25 Best Side Hustles for a Job Extra Money
Looking to earn extra money on the side? Whether it’s to pay off debt, save for a trip, or just increase your financial cushion, exploring a job extra money can be a game-changer. This article covers 25 side hustle ideas that can help you boost your income effectively.
Key Takeaways
Side hustles offer flexibility and a chance to explore interests while earning supplemental income, with 36% of US adults participating.
Popular side hustles include freelance writing, virtual assistance, and online tutoring, all of which can provide substantial hourly rates and ideal work-life balance.
With the growth of technology, numerous platforms available can help individuals easily find and manage diverse side hustles, leading to steady income streams.
What is a Side Hustle?
A side hustle refers to any additional work or business an individual engages in alongside their main job. It’s more than just a way to earn extra money; it’s an opportunity to explore new interests and develop skills that can improve your marketability and job prospects. Side hustle ideas range from freelance writing services to pet sitting, providing a wide array of choices to fit different lifestyles and skills, including a hustle job, side jobs, and side hustle jobs.
One of the primary reasons people seek side hustles is to earn supplemental income. The extra income can help pay off debt, fund vacations, or even save for retirement. Moreover, side hustles offer flexibility, allowing individuals to manage their time effectively between multiple commitments. This flexibility is a key feature that distinguishes side hustles from traditional part-time jobs, which often have more rigid schedules and less freedom.
The growth of technology and remote work has made it simpler than ever to balance side hustles with primary jobs while allowing individuals to set their own hours in a full time job. Approximately 36 percent of adults in the US engage in a side hustle, illustrating the growing trend and the broad acceptance of this work model.
Whether you’re looking for a way to earn extra income or seeking a creative outlet, side hustles can provide the perfect solution.
Freelance Writing Services
Freelance writing services are among the most popular side hustle ideas, thanks to the wide variety of niches and the flexibility they offer. High-paying niches include:
Ghostwriting
Copywriting
Finance writing These niches allow writers to earn a substantial income. Writers produce a variety of content, including:
Articles
Blog posts
Technical manuals catering to different interests and expertise levels.
One of the biggest advantages of being a freelance writer is the flexibility it offers. Writers can choose their projects, set their schedules, and determine their level of commitment. The average hourly pay for writers is $25.25, making it a lucrative option for those with strong writing skills. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com are excellent places to find freelance writing jobs and connect with clients.
Building a strong portfolio is crucial for attracting high-paying clients. This can be achieved by creating writing samples related to your chosen niche and diversifying your income streams by offering related services like editing or affiliate marketing. With the right approach, freelance writing can provide a steady stream of extra income while allowing you to work on projects you’re passionate about.
Online Surveys
Taking online surveys is one of the simplest ways to earn money online. Sharing your opinions on products and services can earn you extra cash with minimal effort. When you participate in surveys, you can get paid quickly. Signing up with a survey site takes just a few minutes, and you can start taking surveys almost immediately. However, it’s important to research and verify the legitimacy of the survey employer before signing up to avoid scams.
Most survey sites require users to complete a number of surveys before they can cash out their earnings, so consistency is key to making money online with surveys. Participants generally need to be at least 13 years old, with some sites having no upper age limit.
Although online surveys won’t make you rich, they are a great way to earn a little extra cash in your spare time.
Virtual Assistant Jobs
Virtual assistant jobs are perfect for those who excel at administrative tasks and want to work from home. Virtual assistants help businesses with a range of tasks, including administrative support, social media management, and customer service. Essential skills for virtual assistants include time management, organization, communication, and basic bookkeeping.
Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are popular for finding virtual assistant gigs, catering to various skill levels. The hourly pay for virtual assistants can range from $10 to $80, depending on experience and task complexity.
Specializing in areas like eCommerce or marketing can increase your marketability and potential earnings. Building a strong portfolio and a professional online profile can significantly enhance your chances to find jobs and getting hired, especially if you possess specialized skills.
Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
For animal lovers, pet sitting and dog walking are ideal side hustles that offer several benefits:
Spending time with pets while earning money
Platforms like Rover and Wag connect pet sitters and dog walkers with clients, making it easy to find job opportunities
Dog walking offers flexible hours
The advantage of making profits while staying active
The average hourly rate for dog walking is around $17.00, making it a lucrative side hustle. Pet sitting involves providing care such as feeding, walking, and administering medications to pets. To become a dog walker with Wag, you must pass a background check and a pet care quiz. Building regular clients can lead to additional opportunities such as pet sitting when clients travel, ensuring a steady stream of income.
