In today’s fast-paced world, finding ways to supplement your income has become more important than ever. As an engineer, I’ve always been fascinated by problem-solving—not just in my day job, but also in my quest for financial freedom. Over the years, I’ve dabbled in various side hustles, each offering its own unique challenges and rewards. From freelancing to tutoring, I’ve learned that the right side hustle can not only boost your bank account but also provide a fulfilling outlet for your skills and passions.
Whether you’re looking to pay off debt, save for a vacation, or simply want to explore new interests, there’s a side hustle out there that can fit your lifestyle and goals.
In this article, I’ll share 15 side hustle ideas based on the Side Hustle Database that are perfect for beginners. These opportunities are not only accessible but also cater to a wide range of skills and interests.
So, if you’re ready to take control of your finances and explore new avenues for income, let’s dive into these exciting possibilities!
1. Do Makeup for Special Events
Offering makeup services for special events like weddings, proms, and photoshoots can be a lucrative side hustle for those with a passion for cosmetics and beauty. This gig allows you to showcase your creativity, work flexible hours, and build a network in the beauty industry.
The earning potential for makeup artists can vary widely depending on factors such as location, experience, and clientele. For weddings, makeup artists typically charge between $100 to $300 per face. For other special events, rates can range from $50 to $150 per client. As you build your reputation and portfolio, you can command higher rates. Many successful makeup artists earn $200 to $500 per event, with some top-tier artists in major cities charging $1000 or more for bridal makeup. With consistent bookings, it’s possible to earn $1000 to $3000 per month as a part-time makeup artist.
How to Get Started
- Invest in a high-quality makeup kit with professional-grade products
- Take makeup courses or workshops to refine your skills
- Build a portfolio by offering free or discounted services to friends and family
- Create a social media presence to showcase your work
- Network with wedding planners, photographers, and event coordinators
- Consider getting certified or licensed, depending on your location’s requirements
- Set up a simple booking system and pricing structure
2. Participate in Paid Online Surveys
Participating in paid online surveys is a simple way to earn extra money by sharing your opinions on various products, services, and topics. While it won’t make you rich, it can provide a steady stream of pocket money with minimal effort.
The earning potential for online surveys is generally modest. According to Side Hustles Database, most surveys pay between $0.50 to $5, with some higher-paying surveys offering $10 to $20. The amount you can earn depends on how many surveys you qualify for and complete. Dedicated survey takers might earn $50 to $100 per month, spending a few hours each week on surveys. Some users report earning up to $200 to $300 per month by maximizing their efforts across multiple survey platforms. However, it’s important to note that this side hustle is best viewed as a way to earn extra pocket money rather than a significant income source.
How to Get Started
- Research and sign up for reputable survey sites (e.g., Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, Vindale Research)
- Create detailed profiles on these sites to increase your chances of qualifying for surveys
- Set up a separate email account for survey-related communications
- Be consistent and check for new surveys regularly
- Cash out your earnings once you reach the minimum payout threshold
- Consider using survey aggregator apps to find more opportunities
- Be wary of scams and only use legitimate survey sites
3. Start a Dropshipping Business
Dropshipping is an e-commerce model where you sell products without holding inventory. When a customer places an order, you purchase the item from a third-party supplier who ships it directly to the customer. This low-risk business model allows you to start an online store with minimal upfront investment.
The earning potential for a dropshipping business can be significant, but it varies widely based on factors such as niche selection, marketing efforts, and competition. Successful dropshippers can earn anywhere from $1,000 to $50,000 per month, with some top performers making six or seven figures annually. However, it’s important to note that these high earnings are not typical, especially for beginners. Many dropshippers start with modest earnings of $200 to $1000 per month as they learn the ropes. As you refine your product selection, optimize your store, and improve your marketing strategies, your earnings can grow substantially. Keep in mind that profit margins in dropshipping are typically lower than traditional retail, often ranging from 10% to 30%, so volume is key to increasing your income.
