40 Side Hustle Ideas to Boost Your Income in Your Spare Time
The traditional 9-to-5 job is no longer the only way to make a living—or even the best one. Whether you’re looking to pad your income, build toward financial freedom, or test out a new passion, side hustles are becoming the new normal. With economic uncertainty, rising costs of living, and the gig economy in full swing, finding a supplemental source of income isn’t just smart—it’s essential.
The beauty of a side hustle is flexibility. You don’t have to quit your day job, take out a loan, or radically change your lifestyle to start. You can pick something that aligns with your interests, uses your existing skills, and fits your schedule. Plus, you might stumble into something you love doing even more than your 9-5.
Digital Side Hustles You Can Do From Anywhere
1. Freelance writing
Freelance writing is one of the most accessible and versatile side hustles out there. If you have a decent grasp of grammar, a knack for storytelling, or just the ability to follow directions, there’s a corner of the internet that needs your words. From blogs and newsletters to SEO content and technical documentation, businesses of all sizes need help with writing—especially when they’re scaling or don’t have a full-time content team.
To get started, pick a niche you’re comfortable with (tech, travel, finance, wellness, etc.) and create a small portfolio. Even a few sample pieces on Medium or your own blog will do. Then, pitch yourself on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer, or reach out directly to brands and agencies. Once you land a few clients and prove you’re reliable, word-of-mouth can keep the pipeline flowing.
2. Graphic design
Graphic design is a highly in-demand skill in a world run by branding, social media, and visual storytelling. From logos and YouTube thumbnails to pitch decks and Instagram carousels, good design can make or break a message. If you’ve got an eye for layout, color, and fonts, this side hustle can be both creatively fulfilling and financially rewarding.
If you’re starting from scratch, you can learn the basics using free resources like Canva, or dive deeper into Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop via Skillshare, YouTube, or Coursera. Build a simple portfolio and start offering your services to small businesses, startups, or content creators who need a professional look on a budget. Once your skills evolve, you can raise your rates and even specialize in niches like brand design or UI/UX.
3. Social media management
Most businesses know they need to be on social media but have no idea how to do it well—or consistently. That’s where a social media manager comes in. You’ll create content calendars, schedule posts, respond to DMs and comments, and help build a brand’s voice and engagement over time. If you spend a lot of time on TikTok or Instagram already, you’re halfway there.
You can start by offering to manage social accounts for a friend’s business or a local nonprofit. Use free tools like Buffer or Later to schedule posts, and learn basic analytics so you can report results to clients. As you build experience, create case studies or a personal brand account to showcase your skills. You’ll eventually be able to charge retainers for multiple clients at once—making this hustle scalable and sustainable.
4. Online tutoring
Online tutoring is a flexible and impactful side hustle, especially if you have a strong academic background or specific expertise in subjects like math, science, languages, or test prep. Parents are often willing to pay top dollar to help their kids succeed, and adult learners are always on the hunt for skill-building opportunities.
To start, register on platforms like Wyzant or Preply, which connect tutors with students. You can also offer private lessons through social media or community groups. Set clear availability, determine your hourly rate, and tailor your lessons to individual learning styles. Bonus: if you tutor virtually, you can work with students across time zones and build a schedule that works around your day job.
5. Virtual assistance
Virtual assistants (VAs) are the Swiss Army knives of the digital business world. From managing emails and calendars to booking travel and organizing files, VAs help entrepreneurs, executives, and small business owners stay on top of their tasks. If you’re organized, communicative, and detail-oriented, this hustle could be your calling.
Start by identifying the types of admin tasks you’re best at, then build a service list around those strengths. Sites like Belay, Zirtual, and Upwork can connect you with potential clients, but many VAs also land jobs by networking in niche Facebook or LinkedIn groups. As you gain experience, you can specialize (like podcast VA or real estate VA) and charge premium rates for high-value support.
6. Selling digital products
Selling digital products is a fantastic way to earn passive income—create once, sell forever. These products can include e-books, downloadable planners, Canva templates, Notion dashboards, or even music loops and Lightroom presets. Once you’ve made the product, you don’t have to deal with inventory, shipping, or customer service beyond the occasional question.