Although the nature of work in pet sitting can be unsteady, it appeals greatly to animal lovers who enjoy spending time with pets. This side hustle not only provides extra income but also offers the joy of caring for animals and the flexibility to set your own schedule. If you love animals, you might consider a pet sit opportunity for pet owners.
Selling Handmade Crafts
Selling handmade crafts is a creative and rewarding side hustle that allows you to turn your artistic talents into extra income. Platforms like Etsy are excellent for selling handmade crafts and artisan goods. Before selling on Etsy, you’ll need to:
Set up merchandise
Take photos
Write descriptions
Choose a shop name
Create a business plan
Listing products on Etsy costs 20 cents per listing plus a percentage of the sale, so it’s important to factor in these costs when pricing your products.
Promoting your handmade crafts can be done through various methods:
Using social media and word of mouth to attract more customers.
Transitioning from in-person sales to online platforms to gain more freedom and opportunities for growth.
Showcasing your handmade goods at craft shows and farmer’s markets to reach a broader audience.
To effectively list items online, take clear and well-lit photos. Additionally, research prices to ensure your products are competitive. With the right approach, selling handmade crafts can be a profitable and enjoyable way to earn extra money.
Teaching and Tutoring Online
Teaching and tutoring online are excellent side hustles for those with expertise in a particular subject. Platforms like Preply connect learners with over 100,000 tutor online across more than 120 subjects, offering flexibility in scheduling. Tutor.com provides a structured pay model, with hourly rates ranging from $13 to $39 based on tutor level and subject expertise.
Private online tutoring involves several important elements:
Teachers can customize lessons according to individual student needs and earn higher rates.
Investing in reliable technology, such as a webcam, microphone, and high-speed internet, is crucial for successful online teaching.
Proactive marketing strategies, like creating a personal website and utilizing social media, can help attract students for private tutoring.
Establishing a positive reputation through initial free sessions can help new teachers gain confidence and build credibility. With the right approach, online tutoring can be a highly rewarding way to share your knowledge and earn extra income, especially if you have prior experience.
Social Media Management
Social media management is a booming field that allows you to leverage your digital marketing skills to help businesses grow their online presence. Starting social media management can be done by leveraging existing knowledge and experience, even without a formal portfolio. Creating mock content or using personal projects can help build a portfolio when starting out in social media management.
Freelance platforms and social media groups can be effective for finding initial clients in social media management. Creating unique, high-quality content for social media accounts can help build a loyal following and drive traffic to product sales. Focusing on a specific niche can enhance confidence and improve content quality, making it easier to attract clients.
Using organizational tools can help manage multiple clients effectively and reduce chaos in workflow. Setting competitive rates based on the value provided to clients, not just the time spent, is essential for success. With the right approach, social media management can be a lucrative side hustle with the potential for significant growth.
Rideshare Driving
Rideshare driving is a flexible and convenient way to earn extra money. Rideshare drivers have the freedom to determine their working hours, allowing them to drive whenever they choose. Platforms like Uber offer options for daily cash-outs, enabling drivers to receive their earnings quickly.
Extra pay during peak hours can boost rideshare drivers’ earnings, making it an attractive option for those looking to maximize their income. To become a rideshare driver, you’ll need:
A valid driver’s license
Proof of residency
A background check
To meet the minimum age requirement
An eligible car in good condition
Rideshare driving serves as a flexible schedule alternative to traditional part-time jobs in the gig economy, appealing to a diverse range of individuals.
Graphic Design Services
Graphic design services are in high demand, making them a lucrative side hustle for those with artistic skills. Graphic designers create:
logos
infographics
advertisements
social media content
website designs
The average hourly pay for graphic designers is $21.18, making it a profitable side hustle.
Maintaining an active profile on platforms like Dribbble can open up numerous opportunities for graphic designers. Having a well-maintained portfolio is essential for attracting new clients. Offering free preliminary samples of your work can encourage prospective clients to engage your services.
With the right approach, graphic design can provide a steady stream of extra income and a creative outlet.
Transcription Work
Transcription work involves converting audio or video files into written text, making it an ideal side hustle for those with good listening and typing skills. To be a successful transcriptionist, one must possess good typing skills, active listening, and a high attention to detail. Transcriptionists can earn between $20 to $45 an hour, getting paid per word for their work.
Platforms like Rev and TranscribeMe offer flexibility in choosing hours and workload, making it easy to balance transcription work with other commitments. With the right approach, transcription work can provide a consistent source of extra income.