How to Get Started
- Choose a niche market for your dropshipping store
- Research and select reliable suppliers (e.g., AliExpress, Oberlo)
- Set up an e-commerce platform (e.g., Shopify, WooCommerce)
- Create a professional-looking online store
- List products and set competitive prices
- Implement marketing strategies (e.g., social media, content marketing, paid ads)
- Provide excellent customer service to build a positive reputation
- Continuously analyze and optimize your product offerings and marketing efforts
4. Refereeing
Refereeing local sports games can be an excellent side hustle for sports enthusiasts. It offers the opportunity to stay involved in athletics, maintain physical fitness, and earn money while contributing to your community’s sports programs.
The earning potential for referees varies depending on the sport, level of competition, and location. At the youth or recreational level, referees typically earn $25 to $50 per game. For high school sports, the pay can range from $50 to $100 per game. More experienced referees working college-level games can earn $100 to $300 per game. Assuming you referee 2-3 games per week, you could potentially earn $200 to $600 per month at the youth level, or $400 to $1200 per month at the high school level. Some dedicated referees who work multiple sports or higher levels of competition can earn $1000 to $3000 per month during peak seasons. While it may not replace a full-time income, refereeing can provide a substantial supplemental income, especially if you’re passionate about sports.
How to Get Started
- Choose a sport you’re knowledgeable about and interested in officiating
- Contact your local sports associations or leagues for information on becoming a referee
- Complete required training courses and obtain necessary certifications
- Purchase required uniforms and equipment
- Start with lower-level games to gain experience
- Join a local officials’ association for support and additional game assignments
- Stay updated on rule changes and continue your education to advance to higher levels
- Maintain good physical fitness to keep up with the demands of the sport
5. Become a Transcriber or Translator
Transcription involves converting audio or video content into written text, while translation requires converting text from one language to another. Both skills are in high demand across various industries, including legal, medical, entertainment, and business sectors. This side hustle offers flexibility and the ability to work from home, making it an attractive option for many.
The earning potential for transcribers and translators can vary significantly based on experience, specialization, and the languages involved. Entry-level transcribers typically earn between $10 to $20 per audio hour, which translates to about $5 to $10 per hour of work, considering that one hour of audio usually takes 2-4 hours to transcribe. Experienced transcribers or those specializing in fields like medical or legal transcription can earn $20 to $50 per audio hour. For translators, rates often range from $0.05 to $0.15 per word, with specialized or in-demand language pairs commanding higher rates. A skilled translator working part-time could potentially earn $500 to $2000 per month, while those with rare language skills or specialized knowledge could earn even more. Full-time freelance translators with established clients can earn $40,000 to $80,000 annually or more.
How to Get Started
- Choose between transcription or translation based on your skills and interests
- For translation, focus on languages you’re fluent in
- Take online courses or obtain certifications to improve your skills
- Invest in necessary equipment (e.g., foot pedal for transcription, CAT tools for translation)
- Create profiles on freelance platforms like TranscribeMe, Rev, or ProZ
- Consider specializing in a particular field (e.g., medical, legal, technical)
- Build a portfolio of work samples
- Network with other professionals in the field
- Continuously improve your skills and stay updated with industry tools and trends
6. Become an IRL or Online Tutor
Tutoring, whether in-person (IRL) or online, involves helping students understand and master academic subjects or skills. This side hustle allows you to share your knowledge, help others succeed, and earn money while doing so. With the growth of online learning platforms, tutoring has become more accessible and flexible than ever.
The earning potential for tutors can vary widely based on factors such as subject matter, experience, location, and whether you’re tutoring in-person or online. For in-person tutoring, rates typically range from $20 to $80 per hour, with specialized subjects or test prep commanding higher rates. Online tutoring rates are often slightly lower, ranging from $15 to $60 per hour. However, online platforms allow you to reach a broader audience and potentially work more hours. Experienced tutors in high-demand subjects like SAT prep, advanced mathematics, or sciences can charge $50 to $200 per hour. Assuming you tutor 10-15 hours per week, you could potentially earn $800 to $3000 per month as a part-time tutor. Full-time tutors or those with a strong reputation in specialized fields can earn $40,000 to $80,000 annually or more.
