These days, everyone seems to be looking for a side hustle, and for good reason.
Whether you are saving for a vacation, paying off debt, or just looking to boost your income, finding the right side hustle can make all the difference.
But here’s the thing- not all side hustles are worth your time.
In this article, we will dive into over 20 side hustles that actually work. We will explore options that are flexible, profitable, and fit into your schedule. Let’s get started!
Why Consider a Side Hustle?
With inflation and the cost of living on the rise, many people are turning to side gigs.
Did you know that over 44% of Americans have a side hustle, according to Zapier’s Side Hustle Report?[1]
The potential to earn extra cash, without quitting your full-time job, is one of the biggest appeals of a side gig. The average monthly income of a side hustle is $483 and 1 in 5 Americans report making over $15,000 a year from their side hustles.[2]
1. Freelance Writing
Got a way with words? Freelance writing is one of the most popular and lucrative side hustles. Whether it’s blog posts, articles, or copywriting, businesses need writers more than ever. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer offer a great starting point for beginners.
Earnings: $20 – $100+ per hour, depending on expertise.
2. Graphic Design
If you’re skilled in Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator, graphic design could be a great side hustle for you. From designing logos to social media graphics, the demand for quality designs is high, especially for small businesses and startups. You can even sell your designs on websites like Etsy or Redbubble.
Earnings: $25 – $150 per project, depending on complexity.
3. Virtual Assistant
Businesses, especially small ones, are always on the lookout for virtual assistants to manage administrative tasks. If you’re organized and tech-savvy, you can offer services such as email management, scheduling, and social media posting. Virtual assistant work is flexible and often remote.
Earnings: $15 – $50 per hour.
4. Social Media Management
Love spending time on Instagram or TikTok? Social media management could be your perfect side gig. Many small businesses need help managing their social media presence and creating content. If you can grow a brand’s social following, this can become a highly profitable venture.
Earnings: $20 – $75 per hour, depending on experience.
5. Print-on-Demand Business
Starting a print-on-demand business lets you design custom products like t-shirts, mugs, and phone cases. The best part? You don’t need inventory. Websites like Printful and Printify handle production and shipping. All you need is creativity and a platform like Etsy or Shopify.
Earnings: Varies, but some sellers make thousands per month.
6. Online Tutoring
If you’re knowledgeable in a particular subject, why not share your expertise? With platforms like VIPKid, Chegg Tutors, and Wyzant, you can tutor students online. Subjects like math, science, and English are especially in demand.
Earnings: $15 – $50+ per hour, depending on subject and level.
7. Airbnb Hosting
Got an extra room or property? Airbnb hosting can be a lucrative way to earn passive income. Depending on location, you can make hundreds to thousands of dollars each month. Hosting comes with responsibilities like cleaning and communication, but it’s a flexible option for many.
Earnings: Varies, but top hosts make $1,000+ per month.
8. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Animal lovers, this one’s for you. With apps like Rover and Wag!, you can offer pet-sitting or dog-walking services. It’s a fun and flexible way to earn money, especially if you enjoy spending time outdoors and with animals.
Earnings: $15 – $40 per walk or session.
9. YouTube Channel
YouTube offers endless possibilities for side income. From vlogging to tutorials, you can create content on just about any topic. Once you build a following, you can earn through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
Earnings: Varies, but top creators earn millions.
10. Selling Handmade Crafts
Do you enjoy making jewelry, candles, or artwork? Selling handmade crafts on platforms like Etsy can turn your hobby into a money-making side hustle. People love buying unique, handmade items, especially for gifts.
Earnings: $20 – $100+ per item, depending on materials and labor.
11. Delivery Services (UberEats, DoorDash)
If you have a car or bike, food delivery services like UberEats and DoorDash can be a great side hustle. You can work on your own schedule and make quick cash, especially during peak times like lunch and dinner.
Earnings: $10 – $25 per hour, including tips.
12. Rent Out Your Car
If you don’t use your car every day, why not rent it out through services like Turo? People are always looking to rent vehicles, whether for travel or business. It’s a great way to earn passive income from something you already own.
Earnings: $50 – $150 per day, depending on your car.
13. Dropshipping
With dropshipping, you sell products without holding inventory. When a customer makes a purchase, the supplier ships the product directly to them. Shopify and AliExpress are popular platforms for starting a dropshipping business.
Earnings: Varies, but successful dropshippers can make six figures annually.
14. Stock Photography
If you enjoy photography, selling stock photos online can be a passive income stream. Websites like Shutterstock and Adobe Stock allow you to upload and sell your photos to individuals and businesses looking for high-quality images.
Earnings: $0.25 – $100+ per image, depending on usage and licensing.
15. Renting Equipment
Have extra equipment like cameras, lawn mowers, or power tools? Renting them out to people who need them can be an easy side hustle. Websites like Fat Llama allow you to list and rent out various items for extra cash.
Earnings: $20 – $100+ per day, depending on the item.
16. Podcasting
If you’re passionate about a topic, podcasting is a great way to share your knowledge while making money through sponsorships, donations, or ads. All you need is a microphone and a platform like Spotify or Apple Podcasts to get started.
Earnings: Varies, but top podcasters make six figures.
17. Fitness Coaching
If you’re passionate about health and fitness, consider becoming a personal trainer or fitness coach. Whether in-person or online, helping others reach their fitness goals can be both rewarding and lucrative.
Earnings: $30 – $100+ per session.
18. Mystery Shopping
Mystery shopping involves visiting stores and businesses to provide feedback on customer service, cleanliness, and product availability. Companies pay for these insights, and it’s a flexible gig for those with free time.
Earnings: $10 – $50 per assignment, plus reimbursements.
19. Renting Storage Space
If you have extra space in your garage, basement, or shed, you can rent it out to people who need storage. Services like Neighbor make it easy to list and rent out storage space for extra income.
Earnings: $50 – $200 per month, depending on space.
20. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing allows you to earn a commission by promoting products or services on your blog, social media, or YouTube channel. Once you build an audience, affiliate marketing can become a major income stream.
Earnings: $100 – $10,000+ per month, depending on traffic and sales.
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FAQs
How much time do I need to dedicate to a side hustle?
It depends on the side hustle. Some, like delivery services, can be done a few hours a week, while others, like freelancing, may require more time.
Can I turn my side hustle into a full-time job?
Yes! Many successful entrepreneurs started with a side hustle and turned it into their primary source of income.
What side hustle is best for beginners?
Freelance writing, social media management, and virtual assistant roles are great for beginners looking to start quickly.
Do I need any special skills to start a side hustle?
Not necessarily. Some side hustles, like delivery services or pet sitting, require no special skills. Others, like graphic design, may need specific expertise.
How much can I realistically earn from a side hustle?
It varies widely. Some side hustles bring in a few hundred dollars a month, while others, like dropshipping or affiliate marketing, can lead to six-figure earnings over time.
Conclusion
Side hustles offer a flexible and profitable way to increase your income while maintaining your day job. Whether you’re interested in freelancing, starting an online business, or simply earning some extra cash on the side, there’s a side hustle for everyone.
Ready to start your side hustle journey? Explore the options above, and find the one that works best for you!
Sources
Manisha is a digital writer providing guidance in career development and growth. She facilitates skill development and implementation of the right strategies for advancement. At Jobera, She documents content around the latest market trend analysis, insights, and career planning.
