“Side hustles are not just about beaches and piña coladas,”
Sharon Peters – Financial guru
Side hustles are a powerful tool for bolstering your savings and achieving financial freedom.
From tech-savvy gigs to utilizing hidden talents, this blog explores a multitude of income-generating opportunities, empowering you to transform your spare time into a springboard for a brighter financial future.
One of LinkedIn’s most followed female entrepreneurs, Sonya Barlow, presents the data on the uprising of the ‘side hustle generation’.
50% of the population prefers having side hustles to either learn new skills or gain financial sustainability and freedom from corporate slavery. (1)
The skyrocketing inflation rates and the ability to work from home in any part of the world have enabled millions of people to earn more from their side hustles than their actual jobs. We sometimes call them freelancers.
If you have time and skill at hand, why not use it to earn a little extra?
As Anais Nain said, “Good things come to those who hustle.” Side hustles don’t generate incomes out of thin air. They need to be ‘hustled’ for.
Maybe you are a good storyteller or a masterful game developer. Start using these skills and hobbies for your monetary benefit.
Hustle for that extra income that can be saved to build you a home, get your kids through college, fulfill your dreams, and make a hefty will.
According to research, women (50%) have also been increasingly taking on side hustles after men (49%). However, men are working fewer hours than women. (2)
This is not a story of discrimination. This is about a lack of information at our disposal.
A side hustle should resonate with personal interest instead of what makes you the richest, fastest. Earning passive income and generating retirement savings is usually the goal of such projections.
If you are looking for a side hustle for women that is profitable and you can manage alongside your family, scour through my eagle-eyed list of 30 side hustles and you might just find what you need to start earning passive income.
Side Hustles In Food & Agriculture
This is one of the more manual forms of side hustles and may be suitable side hustle ideas for moms. Many people living in the country or mountainous areas have opted to grow and farm organic produce and generate a steady source of income.
1. Sell Organic Vegetables
Kitchen gardening is a great hobby to keep you entertained and you get the fruit of hard work for sure, unlike ‘corporate hustle’ (if you know what I mean).
Grow your fruits and vegetables and sell them online or in the local market. Remember, organic food can not just save lives but fill pockets. (3)
2. Sell Organic Compost
Making organic compost at home is like hitting two targets with one arrow. Just segregate gardening waste and peels of fruits and vegetables from other domestic waste.
Layer it in a bucket with dry mulch and keep it covered.
Composting requires high temperature and humidity, so keep it outside under the Sun and sprinkle water every other day. In the summers, your compost will be ready to be sold in 1-2 months. And a little goes a long way. (3)
3. Sell Food On A Food Truck
This can be your DIY project, as well as a thriving business.
You can hardly ever go wrong with food. All you need is a little investment to buy a worn-out vehicle and transform it into your moving restaurant. Voila! (you can even use it to get to your actual job) (4)
4. Food Styling For Photoshoots
Next time when you see a person at a restaurant taking a picture of their food while excitedly making them pose with props, remember that they are earning from what they love doing.
So if food is your passion, style it, take photos and make a profile. You can start by giving free reviews to food businesses. (5)
Creative Side Hustles
If you are looking for side hustle writing jobs that would pay you well, then you need to hone in on your writing skills.
Joining a creative writing course might be a great start for newbies.
5. Blog Writing
We hear all the hype about blogging and copywriting and it’s all worth it. Buying a domain doesn’t cost much.
GoDaddy and WordPress are well-known for finding a good domain. Write content that you like, optimize it for the browser, and publish it.
The monetization can take a few months, but if you have the skill and you want to start earning right away, become a freelance content writer. (6)
6. Copywriting
If you can urge people with your words into buying anything you want, congrats!
You are a natural. Use this skill to promote businesses, or create your platform, physical or online, to teach the art of persuasiveness. (7)
7. Graphic Designer
If you can side hustle with graphic design expertise, you may become a successful freelancer in less time.
Graphic design offers a versatile side hustle with high demand. Whether crafting logos, social media graphics, or designing print materials, you can leverage freelance platforms or create passive income through design assets.
8. Sell Your Unique Art Online
Opening an Instagram channel often gives me FOMO. People have amazing talents, from pottery to resin art, DIY furniture to wall art.
If you have any unique talent for art, set up a public profile and start selling it. There is no better appreciation than what comes with money. (4)
9. Selling Print-On-Demand (POD) Templates For Journals & Diaries
Monetizing your talent by making custom-designed journal templates is good. But what’s better is buying a template from platforms like Etsy, and uploading them to POD vendors e.g. Printify or Gelato.
