Who wouldn’t want some extra cash? Whether you’re looking to save up for a major purchase, organize a memorable event, or pay up your student loans, having some extra cash on hand is always beneficial.
True, your everyday job takes care of the basics. But if you’re yearning for more, like I was some years ago, side hustles can be the answer.
Here, I’ve compiled 23 top side hustle ideas that can earn you serious cash on the side.
Side Hustle Ideas: My Journey
When I first started consulting, I was in the same boat. My 9-5 covered the necessities, but I dreamed of paying off debts, saving up, and, most of all, the freedom of working for myself.
So, I started driving for a rideshare service on weekends. At first, just a few hours here and there. But soon, I was hooked—choosing my own hours and bringing in over $1,000 a month? I was sold.
That side hustle enabled me to repay debts and save up an emergency fund quickly. But even more valuably, it gave me hands-on experience with self-employment. I discovered a passion for advising others on optimizing their side hustles.
Now, as a consultant, I’ve taken that success and have helped many clients during my consulting career turn side gigs into profitable pillars of their careers.
The truth is, there’s a wide range of lucrative opportunities, both online and in person. So whether you’re aiming to generate passive income or establish an emergency fund, as I did, there’s likely a side hustle that can align with your goals.
Let’s explore how you can increase your earnings and experience the freedom of working on your own terms.
Key Points
- Side hustles provide extra income beyond your regular job to help you reach financial goals like debt repayment, saving up for purchases, or building an emergency fund.
- They offer flexibility and freedom to choose your own hours compared to a traditional 9-to-5 job.
- Side hustles can become profitable pillars of your career if you discover a passion for self-employment.
- There’s a wide range of online and in-person side hustle opportunities to match different interests and goals.
- Starting small with just a few hours per week can help you get experience and become hooked on side hustles.
- Side hustles provide valuable hands-on experience with being self-employed.
- They allow you to increase earnings and work on your own terms compared to a regular job.
Side Hustle Ideas 2024
Based on extensive research and personal experience, here are my recommendations for the best side hustle ideas you can try in 2024.
#1. Start Dropshipping
Dropshipping is an uncomplicated method for selling products online. In simple terms, you collaborate with a third party that handles the production and shipping of the products on your behalf. You also have the exciting task of building an e-commerce platform, setting competitive prices, and promoting your brand.
This business has a low-risk factor, as you only pay for products when customers purchase them. This gives you a promising opportunity to generate profits if you exercise caution with your marketing expenses. You can also explore selling on popular platforms like Amazon and eBay to expand your customer base.
Read Also: 11 Dropshipping Business Ideas to Try in 2024
My Expert Tip:
Starting a dropshipping business is a breeze with Shopify or WordPress. You can rest easy knowing that you won't have to deal with the hassle of managing inventory, packaging, or shipping. Your supplier takes care of sending the orders directly to shoppers, allowing you to concentrate on selecting products, promoting your store, and providing excellent customer service.
#2. Explore the Opportunity to Become a Wholesaler
Starting a wholesale business can be a great side hustle idea to try out now from home. This entails purchasing products in large quantities at a reduced price and subsequently selling them to generate a profit. But discovering the perfect equilibrium that aligns seamlessly with your daily schedule is crucial.
Read Also: BEST WHOLESALE ITEMS TO SELL FROM HOME IN 2023
For example, you can allocate dedicated time slots for various tasks. Use your evenings or weekends to research products and complete your purchases thoroughly. Then, set aside a few hours every week to handle the packing and shipping of orders for your valued customers.
My Expert Tip:
Begin with a modest approach and gradually expand as you discover your groove. By making smart investments and carefully strategizing, operating a wholesale business can be a lucrative endeavour that seamlessly fits into your personal timetable.
#3. Consider Launching a YouTube channel
Starting a YouTube channel can bring you great satisfaction as a side hustle. The potential audience is huge, with over 2.5 billion users and a staggering billion hours of videos watched daily. Nevertheless, developing a huge following on YouTube that generates substantial income requires patience.
My Expert Tip:
Emphasize the creation of content that resonates with your audience. As you gain more followers, consider exploring opportunities to generate income, such as offering paid subscriptions, selling merchandise online, or collaborating with brands for sponsored partnerships.
