No matter how much you earn, you can always make more. Most people can benefit from finding ways to make extra money. Whether you’re trying to kill debt, grow your emergency fund, or save for a vacation, supplemental income is a terrific way to reach your goal. If you don’t know how to make money on the side, this article will show you how (101 ways in fact!).
Many people believe they don’t have the skills to have a lucrative side hustle. That’s a myth. There’s significant opportunity to supplement your income. You just need to know where to look.
No matter your skills or schedule, you should be able to use something on this list to put extra money in your pocket.
Opportunities to Make Money Online
Working online, or through a mobile app is often the best way to increase your income. Most opportunities require minimal expenses to start and few specialized skills.
Here are the best online side jobs to earn extra cash.
1. Become a Dasher
DoorDash is a delivery service that lets contractors make easy money. However, as a Dasher you strictly deliver restaurant meals to customers at their home or office.
DoorDash is available nationwide, so there’s no lack of opportunity. After signing up as a Dasher, you go on the DoorDash app to claim orders.
Pay works a little different than with Postmates. You receive a flat rate per order, and other factors increase earnings, such as promotions, and distance driven.
You can also receive tips, and keep 100 percent of what you get. Pay varies based on the aforementioned factors.
It takes roughly a week after applying to either Postmates or DoorDash to start working. Read our Doordash driver review to learn more.
Income potential: Varies
2. Deliver With Uber Eats
Uber is one of the predecessors in the rideshare and delivery space. If you want to deliver for numerous platforms, driving with Uber Eats is a good option to earn cash.
The company operates similar to DoorDash and is in 6,000+ cities worldwide. You must be at least 19 years old to drive with Uber Eats.
Additionally, your car must be no older than 20 years, and have at least two doors.
If you have at least one year of driving experience, a government-issued ID, and valid car insurance you can deliver meals once approved.
The income potential varies for delivery drivers. You also have the ability to earn tips.
If you prefer not to deliver food, or want to increase your earning potential, you can also drive with Uber. This lets you drive riders to a chosen location.
*As of 7/18/22, Uber is migrating to a combined Driver & Delivery program that will allow a user to select how they want to earn with Uber, i.e., driving, delivering, or both! This consolidated program will be named Uber “One Earner.” Under this new model, whether a user lands on a Driver or a Delivery page, they’ll have the option to self-select which type of earning opportunity they want.
Income potential: Varies
3. Deliver Groceries for Instacart
If you don’t mind grocery shopping, working as a personal grocery shopper is one of the best ways to make money on the side.
Instacart Shopper is a leading grocery app that allows people to place orders for groceries to be delivered to their home. You accept orders on the app, buy the items, and deliver them to customers.
In most cased you need a car to make deliveries, but you can deliver small orders via bike or scooter in some locations. Read our guide on other opportunities to make money with your bike.
*Related: If you’re looking for other food delivery gigs, read our analysis of jobs similar to Uber Eats to identify additional opportunities.
The app shows you the amount you will receive with each order. This amount does not include tips, so it will likely be more than what you see on the order.
Pay is weekly and you can work around your schedule.
Read our Instacart Shopper review to learn more.
Income potential: $500+ per month
The above three aren’t the only side hustle choices as a delivery driver. You can also find local delivery gigs through a free app like Steady.
Read our review of Steady to learn more.
Here are the top platforms to deliver for nationally in 2024.
4. Online Surveys
Paid surveys won’t make you rich, but they are an easy way to make money at home or while watching TV. Market research companies pay you for you your opinion on a topic or product.
While not lucrative, it’s a good way to earn extra spending money.
Compensation usually is in points you can redeem for cash or free gift cards to popular retailers. Here are some of the most popular survey sites online:
- Survey Junkie – Earn cash for giving your opinion and redeem earnings once you reach $10
- Pinecone Research – Invite-only survey site that pays $3 per survey and more for testing products at home
- National Consumer Panel – Scan product barcodes of items you buy and take surveys to earn gift cards
You can read our guide on the top small task sites about similar options to earn money. If you have a lot of free time, surveys are an easy way to make money online with little effort.