To get started, brainstorm a pain point you can solve or a tool that would save people time. Then create a clean, easy-to-use version of it. You can host your product on Gumroad, Etsy, Payhip, or even your own website. The key is smart marketing—promoting your product via TikTok, Pinterest, email newsletters, or social media can drive consistent sales over time.
7. Dropshipping
Dropshipping is a low-risk way to run an e-commerce business without handling physical products. You create an online storefront, choose items to sell from a supplier, and when a customer makes a purchase, the supplier ships the product directly to them. It’s perfect for people with solid marketing skills who want to run a store without the hassle of inventory.
To get started, build a Shopify or WooCommerce store and connect it with dropshipping platforms like Oberlo, Spocket, or AliExpress. Choose a niche market—think pet lovers, gamers, or eco-conscious consumers—and focus on branding and customer experience. You’ll need to invest time in marketing (often through paid social ads or influencer collabs), but if you hit the right audience, the margins can be surprisingly strong.
8. Print-on-demand
Print-on-demand lets you design custom products like t-shirts, mugs, posters, and phone cases that are only created and shipped when someone orders. It’s similar to dropshipping, but with your designs and more creative control. If you’re a designer, artist, or meme lord with a cult following, this hustle lets you monetize your voice without stocking inventory.
Use platforms like Printful, Printify, or TeeSpring, which integrate directly with e-commerce sites like Etsy or Shopify. Your job is to create eye-catching designs and market them effectively. The upfront cost is low (basically just your time), and you can experiment endlessly with trends, niches, and styles. Some side hustlers turn this into full-on merch brands over time.
9. Affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing is the digital version of word-of-mouth sales—except you get paid. You recommend products or services to your audience using unique links, and when someone makes a purchase, you earn a commission. It’s one of the most passive ways to earn income, especially if you already have a blog, YouTube channel, or large social following.
To begin, sign up for affiliate programs related to your interests. Amazon Associates is a popular starting point, but niche programs (like for camera gear, SaaS tools, or fitness supplements) often pay better. Integrate links naturally into your content—don’t just spam them—and focus on solving problems for your audience. The more trust you build, the more likely people are to buy through you.
10. Blogging or YouTubing
Blogging or YouTubing is the side hustle for those willing to play the long game. It can take months to build traffic or subscribers, but once you hit momentum, the passive income potential is real. You can earn through ad revenue, sponsorships, affiliate links, or by selling your own products or services.
Start by choosing a niche you’re passionate about—something you won’t get sick of writing or talking about. Then create consistently valuable content that answers questions or entertains. Blogging works well with SEO strategies, while YouTube rewards watch time and engagement. Either way, the key is consistency. The more content you publish, the more opportunities you have to earn.
Service-Based Side Hustles That Let You Set Your Rate
11. Photography or videography
If you’ve got a camera and a creative eye, photography or videography can be a lucrative and fulfilling side hustle. Events like weddings, birthdays, and corporate gatherings always need professionals to capture the moment. Even beyond events, businesses need product photography, real estate walkthroughs, and branded video content for social media.
Start by identifying your niche—portraits, events, real estate, or brand content—and build a portfolio with friends, family, or mock shoots. Promote your services on Instagram, Craigslist, or local Facebook groups. Eventually, you can scale by offering packages, renting out gear, or subcontracting second shooters. Bonus points if you can also edit photos or video—many clients prefer an all-in-one solution.
12. House cleaning
House cleaning might not sound glamorous, but it pays well and requires very little startup capital. It’s a hustle that’s always in demand—especially in urban areas where busy professionals would rather pay than scrub their own toilets. Plus, repeat clients mean recurring revenue.
To get started, gather some basic supplies and offer your services to friends, neighbors, or via platforms like TaskRabbit and Thumbtack. Once you build a few good reviews, you can raise your rates or offer deep cleaning, move-in/move-out, or organization services. Word-of-mouth is huge in this field, and many successful cleaners grow into full-fledged businesses with hired staff.
13. Handyman services
If you’re handy with tools and good at solving household issues, there’s money to be made fixing things other people don’t want to deal with. Think leaky faucets, squeaky doors, drywall repairs, or assembling IKEA furniture. Homeowners, landlords, and even Airbnb hosts are always looking for help.