Here is also a video i have picked to guide you every step of the way:
#4. Engage in Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing, which involves promoting a brand’s product and earning commissions on sales, certainly has its advantages as a side hustle. Nevertheless, as Google continues to direct searchers to e-commerce sites, it becomes essential to think outside the box to make a lasting impression.
Adopting a creative approach to your content is important to achieving success as an affiliate.
You can switch things up and tell a captivating story of the typical advantages and disadvantages of the product. You can share personal anecdotes or customer testimonials that are relevant to the products. What about incorporating interactive content like quizzes or polls that provide personalized product recommendations based on user responses?
Alternatively, you can enhance your content by incorporating visually appealing infographics that effectively showcase distinctive product attributes or provide simple comparisons.
You could even consider hosting live Q&A sessions on social media, engaging with your audience, and providing them with exclusive discounts through affiliate links. These innovative strategies are foolproof methods I have tried in the past. They help your content shine and captivate your audience.
#5. Start your own print-on-demand business
If you have a passion for creating unique graphics and artwork, launching a print-on-demand (POD) business might just be the ideal side hustle for you. POD allows you to showcase your designs on a variety of products, including t-shirts, bags, phone cases, and mugs. What’s even better? You market these products under your own unique brand.
This business model operates in a manner akin to dropshipping. You create the products, incorporate them into your store, and manage promotional efforts. The POD company, on the other hand, handles all the printing and shipping tasks for customers.
My Expert Tip:
Focus on selling high-value items, such as top-notch custom tees. People are willing to invest in high-quality shirts that boast exceptional designs. Discover what your audience is truly passionate about. Then, craft designs that align with those popular patterns.
#6. Get Started with Blogging
Blogging establishes a strong presence and reputation in areas that truly resonate with you, such as yoga, business (like me), or cars. You’ll connect with individuals who share similar interests. And you can generate income online by utilizing affiliate links or promoting their merchandise in your posts.
Don’t anticipate immediate earnings, though. It often takes bloggers a few years to earn a substantial income. Persistence is key.
My Expert Tip:
Start by signing up for Substack or Medium and sharing some captivating content. Once individuals begin interacting with your content, you'll have the chance to generate income through recurring subscriptions.
Read Also: How to Start Blogging Side Hustle: My Expert Guide
#7. Offer knowledge-based products for sale
Information products are digital goods that offer valuable insights or expertise on a particular topic. They are available in various formats, such as ebooks, online courses, webinars, and instructional guides. But the question is, “Do you have a subject you’re incredibly knowledgeable about?” “Or have you noticed a lack of information on a popular topic?”
After answering these questions, focus on developing content in these specific areas. You can also write and publish books on Amazon or create online courses for sale.
My Expert Tip:
The potential earnings from selling information products can differ. It's all about the niche you choose and how well you promote your products. However, it is possible to generate a few thousand dollars every month. The secret to achieving success lies in diversifying your content offerings, such as ebooks, courses, and other forms of valuable resources, which have the potential to generate a steady stream of income in the long run.
#8. Explore freelance opportunities
If you lack a stable income, you can opt to pursue freelance opportunities. By leveraging your skillset and selecting the right platform, you have the potential to earn a monthly income ranging from $50 to $2,000 with this side hustle. For instance, if you want to earn an additional $1,000 per month, freelance writing can be a side gig that helps you achieve your goal of a second income.
#9. Become a virtual assistant
Businesses are in need of assistance, and you have the ability to offer your services as a virtual assistant. This role encompasses various responsibilities, such as administration, social media marketing, bookkeeping, and other related tasks. Given the increasing demand for remote support, there is a significant need for virtual assistants.
My Expert Tip:
Opportunities can be found on platforms such as Upwork. Plus, working as a freelance professional can significantly boost your income possibilities. To broaden your reach, consider joining Facebook groups catering to businesses or online retailers and promoting your services within those communities.
#10. Offer digital marketing services
Are you proficient in the field of digital marketing? There is a significant need for freelancers who excel in content creation, social media management, and website optimization for online businesses. Begin by promoting your services on gig or freelance websites. Create a straightforward website that highlights your top achievements. This will assist you in attracting a broader range of clients from various industries.
My Expert Tip:
You can also make money by packaging your expertise into an online course. Share your knowledge of digital marketing with people who are eager to learn. This method is a great means of expanding your reach and positioning yourself as a knowledgeable authority in the industry.