Income potential: $100+ per month
5. Blogging
Blogging is an awesome way to earn cash on the side. Despite the millions of personal blogs online, starting a website still offers opportunity.
You won’t make money fast with blogging, but the potential increases depending on your effort. The more time you put into it, the more benefits you will reap.
For example, this site more than replaced the income from my day job within two years of launch.
There are numerous ways to make money with a blog, including:
- Affiliate advertising
- Display ads
- Freelance opportunities
- Selling your own product
If you’re not technical, that’s fine. Bluehost helps users launch a website with a few clicks, and they offer 24/7 support. You get that, a free domain name, and hosting for just $2.95 a month.
Plus, they have a 30-day money-back guarantee if you find you don’t like it.
Read our detailed guide on how to start a blog to learn more.
Income potential: $1,000+ per month within a year
6. Search the Internet
Do you search the internet? Of course you do. You can get money by doing that simple act. While it may seem one of the more odd ideas to earn cash, it’s a legit opportunity.
InboxDollars is a market research company that pays you to use its search engine. When you sign up for the service, you set it as your default search tool and you earn rewards points with each search.
You can also earn points for using its shopping portal and playing online games. InboxDollars gives new users a $5 bonus when signing up for the service.
Income potential: $50 per month
7. Get Cash Back on Your Shopping
Like many people, you likely do a lot of shopping online. Why not get cashback on your shopping? Similar to online surveys, this won’t net you significant amounts of cash, but it’s a simple way to pad your budget.
Ibotta is a cash rewards app that gives you cashback on purchases at the grocery store. However, where it really shines is its shopping portal.
It works at over 350 online retailers, like Amazon, Target, and Walmart.
Simply shop through their portal and earn rewards for your shopping. Ibotta gives all new users $5 after uploading the first receipt and you can redeem earnings for cash.
You won’t become wealthy with rebate apps, but they are a terrific way to earn Christmas spending money with minimal effort.
Income potential: $20 per month
8. Sell Unused Electronics
Do you have old or unused electronics collecting dust? You can earn money fast by selling those unused devices. This is an excellent idea for a one-time cash need to inject your budget with some cash.
SellCell is our favorite site to sell used electronics. The site lets people compare quotes from several dozen buyback sites and you get to pick the best one.
You can sell old phones and other devices, such as:
- Amazon Kindles
- Desktops
- Fitbits
- Gaming consoles
- Laptops
After you accept an offer, print a paid shipping label and mail it. Once the company receives it they inspect it, and assuming it meets your description, you get paid.
Payment is via PayPal or paper check. Read our guide on the top places to sell old electronics for cash to identify the best opportunities.
Income potential: Varies on device
9. Rent Your Car
Do you have a car you don’t drive a lot? You can make money on the side renting it to people who need a car for a short period of time.
With a service like HyreCar, you can earn relatively passive income from your car. It takes only minutes to list your car, and HyreCar offers insurance coverage while it’s being rented.
*Related: Are you looking for other ways to get paid to deliver packages? Read our guide on how to make money driving for Amazon Flex to learn more.
You can make $1,000 fast, depending on the make and model of your car.
Income potential: Up to $1,000 per month
10. Proofreading
Do misplaced apostrophes or incorrect spelling bother you? If so, and you have an eye for grammar, you can find freelance work as a proofreader.
You don’t edit pieces of writing, but give them a final look before a company or small business publishes it. It’s possible to earn $20+ per hour as a proofreader, and more with experience.
You don’t need a degree to be a proofreader, only a computer and the willingness to work. If launching a proofreading business overwhelms you, Proofread Anywhere is a helpful course.
In its free webinar, Caitlin Pyle shares tips from her success earning six figures annually as a proofreader to launch your own business and find clients.
Read our analysis of other jobs that pay $20 an hour without a degree if proofreading isn’t for you.
Income potential: Up to $5,000 per month within a year
11. Become a Virtual Assistant
Are you an organizer by nature and like working behind the scenes? You can work as a virtual assistant (VA) to support small businesses. This can include anything from managing email and projects to invoicing.
I’ve used VAs for years on this site and the help is invaluable. Beginning VAs can expect to earn $15 to $20 an hour. If you have specialized skills or experience you can earn $30 or more per hour.
