29 Best Ways to Answer "How Can I Make Money on the Side?
Looking for ways to make extra income on the side? You’ve come to the right place. This article explores 29 different methods, including how can I make money on the side, that you can use to generate additional earnings, whether you have specialized skills or just some spare time. From freelance writing and online surveys to renting out unused items, you’ll find practical strategies to boost your bank balance.
Key Takeaways
Freelance writing, online stores, and teaching English are popular and flexible side hustles that can be tailored to your skills and schedule.
Offering services like pet sitting, virtual assistance, and graphic design can leverage your existing talents for extra income.
Selling unused items, participating in online surveys, and tutoring are easy ways to make money in your spare time with minimal startup costs.
Freelance Writing Services
Freelance writing services are one of the most popular side hustle ideas, especially for those with strong writing skills and a knack for creativity. Businesses and individuals are constantly in need of content, whether it’s blog posts, articles, copywriting, or editing. The demand for freelance writers is high, making it a lucrative side hustle for those who can deliver quality work.
Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are excellent places to start your freelance writing journey. These platforms connect you with clients looking for writing services, allowing you to build a portfolio and gain experience. Having a solid portfolio is crucial, as it showcases your writing skills and can help you attract higher-paying clients.
With the ability to choose your projects and set your rates, freelance writing offers a flexible side hustle that can be tailored to fit your schedule. Local advertising can also be an effective way to find clients. Reach out to local businesses or use social media to promote your services.
The key to success as a freelance writer is to leverage your creative skills and continuously improve your writing. As you build your reputation, you can increase your rates and enjoy the benefits of a lucrative side hustle that allows you to work from anywhere.
Start an Online Store
Starting an online store is a fantastic way to make money online, especially if you have a knack for entrepreneurship. Platforms like:
Etsy
Amazon
Shopify offer excellent opportunities to set up your online store and reach a global audience. Whether you’re selling handmade crafts, vintage items, or even dropshipping products, the potential for success is vast.
A key aspect of running a successful online store includes:
Setting up a user-friendly checkout process to reduce cart abandonment and ensure a smooth shopping experience for your customers.
Regularly analyzing store data to optimize customer experiences and sales strategies.
For those looking to sell unique, handcrafted items, using Amazon Handmade as a platform to showcase their creations.
To reach a wider audience and grow your online store, consider the following:
Use social media, word-of-mouth, and online forums to promote your products.
Utilize Facebook Marketplace to sell items locally and reduce shipping costs.
Start with a minimal initial investment, making it a flexible side hustle.
Leverage online platforms and focus on customer satisfaction to turn this business idea into a profitable venture.
Participate in Online Surveys
Participating in online surveys is a simple and flexible way to earn extra money. Survey sites like:
Swagbucks
Survey Junkie
Branded Surveys are popular platforms where you can sign up and start taking surveys almost immediately. While online surveys typically don’t pay much—ranging from $0.50 to $5 per survey—they can be a convenient way to earn cash or gift cards in your spare time.
The flexibility of taking surveys allows you to complete them whenever you have a few minutes to spare. Payments are usually made via PayPal, bank transfer, or gift cards, making it easy to access your earnings.
However, it’s important to research each survey site to ensure it’s legitimate before signing up. Although online surveys won’t make you rich, they can provide a steady stream of small earnings that add up over time.
Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
If you’re an animal lover, pet sitting and dog walking can be enjoyable and profitable side hustles. Platforms like Rover and Wag! make it easy to find pet sitting and dog walking jobs in your area. These roles offer flexible hours, allowing you to work around your schedule while spending time with furry friends.
Pet sitting tasks typically include:
Feeding animals
Providing affection
Walking dogs
Administering medications
Pet sit
This side hustle is perfect for those looking to maintain an active lifestyle while earning money on the side.
With the growing demand for pet care services, you can build a loyal client base and enjoy a flexible side hustle that brings joy and extra income.
Become a Virtual Assistant
Becoming a virtual assistant is an excellent side hustle for those who are organized and enjoy tackling various tasks. Virtual assistants can:
Manage emails
Schedule appointments
Conduct research
Handle other administrative duties
Platforms like Zirtual and freelancing sites can help you find clients and get started.
To succeed as a virtual assistant, you’ll need a computer and a reliable internet connection. Starting out by charging hourly can help you gauge your workload and determine your rates.
As you gain experience and build a reputation, you can offer more specialized services and increase your earnings. Being a virtual assistant not only helps business owners achieve work-life balance but also provides you with a flexible side hustle that can grow into a full-time career.
