Everyone could use a bit more money, right? Whether you’re saving for a big purchase, planning a special event, or chipping away at those persistent student loans, extra cash always comes in handy.
Your regular job covers the essentials, but there’s room for more. That’s where a side hustle from home steps in. It’s a chance to earn more and enjoy the freedom of working on your terms.
Below, we’ve combined a list of 30 best side hustles that you can pursue to make extra money. Whether you’re looking to make passive income or build an emergency fund, there’s a side hustle idea to fit every goal and lifestyle.
24 side hustle ideas to pursue in 2024
1. Start a dropshipping business
Dropshipping is a simple way to sell products online. You partner with a third party who makes and ships the products for you. Your job is to create an online store, decide the prices, and advertise your business.
This business is low risk because you only pay for products when customers buy them, giving you a good chance to make money as long as you don’t spend too much on marketing. You can even sell on big sites like Amazon and eBay to get more customers.
→ Click Here to Launch Your Online Business with Shopify
Getting started tip: Using Shopify makes it easy to start a dropshipping business. You won’t have to worry about keeping stock, packing, or shipping stuff. Your supplier sends the orders straight to shoppers, letting you focus on picking products, promoting your store, and taking care of your customers.
2. Become a wholesaler
Launching a wholesale business can be a great side hustle that fits into your schedule. This involves buying products in bulk at a lower cost and selling them for a profit. The key is finding a balance that works with your routine.
For instance, you can set aside specific times for different tasks. Use evenings or weekends for researching products and making purchases. Then, dedicate a couple of hours each week for packing and shipping orders to your customers.
Starting small and scaling up as you find your rhythm is the way to go. With some initial investment and good planning, running a wholesale business can become a profitable venture that aligns perfectly with your own schedule.
3. Start a YouTube channel
Starting a YouTube channel can be a rewarding side hustle. With more than 2.5 billion users watching a billion hours of videos daily, the potential audience is massive. However, building a big enough audience to earn significant money from YouTube takes time.
Focus on creating content your audience loves. As your follower count increases, think about earning through paid subscriptions, selling your own merch online, or partnering with brands for paid sponsorships.
4. Work as an affiliate marketer
Affiliate marketing, where you promote a brand’s product and earn commission on sales, definitely offers benefits as a side hustle. However, with Google increasingly sending searchers straight to ecommerce sites, standing out requires creativity.
To be successful as an affiliate, think outside the box with your content. Instead of the usual pros and cons, why not tell a story? Share personal experiences or customer stories that relate to the products. How about interactive content like quizzes or polls that recommend products based on answers? Or, get visual with infographics that highlight unique product features or comparisons in an easy-to-digest format.
You could even host live Q&A sessions on social media, discussing products and offering exclusive affiliate link discounts. These fresh approaches can make your content stand out and keep your audience engaged.
5. Open a print-on-demand business
If you love creating custom graphics and artwork, starting a print-on-demand (POD) business could be a perfect side hustle. With POD, you can put your designs on t-shirts, bags, phone cases, and mugs. The best part? You sell these under your own brand.
This business model works similarly to dropshipping. You design the products, add them to your store, and handle promotions. The POD company, meanwhile, takes care of printing and shipping to customers.
Getting started tip: Sell high-value items like quality custom tees. People often pay more for good quality shirts with great designs. Figure out what your audience loves. Then create designs that tap into those trends.
6. Start blogging
Blogging lets you build a brand around things you love, like yoga, business, or cars. You’ll reach people who enjoy the same things. And you can make money online through affiliate links or by promoting your own merch in your posts.
Don’t expect to earn right away, though. Many bloggers only start making good money after a few years. It’s all about sticking with it.
Begin by creating an account on Substack and publishing some thought-provoking content. As people start engaging with your posts, you’ll get the opportunity to earn via recurring subscriptions.
7. Sell information products
Information products are digital goods that provide knowledge or expertise on a specific subject. They come in various forms like ebooks, online courses, webinars, and instructional guides. Got a topic you know inside out? Or spotted a gap in information on a popular subject? Create content around these areas. You can write and publish books on Amazon or develop online courses to sell.
The potential earnings from selling information products can vary. It depends on factors like your chosen niche and how effectively you market your products. However, it’s possible to earn a few thousand dollars each month. The key to success is creating a variety of content—think ebooks, courses, and more—that continues to generate income over time.
8. Take up freelance gigs
Does your 9-to-5 job pay fluctuate? If you don’t have a predictable income, you might choose to take up freelance gigs. With this side hustle, you could make anywhere from $50 to $2,000 a month, depending on your skills and the platform you use. For example, if you’re looking to hit, say an extra $1,000 a month, freelance writing is a side hustle that can allow you to reach your second income goal.