10kVA, by Kayla Sloan, is a helpful resource to launch your business. She earns $10,000 a month as a VA, and she has a lot of tips to start this side hustle.
Additionally, ZipRecruiter is a good tool to use to find gigs.
Income potential: Up to $3,000 per month within a year
12. Freelance Writing
Freelance writing holds a special place in my heart. My wife started as a freelance writer over a decade ago, and it’s what launched our own home business.
Freelance writing is the perfect opportunity to earn money from home. While helpful, you don’t need a degree; just a laptop. Websites and businesses pay good money for well-written content.
Earning $200+ per article, for example, is certainly possible.
Sites like Upwork or ZipRecruiter are good platforms to find gigs. Earn More Writing, by Holly Johnson, is a helpful resource to learn where to find work and hone your skills and earn more money.
Income potential: Up to $3,000 per month within a year
13. Work on Fiverr
Fiverr is a site used by millions of people to find jobs that pay cash. The type of work you can find on Fiverr varies widely, from writing thank you notes for someone to simple coding work.
You don’t need specialized skills, but they will help you earn more.
As you browse the site you will see many opportunities. While most people charge $5 as a beginning price, the real way to maximize earnings is to offer add-ons to your base offerings.
The earnings on add-ons can be unlimited.
Income potential: $250 per month
14. Download Apps
Do you spend a lot of time on your phone? Why not use that time to make a little extra cash?
MyPoints is a company that pays users to download apps and provide feedback on them. Similar to how companies use survey sites to learn your opinion, they also want your feedback on apps.
MyPoints also lets you earn money by using their shopping portal and watching videos. The site gives you a $10 bonus when you make a qualifying purchase through the shopping portal.
Income potential: $25 per month
15. Sell on Amazon
Do you like to flip items for cash? Do you have stuff sitting around your house you want to sell? Sell them for profit on Amazon through Fulfillment By Amazon (FBA).
Ship your items to Amazon and they will manage the inventory for you. This lets you sell products without keeping them at your home.
When items sell, Amazon handles the shipping.
This isn’t for everyone, but if it’s something you enjoy it can be a legitimate way to make a lot of money. If Amazon FBA interests you, The Selling Family is a free course that will help you launch your business.
Income potential: Varies on products you sell
16. Create an Online Course
Do you have a skill, such as coding or water coloring? If your answer is yes, you can earn money by selling an online course.
You can find a course online on virtually any topic, and you can charge whatever you feel is fair for your expertise.
Sites such as Teachable and Udemy, that let you create and sell courses online. They handle payment and delivering course materials, so you can focus on other things.
Income potential: $500+ per month
17. Dropshipping
Do you have products you could sell online? If so, you can sell wholesale items online through an e-commerce site and earn extra cash.
Shopify is a good choice to start a website. They help you set up a virtual storefront and manage the administrative tasks of running it.
This is similar to selling on Amazon, but with your own platform.
Thanks to dropshipping, you don’t need to hold the products yourself. When a customer buys an item, you purchase it from the wholesaler. Shopify then ships it to the customer for you.
Income potential: Varies on the product you sell
18. Rent Your RV
Do you own an RV? Like your automobile, you can rent it out when not in use to make money.
RVshare is an online marketplace that connects renters with RV owners. Renting your RV lets traveling families save money and turns your RV into passive income.
You can list your RV for free and RVshare claims owners can earn between $150 and $350 daily. With certain styles you can net up to $40,000 annually.
Income potential: Depends on the type of RV
19. Test Websites
Companies depend on a fully functioning website to increase business. A site that isn’t user-friendly can cost them lots of money.
UserTesting.com is a platform businesses use to ask people test and give feedback on a site. Pay is $10 per site you test.
This is a terrific way to make money without a lot of time or effort since you can do it from the comfort of your home.
Income potential: $100 per month
20. Sell Stock Photos
Do you have an eye for good pictures? Do you often find yourself taking pictures of nature or human interest? If you’re able to take good pictures, you can try to sell them online for money.
Websites and small businesses often need quality photos and stock images. With each purchase of your picture or digital art, you earn a royalty.