#11. Find a part-time job
You may consider pursuing a part-time job if you prefer exchanging your time for financial compensation. Some great options for side jobs to earn some extra cash are being a dog walker, babysitter, restaurant server, receptionist, administrative assistant, or barista. You can also discover part-time opportunities online that align with your field. However, one potential drawback of a part-time job is the need to exchange your time for financial compensation.
My Expert Tip:
Consider exploring various job sites where you can discover potential side gigs that can be done during evenings and weekends. Remember that once you've put in a long day's work, it's natural to feel tired and drained. Therefore, choosing a part-time job with a flexible schedule would be wise.
#12. Provide grocery and food deliveries
Enjoy the freedom of driving solo without the hassle of having passengers. You can explore the realm of food and grocery delivery. You have the potential to connect busy supermarkets with warm and inviting home kitchens. Apps such as Instacart or Spark Driver (Walmart’s delivery service) offer the flexibility to select your own working hours and experience the fulfilment of delivering everyday necessities.
In addition to groceries, you can provide food delivery services to earn some additional income. This side hustle has gained significant momentum in recent years and provides comparable flexibility in terms of work structure. So, if you’re looking to dive into the world of food delivery, there are a few popular apps you can consider signing up for. These include Uber Eats, Postmates, SkipTheDishes (for Canada), Menulog (for Australia and New Zealand), and Zomato (for India).
#13. Rent out a spare room or your entire home
If you have an extra room or are not using your home for an extended period, renting it out might be worth it. It’s an excellent method to generate additional income with minimal effort. Platforms similar to Airbnb are widely used for this purpose, allowing you to list your space on Agoda, Vrbo, or Plum Guide (specifically for the UK).
Read Also: HOW TO START AN AIRBNB BUSINESS
My Expert Tip:
If you want to increase your side hustle income, you might want to think about selling products to your guests. Placing QR codes in the room can greatly enhance guests' convenience in purchasing these products.
#14. Convert your pictures into a lucrative venture
If you have a passion for photography, you can turn it into a profitable venture. Capture some stunning images and offer them for sale on platforms such as Shutterstock and Burst. These websites are constantly seeking fresh photographs to enhance their online presence and advertising efforts. Given the ever-changing nature of websites, a constant supply of fresh images is essential.
Note that there are no restrictions. Feel free to explore your artistic side when it comes to your photos. You can also turn them into prints or apply them to mugs and sweatshirts. People adore having trendy artwork, whether it’s for display or fashion. And these days, it’s quite easy and affordable to have your photos printed in excellent quality. If you have an exceptional photograph, there’s a good chance that someone will be interested in purchasing it.
My Expert Tip:
Consider exploring opportunities in photography as well. You have the potential to specialize in wedding photography and potentially turn it into a full-time career. There are also concerts, graduations, and family photo sessions. There's always someone in search of a skilled photographer for a unique occasion.
Meanwhile, my article on 61+ Small Business Ideas: 2024 Expert Picks + Free Templates explores this side hustle idea as a full-blown small business.
#15. Engage in reselling pre-owned or vintage items
Another method to generate additional revenue from a side hustle is by selling pre-owned or classic items. Begin by eliminating items that are no longer of use to you. You can list them on Facebook Marketplace or in local buy-and-sell groups. This can help you transform your unwanted items into some fast cash. I have done this on one or two occasions to get rid of stuff I no longer need.
You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can profitably get rid of these items on several listing platforms, including eBay.
On the other hand, consider exploring thrift stores and acquiring vintage items to resell. This side gig is perfect for individuals with a keen sense of style and a knack for interior design. You have the opportunity to uncover and breathe new life into forgotten gems, all while making a profit from your astute selections.
#16. Transform homes into productive workspace
Given the increasing number of individuals working remotely, the demand for home workspaces that are both practical and cozy has surged. Consider starting a side hustle as a consultant specializing in home workspaces. You can develop and start selling the expertise to guide clients in creating efficient home offices, maximizing space utilization, selecting ergonomic furniture, and recommending productivity tools.
This hustle offers a unique blend of interior design and efficient workspace planning, ideal for individuals who possess a keen sense of aesthetics and a talent for staying organized. It’s a service that can truly transform someone’s daily work life.