9. Become a virtual assistant
Businesses need help, and you can provide it as a virtual assistant. This role involves tasks like administration, social media marketing, bookkeeping, and more. With a growing number of companies seeking remote support, virtual assistants are in high demand.
Getting started tip: You can find initial opportunities on platforms like Upwork. However, becoming an independent contractor may increase your earning potential. To expand your reach, consider joining Facebook groups aimed at businesses or online retailers and promote your services there.
10. Offer house cleaning services
Cleaning houses can be tough but rewarding if you’re willing to put in the effort. Everyone needs a clean home, and many prefer to pay someone else to handle the dirty work. The start-up costs are minimal—you’ll just need some basic cleaning supplies, although some homeowners may provide their preferred products. It’s a chance to earn while staying active and enjoying your favorite podcast or playlist.
11. Get a part-time job
If you’d rather trade time for money, you might choose to get a part-time job. Side job ideas for making money include dog walker, babysitter, restaurant server, receptionist, administrative assistant, or barista. You can also find part-time jobs online within your industry. Maybe you’re a full-time marketer who takes on a part-time social media gig. The only downside to a part-time job is that you need to invest your time for money.
Getting started tip: You can browse job sites to find side jobs you can do on evenings and weekends. Remember: After you work a full day, you’ll likely feel tired and exhausted, so pick a part-time job with a flexible schedule.
12. Deliver groceries and food products
Do you like driving but prefer not to have passengers? Consider delivering food and groceries instead. You can help people get what they need from busy supermarkets right to their kitchens. Try apps like Instacart or Spark Driver, which is Walmart’s delivery service. These apps let you choose when you work.
You can also deliver meals from restaurants to earn extra money. Food delivery services have really taken off in the past few years, with many providers offering jobs. Get started with apps like Uber Eats, Postmates, SkipTheDishes (if you’re in Canada), Menulog (Australia and New Zealand), or Zomato (India).
13. Provide digital marketing services
Do you have skills in digital marketing? There’s a huge demand for freelancers who can create content, manage social media, or optimize websites for online businesses. Start by advertising your services on gig or freelance websites. Set up a simple website showcasing your best work. This will help you attract more clients from different industries.
You can also earn money by packaging your knowledge into an online course. Share what you know about digital marketing with people eager to learn. This is a great way to reach a wider audience and establish yourself as an expert in the field.
14. Rent out a spare room or your home
If you have a spare room or aren’t using your home for a while, consider renting it out. It’s a great way to make some extra income without much extra work. Platforms like Airbnb are popular for this, but you can also list your space on Agoda, Vrbo, or Plum Guide (UK).
Getting started tip: To boost your side hustle income, consider selling products to your guests. With Shopify Collabs, you can find brands that will pay you a commission for promoting their items. Placing QR codes in the room can make purchasing these products convenient for guests
15. Turn your photos into profit
If you’re into photography, why not make it a business? Snap some pictures and sell them to places like Shutterstock and Burst. These sites are always looking for new photos for their websites and ad campaigns. Since websites need to keep their look fresh, they’re constantly in need of new images.
You can also get creative with your photos. Turn them into prints, or slap them onto mugs and sweatshirts. People love having cool art around, whether it’s to hang up or wear. Plus, it’s easy and cheap to get your photos printed in good quality. If you’ve got a great shot, someone will probably want to buy it.
Think about doing photography gigs too. You could shoot weddings, which could even turn into a full-time thing. There are also concerts, graduations, and family photo sessions. There’s always someone who needs a photographer for something special.
16. Resell used or vintage items
Selling your used or vintage items is another great way to make extra money. Begin by clearing out things you don’t need anymore. You can sell these items on Facebook Marketplace or in local buy and sell groups. This way, you can quickly turn things you don’t want into cash.
Do you enjoy searching for unique items? Consider going to thrift stores and finding vintage goods to resell. This fun side hustle is perfect for anyone who has a knack for spotting fashion or décor gems. It allows you to breathe new life into old treasures and earn money from your clever finds.
17. Become a home workspace consultant
With more people working from home, there’s a need for functional and comfortable home workspaces. Start a side hustle as a home workspace consultant. You can advise clients on setting up their home offices, optimizing space, choosing ergonomic furniture, and even suggesting productivity tools.
This role combines interior design with practical workspace planning, perfect for those with an eye for design and a knack for organization. It’s a timely service that can really make a difference in someone’s daily work life.
18. Test websites and apps
If a website has problems or an app isn’t working right, it’s bad for business. That’s where testers come in. They check all the links and buttons to make sure everything’s working before it launches. And guess what? Companies pay them really well for their service.
There are sites like Userlytics, UserTesting, and Enroll that hook you up with website and app testing jobs. Some of these gigs can pay up to $100 for just an hour of testing. So, there’s real money in making sure things run smoothly.