How to Get Started
- Identify the subjects or skills you’re qualified to teach
- Obtain any necessary certifications or credentials
- Create a compelling profile highlighting your expertise and experience
- Sign up for online tutoring platforms (e.g., TutorMe, Chegg, VIPKid)
- Reach out to local schools or learning centers for in-person opportunities
- Develop a structured teaching approach and gather relevant materials
- Set competitive rates based on your qualifications and local market
- Ask satisfied students for testimonials to build your reputation
- Consider specializing in test prep or advanced subjects for higher earnings
7. Become a Freelance Writer or Proofreader
Freelance writing and proofreading offer opportunities to leverage your language skills and attention to detail. Writers create content for various mediums, including blogs, websites, magazines, and marketing materials. Proofreaders review and correct written content for grammar, spelling, and formatting errors. Both roles are crucial in producing high-quality content across industries.
The earning potential for freelance writers and proofreaders can vary significantly based on experience, niche, and client base. Entry-level freelance writers might start at $0.03 to $0.10 per word, or $15 to $40 per hour. More experienced writers or those in specialized niches can command $0.10 to $1 per word, or $50 to $150 per hour. Some top-tier writers earn even more, especially in fields like technical writing or copywriting. Proofreaders typically earn between $20 to $50 per hour, with rates increasing for specialized or technical content. Assuming a part-time schedule of 20 hours per week, a freelance writer could potentially earn $1200 to $3000 per month at entry-level rates, while experienced writers could earn $4000 to $12,000 or more. Proofreaders working part-time might earn $1600 to $4000 per month. Full-time freelancers with established client bases in either field can earn $40,000 to $100,000 annually or more.
How to Get Started
- Identify your areas of expertise and preferred writing or proofreading niches
- Build a portfolio of writing samples or proofread documents
- Create profiles on freelance platforms (e.g., Upwork, Fiverr, ProBlogger)
- Develop a professional website to showcase your skills and services
- Network with other writers, editors, and potential clients
- Consider taking courses to improve your writing or proofreading skills
- Start with lower-paying jobs to gain experience and testimonials
- Gradually increase your rates as you build your reputation and skills
- Stay updated on industry trends and writing/proofreading tools
8. Start a Blog or Newsletter
Starting a blog or newsletter allows you to share your knowledge, opinions, or experiences on topics you’re passionate about. This side hustle can be a creative outlet that potentially generates income through various monetization strategies. It also helps build your personal brand and can lead to other opportunities in your field of expertise.
The earning potential for blogs and newsletters can vary dramatically, from nothing to six or seven figures annually for top performers. Most bloggers start with little to no income for the first few months or even years as they build an audience. As traffic grows, bloggers can earn through advertising (typically $5 to $30 per 1000 pageviews), affiliate marketing (commissions on product sales), sponsored content ($100 to $5000+ per post), digital products, or services. For newsletters, earnings often come from paid subscriptions or sponsored content. Popular newsletters on platforms like Substack can earn anywhere from a few hundred dollars to over $100,000 per month. A moderately successful blog or newsletter might generate $500 to $2000 per month after a year or two of consistent effort. Top bloggers or newsletter writers in lucrative niches can earn $10,000 to $100,000+ per month. However, it’s important to note that these high earnings are not typical and often require significant time, effort, and sometimes luck to achieve.
