and the right tools. Here are some tips & strategies, along with tools that can help streamline your workflow, and pro advice from successful male creators to guide you on your journey.

• Lack of Consistency: Sporadic posting or disappearing for weeks can quickly erode your subscriber base. Consistent, high-quality content is essential for retention and growth
• Neglecting Engagement: Not responding to messages, comments, or custom content requests can make subscribers feel undervalued. Direct interaction is a major driver of loyalty and tips
• Overlooking Niche Appeal: Trying to appeal to everyone often leads to bland content. Successful male creators find and own a niche whether it’s fitness, fetish, romance, or comedy to stand out and attract a dedicated following
• Underpricing or Overpricing: Setting your subscription price too high without established value, or too low without upselling, can hurt your earnings. Start modestly and adjust as your brand grows

Tools to Streamline Your Workflow

• Scheduling Apps: Tools like Buffer or Hootsuite let you plan and automate social media posts, keeping your promotion consistent even when you’re busy
• Watermarking Tools: Protect your content from unauthorized sharing with apps like iWatermark or built-in features on Supercreator
• Fan Management Platforms: Supercreator is designed specifically for OnlyFans creators, offering AI-powered tools for messaging, scheduling, and revenue tracking. It’s built with input from top-earning creators to maximize efficiency and profits
• Content Editing: Use apps like Canva for graphics, InShot for video editing, and Lightroom for photo enhancement to keep your content polished and professional.

Pro Tips from Successful OnlyFans Creators & Strategist

Here’s a curated list of pro tips from successful male OnlyFans creators & strategists, based on platform insights and industry expertise:

1. Maddie – Supercreator Strategist

Tip: “Success hinges on understanding the gay male audience. Tailor your content to their preferences, and don’t shy away from explicit material if it aligns with your brand.”

Key Advice:

• Niche-first approach: Identify a specific look or persona (e.g., “twink,” “jock,” or “dad bod”) to attract loyal fans.
• Dual accounts: Use a free page to attract fans and a paid VIP page for exclusive content.

2. Gunnar Stone – Top Male Creator

Tip: “Consistency & authenticity are non-negotiable. Fans pay for real connections, not just content.” 

Key Advice:

• Post daily: Mix SFW (fitness routines, Q&As) and NSFW content to keep engagement high.
• Collaborate: Partner with creators in similar niches to cross-promote and expand reach.
• Earnings: Reportedly earns $1.2M/year through subscriptions and custom content.

3. Reddit Community Insights

Tip: “Study top male creators in your niche. Reverse-engineer their success but add your unique twist.“

Key Advice (from r/OnlyFansAdvice):

• Promote aggressively: Use Reddit’s NSFW subreddits (e.g., r/LadyBoners, r/GoneWild) to attract paying subscribers.
• Engage authentically: Respond to every DM and comment to build loyalty.

By avoiding common pitfalls, using the right tools, and applying proven strategies from top male creators, you can streamline your workflow, maximize your earnings, and build a loyal, engaged fanbase on OnlyFans.

How Much Do Males in OnlyFans Make?

The average male creator on OnlyFans earns between $150 – $180 per month in gross income, based on roughly 21 subscribers at an average subscription price of $7.21. After OnlyFans’ 20% commission and taxes, take-home pay typically falls just under $150 monthly. 

Community polls show that many male creators report monthly earnings in the $0 – $500 range, especially when starting out or lacking experience.

However, these averages mask a wide earnings gap. Male creators who consistently produce high-quality content, engage their audience, and build a loyal fanbase can surpass $1,000 per month within a few months. 

 At the very top, the highest-earning male creators, often celebrities or those with unique niches can earn $30,000 – $100,000 or more per month, with the top 1% capturing 33% of all platform revenue. Ultimately, while most men earn modest amounts, strategic creators with a clear niche and strong marketing can achieve substantial success on OnlyFans.

OnlyFans Alternatives for Guys

While OnlyFans is one of the most popular platforms for creators, several alternatives offer similar benefits and unique features that cater to male creators. One such alternative is xFans, an OnlyFans clone by Adent.io, which provides a customizable fan subscription platform with multiple revenue streams. 

With xFans, creators can set up a subscription model, charge for PPV content, receive tips from fans, and even offer private or group shows. This versatility allows you to maximize your income by diversifying the revenue streams. 

Additionally, eCommerce features enable you to sell digital or physical goods directly from the platform. Affiliate marketing opportunities are also available, allowing creators to earn commissions by promoting other products or services through banners on their site. 

For the admin (creator), xFans offers complete control, including the ability to set commission rates on the platform. The premium version of xFans is priced at $1,499 for a lifetime license, with free installation, 6 months of product support, and discounted hosting services. For creators looking for a more tailored, independent platform, xFans could be a powerful alternative to OnlyFans.

Final Thoughts

Starting an OnlyFans as a guy can be an incredibly rewarding experience if you approach it with strategy, dedication, and consistency. From understanding your audience and choosing the right niche, to creating high-quality content and engaging with fans, each step plays a crucial role in building your brand and generating income. 

Success takes time, but with the right tools and mindset, you can thrive. For those looking for full control and no platform fees, Adent.io offers an OnlyFans clone (xFans) where you are the boss, enabling you to keep all your earnings and run your own fan subscription site.