Platforms like Depositphotos and iStockPhoto let you digitally sell images without needing a site of your own.
Income potential: $250 to $500 per month
21. Lose Weight
How can losing weight help you make money? With HealthyWage, you can legitimately earn a cash prize for losing weight. Here’s how it works:
- Decide how much you want to lose – it must be at least ten percent of your weight
- Use the prize calculator to see how much you can win
- Place your bet and get started
You must place a bet, so if you don’t hit your goal you can lose money. If you reach your goal, you get the prize. The average winner earns $1,400, but you can win up to $10,000 depending on your goal and weight loss.
While it’s only a one-time earning, just think of what it will do for you long-term.
Read our review of the top weight loss apps to earn money to learn more.
If you don’t want to spend the cash, you can still earn money by getting fit. Read our guide on ways to get paid to exercise to learn more.
Income potential: Up to $10,000 one time cash prize
22. Teach English Online
Do you have a college degree or experience as a teacher or tutor? If so, you can make money from home as an English teacher. There is significant global demand to learn English, and this opportunity pays up to $20 an hour.
Education First is a company that has been around for five decades and teaches students all over the world how to become fluent in English.
Classes are one-on-one, and all teaching materials are provided.
All you need is a computer, headset, and reliable internet access to start.
Income potential: $500+ per month
23. Work for Amazon Mechanical Turk
Amazon’s Mechanical Turk, or mTurk, is a micro-task site that pays small amounts to perform simple tasks online. They take a minimal amount of time, often several seconds, and pay is around $5 or $6 an hour depending on the tasks.
This isn’t the most lucrative of side hustle ideas, but it’s a good way to earn extra money in your spare time.
Income potential: $50 to $100 per month
24. List Your House on Airbnb
Thanks to the pandemic, remote work is a popular way to get away to and experience a new city. Listing a second home or spare room on Airbnb is an excellent way to take advantage of this opportunity.
What you can charge depends on factors like location and amenities offered, but it can be a good way to supplement your income.
I live in Omaha, and a quick search shows landlords can make over $1,300 a month listing and renting their property.
Income potential: $500 to $1,000+ per month
25. Sell Custom-Designed T-shirts
Do you like creating cool designs, or like graphic t-shirts? If so, you can create custom-designed t-shirts and sell them online for money.
Spring, formerly known as Teespring, is a website that lets designers create t-shirt designs for purchase. The designs can go on things like mugs or glasses too.
Income potential: $250 per month
26. Rent Out Your Belongings
We’ve already discussed renting your car or RV for money. You can rent nearly anything you own for cash. Fat Llama is a site where you can list items for rent.
Examples include:
- DSLR cameras
- Drones
- Projectors
- Electronics
- Musical instruments
The company offers insurance to cover your items to give you peace of mind. Average earnings range from $50 a week up to $3,000 a month depending on the items you list, according to their website.
Income potential: $250 per month, but depends on the items you list
27. Start a YouTube Channel
Starting a YouTube channel is a terrific side gig. We launched our channel two years ago and it has been a fun way to add another revenue stream to our business.
Like blogging, starting a YouTube channel takes time and effort, but it can be quite profitable. You can make money through affiliate marketing, sponsored content, pre-roll ads, and more.
All you need to start is a camera, so look no further than your phone.
Income potential: $1,000 per month within one year
28. Online Data Entry Work
Are you a proficient typist, organized, and have a computer? If so, online data input work is a great way to make money from home.
There are lots of companies hiring for data entry specialists, with Axion Data Services and DionData Solutions being top sites that hire specialists.
However, ZipRecruiter is a good resource to find work from multiple companies.
Pay starts around $15 per hour, but can increase the faster you type and niche you pursue.
Income potential: $500 per month
29. Narrate Audiobooks
Do you have a voice for radio? If so, you can narrate audiobooks for money. Audiobooks are growing in popularity, so good narrators are in demand.
New narrators can earn up to $100 per audio hour. As you gain experience, it’s possible to earn up to $500 per recorded hour. Voices.com and BunnyStudio.com are helpful sites to find find work.