Selling Digital Products
Selling digital products is a low-cost way to earn passive income. Digital products can include:
e-books
cookbooks
planners
self-help guides Examples of printable digital products include:
habit trackers
chore charts
coloring pages
wedding invitations A key benefit of selling digital downloads is the low-cost start with passive income potential.
Print-on-demand services offer no upfront costs and allow for ongoing passive income. Digital products can be sold on platforms like Etsy and Gumroad. Creating original designs for digital products can be done using Canva with free templates.
With the right approach, selling digital products can be a profitable and scalable side hustle.
Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is a popular way to earn money online by advertising products for a company and earning a commission on sales. To start affiliate marketing, you need:
A blog, social media presence, or online platform that attracts visitors.
Begin by selecting a niche.
Create content that resonates with your target audience.
Affiliate marketers can utilize various channels like blogs, social media, and email marketing to promote products. Sales generated through affiliate links are tracked through unique identifiers, enabling affiliates to earn commissions.
With the right approach, affiliate marketing can provide a steady stream of passive income.
Freelance Web Design
Freelance web design is a lucrative side hustle for those with expertise in graphic design and coding. Web designers code and configure websites while developing functionality to meet client needs. The average hourly rate for web development as a side hustle is $45.00, making it a highly profitable option.
To find clients, pitch to businesses needing a professional website or contact local companies. Adding completed work to your portfolio as you finish web design projects is essential for attracting new clients.
With the right skills and marketing strategies, freelance work in web design can provide a steady stream of extra income.
Customer Service Representative
Remote customer service roles are perfect for those with strong communication and problem-solving skills. Typical responsibilities include managing customer inquiries, resolving issues, and maintaining customer relationships. Remote customer service roles often pay between $17 and $23 per hour, depending on the employer and specific duties.
Jobs in remote customer service can be found on various job platforms such as Indeed, FlexJobs, and LinkedIn. Key skills required for this role include proficiency with customer relationship management software and at least a high school diploma.
With the right skills and experience, remote customer service can provide a stable source of extra income.
Proofreading and Editing
Proofreading and editing are ideal side hustles for those with strong writing skills and attention to detail. Proofreaders review written content to correct errors, while copy editors review written materials for grammar, punctuation, clarity, and consistency. The average hourly pay for proofreaders is $20.22, while copy editors earn an average of $24.35 and editors make about $23.56.
Networking with authors and businesses can provide leads on editing jobs. Successful proofreaders and editors often specialize in niche areas, such as technical editing or manuscript preparation. With the right skills and marketing strategies, proofreading and editing can provide a steady stream of extra income.
Health Coaching
Health coaching is a rewarding side hustle that involves guiding individuals on wellness, creating personalized fitness and nutrition plans, and supporting them in achieving their health goals. Building a unique brand is essential for health coaches, as it differentiates them from competitors and attracts their target audience. The average pay for health coaches is approximately $24.23 per hour.
Creating a compelling email marketing strategy can yield significant returns, often leading to a 4,200% ROI in client acquisition. Offering free consultations can demonstrate your expertise and establish trust with potential clients. Search engine optimization strategies can help health coaches attract clients by making their content visible when potential clients search for solutions to health issues.
Health coaches can increase their earning potential by designing comprehensive coaching packages rather than charging hourly rates. To provide services legitimately, health coaches should obtain relevant certifications from accredited institutions. With the right approach, health coaching can be a highly rewarding and profitable side hustle.
Bookkeeping Services
Bookkeeping services are a flexible side hustle that can be done remotely, making them ideal for those with strong organizational skills. Bookkeeping generally involves:
Handling financial records
Tracking income and expenses
Reconciling bank statements
Generating reports
The average hourly wage for bookkeepers is $20.27. This figure represents their earnings for each hour of work.
Essential skills for bookkeeping include basic math, organizational skills, and familiarity with bookkeeping software. To find clients, building a professional website and using email marketing for personalized communication are effective strategies.
With the right skills and marketing strategies, bookkeeping can provide a stable source of extra income and financial security.
Online ESL Teaching
Teaching English as a second language online is a popular way to earn extra money due to its flexibility. To teach English online, consider the following:
Obtain a TEFL certification, which can take 4 to 11 weeks to complete.
Have a four-year degree.
Gain teaching experience, especially for platforms like VIPKid.
The average hourly pay for online ESL teachers is around $24.08.
Platforms like VIPKid manage lesson plans and assessments, while marketplace platforms like Cambly and Preply allow teachers to create their own lesson plans and set their rates. Online ESL teachers typically focus on improving students’ speaking, reading, and writing skills.
With the right qualifications and approach, online ESL teaching can be a highly rewarding side hustle that helps you develop new skills.