Start by offering your skills in local Facebook groups, on Nextdoor, or through Craigslist. You’ll need a basic toolkit, a reliable mode of transport, and perhaps liability insurance if you’re working in other people’s homes. As you build trust and a solid reputation, you can increase your hourly rate, specialize in certain types of repairs, or even become a licensed contractor if you want to scale.
14. Dog walking or pet sitting
If you love animals, dog walking and pet sitting are practically a dream job. It’s simple, flexible, and gives you a valid reason to befriend every golden retriever in a five-mile radius. Busy pet owners often need help during work hours or while traveling, and they’re willing to pay for trustworthy care.
You can sign up for platforms like Rover or Wag, or offer services directly through community boards or neighborhood apps. Once you build a loyal client base, you can walk multiple dogs at once, board pets overnight, or offer extra services like training or grooming. It’s a great side hustle if you want daily exercise and constant serotonin boosts.
15. Babysitting or nannying
Babysitting isn’t just for teenagers anymore. Parents are constantly looking for reliable, experienced sitters they can trust—especially for evening or weekend help. If you have childcare experience, CPR certification, or just a warm and patient personality, you’re already ahead of the pack.
Start by offering your services to friends, family, or through platforms like Care.com or Sittercity. You can charge higher rates if you’re willing to handle bedtime routines, homework help, or late-night hours. Over time, you can become a family’s go-to sitter—or even land a part-time nannying gig that fits neatly around your 9-5.
16. Lawn care or snow removal
Lawn care and snow removal are time-honored side hustles that still rake in (pun intended) consistent money. They’re perfect for people who like working outdoors and don’t mind getting their hands dirty. Plus, they follow predictable seasonal patterns: lawns in the summer, snow in the winter.
Startup costs are low if you already own basic equipment like a mower or shovel. Offer your services door-to-door, leave flyers, or post in local community groups. Once you land a few clients on your street, the referrals often snowball. Some side hustlers even upsell add-ons like gutter cleaning, leaf raking, or hedge trimming to boost income.
17. Personal training or coaching
If you’re passionate about fitness, health, or personal development, becoming a trainer or coach can be both profitable and deeply fulfilling. With more people prioritizing wellness, there’s growing demand for workout plans, accountability coaching, and nutrition advice.
Get certified through a reputable organization like NASM or ACE, or build a niche (bodyweight workouts, marathon prep, postpartum fitness) and market yourself online. You can offer sessions virtually via Zoom or in person at parks or gyms. Many clients are happy to pay a premium for a personalized plan and one-on-one support. Over time, you can scale by offering group classes or selling digital workout guides.
18. House painting
House painting is one of those underrated side hustles that pays well, especially if you work efficiently and know how to prep surfaces properly. It doesn’t take a lot of experience to start—just patience, attention to detail, and a steady hand. Whether it’s touching up interiors or repainting fences, there’s always someone looking for help.
You can start by offering services for small projects like accent walls or rooms, then work your way up. Borrow or rent equipment (drop cloths, rollers, ladders), watch a few YouTube tutorials, and get to work. Market yourself locally with before-and-after photos, and don’t underestimate the power of a lawn sign or word-of-mouth. Many painters get repeat work from landlords or property managers.
19. Car detailing
Car detailing is a high-margin service for people who are particular about keeping their vehicles spotless—but don’t want to do it themselves. It goes beyond your typical car wash, involving deep interior cleaning, waxing, polishing, and restoration. If you’re meticulous and love a good transformation, this one’s for you.
All you need to start is some quality cleaning supplies, a vacuum, and maybe a power washer. Offer mobile services so customers don’t need to leave their driveway. Promote your work with photos on Instagram or Facebook Marketplace. You can even upsell services like engine cleaning, pet hair removal, or ceramic coating once you build experience.
20. Mobile notary services
A mobile notary is a licensed official who verifies documents and signatures—mortgage forms, wills, power of attorney, you name it. People often need notaries in a hurry or outside regular business hours, which makes the “mobile” part a valuable convenience. It’s an easy way to monetize flexibility and reliability.