How to Get Started
- Choose a niche or topic you’re knowledgeable and passionate about
- Select a blogging platform (e.g., WordPress, Ghost) or newsletter service (e.g., Substack, ConvertKit)
- Develop a content strategy and posting schedule
- Create high-quality, valuable content consistently
- Learn basic SEO principles to increase your blog’s visibility
- Build an email list to engage with your audience
- Promote your blog or newsletter on social media and other platforms
- Explore different monetization strategies as your audience grows
- Network with other bloggers or newsletter writers in your niche
- Continuously analyze your performance and adjust your strategy accordingly
Learn more: How To Make Money Blogging
9. Babysitting and Child Care
Babysitting and child care services are in high demand, especially with the increasing number of dual-income households. This side hustle involves caring for children in their homes or your own, providing a safe and nurturing environment while parents are away. It can include activities such as supervising playtime, helping with homework, preparing meals, and ensuring the children’s overall well-being.
The earning potential for babysitting and child care can vary significantly based on factors such as location, experience, and the number of children being cared for. On average, babysitters can earn between $15 to $25 per hour, with rates in major cities often being higher. Experienced child care providers or those with specialized skills (e.g., CPR certification, early childhood education background) can command rates of $20 to $30 per hour or more.
For regular clients, you might offer package deals or weekly rates, which could range from $400 to $800 per week for full-time care. Part-time babysitters working evenings and weekends might earn $200 to $500 per week. With a steady client base, it’s possible to earn $1,500 to $3,000 per month as a part-time babysitter, or $3,000 to $5,000 per month for full-time child care services.
How to Get Started
- Obtain CPR and First Aid certifications
- Consider taking child care courses or obtaining relevant qualifications
- Create a profile on babysitting websites or apps (e.g., Care.com, Sittercity)
- Network with local parents through community groups or social media
- Develop a clear schedule of availability
- Set competitive rates based on your experience and local market
- Prepare age-appropriate activities and games for children
- Establish clear policies regarding cancellations, overtime, and additional services
10. Deliver Groceries and Other Items
Delivering groceries and other items has become an increasingly popular side hustle, especially with the rise of on-demand delivery apps. This job involves picking up orders from stores or restaurants and delivering them to customers’ homes or offices. It offers flexibility in terms of working hours and can be an excellent way to earn extra income while exploring your local area.
The earning potential for delivery drivers can vary based on factors such as the platform used, location, time of day, and efficiency. On average, delivery drivers can earn between $15 to $25 per hour before expenses. Some platforms offer base pay plus tips, while others provide a per-delivery fee. During peak hours or in high-demand areas, earnings can increase significantly.
Assuming you work 20 hours per week, you could potentially earn $300 to $500 per week, or $1,200 to $2,000 per month. However, it’s important to factor in expenses such as gas, vehicle maintenance, and taxes. Some dedicated full-time delivery drivers report earning $3,000 to $5,000 per month, especially when working for multiple platforms or during peak times. Keep in mind that earnings can fluctuate based on demand and competition.
How to Get Started
- Sign up for popular delivery platforms (e.g., Instacart, DoorDash, Uber Eats)
- Ensure you meet the requirements (valid driver’s license, insurance, reliable vehicle)
- Complete any necessary background checks
- Familiarize yourself with the app and delivery process
- Invest in insulated bags for food deliveries
- Plan your schedule around peak hours for maximum earnings
- Provide excellent customer service to increase tips
- Keep track of your mileage and expenses for tax purposes
11. Mow Lawns and Do Other Landscaping Tasks
Lawn mowing and landscaping services are always in demand, especially in suburban and rural areas. This side hustle involves maintaining residential and commercial properties by mowing lawns, trimming hedges, planting flowers, and performing other outdoor maintenance tasks. It’s an excellent option for those who enjoy working outdoors and have a knack for yard work.
The earning potential for lawn care and landscaping services can be quite substantial, especially during the peak growing season. On average, you can charge between $30 to $80 per hour for basic lawn mowing services, with rates varying based on the size of the property and additional services provided. For more complex landscaping tasks, rates can range from $50 to $100 per hour or more.