#17. Test websites and apps
When a website encounters issues or an app fails to work properly, it can negatively affect a business. That’s where testers play a crucial role. They thoroughly test all the links and buttons to ensure that everything is functioning properly before launch. And you know what? Companies compensate them generously for their expertise.
There are websites and platforms available that connect you with opportunities for testing websites and apps, such as Userlytics, UserTesting, and Enroll. Some of these gigs can pay up to $100 for just an hour of testing. So, there’s a significant amount of money to be made by ensuring smooth operations.
#18. Start your own skincare brand
Starting a skincare line can appear to be a more daunting hustle than a mere side project. However, using the dropshipping model, this is actually quite feasible. This method allows you to select and sell skin care products without the hassle of managing inventory or shipping.
And if you have a passion for creativity, you can take it to the next level by creating your own skincare line. This could involve crafting distinctive combinations or creating visually appealing packaging. You can start small, experimenting with your concepts, and as you grow more confident and attract a loyal audience, expand the side hustle into a small business.
#19. Provide top-notch car washing and detailing services
Washing your own car can often feel like a tedious task for many individuals. You can provide a convenient solution by offering a car washing and detailing service. Begin with essential supplies such as sponges, soaps, and waxes. This affordable setup enables you to get started without a hefty financial commitment.
My Expert Tip:
To attract clients, focus on the local community and establish personal connections. You have the option to distribute flyers at community centres or local stores, as well as share social media posts within neighbourhood groups. This organic strategy allows you to establish direct connections with potential customers in your local community.
#20. Design and market time capsules for sale
Creating and selling time capsules can be a fascinating side hustle idea. You can converse with individuals to discover their treasured possessions—photographs, personal messages, or perhaps a beloved plaything. Then, you store it away in a time capsule for them to discover in the future. It’s an innovative method to assist individuals in safeguarding their cherished memories.
This gig combines the art of crafting with assisting individuals in preserving their personal narratives. It feels amazing, too. You’re the person who assists in preserving these memories and imagining the joy when they are revisited in the future.
If you can craft compelling content, consider exploring the world of social media influence as a potential side gig. Social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram provide an ideal space to showcase your individual talents and interests. You’ll be able to connect with your audience and cultivate a loyal fan base. Then, you can start to generate income from your online presence.
Starting out? You can take advantage of Shopify Collabs to forge connections with brands that resonate with your unique style. This tool makes it easier to discover companies that are interested in collaborating with influencers for promotional purposes. It’s perfect for establishing affiliate connections, efficiently handling your sales, and effortlessly organizing all your information in a single location.
#22. Provide professional dog walking and pet sitting services
Today, individuals view their pets as valued members of their family, leading to an increasing need for reliable individuals to provide care for their beloved furry friends. You can take advantage of this trend by becoming a dog walker or pet sitter. In the past, discovering potential clients posed a significant challenge when entering this industry. However, thanks to the assistance of platforms such as PetSitter.com, Rover, and Wag!, this hurdle has become much more manageable. It’s now simpler than ever to reach out to pet owners who require your services.
#23. Engage in paid online surveys
If you’re searching for easy ways to earn some extra cash, you might want to explore the option of taking part in paid online surveys. Many marketers and companies are eager to understand consumer sentiment towards their products and brands. There are websites you can check out that offer paid surveys for participants.
How to Implement These Side Hustle Ideas Like I Did
Starting a side hustle can be an exciting endeavour. As I mentioned earlier, it’s a great way to explore your passions and potentially earn some extra income. You can take several steps to get started on the right foot. First, identify your skills and interests. What are you good at, and what do you enjoy doing? This will help you choose a side hustle that aligns with your strengths and brings you joy. Next, research different side hustle ideas and evaluate their potential profitability. But it doesn’t stop there.
Let me explain in detail…
#1. Create a compilation of your hobbies and passions
Passion is key when it comes to making your side hustle a success. This task requires dedication and self-motivation, as it will be completed during your personal time outside of work hours. It will also require significant effort and energy to ensure its success.
Only a deep passion can fuel such unwavering determination. So you’ll need to explore various side hustle ideas that align with your passions and expertise, allowing you to uncover the most promising opportunities or potentially transform your hobbies into profitable ventures.