To get started, check your state’s requirements—many only require a short course, exam, and application fee. Once you’re certified, list your services on Google, Yelp, and sites like 123Notary. You can charge extra for travel and after-hours calls, and some notaries even partner with law offices, title companies, or local banks to get regular referrals.
Product-Based Side Hustles to Build Something of Your Own
21. Flipping thrift store finds
Thrift flipping is part treasure hunt, part side hustle goldmine. You scour local thrift shops, garage sales, or flea markets for underpriced items—clothes, furniture, electronics, collectibles—then clean them up and resell for a profit. The resale value can be surprisingly high if you know what to look for.
Start small by focusing on a niche you’re familiar with, whether that’s vintage sneakers or mid-century furniture. Use platforms like eBay, Poshmark, Mercari, Facebook Marketplace, or even Depop. Research trending items, photograph your finds well, and write detailed descriptions. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll start spotting hidden gems like a hawk with a barcode scanner.
22. Restoring and reselling furniture
Furniture restoration is perfect for hands-on creatives who like working with wood, tools, and design. Old dressers, chairs, and tables can often be snagged cheap—or free—and transformed into beautiful, functional pieces that sell for hundreds of dollars more.
You’ll need some basic tools, sandpaper, stain or paint, and a workspace like a garage or shed. Start by learning simple projects from YouTube or DIY blogs, and gradually take on more complex pieces. Once you’ve built up some finished work, photograph and list it on local sites like Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, or Craigslist. Pro tip: trendy styles like farmhouse or boho tend to sell fast with the right audience.
23. Homemade crafts and art
If you’re a creative spirit with a love for handmade goods, turning your crafts into cash is a fulfilling way to make extra income. Whether it’s crochet hats, watercolor prints, clay earrings, or hand-lettered signs, people are eager to buy unique, artisanal products that aren’t mass-produced.
Start by creating a small inventory and opening an online shop on Etsy or Shopify. Use social media—especially Instagram and Pinterest—to share your creative process and connect with buyers. You can also sell at local craft fairs, farmer’s markets, or pop-ups. Many crafters turn this into a full-time gig by adding custom orders, seasonal drops, or teaching workshops.
24. Candle or soap making
Candles and handmade soaps are two of the most giftable, marketable, and aesthetically pleasing products to create at home. With relatively low material costs and lots of room for branding, this side hustle can quickly pay for itself if you hit the right audience.
Start by ordering a beginner’s kit or watching some tutorials to learn the process and safety standards. Then experiment with scents, colors, and shapes until you find a unique product line. Sell on Etsy, at local markets, or through your own e-commerce store. Lean into trends—seasonal scents, minimalist packaging, or natural ingredients can make your brand stand out.
25. Jewelry design
Jewelry design is equal parts art and commerce. Whether you’re stringing beaded necklaces, creating wire-wrapped rings, or casting your own designs in resin or metal, handmade jewelry has a loyal buyer base. It’s highly Instagrammable, endlessly customizable, and extremely giftable.
You can start small with a few tools and materials from a craft store, then grow your collection as you refine your style. Build an online storefront and invest time in great photos—presentation really matters in this space. As your audience grows, you can add premium items, collaborate with influencers, or even wholesale your pieces to boutiques.
26. Baking or meal prep
If you’re the type who finds peace in a mixing bowl or joy in meal prep spreadsheets, you can turn your culinary talents into cash. Whether it’s custom birthday cakes, weekly meal prep for busy professionals, or niche treats like gluten-free cookies or keto brownies, people love good food they don’t have to make themselves.
Start by testing recipes and getting feedback from friends and neighbors. Depending on your state, you may need a cottage food license or health inspection to sell legally. Promote your offerings locally through social media, community boards, or food delivery platforms. Packaging, consistency, and word-of-mouth will be your secret ingredients to success.
27. Tech refurbishing
Refurbishing and flipping electronics is like the thrift store hustle with way more upside. Many people are eager to upgrade their devices but don’t want to shell out for brand-new. If you know how to replace a phone screen or swap out a laptop battery, you’re sitting on a goldmine.