19. Launch a skin care line
Sure, launching a skin care line might seem like more of a full-fledged business than a side hustle. But with the dropshipping model, it’s actually quite manageable. This approach lets you pick and sell skin care products without needing to handle inventory or shipping. Your main job? Connect with your audience and find products that they’ll love.
If you’re into the creative side, take it a step further by developing your own skin care line. This could mean creating unique blends or designing eye-catching packaging. You can start small, testing your ideas, and as you gain confidence and a following, scale your online business.
20. Offer car washing and detailing services
Many people find washing their own cars a chore. You can step in and offer a convenient solution with a car washing and detailing service. Start with basic supplies like sponges, soaps, and waxes. This low-cost setup allows you to begin without significant financial investment.
To attract clients, think local and personal. You can post flyers at community centers or local stores, and even create social media posts for neighborhood groups. This grassroots approach helps you connect directly with potential customers in your area.
21. Become a virtual study buddy
This side hustle involves addressing students’ study-related challenges. You’ll help them maintain a structured study routine by setting up schedules and sharing effective study techniques. During stressful exam periods, you’ll provide the support and encouragement they need to stay on track.
Additionally, you can offer tutoring in subjects where you have expertise. This enables you to assist students in understanding complex subjects and achieving academic success.
22. Sell at local fairs
If you enjoy being out and about and interacting with people, selling at local fairs and markets might be your ideal side hustle. It’s hands-on and lets you connect directly with customers, perfect for building your brand and promoting your online presence. It’s also a chance to test your products in real-time and get immediate feedback.
23. Create and sell time capsules
Another side hustle idea is creating and selling time capsules. Chat with folks to pick out things that are special to them—photos, notes, maybe a favorite toy. Then, you put it all in a time capsule for them to open later on. It’s a creative way to help people keep their best memories safe.
This gig mixes a bit of crafting with helping people hang onto their stories. It feels pretty great, too. You’re the one who helps lock away these memories, and just think of the smiles when they open them up years from now.
24. Offer event planning services
If you’re good at throwing parties and love the buzz, think about event planning as a side hustle. It’s perfect because you can really dial into what makes your service unique and attract clients ready to spend. You can set up everything for them or just give some guidance, depending on what they’re after. Plus, team up with local spots like bakeries or DJs—you could get a cut for bringing them business or just swap referrals to boost your network.
25. Get social media sponsorships
If you have a talent for creating captivating content, think about launching a side hustle as a social media influencer. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram are perfect for displaying your unique skills and passions. Engage with your audience and grow a dedicated following. Then, you can start earning from your online presence.
Getting started tip: Use Shopify Collabs to connect with brands that align with your style. This tool simplifies the process of finding companies willing to pay influencers for promotions. It’s ideal for building affiliate relationships, managing your sales, and keeping track of everything in one place.
26. Offer dog walking and pet sitting services
Nowadays, people consider their pets as part of the family, and there’s a growing demand for trustworthy individuals to care for their furry companions. You can tap into this trend by becoming a dog walker or pet sitter. In the past, finding clients was the hardest part of starting in this field, but with the help of apps like PetSitter.com, Rover, and Wag!, it’s easier than ever to connect with pet owners in need of your services.
27. Take part in paid online surveys
If you’re looking for convenient side hustle ideas to make money, consider participating in a paid online survey. There are numerous market researchers and companies that want to know how consumers feel about their products and brand. You can visit websites like Survey Junkie and Swagbucks to find surveys that pay participants.
28. Offer tours of your neighborhood
With a significant number of millennials favoring experiences over products, giving neighborhood tours can tap into this trend. Platforms like Showaround and Airbnb Experiences make it easier to reach people interested in unique local insights. Start by getting to know the most captivating aspects of your area. Create a tour that highlights these spots and include stories or facts that add an extra layer of interest.
29. Give music lessons
If you haven’t touched your guitar in years, it might not be the best idea to start teaching others. However, if you’re a skilled musician with a passion for sharing your knowledge, teaching music lessons can be a fulfilling way to earn extra income. Set your own rates and schedule. Lessons can be held at your place or a rented space, or you might consider going to your students’ homes for an additional fee.
30. Rent out your equipment
Got some equipment lying around that’s gathering dust? Your tools could be making you some extra cash. Many people need items like power tools or painting equipment only occasionally. By offering them for rent, you provide a convenient solution for those who don’t want to buy their own. You can advertise your gear for rent on platforms like Kijiji, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace. Depending on the value of each item, consider asking for a deposit along with upfront payment.
How to start a side hustle
Side hustles are a great way to earn extra income, but they require initial effort to gain momentum. Choosing a side hustle that doesn’t fit your lifestyle can lead it to become just another unchecked item on your to-do list.
On the flip side, if your side hustle begins to take up too much of your social and family time, or conflicts with your main job, it might be a sign that you’re ready to scale it up and potentially turn it into a full-time business.