From concept to completion, the vendor will handle the entire physical realization of your idea, including 3D printing, assembly, and final delivery. (8)
10. Selling Print-On-Demand (POD) e-Books
Writing and publishing books in your name has never been easier and cost-effective. The book can be an adult coloring book, a children’s storybook, or a self-help book.
Just upload it on a free side hustle tool, that takes care of everything from manufacturing to delivery, while you sit back and enjoy the cash. (8)
11. Become A Niche-Specific Photographer or Videographer
For those of you who have the talent of finding the exact angle at which something looks astonishing through a lens, monetize that talent.
The best results come when you focus on one area that you love. It can be capturing weddings or wildlife animals. Capturing the landscape is for commoners.
You should be able to capture the essence of that landscape and trigger emotions, so keep learning and polishing your skill. (4)
IT & Tech-Based Side Hustles
12. Digital Marketing
Digital marketing encompasses a wide range of techniques used to promote brands and products across the digital sphere.
According to Statista, global digital ad spending is projected to reach $580 billion in 2024. This growth signifies a surging demand for skilled professionals who can navigate this dynamic terrain.
Side hustlers with expertise in search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, or content creation can offer their services to businesses seeking to amplify their online presence.
Earning potential varies depending on experience and niche, but freelance digital marketers can command anywhere from $20 to $100 per hour.
13. Social Media Manager
Social media management involves creating and executing engaging content, managing online communities, and analyzing audience demographics.
As platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter continue to dominate communication channels, businesses increasingly require skilled individuals to curate their online presence.
A FlexJobs report highlights social media management as a lucrative side hustle with an average hourly rate of $32.
Individuals with strong communication skills, creative flair, and an understanding of social media algorithms can excel in this role.
14. Data Analyst
In today’s data-driven world, businesses are constantly bombarded with information.
Data analysts play a crucial role in extracting meaningful insights from this vast ocean of data.
They utilize various analytical tools and techniques to identify trends, patterns, and customer behavior, helping businesses make informed decisions.
While a formal data analyst role often requires advanced degrees, freelance platforms offer opportunities for individuals with basic data analysis skills to offer their services, particularly in tasks like data cleaning and visualization.
Upwork reports an average hourly rate of $47 for freelance QA testers, with experienced data analysts potentially commanding higher fees.
15. Testing Apps
The success of any mobile application hinges on its user experience.
App testers play a vital role in identifying bugs, glitches, and usability issues before an app is released to the public.
The world of AI automation has transformed the landscape of side hustles. While the barrier to entry for app testing is relatively low, a keen eye for detail and a methodical approach are crucial.
Websites like UserTesting offer opportunities for individuals to participate in usability studies and earn money by providing feedback on apps for various companies.
The average hourly rate for app testing can range from $10 to $20, depending on the complexity of the project.
16. Web Development
Web developers are the architects of the digital world, crafting the websites and applications we utilize daily.
While freelance web development often requires advanced coding skills, beginners can explore entry-level options like building simple websites using platforms like Wix or Squarespace.
As their expertise grows, they can expand their services to include e-commerce functionality or custom web design elements.
The earning potential for web developers varies greatly depending on experience and project complexity, but freelance web developers can command hourly rates ranging from $75 to $150 or more.
Within the world of digital marketing, you can also find many options to side hustle using AI automation.
Starting an AI marketing agency has become the new fad. This is an idea worth exploring and learning about.
Side Hustles in Business & Investment
17. Dropshipping
Dropshipping offers a low-barrier entry point to the world of e-commerce. In this model, the seller acts as a middleman, connecting customers with products held by a third-party supplier.
The seller curates an online store, manages marketing, and handles customer service, while the supplier fulfills orders and ships products directly to the customer.
While dropshipping boasts low upfront costs, success hinges on effective marketing strategies and competitive pricing. Earning potential varies, but profit margins often hover around 20-30%.
18. Developing A YouTube Channel
YouTube, with billions of monthly active users, presents a potential avenue for financial gain through content creation.
Successful YouTubers monetize their channels through advertising revenue sharing, brand collaborations, and product endorsements. Building a loyal audience and creating engaging content are crucial success factors.
While some YouTubers generate substantial income, the path to profitability can be arduous and time-consuming.
19. Amazon Affiliation
Amazon’s affiliate program allows content creators to earn commissions by promoting products on their website or social media channels.
