Facing soaring tuition and living expenses, a growing number of college students are turning to OnlyFans and other online pornography platforms to earn fast money. The trend reveals a troubling shift in campus culture, where adult content creation is no longer taboo—but increasingly seen as a legitimate source of income.
The average annual cost of college now sits around $38,270. As traditional job opportunities fail to keep pace with inflation, many students view online sex work as a quick solution. OnlyFans alone has grown from roughly 350,000 creators in 2019 to over 4.1 million by 2023, with students making up a noticeable portion of new accounts.
Documented cases show the dangers behind the money. One student featured in the documentary Lonely Fans admitted she now sleeps with a knife beside her bed due to threats from unstable subscribers. Others reported being stalked or publicly confronted by followers. These risks are often downplayed in media narratives that glamorize sex work.
Psychologists warn that participation in adult content creation carries long-term emotional and psychological consequences. Jonathan Alpert, a New York psychotherapist, noted that performers often develop anxiety, depression, or shame, especially when explicit content circulates beyond intended audiences. Job opportunities post-graduation may also be limited, as many employers refuse to hire individuals with a public online sex work history.
Beyond individual risk, the trend represents a broader cultural shift on college campuses. Activities once viewed as immoral are increasingly normalized, signaling a breakdown of traditional values. Some universities turn a blind eye or treat OnlyFans activity as just another side hustle. Few offer moral guidance or resources for students seeking alternatives.
This shift in student behavior underscores the need for stronger faith-based leadership, parental engagement, and institutional accountability.