You can start by picking up used devices locally—Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, or even your own junk drawer. Use resources like iFixit for repair guides, and test thoroughly before reselling on Swappa, eBay, or Gazelle. Want to avoid the repair process altogether? That’s where services like BuckUp come in (shameless plug)—trade it in and let someone else handle the resale.
28. T-shirt design
T-shirt design blends creativity, culture, and commerce into one wildly profitable side hustle. If you can come up with clever slogans, memes, or visually cool concepts, you can launch a merch line without touching a single box of inventory.
Use a print-on-demand service like Printful or Redbubble to upload your designs, then market them through social media, influencer collabs, or a niche blog or YouTube channel. You can ride trends—like pop culture references or political moments—or carve out a unique identity with humor, values, or style. The best part? You get to express yourself and make money while doing it.
29. Furniture assembly
Let’s face it—no one likes building furniture from scratch except for the rare few who find joy in deciphering confusing instructions and wrestling with Allen wrenches. That’s why furniture assembly is a surprisingly lucrative and low-effort side hustle.
You can offer your services on TaskRabbit, Thumbtack, or Craigslist, or go rogue with flyers in apartment buildings. It’s a great weekend gig that doesn’t require special skills beyond patience and a toolkit. Want to level it up? Combine this with delivery or junk removal for an even more comprehensive service offering.
30. Selling handmade decor
Selling handmade decor is a fantastic side hustle for design-minded creators who love crafting beautiful, functional pieces. Think wall art, macrame, planters, holiday ornaments, or even customized signs. Pinterest and Instagram are full of trends you can tap into—farmhouse chic, boho minimalism, and beyond.
Start by experimenting with a few products and posting them online. Once you gauge demand, scale up production and open a shop on Etsy or at local markets. Buyers love handmade decor because it feels personal and thoughtful, so lean into storytelling—share your process, your inspirations, and the care behind each piece.
Gig-Based Side Hustles for Fast, Flexible Income
31. Rideshare driving
Rideshare driving is one of the most flexible side hustles out there. You turn on an app, give people rides, and make money—simple as that. With platforms like Uber and Lyft, you can drive whenever your schedule allows, whether that’s early mornings, late nights, or just a few hours on the weekend.
To start, you’ll need a relatively new vehicle, a clean driving record, and to pass a background check. Once you’re approved, focus on high-demand times and areas—rush hours, airports, and event venues are money hotspots. You can also earn bonuses for completing ride quotas or referring other drivers. While you’ll have to factor in gas, maintenance, and wear-and-tear, many drivers make solid supplemental income with the right strategy.
32. Delivery driving
If the idea of passengers isn’t appealing, delivery driving might be your perfect alternative. Apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, Instacart, and Amazon Flex let you earn money delivering food, groceries, or packages. It’s straightforward, solo-friendly, and often less hassle than rideshare driving.
To get started, sign up with one or more platforms and experiment with time slots to see when demand spikes in your area. Lunch, dinner, weekends, and holidays tend to be busiest. While tips are a major part of earnings, speed and customer service can increase your rating and volume. Pro tip: multi-app and batch deliveries during peak hours to stack your earnings.
33. TaskRabbit gigs
TaskRabbit is like the Swiss Army knife of gig apps—it connects you with people nearby who need help with just about anything: moving furniture, mounting TVs, running errands, or fixing a leaky faucet. It’s hyper-local, surprisingly lucrative, and lets you pick tasks that match your skills.
Sign up through the TaskRabbit platform, set your rates, and build out a profile with a range of services. Once you complete a few tasks and earn glowing reviews, your bookings can snowball. Some “Taskers” even build repeat clientele and turn this into a full-time freelance business. Bonus: you can scale your services over time or focus on high-paying niches like assembly, moving help, or mounting.
34. Renting out a room or property
Airbnb isn’t just for second homes and exotic getaways—plenty of people make great side income by renting out a spare bedroom, basement, or even their entire place while they’re away. It’s a classic example of turning underused space into consistent cash.