Income potential: $500 per month
30. Lower Your Monthly Bills
Lowering your bills may not seem like an extra income opportunity. However, when you negotiate lower prices that puts extra money back into your budget.
Most people don’t like to negotiate, but an app can do that for you and result in increased cash flow. Rocket Money is our favorite service.
They do the work for you, and if they secure savings they keep 40 percent of the amount. If they’re not successful, it costs nothing.
The service is free to use, so it doesn’t hurt to see how they can help you.
Income potential: $50 per month
31. Web Design Work
Are you a designer in your day job or are you proficient in web design? If so, freelance web design work is a good-paying side job opportunity.
Learning how to design websites takes work, and possibly some certifications, but it’s a great way to earn extra income if you have the time and talent.
You can find web designer jobs on FlexJobs or Upwork. You can also compete for logo design work on 99Designs.
Read our review of FlexJobs to learn more about the job search website.
Furthermore, freelance web design work is a terrific opportunity if you recently lost your job. Read our guide how to make money fast without a job to identify other options.
Income potential: $1,000+ per month
32. Self-publish a Book
Are you a storyteller? You can make good money with that talent. For example, my wife wrote a short book as a gift to my mom for Christmas several years ago.
We put it on Amazon and have sales most months.
It wasn’t a serious endeavor for us, but there is a lot of money in self-publishing. You can sell them on Amazon or Barnes and Noble.
CreateSpace is another good resource for self-publishing.
Income potential: $500 per month
33. Medical Coding
Doctor’s offices pay good money for medical coding and billing experience. If you have experience coding or billing or have extensive medical knowledge, this can be a good income opportunity.
You don’t have to work in an office to do the work, you can do it from home. Aviacode connects you with remote medical providers looking to hire individuals.
You can also make money as a medical transcriptionist if you have medical terminology knowledge and can transcribe audio.
Income potential: $500+ per month
34. Sell Old Video Games
Video games provide hours of fun, but games also go unused or lose their luster. You can make money selling those video games online.
Like selling an old phone or device, selling video games is a good choice to fund a one-time need.
The best site for selling your old video games is BuyBackWorld.
When you visit their site, you scan the UPC code of the item, and they give you a value. If you accept the value, they send you a packing slip to mail in the game, and they pay you the day after receiving the item.
Income potential: Depends on the video games you sell
35. Sell Your Hair
It might sound odd, but selling your hair is a legitimate way to make money now. People buy hair because:
- They need extensions
- They want a wig
- They desire a rarer color
You won’t get rich selling your hair, but it can be a nice way to supplement your income on a one-time basis. Plus, it’ll grow back anyway.
HairSellon’s Hair Price Calculator is a good tool to see how much you can earn.
Income potential: Depends on how often you sell
36. Sell Your Old Textbooks
This is a terrific option for college students who need money, or supplement the purchase of new books. Textbooks are expensive and it’s helpful to recoup some of that cost.
If you were kind to your books, and they’re still in good condition, consider selling them. You won’t get what you paid for them, but every little bit helps.
You can try selling at your local college bookstore, or use a site like BookScouter and compare quotes from over 30 stores.
Income potential: Less than $250
37. Sell Your Old Clothing
Are you a clothes horse, or simply have a packed closet? You can sell gently-worn clothing for money.
Women’s clothes tend to sell best, but you can also sell children’s and men’s clothes to increase earnings. Just make sure the items are gently worn, clean, and free of scrapes or holes.
ThredUP is a great option to sell your old clothes for cash. It’s an online consignment store you can use if local consignment stores have been turned you away empty-handed.
Income potential: Depends on the amount of clothing you sell
38. Be a Mock Juror
Do you love courtroom dramas? Are you intrigued by the juror experience? If so, you can make money as a mock juror through eJury
When you sign up to be a mock juror, eJury matches you with an attorney who wants to pre-try a case before it goes to trial. After you hear the case, you virtually meet with other jurors to decide on a verdict.
Income potential: $250 per month
39. Advertise on Your Car
If you do a lot of driving, use your car to passively make money with Wrapify. The company covers your car with an ad and you are paid based on how long you’re on the road.
