21 Jul 25 TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC YOU WON’T BELIEVE ARE TAKING OVER 2026
New York City has always been a magnet for creativity, and in 2026, it remains the epicenter of influencer culture. From viral artists on the subway to fashion-forward moms navigating Soho streets, NYC’s content creators are setting global trends across every platform. These influencers don’t just post pretty pictures—they define modern storytelling, mixing authenticity with aesthetic precision. Whether through TikTok skits, polished Instagram grids, or raw street interviews, they’ve built audiences in the millions by sharing their unique views of life in the city.
What makes these creators stand out isn’t just their follower count but how deeply they connect with their communities. Their influence stretches beyond social media, impacting fashion, wellness, entrepreneurship, and pop culture. In a fast-paced city where everyone’s hustling, these 25 individuals have carved out digital empires. From Gen Z comedy to high-fashion editorials, they cover every niche imaginable. Each one reflects a slice of New York—diverse, loud, brilliant, and always evolving. If you want to understand where trends are born in 2026, this list prepared by [Amra and Elma](https://www.amraandelma.com/) is where to start.
@devonrodriguezartIn 2017, I was sitting in the corner of my grandma’s living room in the South Bronx, the only place I had to paint. She gave me space when I didn’t have much else. My friend Michael (@siteb_studios) filmed these interviews years before anything of mine went viral. This was before my viral subway drawing reaction videos in 2020. But the subway was never a trend for me. It was my real life. I’d been drawing people down there since 2010, studying faces, cultures, stories. I just didn’t “blow up” until ten years later. That’s why I always say: don’t chase viral. Don’t chase the spotlight. Fall in love with the process. Fall in love with the craft. Success is usually just years of quiet work that nobody sees. There are so many chapters to this journey, growing up in the Bronx, the setbacks, the doubt, the perseverance. I put it all into my memoir. If you want to read the full story, you can pre-order at the link in my bio or at DevonRodriguezBook.com. Every pre-order brings me closer to becoming a New York Times Best Seller, and that goal means so much to me. I want to show the world that even if I’m from the Bronx, even if I was raised in poverty, even if I was abused, even if my father abandoned me, even if I’m Latino, I can still become a NY Times Bestseller! Thank you @penguinrandomhouse @oneworldbooks for believing in my life story 🙏🏼♥️♬ original sound – Devon Rodriguez
25 TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC WHO ARE CHANGING EVERYTHING RIGHT NOW!
Discover the Top Influencers in NYC Who Are Shaping Global Trends and Defining 2026
@lizzzas/o to my fake assistant, she’s a real one♬ original sound – Liza Koshy
Updated for 2026, New York City influencers have expanded their reach in ways that were unimaginable just a few years ago. With some influencers now boasting over 50 million followers across multiple platforms, their digital empires are worth billions. These content creators aren’t just engaging their audiences—they’re shaping culture, driving commerce, and influencing everything from fashion to social movements. Brands are now signing multimillion-dollar deals with NYC influencers at an unprecedented pace, with an estimated 30% increase in influencer-led revenue streams year-over-year. NYC is no longer just a city of fashion and art—it’s a powerhouse of digital innovation.
MEET THE 25 TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC WHO ARE TAKING OVER THE WORLD (Quick View)
NYC Creator Rankings 2026
The City That Never Stops Scrolling.
25 Top Influencers in NYC You Won't Believe Are Taking Over 2026
The New Yorkers Turning the Five Boroughs Into a Content Empire
Ranked by social media followers · 2026 counts · Industry niche & estimated net worth included
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #1. Devon Rodriguez
Devon Rodriguez is a New York-based artist who rose to fame through his hyper-realistic subway portraits. His TikTok channel, where he films strangers’ reactions to his art, has earned him over 34 million followers. Devon’s ability to capture raw human emotion in pencil sketches has made him a standout in the digital art world. He was previously a finalist for the Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition at the Smithsonian. His influence goes beyond social media—he’s collaborated with major brands and had gallery features in New York. Devon continues to redefine the intersection of street art and viral content.
In 2026, Devon Rodriguez’s art continues to captivate millions, with his first solo art exhibition set for NYC’s prestigious Guggenheim Museum, bringing his subway sketches to an entirely new audience.