To begin, create a detailed listing on Airbnb or Vrbo, highlighting your location, amenities, and what makes your space unique. Cleanliness, quality photos, and good communication are key to earning strong reviews. You’ll also need to understand local laws and taxes, especially in urban areas where short-term rentals are regulated. With the right setup and repeat guests, this side hustle can quickly pay your rent—or more.
35. Renting your car
If your car spends more time parked than in motion, renting it out through platforms like Turo or Getaround can turn it into a passive income stream. Travelers, business folks, and locals often prefer peer-to-peer rentals over traditional rental companies, especially for last-minute or short-term needs.
To get started, create a listing with clear photos and a detailed description. Highlight features like fuel efficiency, large storage, or even pet-friendliness. You’ll set availability and pricing, and the platform typically includes insurance coverage and driver screening. Keep your car clean and well-maintained to earn positive reviews and boost bookings. Just a few rentals per month can make a major dent in your car payment or insurance costs.
36. Participating in paid surveys
Taking surveys won’t make you rich, but it’s a mindless way to earn small amounts of cash during downtime. Companies and market researchers pay for your opinions to help shape products, services, and campaigns. Think of it as monetizing your bathroom breaks, Netflix binges, or awkward waiting-room time.
Start with reputable platforms like Swagbucks, InboxDollars, Pinecone Research, or Prolific. Avoid anything asking for upfront fees—those are red flags. To maximize your earnings, sign up for multiple sites and focus on higher-paying surveys. It’s not a side business, but it can be a nice little trickle of income with virtually zero barrier to entry.
37. User testing websites or apps
Ever complain about a frustrating app or buggy website? Companies are willing to pay you to point out those issues before launch. As a user tester, you’ll navigate apps or websites while speaking your thoughts aloud, helping developers improve user experience.
Platforms like UserTesting, Trymata, and PlaytestCloud connect you with paid opportunities. After a quick qualification test, you’ll get sent tests based on your profile. Most take 10–20 minutes and pay $10–$30 each. If you enjoy giving feedback and can articulate your thoughts clearly, this hustle is an easy win with minimal time commitment.
38. Mystery shopping
Mystery shopping is part gig, part undercover mission. Brands hire mystery shoppers to evaluate customer service, cleanliness, or overall experience at retail stores, restaurants, or service providers. It’s a fun way to get paid for what you might already be doing—grabbing coffee, shopping, or eating out.
Sign up through legit providers like Market Force, Sinclair Customer Metrics, or BestMark. Assignments vary in complexity, but most involve following specific instructions, making a small purchase, and submitting a detailed report. Some gigs even reimburse you for meals or products in addition to paying cash. Just be wary of scams—real mystery shopping companies never ask you to pay to join.
39. Freelance voiceover work
If you’ve got a smooth, expressive, or unique voice (or can do great impressions), voiceover work is a creative hustle with huge potential. From audiobooks and animation to explainer videos and podcast intros, there’s consistent demand across industries—and plenty of work-from-home flexibility.
Start by recording a demo reel using a decent microphone and free software like Audacity. You can list your services on Fiverr, Upwork, or Voices.com. With some networking and positive reviews, you can build a strong client base. Bonus: once you nail a niche (e.g., corporate narration or character voices), you can raise your rates significantly and scale to full-time freelancing.
40. Event staffing
Event staffing is a people-powered hustle that pays well and comes with great stories. Concerts, weddings, product launches, trade shows, and pop-ups all need friendly, energetic staff to help things run smoothly. If you enjoy a lively environment and working on your feet, this gig is a perfect fit.
Start by signing up with local staffing agencies or event companies, or look for opportunities through GigSalad, Shiftgig, or even Craigslist. Roles can range from serving drinks and checking guests in to setting up stages or manning photo booths. It’s often weekend or evening work, so it slots nicely around a 9-5. And if you’re reliable, you’ll get booked again and again.
Start Small, But Start Now
You don’t need to launch an empire overnight. The most successful side hustlers start small—an hour here, a project there—until they figure out what works. The key is experimenting, learning, and iterating. Some side hustles can grow into full-time gigs. Others just make life a little more comfortable.
Whatever your goal—extra cash, creative expression, financial freedom—there’s a side hustle on this list that can help you get there. So what are you waiting for? Start hustling smart.