Teach English Online
Teaching English online is a popular side hustle that offers competitive pay and the flexibility to work from home. Companies like VIPKid and Qkids provide opportunities to teach English to students around the world. Many platforms offer competitive pay rates, with some paying up to $26 per hour, along with additional incentives such as performance bonuses and referral rewards.
Platforms like Preply allow teachers to set their own rates, enhancing income potential. Effective online teaching requires preparation, including a reliable internet setup and good lighting.
By prioritizing interaction and allowing time for student responses, you can foster engagement and create a positive learning experience. Teaching English online is a rewarding side hustle that enables you to make a meaningful impact while earning extra money.
Sell Unused Items
Selling unused items is a quick and effective way to declutter your home and make extra cash. Platforms ideal for selling old electronics, DVDs, and childhood toys include:
Facebook Marketplace
eBay
Craigslist Prices for these items can vary depending on their condition and demand, but they can provide a substantial return.
Unused gift cards can also be sold for less than their value on platforms like eBay, attracting quick buyers. Branded or vintage clothing tends to sell clothing well online, especially if presented with good photos and descriptions.
By taking the time to list and sell your unused items, you can turn clutter into cash and free up space in your home.
Drive for Uber or Lyft
Driving for Uber or Lyft is a flexible side hustle that allows you to set your own schedule and earn money quickly. To get started, you’ll need:
At least one year of licensed driving experience
A four-door car in good condition
To meet age requirements, which vary by region, typically ranging from 21 to 25 years
Earnings can be influenced by your location and how frequently you drive. Payments are often made instantly or within days, providing quick access to your earnings so you can get paid.
As a rideshare uber or lyft driver, being friendly, punctual, and a good driver are important qualities that can lead to positive reviews and more rides. Driving for Uber or Lyft offers a flexible way to earn extra income on your terms.
Offer Graphic Design Services
If you have creative skills, offering graphic design services can be a lucrative side hustle. Graphic designers are in demand for various projects, including logo design, branding, and creating digital products. Small businesses often seek freelance designers to avoid the cost of full-time employees or agencies.
Creating a portfolio is essential to showcase your work and attract clients. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr can help you find freelance opportunities. Additionally, designing infographics and templates for digital products can provide a passive income stream.
With the right skills and dedication, graphic design can be a rewarding and profitable side hustle.
Rent Out Your Spare Room
You can easily make extra money by renting out a spare room in your house. It’s a straightforward option for generating additional income. Platforms like:
Airbnb
Vrbo
Agoda make it easy to list your spare room and connect with potential guests. Renting out a spare bedroom can bring in significant extra income, with some individuals making over $2,000 monthly in certain locations.
Key points for hosting on platforms like Airbnb:
Focus on guest experience rather than just profits to gain better reviews and repeat guests.
You must be at least 18 years old to rent out a spare room.
Provide a clean, comfortable space and be a hospitable host to enhance your guests’ experience and boost your earnings.
Take Up Babysitting
Babysitting is a flexible side hustle that can provide a steady stream of extra cash. Here are some key points about babysitting:
Platforms like Care.com and neighborhood boards are great places to advertise your services.
Babysitting jobs often occur on weekends or evenings.
This timing makes it easy to fit babysitting into your schedule.
Having CPR certifications can make you more marketable as a babysitter. Babysitters typically charge between $15 and $25 per hour, providing a decent hourly wage. If you enjoy spending time with children, babysitting can be a rewarding and lucrative side hustle.
Become a Social Media Manager
Becoming a social media manager is an exciting side hustle for those who enjoy creativity and engagement. Social media managers are responsible for:
Managing social media accounts
Creating posts
Replying to comments
Growing followers
Creativity and knowledge of social media platforms are vital skills for success in this role.
Building a strong online presence through social media can enhance your credibility and visibility when attracting clients. Utilizing social media for marketing can significantly help in building an audience and engaging potential customers effectively.
With the right approach, being a social media manager can be a fun and profitable side hustle.
Test Websites and Apps
Testing websites and apps is a straightforward way to earn money online. Platforms like UserTesting and uTest connect testers with developers needing usability feedback. The appeal lies in the simplicity of the task and the opportunity to share honest feedback while earning money.
As a user experience tester, you can earn $10 for a test and up to $120 for live conversations. Most tests can be completed on a computer or mobile device, making it accessible for anyone with an internet connection and a microphone. Payments are typically received within 14 days, providing a reliable source of income.
User testing offers flexibility, allowing you to complete test prep in your free time from the comfort of your home.