@devonrodriguezart🇯🇵JAPAN ART BOOK🇯🇵 AVAILABLE NOW! HIT THE LINK IN MY BIO♬ original sound – Devon Rodriguez
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #2. Joe Mele
Joe Mele gained popularity on TikTok by creating wholesome comedic skits with his father, Frank Mele. His family-oriented content has attracted a global audience, earning him over 31 million followers. Based in NYC, Joe’s videos blend humor, tradition, and authentic moments that resonate with millions. His Italian-American roots are often reflected in his storytelling. Joe has worked with major lifestyle and food brands thanks to his high engagement. His rise shows the power of family content in today’s creator economy.
In 2026, Joe Mele has expanded his brand into a new podcast series, where he discusses fatherhood, Italian-American culture, and his latest collaborations with food and lifestyle brands.
@itsjojosiwaVOLUME. UP.🖤✝️🛠️🐻♬ GP – JoJo Siwa
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #3. Liza Koshy
Liza Koshy is a multi-hyphenate entertainer and digital creator who started on Vine and became a household name across YouTube, TikTok, and TV. With over 30 million followers on TikTok, her fast-paced comedy and relatable personality made her one of the most recognized online figures. Originally from Texas, she is now based in New York, where she’s branched out into acting and hosting. Liza has starred in series like Liza on Demand and worked with Vogue and the Met Gala. Her versatility keeps her relevant across both digital and traditional platforms. She’s a defining voice of Gen Z humor and representation.
In 2026, Liza Koshy is headlining a major TV comedy series, signing a multi-season deal with Netflix that brings her unique blend of humor and relatability to an even larger global audience.
@lizzzaBenson Poone slam♬ original sound – Bri
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #4. Chloe Ting
Chloe Ting is a fitness content creator and YouTube powerhouse known for her at-home workout challenges. Her videos, especially the “2 Week Shred Challenge,” went viral globally, gaining her over 25 million subscribers. Though originally from Australia, she now operates from NYC to be closer to the U.S. fitness scene. Chloe’s content focuses on accessibility and consistency, often requiring no equipment. She has inspired millions to begin their wellness journeys from home. Chloe’s brand is expanding into fitness gear and app development in 2025.
For 2026, Chloe Ting is launching her highly anticipated fitness app, which includes AI-powered personalized workout plans, taking her fitness empire to the next level with a focus on holistic health.
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #5. Meredith Duxbury
Meredith Duxbury is a beauty influencer known for her unique foundation routine and bold makeup transformations. Her TikTok tutorials have racked up billions of views, helping her gain over 18 million followers. Based in New York, she’s a frequent front-row guest at Fashion Week and works with major beauty brands like Maybelline and Dior. Her style is unapologetically glam and dramatic. Meredith has also become a trendsetter for makeup aesthetics on both TikTok and Instagram. Her future looks set for product lines and global campaigns.
For 2026, Meredith Duxbury is expanding her makeup line with a new foundation range, collaborating with Sephora on exclusive product drops that will revolutionize the beauty industry.
@meredithduxbury500 DOTS OF BLUSH…. PART 2. Omg. 🫠🫠🫠♬ original sound – Meredith Duxbury
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #6. Haley Kalil
Haley Kalil is a former Sports Illustrated model turned social media star known for her comedic skits and glamorous transformations. Her content often pokes fun at beauty stereotypes while embracing confidence and humor. She has over 14 million followers on TikTok and has built a strong audience across YouTube and Instagram. Haley lives in NYC and is active in both fashion and philanthropic circles. She uses her platform to speak about body positivity and mental health. Her dual presence in entertainment and advocacy makes her a standout figure in 2025.
In 2026, Haley Kalil is partnering with a major skincare brand, focusing on self-care and body positivity, aiming to inspire her followers to embrace natural beauty in a series of upcoming campaign ads.
@haleyybaylee #modernart ♬ original sound – haleyybaylee
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #7. Wisdom Kaye
Wisdom Kaye is a fashion model and TikTok icon celebrated for his editorial-level outfit videos. Originally from Houston, he now lives in NYC where his content blends luxury fashion with everyday streetwear. With over 13 million followers, Wisdom has worked with brands like Balmain, Fendi, and Dior. His flair for bold color combinations and structured silhouettes has earned him the title of “Best-Dressed Guy on TikTok.” He often uses his platform to showcase Black fashion excellence. Wisdom’s style influence is growing both online and in the fashion editorial world.
In 2026, Wisdom Kaye is working with Dior to launch his first streetwear collection, combining luxury fashion with his signature bold and colorful style, creating a new wave of high-end casual wear.