Creating a YouTube Channel
Creating a YouTube channel is a popular way to earn money online through content creation. YouTube requires that all monetized content be original and not mass-produced to qualify for earnings. The eligibility requirement to apply for the YouTube Partner Program is to have 1,000 subscribers.
To apply for monetization, creators must ensure their content adheres to YouTube’s Community Guidelines and advertiser-friendly policies. Successful monetization depends on maintaining viewer trust and adhering to YouTube’s content integrity standards.
With the right approach, creating a YouTube channel can provide a steady stream of extra income.
Running Errands
Running errands for others is a flexible side hustle that often includes tasks like grocery shopping, food delivery, and personal shopping. Platforms such as TaskRabbit and Instacart facilitate connections between errand runners and clients seeking help. Errand runners can earn between $15 and $50 per hour, depending on the complexity of tasks and geographical location.
Reliable transportation and a smartphone are crucial tools for an errand runner to efficiently manage tasks. Effective time management and the time involved are essential for balancing multiple clients and tasks successfully.
With the right approach, you can run errands to provide a steady source of extra income and more money.
Event Planning
Event planning is an exciting side hustle that involves coordinating various events such as birthdays, weddings, and business events. Plan smaller scale events like birthday parties or bridal showers as a way to start gaining experience as an event planner. Creating a comprehensive business plan is essential for success in event planning, as many ventures fail without one.
Conducting thorough market research is vital to understand your competitors and identify your unique selling points. Allocating a significant portion of your budget, possibly 30% or more, towards marketing efforts is crucial for attracting customers.
With the right approach, event planning can be a highly rewarding and profitable side hustle.
Photography Services
Photography services are a creative and profitable side hustle for those with photography skills. Key points include:
Developing a niche and building a strong portfolio can attract clients who need specific types of photography.
The average hourly rate for a part-time photography business is $63.00.
This makes it a highly lucrative option.
High-quality content and business savvy are necessary for selling photographs successfully. Photographers can use platforms like:
Fine Art America
SmugMug
500px
PhotoShelter to sell their images.
With the right approach, photography services can provide a steady stream of extra income and a creative outlet.
Handyman Services
Handyman services are ideal for those with hands-on experience and basic repair skills. Essential tools for a handyman may include:
drills
wrenches
hammers
saws Handymen typically handle tasks like repairing leaky faucets or broken doors. The average hourly rate for handymen is competitive, making it a profitable side hustle.
Networking with local businesses can lead to referrals and consistent work for handymen. Building a strong portfolio of completed projects can help in marketing handyman services through professional networking and starting your own business.
With the right skills and marketing strategies, handyman services can provide a steady stream of extra income.
Becoming a Fitness Instructor
Becoming a fitness instructor is a rewarding side hustle for those passionate about health and fitness. To become a fitness instructor, individuals often need special certifications or training programs focused on health and fitness. The average hourly rate for fitness instructors is $26.00, making it a profitable side hustle.
Social media marketing serves as a powerful tool for fitness instructors, particularly by connecting with communities where potential clients are active. Building a client base often starts by engaging with gym members and actively communicating with them to build rapport.
With the right approach, becoming a fitness instructor can provide a steady stream of extra income and a fulfilling career.
Summary
Side hustles offer a fantastic opportunity to earn extra money, develop new skills, and explore your passions. Whether you choose to become a freelance writer, pet sitter, virtual assistant, or any of the other side hustle ideas discussed, the key is to find something that fits your lifestyle and interests. With the right approach and dedication, you can turn your side hustle into a profitable and rewarding venture. So, take the first step today and start your journey towards financial freedom and personal fulfillment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a side hustle?
A side hustle is a fantastic way to boost your income by pursuing additional work or business opportunities alongside your main job. Embrace it to enhance your financial freedom!
How can I start a freelance writing service?
Start your freelance writing service by choosing a niche that excites you, creating a strong portfolio to showcase your skills, and leveraging platforms like Upwork and Fiverr to connect with clients. Dive in, and watch your writing career flourish!
What are the benefits of taking online surveys?
Taking online surveys can be a great way to earn extra cash effortlessly by sharing your valuable opinions. Get started today and turn your thoughts into rewards!
What skills are necessary for virtual assistant jobs?
To thrive as a virtual assistant, focus on mastering time management, organization, clear communication, and basic bookkeeping skills. Embrace these capabilities to unlock your potential in this exciting field!
How can I become a health coach?
To become a health coach, get certified through reputable programs, develop your personal brand, and implement effective marketing strategies to draw in clients. Take these steps to carve out your niche and inspire others on their health journeys!