Offer Bookkeeping Services
Offering bookkeeping services is a great side hustle for those with a knack for numbers and personal finance. As a bookkeeper, you can manage finances, track expenses, and prepare financial reports for small businesses. Utilizing accounting software enables you to automate tasks and enhance accuracy in financial data management.
Cloud-based accounting solutions allow bookkeepers to access financial data remotely and in real-time, improving efficiency. Many accounting software options offer integrations with banking systems for streamlined financial transactions and reconciliations.
Bookkeeping services can also include preparing tax documents and ensuring compliance with financial regulations, making it a comprehensive and valuable bookkeeping business for clients.
Participate in Focus Groups
Participating in focus groups is another way to earn extra money by sharing your opinions. Focus groups are gatherings where participants discuss products and services, helping companies understand market needs and preferences. To participate, individuals need to apply and may be selected based on specific criteria.
Participants in focus groups can earn varying amounts, with some sessions offering payments of $300 or more. By sharing your insights, you can influence product development and marketing strategies, making this a rewarding and impactful side hustle.
Create an Online Course
Creating an online course is an excellent way to earn passive income by sharing your expertise through online courses. Developing a successful online course requires dedication and consistent improvement to stand out in a competitive market. Platforms like Teachable simplify the process of course delivery and management, making it easier to reach a global audience.
To differentiate your course, consider the following:
Ensure the quality of content and student experience is exceptional.
Set a higher price to potentially lead to better student engagement and satisfaction.
Collaborate with freelancers for aspects outside your expertise, allowing you to focus on teaching.
By creating valuable and engaging content, you can build a profitable online course that provides long-term income.
Deliver Groceries or Food
Delivering groceries or food is a flexible side hustle that can fit into your schedule. Delivery apps like:
Instacart
DoorDash
Uber Eats
Postmates allow you to deliver groceries or food for extra income. To start, you’ll need:
To pass a background check
A smartphone
A form of transportation, such as a car, scooter, or bicycle.
You can earn around $22 per hour delivering groceries with platforms like Instacart, and payments are generally issued weekly or faster. It typically takes about a week to set up your account and get started with deliveries.
Delivering groceries or food offers a flexible side hustle that can provide a steady stream of extra income through delivering food.
Sell Photography
Selling photography is a creative way to earn money if you have a talent for capturing stunning images. Stock photo sites like Shutterstock have paid out more than $1 billion to their contributors over the years. Photographers can earn money each time their submitted content is downloaded by customers.
To attract potential buyers, create a personalized portfolio page to showcase your work. Stock photo platforms provide tools and tips to help photographers maximize their earnings.
With the right skills and dedication, selling photography can be a fulfilling and profitable side hustle.
Offer Home Cleaning Services
Providing home cleaning services is a practical side hustle that caters to busy individuals and families. Cleaners on platforms like Homeaglow typically earn between $50 to $100 per job, in addition to tips. Offering home cleaning services allows you to set your own hourly rates and choose your working hours, providing flexibility.
To get started, create a profile, complete a background check, and set up a payment method. With the growing demand for cleaning services, you can build a loyal client base and enjoy a flexible side hustle that fits your schedule.
Become a Mystery Shopper
Becoming a mystery shopper is a unique and fun way to earn extra money. Mystery shoppers are hired to evaluate service quality by acting like regular customers and providing feedback on their experience. After shopping, they must complete a survey detailing their experience.
To find legitimate mystery shopping opportunities:
Sign up through reputable companies like IntelliShop, BestMark, or Sinclair Customer Metrics.
Mystery shoppers typically earn between $100 to $200 a month for their services.
Always research companies before signing up to avoid scams.
Mystery shopping offers a flexible and engaging way to make money while helping companies improve their services.
Rent Out Your Car
Renting out your car is a simple way to earn extra money when you’re not using it. Platforms like Turo make it easy to list your car and connect with renters. A single car on Turo can generate an average income of around £6,492 annually.
Hosts earn between 65% and 75% of the trip price, depending on the protection level selected. Payments are received via direct deposit within three days after each rental, providing a steady stream of monthly income.
Renting out your car is a hassle-free side hustle that can significantly boost your earnings.
Offer Lawn Care Services
Offering lawn care services is a practical side hustle that can be started with minimal investment. Services like mowing, weeding, and landscaping are always in demand. Start small with manageable jobs to gain experience and build a loyal customer base.
Creating a user-friendly website is essential for promoting your lawn care services, providing clear information about your offerings and contact details. Implementing local search engine optimization techniques can improve your business’s ranking in search results and enhance visibility.
With dedication and good service, lawn care can be a profitable and steady side hustle.