Here’s how to start a side hustle:
Find something of interest
Begin by choosing a side hustle that aligns with your interests and fits into your current schedule. It’s important to pick something you enjoy, as this will give you the energy to keep going even after a long workday. Whether it’s creating digital content, freelance writing, or selling handmade goods, the key is to find something that excites you.
Plan to pursue it
Once you have an idea, figure out what you need to make it happen. Do you need any special licenses or equipment? Make a list and check off what’s essential. Then, integrate this side hustle into your existing schedule to ensure it’s manageable without overwhelming your other responsibilities.
Set measurable goals
Define specific goals for your side hustle to keep your efforts focused. Instead of a general goal like “Earn extra money,” set a specific target such as “Earn enough to pay for a vacation” or “Save for a down payment on a car.” This will help you measure your progress and stay motivated.
Market your services
Next, let people know what you’re offering. Depending on your hustle, this might mean setting up a website, sharing your work on social media, or joining platforms that connect freelancers with clients. Good marketing is crucial to attracting customers and making your side hustle profitable.
Decide whether to expand
Finally, evaluate whether you want to keep your side hustle as a part-time activity or grow it into a larger business. If you find that your side hustle is thriving and you’re passionate about it, it might be worth considering turning it into a full-time endeavor.
By carefully selecting, planning, and managing your side hustle, you can ensure it complements your life and grows according to your needs and ambitions.
Choosing the right side hustle
A side hustle can sometimes grow into a profitable full-time job. Here’s how to tell if a side hustle could be the right long-term fit for you.
Does it fit your schedule?
Balancing a side hustle with a full-time job and family life can be tough. Look for a side hustle that fits into your busy schedule. For example, freelance graphic design or online tutoring can be done according to your availability, making it easier to manage alongside your other responsibilities.
Is it financially viable?
It’s important to evaluate whether your side hustle can financially sustain itself and eventually turn a profit. Initially, you might not make money as you’re setting up and trying to find your first customers. Once you start to see some sales, regularly review if the income justifies your effort and investment.
Does it align with your interests?
Choose a side hustle you’re passionate about. If you enjoy the work, it won’t feel as draining after a long day at your main job. Whether it’s crafting handmade candles or offering fitness coaching online, picking something you love will provide the motivation needed to keep going.
Hands-on or passive: consider your style
Consider how much time you can dedicate to your side hustle. Some require more active involvement than others. For example, running a local tour guide service might need more daily management than something like creating and selling digital templates, which allows for more passive involvement once set up.
Deciding whether a side hustle is suitable involves assessing how well it fits with your life, whether it excites you, and if it can become financially sustainable. If these elements align, your side hustle has a strong chance of growing into your own business.
Stacking success on the sidelines
Your side hustle can help you make money online and earn some extra cash each month. But it can also help you develop new skills, build your personal brand or portfolio, and achieve more freedom. So, have fun with it!
Take a risk by starting a business or pursuing a new hobby you’ve always been curious about. A side hustle is your best opportunity to live life on your own terms. And with some more money in your pocket, there’s nothing stopping you from making your dreams come true.
Side hustles FAQ
How do you start a side hustle?
Starting a side hustle involves several steps, which might differ based on your skills, initial investment, and the effort required. Here’s how you can begin:
- Start by listing what you love doing.
- Decide whether you need to invest money upfront.
- Dedicate specific times in your schedule to focus on your side hustle.
- Plan out how you will generate income from your side hustle.
- Take action on your strategy and start building your side hustle step by step.
What are the easiest side hustles to start?
The simplest side hustles are those that don’t need special skills or a lot of money to start. You might think about joining the gig economy, doing tasks through websites like TaskRabbit, or driving for a rideshare service. Another easy option is to start an online store to sell your own products.
How much time should I dedicate to my side hustle to make it successful?
You should plan to spend a few hours each week on your side hustle. It’s important to focus on the most critical tasks that help your business grow. Regular effort and commitment can turn your side hustle into a successful source of extra income.
What side hustles can I pursue alongside my day job?
Many side hustles can fit comfortably alongside a full-time job, requiring just a few hours a week. You might consider freelance writing, graphic design, or web development if you have the skills. If you prefer something less technical, babysitting, pet sitting, or teaching online courses are great options.
What side hustle can I start with little money?
Dropshipping, becoming a freelancer, affiliate marketing, selling photography, and print-on-demand are all side hustles you can start with little money.
How can I make an extra $1,000 a month?
The extra income you can earn from a side hustle varies based on several factors. Your dedication, the market demand, and your local economy all play a role in how much you can make. Here are some viable options to get you started:
- Participate in focus groups
- Launch a dog walking business
- Offer digital marketing to local businesses
- Deliver food with apps like DoorDash and Grubhub
- Teach an online course
- Run a virtual bookkeeping service
- List your car on Getaround
- Grow and monetize a YouTube channel