Assuming you work 20 hours per week during the growing season (typically 6-8 months in most areas), you could potentially earn $600 to $1,600 per week, or $2,400 to $6,400 per month. Many lawn care professionals report earning $3,000 to $5,000 per month during peak seasons. With a growing client base and expanded services, some landscaping businesses can generate $50,000 to $100,000 or more annually. Keep in mind that earnings may decrease during off-seasons, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
How to Get Started
- Invest in quality lawn care equipment (mower, trimmer, edger, etc.)
- Create a business plan and set competitive pricing
- Obtain necessary licenses and insurance for your area
- Advertise your services through local community boards, social media, and word-of-mouth
- Start with a few clients and gradually expand your customer base
- Offer additional services like fertilizing, weed control, or seasonal clean-ups
- Consider specializing in eco-friendly or organic lawn care for a unique selling point
- Maintain a consistent schedule and provide reliable service to build a positive reputation
12. Rent Out Your Home or a Spare Room
Renting out your home or a spare room has become increasingly popular with the rise of platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. This side hustle involves offering short-term accommodations to travelers or long-term rentals to tenants. It’s an excellent way to monetize unused space in your home and can provide a steady stream of passive income.
The earning potential for renting out your home or a spare room can vary widely depending on factors such as location, property size, amenities, and demand. In popular tourist destinations or major cities, hosts can earn anywhere from $50 to $300 or more per night for a private room, and $100 to $500+ per night for an entire home.
Assuming you rent out a spare room for 15 nights per month at an average rate of $100 per night, you could potentially earn $1,500 per month or $18,000 per year. For those renting out an entire property in high-demand areas, earnings can reach $3,000 to $5,000 per month or more. Some successful Airbnb hosts report annual earnings of $30,000 to $100,000 or more, especially if they manage multiple properties. However, it’s important to factor in expenses such as cleaning, maintenance, and platform fees when calculating potential profits.
How to Get Started
- Research local regulations regarding short-term rentals in your area
- Prepare your space by ensuring it’s clean, comfortable, and well-equipped
- Take high-quality photos of your property
- Create listings on popular platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, or Booking.com
- Set competitive pricing based on local market rates and your property’s unique features
- Invest in basic amenities and consider offering extras to enhance guest experience
- Develop a system for managing bookings, check-ins, and cleaning between guests
- Obtain appropriate insurance coverage for short-term rentals
- Maintain open communication with guests and strive for positive reviews
- Consider hiring a property management service if managing bookings becomes time-consuming
13. IT Consulting
IT consulting involves providing expert advice to businesses on how to use information technology to meet their objectives. As an IT consultant, you might help companies improve their IT infrastructure, implement new systems, enhance cybersecurity, or develop custom software solutions. This side hustle is ideal for those with strong technical skills and the ability to communicate complex concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
The earning potential for IT consultants can be quite lucrative, especially for those with specialized skills or expertise in high-demand areas. Entry-level IT consultants can typically charge between $50 to $100 per hour, while those with more experience or specialized knowledge can command rates of $100 to $250 per hour or more. Some top-tier consultants in niche fields like cybersecurity or cloud architecture can charge $300 to $500 per hour.
Assuming you work 10-20 hours per week as a side hustle, you could potentially earn $2,000 to $8,000 per month at entry-level rates, or $4,000 to $20,000 per month at more experienced rates. Full-time IT consultants often earn between $80,000 to $150,000 annually, with top performers in specialized fields earning $200,000 or more. It’s important to note that these figures can vary based on factors such as location, industry, and specific technical expertise. Additionally, as you build a reputation and client base, you may be able to transition from hourly rates to project-based fees, potentially increasing your earning potential further.