#2. Research the pricing details
Side hustles can be affordable but might require a startup investment for essentials such as hosting, branding, and tools. You might be interested in exploring social media marketing as a strategy to generate your initial sales. But regardless of your strategy for growing your side hustle, it’s crucial to stay mindful of your expenses in advance. Carefully plan your budget and track your progress to determine if you should keep going.
#3. Ensure there are no conflicts of interest
If you have a day job or connections that could create conflicts of interest with your side hustle, it may be wise to reconsider pursuing it. Sometimes, it’s wise to explore alternative options or set aside your ideas for later to avoid making decisions you may regret later. Starting a side hustle while facing a conflict of interest can result in valuable and expensive lessons.
#4. Make sure to carve out some dedicated time for your side hustle
Running a side hustle requires daily dedication and attention to detail to ensure everything is on track. You can’t just set up your website, schedule your content, and then ignore everything until next month. Make sure to allocate dedicated time in your schedule for your side hustle, and establish clear goals for this time to ensure that your efforts are worthwhile. If successful entrepreneurs inspire you in the industry, consider dedicating three to four evenings a week and even some weekend hours to your side hustle, depending on its nature.
#5. Remember to prioritize your primary job
If you’re juggling a side hustle alongside your day job, it’s crucial to give your undivided attention and effort to your primary employment during working hours. While having a side hustle can provide some extra income, it’s important to remember that your primary source of financial stability comes from your day job paycheck, which is necessary for covering your expenses. Avoid attempting to balance your regular job and side projects during your typical work hours, because they definitely lead to negative outcomes.
What are some low-cost side hustles I can start?
Starting a side hustle doesn’t have to break the bank. There are several options available that require minimal upfront investment, such as dropshipping, freelancing, affiliate marketing, selling photography, and print-on-demand.
Questions to consider when exploring side hustle ideas
While not every side hustle blossoms into a full-time occupation, it is often the case that those who engage in side hustles are drawn to this possibility once their endeavour starts generating substantial profits. If you’re looking for a side hustle that has the potential to turn into a full-fledged career, there are a few factors you should take into account.
#1. Is the idea compatible with your current schedule?
You’ll need to allocate a significant amount of time to this side hustle, so it’s helpful if that time aligns with your personal schedule. A side gig should be something you can pursue alongside your regular job without any conflicts or distractions.
Unexpected tasks may arise during your regular work hours. Occasionally, there may be instances where you need to take on additional work or put in extra hours to complete a project. Additionally, you might have commitments such as attending meetings and participating in team-building activities.
If you want to ensure that you allocate time to your side hustle, it’s helpful to choose something that can be easily rearranged. Side gigs such as dog walking, real estate, or babysitting may appear attractive, but they may pose challenges when it comes to coordinating them with your primary job.
Does the concept resonate with your passions and interests?
Working a full 40-hour workweek can often drain one’s creative energy by the end of the day. And with the demands of family and friends, as well as personal responsibilities, it becomes clear how challenging it can be to find the time and energy to dedicate to a side project.
However, it is during these precious moments hidden within the corners of life that the most productive work can be accomplished to launch something new. The workday is over, the weekend is just a few days away, and with all the true-crime documentaries on Netflix already watched, your schedule is completely free.
However, there are times when you simply won’t feel motivated to work. It’s important to find a side hustle that aligns with your passions, even if it’s not the exact same thing. It seems like you have a passion for managing things behind the scenes or diving into new subjects, or perhaps you have a strong desire to make a positive impact on others.
For some reason, there’s something about it that just grabs your attention. A simple way to gauge this is if you find yourself gravitating towards it when you’re avoiding other tasks. That spark of excitement can make a big difference.
Can the idea generate enough profit?
While it’s true that not every hobby needs to be focused on making money, many of us have financial responsibilities like student loans and bills to take care of. When it comes to a solid side hustle, our focus is on maximizing the return on time invested. That implies your side hustle should be financially sustainable and, in the long run, fairly stable—not just a part-time gig.
Many side hustles may not generate immediate profits, as the main priority is to refine your product or service and determine the most effective ways to attract your initial clients or customers. You aim to minimize expenses during the initial phases and focus solely on generating revenue or validating your idea through sales, allowing you to assess the financial figures.
Is the concept more focused on generating passive income or does it require a more hands-on approach?
