The rising cost of living has many folks trying to find new ways to make some extra cash. A side hustle isn’t just about getting another paycheck, it’s a chance to learn new things, test out business ideas, and maybe even head down the road to being financially secure. And the best part? You don’t always need a pile of money to get going. With the right side hustle, you can make money from your house, when you have free time, or on the weekends.
If you’ve been wondering how to make more money, here are 10 side hustles that could make you money today – most of which don’t require much money, or any at all, to start.
1. Freelance Writing
If you like to write, freelance writing can be a great way to make money on the side. Businesses, blogs, and websites always need content to bring in readers.
Where to find work:
- Upwork (freelance marketplace)
- Fiverr (small writing jobs)
- ProBlogger Job Board (blogging chances)
- Freelancer.com
How much you can earn: Beginners can start at $20–$50 for each article, while experienced writers get $100+ for each article or even $0.10–$0.50 for each word.
Tip: Create a portfolio by writing a few free guest posts for blogs that cover your topics.
2. Virtual Assistant (VA)
Small businesses and busy people often need help with things like scheduling, managing email, or posting on social media.
Where to find work:
- Belay (good VA work)
- Zirtual (VA jobs in the U.S.)
- Upwork
How much you can earn: VAs make $15–$30 per hour when starting, with experienced VAs making $40–$60 per hour.
Tip: Specialize (like a social media VA, or a bookkeeping VA) to make yourself different.
3. Online Tutoring
If you’re good at math, science, languages, or something else, tutoring online is a good way to make extra money.
Where to find work:
- Tutor.com
- Chegg Tutors
- Preply (languages)
- VIPKid (teaching English online)
How much you can earn: $15–$40 per hour based on what you teach and where you do it.
Tip: Start your own tutoring service using Zoom or Google Meet and tell people about it on social media.
4. Selling Digital Products
Unlike physical items, you can sell digital products over and over without having to ship anything or worry about storing products. Examples include e-books, printable planners, online courses, and stock photos.
Where to sell:
- Etsy (printables, templates)
- Gumroad (e-books, guides)
- Teachable or Udemy (online courses)
How much you can earn: Anywhere from $100–$5,000+ each month based on the product and how you market it.
Tip: Start small — an e-book or template about what you know can make steady income.
5. Social Media Management
Businesses know they need social media, but many don’t have the time to keep up with it. If you know how to use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook, you can manage accounts for brands.
Where to find clients:
- Upwork / Fiverr
- Local businesses in your area
- Meeting people in Facebook Groups or LinkedIn
How much you can earn: $300–$1,000 for each client each month based on how much work there is.
Tip: Offer a package deal (creating content + posting + talking with followers) for steady income.
6. Dropshipping
Dropshipping lets you sell products online without needing to keep any products yourself. You set up a store, and suppliers ship things right to your customers.
Tools to use:
- Shopify (most popular dropshipping platform)
- Oberlo (joins Shopify with suppliers)
- WooCommerce (WordPress option)
How much you can earn: $500–$5,000+ each month based on what you sell and how you market it.
Tip: Focus on products that are trendy but will last, like fitness gear, phone accessories, or kitchen tools.
7. Affiliate Marketing
With affiliate marketing, you make a commission each time someone buys a product because of your link.
Where to start:
Amazon Associates (lots of products)
- CJ Affiliate
- ShareASale
- Impact Radius
How much you can earn: It changes a lot — some make $100/month while others make six figures.
Tip: Start a blog, YouTube channel, or TikTok account about a topic and recommend products.
8. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Animal lovers can make money doing what they love. Many pet owners need people they can trust to walk their dogs or watch their pets when they’re away.
Where to find clients:
- Rover
- Wag!
- Local community boards or Facebook groups
How much you can earn: $15–$30 for each walk, or $25–$75 for each night of pet sitting.
Tip: Offer extra services like grooming or training for more money.
9. Selling Handmade Products
If you’re crafty, handmade products like jewelry, candles, or art can be a money-making side hustle.
Where to sell:
- Etsy
- Shopify
- Local craft fairs and farmers’ markets
How much you can earn: $200–$2,000+ each month based on the product and how you sell it.
Tip: Specific products (like eco-friendly candles or personalized gifts) do better.
10. Ridesharing or Food Delivery
Apps like Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, and Instacart make it easy to make some extra money with your car (or even a bike in some cities).
How much you can earn: $15–$25 per hour based on where you are and tips.
Tip: Work when it’s busy (lunch, dinner, weekends) to make the most money.
NOTE: Starting a side hustle doesn’t have to be hard. Whether you’re a student, a stay-at-home parent, or saving for something later, there’s a side hustle for your skills and how much time you have. From writing and tutoring to selling products and offering services, there are lots of choices. The secret is to start small, keep at it, and grow over time.