Sell Handmade Crafts
Selling handmade crafts is a creative side hustle that allows you to monetize your hobbies. Platforms like Etsy are popular for selling handmade products, including crafts, jewelry, and art. To open an Etsy shop, you’ll need:
Merchandise
Photos
Descriptions
A shop name
A business plan.
Selling handmade items requires time spent learning and perfecting your craft. After selling an item on Etsy, payments go to your Etsy Payments account and then to your bank account.
With patience and creativity, selling handmade crafts can become a lucrative and enjoyable side hustle and hustle idea.
Become a Brand Ambassador
Becoming a brand ambassador is an exciting side hustle for those who enjoy promoting products on social media. Brand ambassadors help brands increase their visibility and sales through genuine promotion. They earn money by being paid a percentage for every product purchased using their discount code.
Successful brand ambassadors should possess qualities like enthusiasm, trustworthiness, and strong communication skills. Networking within the industry can help discover collaboration opportunities.
With the potential for flexible hours and free products, becoming a brand ambassador can be a glamorous job and profitable side hustle.
Enter Contests and Giveaways
Entering contests and giveaways can be a fun hobby that occasionally leads to winning prizes or cash. Participants can win various prizes such as cash, gift cards, vacations, or electronics.
Set aside about an hour each week to enter contests, but keep in mind that this activity generally does not lead to making a lot of money.
Rent Out Baby Gear
Renting out baby gear is a helpful side hustle for families with unused baby items. You can rent out items like strollers and cribs to traveling families in need.
Quality providers can earn around $1,000 per month by renting out baby gear, making it a profitable side hustle.
Offer Translation Services
If you’re fluent in multiple languages, offering translation services can be a rewarding side hustle. You can translate documents, websites, or audio files for clients.
Platforms like Rev, TranscribeMe, and GoTranscript provide opportunities to find work as a translator.
Sell Digital Products
Selling digital products is a side hustle with high profit margins due to low recurring costs. You can create and sell digital products like:
e-books
cookbooks
planners
self-help guides
Platforms like Etsy and Gumroad make it easy to sell your digital products and reach a global audience.
Effective product previews, like demos or before-and-after examples, can increase customer trust and conversions. Subscription models for digital products can create a consistent revenue stream and a loyal customer base.
With the ability to distribute products instantly, selling digital products offers a hassle-free and profitable side hustle.
Offer Tutoring Services
Offering tutoring services is a valuable side hustle that helps students improve their academic performance. Tutors typically need deep knowledge in subjects like math, science, foreign languages, or test preparation. Platforms like Cambly, TutorOcean, Preply, and Learn to Be provide opportunities to offer your tutoring services.
Qualifications often include current enrollment in or a degree from a four-year university. The tutoring market is expected to grow at an annual rate of 4.8% until 2033, making it a promising field.
Avoid gigs that require writing essays or completing homework for students to maintain ethical standards. By creating an online course, you can make your tutoring side hustle even more profitable.
Summary
Exploring various side hustle ideas can open up new opportunities for earning extra income. From freelance writing and virtual assistance to selling handmade crafts and renting out spare rooms, there are countless ways to turn your skills and resources into financial gain. Each side hustle offers unique benefits, flexibility, and the potential for substantial earnings.
By taking the time to research and choose the right side hustle for your interests and schedule, you can achieve your financial goals and enjoy the rewards of your efforts. Whether you’re looking to make a few extra dollars or build a full-time career, the possibilities are endless. Start exploring and take the first step towards financial freedom today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest way to make money on the side?
The easiest way to make money on the side is to leverage online platforms for freelancing, like Upwork or Fiverr, or engage in popular side hustles such as dog walking, rideshare driving, or selling unused items online. These options are flexible and can fit smoothly into your schedule.
What are some popular platforms for freelance writing services?
If you're looking to dive into freelance writing, Upwork and Fiverr are both great platforms to connect with clients and showcase your work. They make building a portfolio easier and help you find projects that fit your skills!
How can I start an online store with minimal initial investment?
You can easily start an online store with minimal investment by using platforms like Etsy, Amazon, or Shopify. Just make sure to keep the checkout process straightforward and pay attention to your store's data to boost sales!
Are online surveys a reliable source of income?
Online surveys can offer some extra cash, but they're not a dependable source for making a significant income. You can expect to earn small amounts, usually between $0.50 to $5 per survey.
What qualifications are needed to become a private tutor?
To become a private tutor, you'll need strong expertise in subjects such as math, science, or languages, along with being enrolled in or having a degree from a four-year university. It’s all about showcasing your knowledge and credentials to help your students succeed.