Be cautious when it comes to the concept of “passive income,” because the majority of side hustles do require some level of active involvement. There will be a certain amount of initial setup required to get your idea up and running. The range of work can vary significantly, from affiliate marketing at one end to service-based businesses like pet sitting or handmade products at the other end. Your decision will ultimately be influenced by the amount of time and effort you are able to dedicate to your specific side hustle.
Discovering the Perfect Side Hustle Ideas for You
One often overlooked advantage of side hustles is that they provide a valuable opportunity to gain experience in generating substantial income through online platforms. Earning additional income through online means can be quite challenging, especially when we are accustomed to relying on conventional jobs to meet our financial obligations. It may not come naturally to everyone. Side hustles provide an opportunity to experiment with small business ideas and gain real-world experience, like they did for me.
And side hustles serve a purpose beyond just generating extra income. Starting a side hustle can be a transformative journey, allowing you to acquire invaluable skills and foster personal and entrepreneurial growth. For individuals who are passionate about their craft, having a side hustle can offer a sense of artistic freedom, personal development, and eventually a viable path to transform their passion into a full-fledged career. Whether you’re walking dogs, delivering food, or starting to sell online, you’re embarking on the path towards financial independence.
Side Hustles to Steer Clear Of
Some side hustles appear to be lucrative ways to make money. However, in reality, numerous ideas demand significant investments of time, money, or both, and may yield limited results without a dedicated and determined approach. Keep an eye out for warning signs when evaluating potential side hustles and gig work.
#1. Professions That Require Licensing or Certification
Salon services, real estate sales, and certified accounting and tax prep services are frequently mentioned as excellent options for side hustles. Although these industries can be quite lucrative, it is essential to possess the necessary education and obtain the required licensing or certification. To obtain this, you’ll need to invest a significant amount of money, ranging from $500 to $10,000 or even more, for your initial education. Additionally, you’ll be required to cover the costs of initial and annual licensing fees in most states.
If you’re looking to establish a successful career in these industries, this investment can definitely pay off. However, pursuing this side hustle requires a significant investment of time and money, and there are no guarantees of earning additional income.
#2. Multi-level marketing (MLM) schemes
MLM companies have a knack for persuading individuals with promises of effortless wealth and substantial profit opportunities, and there are indeed many who excel in this particular business model. It’s important to thoroughly investigate the expenses and product investment associated with any MLM opportunity. These costs can be significant, so it’s crucial to carefully analyze their sales and profit model. Typically, the key to success lies in assembling a substantial group of salespeople who work under you, which requires consistent dedication and hard work.
If you’re into high-pressure sales, an MLM side hustle could be right up your alley. However, in the unfortunate event that this doesn’t happen, you could be left with a surplus of unsold items that cannot be returned, resulting in minimal or no profits.
#3. Coaching programs for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to maximize their side hustles.
As you try different side hustle ideas, you’re bound to come across coaching programs that boast about incredible profits and guarantee rapid success. This is yet another team of experienced marketers who excel at persuading individuals to invest significant amounts of money in their supposedly infallible system. Although there are coaching programs that provide valuable techniques and advice, none of them guarantee instant wealth.
Before investing in any coaching program, take advantage of the wealth of resources available on platforms like YouTube, Google, and Kindle Unlimited. You can find a plethora of free videos, informative articles, and e-books that cover various side hustle ideas that pique your interest. Typically, there is an abundance of valuable resources available for free that can assist you in launching and expanding your side hustle.
Conclusion
Side hustles can be an excellent opportunity to boost your income, explore your passions, or even kickstart a new venture during your free time. Given the abundance of side hustle opportunities out there, it’s prudent to delve into the various options and assess which ones align with your abilities, objectives, financial resources, and schedule. No side hustle is a surefire path to success or a shortcut to getting rich, regardless of the claims made by certain savvy marketers and coaches. Just like any business, a side hustle demands your attention, commitment, and follow-through. However, when executed properly, they present excellent opportunities for profit and growth and may even evolve into a full-time endeavor.
- The 9 Best Side Hustles to Start Right From the Comfort of Your Own Home
- JOBS FOR MEN: 20+ High-Paying Side Jobs for Men in 2024
- SIDE JOBS FROM HOME: Best & Flexible Jobs From Home 2024
References
