If you’re a UK-based advertiser or content creator looking to crack into the US market on TikTok, knowing the ad rates across categories is pure gold. As of early 2025, the United States remains the biggest playground for TikTok ad spends, with brands splashing serious cash to reach millions. But what’s the real cost behind those viral videos, and how does it compare with UK rates? Let’s cut through the noise and get straight to the numbers and tactics you need to know.
📢 US TikTok Advertising Landscape vs UK Reality
In the UK, TikTok advertising has boomed over the last couple of years, with brands like Gymshark and BrewDog embracing influencer partnerships and paid ads. Payment is typically done in pounds sterling via platforms like PayPal or direct bank transfers, with contracts carefully crafted to align with UK advertising standards and data protection laws (think GDPR).
Across the pond, the US market is on another level. With a much larger user base and more varied content categories, TikTok ad rates in the United States tend to be higher. Advertisers here often use USD and opt for platforms like Stripe or direct invoicing for payments. Plus, US advertising laws such as FTC guidelines mean influencers and brands need to be extra transparent with disclosures.
📊 2025 United States TikTok Full Category Advertising Rate Table
Here’s a breakdown of average TikTok ad rates by category in the US for 2025, based on recent data and market observations:
| Category | Average CPM (Cost Per Mille) | Influencer Rates (per 1k followers) | Typical Campaign Budget (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fashion & Apparel | $12 – $18 | $15 – $25 | $5,000 – $50,000 |
| Beauty & Cosmetics | $10 – $16 | $12 – $22 | $4,000 – $40,000 |
| Food & Beverage | $8 – $14 | $10 – $20 | $3,000 – $30,000 |
| Gaming & eSports | $14 – $22 | $18 – $30 | $6,000 – $60,000 |
| Tech & Gadgets | $13 – $20 | $16 – $28 | $5,000 – $55,000 |
| Fitness & Wellness | $9 – $15 | $11 – $21 | $3,500 – $35,000 |
| Finance & Insurance | $11 – $17 | $14 – $24 | $4,500 – $45,000 |
| Entertainment | $10 – $18 | $13 – $23 | $4,000 – $40,000 |
| Travel & Hospitality | $9 – $16 | $12 – $22 | $3,500 – $35,000 |
These ad rates reflect a mixture of direct TikTok ads, influencer collaborations, and branded content partnerships. Notice the higher CPM and influencer fees in gaming and tech — a hot niche in the US market.
💡 How UK Advertisers Can Leverage US TikTok Rates
If you’re based in the UK looking to launch a US-targeted TikTok campaign, here’s the lowdown:
- Budget Wisely: US ad rates generally run 20-40% higher than UK averages. Factor in currency exchange and transaction fees.
- Choose the Right Influencers: US TikTok creators like Charli D’Amelio command premium fees, but micro-influencers with 10k-50k followers can offer better ROI.
- Localise Content: Don’t just reuse UK creatives. US audiences respond to region-specific humour, trends, and slang.
- Legal Compliance: Make sure your contracts align with US advertising laws, including clear influencer disclosures per FTC rules.
- Payment Methods: Use international-friendly payment platforms such as Wise or Payoneer for smooth transactions in USD.
📊 UK TikTok Advertising Trends in 2025
As of this month, UK brands are doubling down on TikTok, with a shift towards authentic influencer content rather than just paid ads. Gymshark’s recent campaigns with UK fitness influencers like Hannah Eden show how combining organic reach and paid boosts can maximise impact.
Additionally, UK marketers are increasingly integrating TikTok Shopping features to drive direct conversions, mirroring strategies popular in the US. Payment preferences remain mostly GBP-based, with invoice and PayPal payments dominating.
❗ Risks and Pitfalls UK Advertisers Face When Targeting US TikTok
- Cost Overruns: Without careful monitoring, US campaigns can blow budgets quickly due to higher CPMs and influencer fees.
- Cultural Missteps: Misunderstanding US audience nuances can tank engagement.
- Legal Risks: Non-compliance with FTC or COPPA (for kids’ content) can lead to fines or brand damage.
- Currency Fluctuations: GBP/USD swings can impact your final costs.
### People Also Ask
What are the typical TikTok ad rates in the United States for 2025?
They range from $8 to $22 CPM depending on the category, with influencer fees between $10 and $30 per 1,000 followers. Campaign budgets typically start around $3,000 but can go much higher for premium niches like gaming and tech.
How do US TikTok ad rates compare to the UK?
US rates are generally 20-40% higher due to the larger market size and higher competition. The UK sees averages closer to £5–£12 CPM, while the US market can hit $12–$18 CPM in key categories.
What payment methods are common for TikTok advertising in the US and UK?
In the UK, payments are mostly in pounds via PayPal or bank transfer. In the US, payments in USD often use Stripe, PayPal, or direct invoicing. International advertisers usually use platforms like Wise or Payoneer to handle currency exchange efficiently.
If you’re a UK advertiser or influencer planning to dive into the US TikTok scene in 2025, understanding these ad rates and market dynamics is key to smashing your goals. BaoLiba will continue updating UK TikTok marketing trends and insights, so stay tuned with us for the freshest, most actionable intel.