@wisdm8 Replying to @Liam ♬ original sound – Wisdom Kaye
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #8. Danielle Bernstein
Danielle Bernstein is the founder of WeWoreWhat, a fashion blog turned multi-million dollar brand. Based in NYC, she has over 3 million followers and a line of swimwear, activewear, and tech. Danielle was among the early wave of fashion influencers to transition into entrepreneurship. She frequently shares her business journey and behind-the-scenes fashion content. Her strong presence at events like NYFW solidifies her role in shaping street style. In 2025, she continues to expand into real estate and investment ventures.
In 2026, Danielle Bernstein’s brand WeWoreWhat is expanding into tech with a new app that lets users customize their fashion experience based on daily trends and personalized style preferences.
View this post on Instagram
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #9. Dr. Holly Hatcher‑Frazier
Dr. Holly Hatcher-Frazier gained fame as a dance mom on Lifetime’s Dance Moms, and now influences through wellness, parenting, and education content. She has nearly 3 million followers and uses her voice to empower mothers and Black professionals. Based in NYC, she often collaborates with educational institutions and social campaigns. Holly brings intellect and empathy into her digital persona. Her content spans from motivational speaking to behind-the-scenes family life. In 2025, she is also pursuing publishing and podcasting.
In 2026, Dr. Holly Hatcher-Frazier is releasing her first book, a parenting and wellness guide that draws from her personal experiences as a mother and professional, offering valuable insights into family life.
View this post on Instagram
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #10. Method Man
Clifford Smith Jr., known as Method Man, is a hip-hop legend and current social media figure with nearly 3 million followers. Though best known for his time with Wu-Tang Clan, he now engages audiences through fitness, acting, and lifestyle content. Based in New York, he blends legacy and modern appeal. Method Man frequently posts workout clips, interviews, and behind-the-scenes projects. He’s become a surprising fitness icon for men over 40. His crossover appeal makes him relevant to both hip-hop fans and wellness communities.
In 2026, Method Man is starring in a new fitness series on HBO Max, blending his passion for wellness with his legacy in hip-hop to reach a broader audience across both entertainment and fitness.
View this post on Instagram
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #11. Daniel Mac
Daniel Mac is a viral creator known for asking luxury car owners, “What do you do for a living?” His street interviews around NYC have become a signature format, earning him over 2.5 million followers. He’s interviewed CEOs, celebrities, and influencers, giving audiences a peek into aspirational lifestyles. Daniel blends curiosity with hustle, expanding into podcasting and brand collaborations. His content attracts both finance-savvy audiences and pop culture fans. In 2025, he’s building a digital series and entering mainstream media.
For 2026, Daniel Mac is creating a luxury podcast, featuring candid interviews with CEOs and industry leaders, offering an inside look into the lifestyles of the ultra-wealthy.
@itsdanielmac This Is My Favorite Video I’ve Ever Filmed #pagani #huayra #hypercar #luxury ♬ original sound – DANIEL MAC
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #12. Aaliyah Jay
Aaliyah Jay is a beauty and lifestyle influencer who started on YouTube and built a loyal fan base through honest reviews and GRWM videos. Now with over 2 million followers, she’s based in NYC and known for her flawless makeup looks and fashion hauls. Her confidence and humor keep her content relatable and entertaining. Aaliyah often collaborates with makeup brands and has launched limited edition products. She’s also become a style icon, blending streetwear with high fashion. Her influence continues to grow across YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram.
In 2026, Aaliyah Jay is launching her own beauty line focused on inclusive products for all skin tones, with a major debut collaboration with Sephora to ensure global distribution.
View this post on Instagram
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #13. Liz Eswein
Liz Eswein, known by her Instagram handle @newyorkcity, is a pioneer in urban photography and aesthetic curation. She gained notoriety as one of Instagram’s earliest breakout stars and now has over 1.6 million followers. Her account showcases NYC’s beauty—from moody skylines to vibrant street scenes. Liz also consults for tourism boards and luxury brands wanting to tap into NYC’s essence. She remains largely behind the lens but is deeply embedded in the influencer and branding world. Her content is polished, cinematic, and timeless.
For 2026, Liz Eswein is expanding her urban photography brand into a global tourism app that curates visual guides for NYC hotspots, collaborating with local businesses and the tourism industry.