How to Get Started
- Identify your areas of IT expertise and the services you can offer
- Obtain relevant certifications to enhance your credibility (e.g., CISSP, AWS, PMP)
- Create a professional website showcasing your skills and services
- Develop a strong LinkedIn profile and network with potential clients
- Join professional IT associations and attend industry events
- Start with small projects or part-time consulting to build your portfolio
- Consider partnering with established IT consulting firms for initial experience
- Stay updated on the latest IT trends and technologies
- Develop strong communication and project management skills
- Create case studies of successful projects to attract new clients
14. Give Tours of Your Neighborhood
Offering tours of your neighborhood is a unique side hustle that allows you to share your local knowledge and passion for your area with visitors. This can include historical walking tours, food tours, art tours, or themed experiences that showcase the unique aspects of your neighborhood. It’s an excellent opportunity for those who enjoy meeting new people and have a deep understanding of their local community.
The earning potential for neighborhood tour guides can vary based on factors such as location, tour duration, group size, and the uniqueness of the experience offered. On average, tour guides can charge between $20 to $50 per person for a 2-3 hour tour. For more specialized or exclusive tours, rates can go up to $100 or more per person.
Assuming you conduct two tours per week with an average of 8 participants per tour, charging $30 per person, you could earn about $480 per week or $1,920 per month. During peak tourist seasons, you might be able to increase the frequency of tours or group sizes, potentially earning $3,000 to $5,000 per month. Some successful tour operators in popular tourist destinations report earning $50,000 to $100,000 annually. However, it’s important to note that earnings can be seasonal and may fluctuate based on tourism trends. Additionally, you’ll need to factor in expenses such as marketing, any necessary permits, and potential commission fees if working with booking platforms.
How to Get Started
- Research your neighborhood’s history, culture, and unique attractions
- Develop a compelling tour itinerary with interesting stops and stories
- Create a business plan and set competitive pricing
- Check local regulations regarding tour operations and obtain necessary permits
- Consider getting tour guide certification or relevant training
- Create a website or social media presence to promote your tours
- List your tours on platforms like Airbnb Experiences, Viator, or GetYourGuide
- Network with local hotels, tourist information centers, and travel agencies
- Invest in quality equipment (e.g., portable microphone, first aid kit)
- Gather feedback and continuously improve your tour experience
15. Design and Sell Your Own T-Shirts
Designing and selling your own t-shirts has become an increasingly popular side hustle, thanks to print-on-demand services that handle production and shipping. This business allows you to express your creativity through unique designs while building a brand. It’s an excellent option for artists, graphic designers, or anyone with a knack for creating appealing designs and identifying market trends.
The earning potential for selling custom t-shirts can vary widely based on factors such as design popularity, marketing efforts, and profit margins. On average, you can expect to make $5 to $15 profit per shirt sold, depending on your pricing strategy and production costs. Some highly successful t-shirt designers report earning $1,000 to $5,000 per month from their side hustle.
Assuming you sell 100 shirts per month with an average profit of $10 per shirt, you could earn $1,000 monthly. As your brand grows and you expand your product line, it’s possible to scale this to several thousand dollars per month. Some top performers in the custom t-shirt market report annual earnings of $100,000 or more, especially when combined with other print-on-demand products like hoodies, mugs, or phone cases. However, it’s important to note that achieving high sales volumes often requires significant time investment in design creation, marketing, and customer service. Additionally, earnings can be inconsistent, with sales potentially spiking during holidays or with viral designs, and slowing during other periods.
How to Get Started
- Develop your design skills or partner with a graphic designer
- Choose a niche or theme for your t-shirt designs
- Research current trends and popular styles in the t-shirt market
- Select a print-on-demand platform (e.g., Printful, Printify, Teespring)
- Create an online store using platforms like Shopify or Etsy
- Design a range of t-shirts, starting with at least 10-20 unique designs
- Set competitive prices that allow for a healthy profit margin
- Develop a strong brand identity and social media presence
- Use targeted advertising on platforms like Facebook or Instagram
- Engage with your audience and gather feedback to improve designs
- Consider expanding to other print-on-demand products as your business grows