When a user clicks on an affiliate link and makes a purchase, the content creator receives a percentage of the sale.
This model requires strong marketing and promotional skills, coupled with audience trust and engagement.
Earning potential depends on traffic volume and conversion rates, with successful affiliates earning anywhere from a few hundred to thousands of dollars per month.
20. Crypto Trading
Cryptocurrency trading involves speculating on the price fluctuations of digital assets, like Bitcoin or Ethereum.
While potentially lucrative, this market is highly volatile and carries significant risk. Investors can lose substantial sums if prices plummet.
In-depth knowledge of blockchain technology, market analysis skills, and a high-risk tolerance are essential for success.
21. Stock Trading
Stock trading involves buying and selling shares in publicly traded companies. Investors aim to profit from price appreciation or through dividends.
Compared to crypto, the stock market is considered less volatile, but it still carries inherent risks. Understanding financial analysis, market trends, and risk management is crucial for success.
22. Buying & Reselling Products
This side hustle entails finding undervalued or under-appreciated products and reselling them at a profit.
This can involve sourcing items from thrift stores, garage sales, or online marketplaces. Identifying profitable niches and developing an eye for value are key aspects of success.
Earnings vary based on the product, market demand, and the seller’s ability to negotiate and re-sell.
23. Online Coaching
Individuals with specialized knowledge or expertise can offer online coaching services to a remote audience.
Platforms like Zoom and Skype facilitate online instruction, allowing coaches to connect with students from anywhere in the world.
Success hinges on establishing expertise, crafting engaging course materials, and effectively marketing services.
Earning potential depends on niche, coaching experience, and hourly rates.
24. Becoming A Lifestyle Influencer
Lifestyle influencers leverage their social media presence to promote brands, products, and experiences.
Building a large and engaged following is paramount, often achieved through compelling content creation and audience interaction.
While lucrative for established influencers, success requires significant effort, commitment, and a strong social media presence.
Service-Based Side Hustles
25. Become A Tourist Guide
Aspiring tourist guides can capitalize on their local knowledge and passion for their city or region by offering guided tours.
These can range from historical walking tours to immersive cultural experiences. Success hinges on strong communication skills, captivating storytelling abilities, and in-depth knowledge of local attractions and history.
Earning potential varies depending on tour duration, location, and group size, but experienced guides can command rates ranging from $20 to $100 per hour.
26. Become An Online Fitness Coach
The rise of virtual fitness platforms allows certified personal trainers to offer online coaching services.
This side hustle caters to individuals seeking personalized fitness guidance without the constraints of location.
Establishing expertise, crafting engaging workout programs, and fostering a supportive online community are key success factors.
Earnings depend on experience, client base, and pricing structure, with some coaches charging hourly rates or offering monthly subscription packages.
27. Delivery Service Provider
Delivery service providers utilize their vehicles and time to deliver goods for various platforms.
These side hustles include food delivery services, grocery delivery apps, or package delivery for online retailers.
While the barrier to entry is low, reliable transportation, a valid driver’s license, and a customer-oriented approach are essential.
Earning potential depends on the platform, workload, and delivery distance, with some providers earning an average of $15-$20 per hour.
28. Cab Service Provider
Ridesharing platforms offer individuals a flexible way to generate income by utilizing their personal vehicles to transport passengers.
While convenient, success hinges on maintaining a clean driving record, adhering to platform guidelines, and providing a positive passenger experience.
Earning potential varies based on location, driving hours, and passenger demand, but ridesharing drivers can typically earn around $18-$25 per hour.
29. Real Estate Services
Individuals with expertise and licensure in real estate can offer services like property management or buyer/seller representation as a side hustle.
This requires in-depth knowledge of local market trends, strong negotiation skills, and excellent customer service.
Earning potential varies depending on the service offered and the value of the properties involved, with commissions typically ranging from 3% to 6% of the sale price.
30. Handyperson Work
Individuals with practical skills and a toolbox can offer handyperson services like basic repairs, furniture assembly, or home maintenance tasks.
Building a reputation for reliability and quality workmanship is crucial for attracting clients.
Earning potential of side hustles depends on the task complexity, hourly rates, and client base, with handypersons typically charging around $30-$50 per hour.
Side hustles can be a fantastic tool to turbocharge your savings goals, but remember, as Sharon Lechter, co-author of Rich Dad Poor Dad, advises:
“It’s not how much money you make, but how much money you keep.”
Focus on finding sustainable side hustles that complement your lifestyle and keep you motivated on the path to financial freedom.
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