View this post on Instagram
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #14. Emira D’Spain
Emira D’Spain is a beauty content creator and the first Black transgender model to work with Victoria’s Secret. Based in New York, she uses her platform of over 1.3 million followers to celebrate diversity and confidence. Emira posts makeup routines, fashion looks, and personal reflections with vulnerability and elegance. She’s a regular at fashion events and often features in editorial shoots. Her bold presence challenges norms and celebrates individuality. Emira is becoming a strong voice for inclusion in beauty and fashion.
In 2026, Emira D’Spain is collaborating with major beauty influencers to launch a new skincare line that prioritizes self-love and representation, set to make waves in both the fashion and beauty industries.
View this post on Instagram
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #15. Eva Chen
Eva Chen is the Director of Fashion Partnerships at Instagram and a former magazine editor who has successfully built a personal brand. With over 1.3 million followers, she blends industry insights with relatable content like #EvaChenPose and motherhood moments. Living in NYC, she frequently shares previews of fashion launches, books, and life as a working mom. Eva is a trusted voice in both the editorial and tech spaces. She often spotlights emerging designers and sustainable fashion. Her ability to mix influence and authenticity keeps her audience engaged.
In 2026, Eva Chen is curating a high-fashion virtual reality experience for Instagram users, merging technology and fashion in a groundbreaking collaboration with top designers and virtual influencers.
View this post on Instagram
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #16. Caleb Simpson
Caleb Simpson is the face behind the viral “How much is your rent?” series, where he interviews random NYC residents about their apartments. His raw, street-style interviews provide rare looks inside real NYC living spaces. With over 1 million followers, Caleb has grown a brand around urban transparency and curiosity. His content appeals to both Gen Z renters and design enthusiasts. He’s partnered with real estate platforms and lifestyle brands in 2025. Caleb’s approach humanizes city life in a way that feels honest and fresh.
In 2026, Caleb Simpson’s “How much is your rent?” series has expanded into an interactive, global web series, bringing new perspectives on urban living from cities around the world.
@calebwsimpson @user9241882106388 ♬ Sunroof – Nicky Youre & dazy
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #17. Paige Lorenze
Paige Lorenze is a lifestyle influencer known for her soft country-meets-city aesthetic and wellness content. She has over 965K followers and shares fashion tips, home decor, and candid takes on mental health. Originally from Connecticut, she’s now based in New York and blends countryside calm with urban flair. Paige also runs a lifestyle brand called Dairy Boy, inspired by her farm roots. Her Instagram is curated but honest, mixing vulnerability with aspirational visuals. She connects deeply with women navigating their 20s and 30s.
In 2026, Paige Lorenze’s lifestyle brand Dairy Boy is releasing its first fashion line inspired by her minimalist and wellness-focused approach, with a launch at New York Fashion Week.
View this post on Instagram
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #18. Gia Giudice
Gia Giudice is a rising social media star and daughter of Real Housewives of New Jersey alum Teresa Giudice. Now based in NYC, she has built a following of over 940K by sharing lifestyle content, fashion looks, and college life updates. Gia balances reality TV fame with her own personal brand. She’s branching into music and influencer campaigns in 2025. Her content appeals to fans of Bravo and Gen Z audiences alike. Gia’s style is classic East Coast with a modern twist.
For 2026, Gia Giudice is venturing into music with her debut album, blending pop with her Italian roots, set to launch under a major label partnership, further solidifying her brand’s expansion.
View this post on Instagram
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #19. Courtney Quinn
Courtney Quinn, aka Color Me Courtney, is a vibrant fashion influencer known for her colorful outfits and positive energy. Her Instagram features bold patterns, vintage vibes, and uplifting messages, drawing in over 900K followers. Based in NYC, she’s become a favorite for campaigns with brands like Kate Spade and Target. Courtney advocates for joy, inclusion, and dressing to express. Her husband and dog often make appearances in her content. In 2025, she’s focused on product collaborations and mental wellness advocacy.
In 2026, Courtney Quinn is collaborating with a top wellness brand to release a capsule collection of mindfulness-inspired products, mixing fashion with mental health advocacy.
View this post on Instagram
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #20. Riley Burruss
Riley Burruss, daughter of Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kandi Burruss, has carved her own path on social media. Living in NYC, she shares content about student life, fashion, and music to an audience of over 847K. Riley is studying full-time while building her brand, which reflects ambition and relatability. She frequently posts about college experiences and family. Her down-to-earth tone resonates with a younger demographic. Riley’s evolving content includes music, skincare, and education tips.
In 2026, Riley Burruss is launching her own skincare line aimed at college students, focusing on affordability and self-care, while continuing to share real, relatable college experiences.
View this post on Instagram
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #21. Ariana Biermann
Ariana Biermann is known from Bravo’s Don’t Be Tardy, and she’s now a fashion and beauty influencer based in New York. With over 630K followers, she posts outfit inspo, makeup routines, and luxury lifestyle snippets. Ariana’s aesthetic blends soft glam with Y2K trends. She often partners with emerging fashion brands and beauty startups. Her social presence remains consistent, stylish, and aspirational. In 2025, she’s planning a capsule collection and makeup line.
For 2026, Ariana Biermann is releasing her first Y2K-inspired fashion collection in collaboration with Forever 21, celebrating the trends she helped bring back to mainstream culture.
View this post on Instagram
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #22. Sai De Silva
Sai De Silva is a fashion and lifestyle content creator who balances motherhood and style with over 600K followers. She’s known for her chic yet approachable outfits and shares content with her daughter, London. Based in NYC, Sai has collaborated with Nordstrom, Dior, and J.Crew. She recently joined The Real Housewives of New York, further boosting her reach. Sai offers a stylish lens on modern parenting. Her content resonates with fashionable millennial moms.
In 2026, Sai De Silva’s motherhood and lifestyle brand is expanding with a new collection of eco-friendly, chic home decor, creating a seamless blend of family life and sustainable style.
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #23. Ashley Cotto
Ashley Cotto is a makeup artist and content creator best known for her honest product reviews and eye-catching tutorials. With nearly 695K followers, she creates beauty content that highlights Latina culture and community. Based in NYC, Ashley brings personality and authenticity to every post. She frequently collaborates with drugstore and high-end beauty brands. Ashley’s tutorials are approachable and trend-focused. In 2025, she’s expanding into product development and hosting workshops.
For 2026, Ashley Cotto is launching her own makeup brand, focusing on Latina beauty and culture, with the aim of bringing inclusive beauty products to the forefront of the industry.
View this post on Instagram
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #24. Mohamet Mbaye
Mohamet Mbaye is a menswear content creator based in Brooklyn, celebrated for his clean, tailored style. His Instagram feed, followed by over 527K, is full of modern suiting, monochrome looks, and seasonal trends. Mohamet often partners with high-end brands and shoots street-style campaigns in iconic NYC neighborhoods. He represents a growing niche of polished, minimalist menswear influencers. His calm tone and visual consistency make him stand out. In 2025, he’s consulting on brand styling and expanding into YouTube content.
In 2026, Mohamet Mbaye’s minimalist menswear line is collaborating with global brands to create exclusive capsule collections, taking his clean, tailored look to a larger, international market.
View this post on Instagram
TOP INFLUENCERS IN NYC 2025 #25. Tina Leung
Tina Leung is a fashion stylist and influencer featured on Netflix’s Bling Empire: New York. With 500K followers, she showcases designer looks, runway events, and editorial shoots. Tina is known for her maximalist fashion choices and vibrant personality. Based in NYC, she’s a go-to figure for brand launches and luxury collaborations. Her content is stylish, elite, and culturally rich. Tina continues to bridge Asian representation and global fashion influence.
In 2026, Tina Leung is curating a global luxury fashion event that celebrates Asian representation in the industry, bringing together top influencers and designers for an international collaboration.
View this post on Instagram
CONCLUSION
These 25 NYC influencers are shaping the way we experience fashion, art, humor, and lifestyle in 2026. They’ve turned everyday city moments into viral stories and built loyal communities by staying true to their voice. What sets them apart is their ability to connect—whether it’s through a candid TikTok, a thoughtful caption, or a stunning visual. Each influencer brings something unique to the table, reflecting the cultural richness and pace of New York itself. From subway portraits to luxury fashion reels, they’ve shown how digital content can feel personal, creative, and powerful.
In 2026, these creators are securing multimillion-dollar brand deals and redefining digital storytelling, influencing not just what we see online but how brands engage with their audiences.
Sources:
Disclaimer: The influencers featured in this article are highlighted for editorial and informational purposes only. All embedded social media posts are displayed using the official embed tools provided by their respective platforms (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, etc.), in accordance with platform terms of service. We do not claim ownership of any embedded content, and all rights remain with the original creators. If you are an influencer featured here and would like your content removed or updated, please contact us directly.