Depending on where you live and how much you drive, you can earn up to $100 a week.
Income potential: $400 per month
40. Double Up on Rideshare Earnings
Are you a rideshare driver? Carvertise works similar to Wrapify, but specifically for gig workers. If you’re driving people or delivering meals, why not increase your earnings?
Income potential: $300 per month
41. Play Games on Your Phone
Do you like to play games on your phone? Why not get paid to test out new games in your spare time?
LifePoints is another micro-task app that pays you to download games, play them, and provide your feedback. For each game you try, you earn points you can redeem for gift cards.
Income potential: $25 per month
42. Drive for Uber or Lyft
Delivery jobs are increasingly popular, but driving apps like Uber or Lyft is still one of the top side jobs to consider.
As a driver, you can earn $15 to $25 per hour driving people around town.
Read our guide on driving for Lyft to learn how to maximize your income.
Income potential: $1,000 per month
43. Online Consulting
As an entrepreneur, I often get asked if people can “pick my brain.” That’s code for wanting my insight on a topic, but they want it for free.
If you hear that a lot, you can make money as an online coach or consultant through Clarity.fm. They pay you by the minute for your expertise to help people on anything from marketing strategy to new business development.
You can even put yourself on LinkedIn to get more work.
Income potential: $100+ per month
How to Make Money on the Side in Your Neighborhood
Are you looking for easy side hustles you can use to make money around town? Not all income opportunities are strictly online, you can earn cash in your own city.
Here are some of the best small business ideas to pursue locally.
44. Walk Dogs
Four-legged friends need exercise just like we do. If there are dogs in your neighborhood and their owners work during the day, you can become a dog walker as a a side hustle.
You can post on Facebook Marketplace or Nextdoor to let people know you’re looking for work. Rover is a good resource to use as well to find customers and have a portfolio to get recommendations.
This is a terrific summer job for college students looking to make money on the side.
Income potential: $500+ per month
45. Do Chores for People
Do you enjoy variety in your day and have more than one skill you can use to make money? If so, you can earn extra cash doing chores and other odd jobs for people.
Taskrabbit is the best way to make money doing chores for people. You can find anything from tile work to people wanting you to run an errand for them.
All work is local, and the app handles payment so you don’t need to exchange cash. Pay is weekly and you can earn tips.
Read our guide on the top alternatives to Taskrabbit to find additional opportunities to make money doing odd jobs around town.
Income potential: $500+ per month
46. Babysitting
This is one of the best quick ways to make money, and a classic side job. Parents often need someone to care for their children while at work, or when they want a night out.
This is a perfect income opportunity for teenagers and adults alike.
The rate you can charge depends on where you live and your level of experience; in our city, the going rate is $15+ per hour.
*Related: Are you looking for more teen-friendly jobs to earn cash? Read our guide on jobs that hire 14 and 15 year olds to identify new opportunities.
Care.com is a helpful website to use if you don’t have a big customer base, so clients can leave reviews of your experience and you can find additional work.
Read our guide on other top same day pay jobs near me like babysitting to earn cash fast.
Income potential: $250+ per month
47. Housesitting
Housesitting is one of the easiest side hustles to do. You literally sleep at someone’s home when they’re out of town. You won’t always find work, but when it comes along you want to grab it.
Pay for housesitting in Omaha is $25+ per day, making this a good-paying opportunity. Pay can increase if the owner wants you to do additional things like care for animals or garden work.
Use Care.com to create a profile so customers can see your references and experience. Facebook Marketplace and word of mouth are other good options to gain clients to help you make money in the summer and beyond.
Read our guide on other ways to make money in the summer for other income opportunities.
Income potential: $250+ per month
48. Become a Substitute Teacher
Do you have a college degree, or experience as a teacher? You can teach a class for a day for teachers who are out of the office. Substitute teachers make $125 per day here in Omaha, but it can vary based on where you live.
Substitute teaching is a good way to make extra money on the side for college graduates still looking for a job, or a stay-at-home parent looking to re-enter the workforce.
Income potential: $500+ per month
49. Painting
Anyone can paint. You need very little skill or supplies to do it; and you often get to be outside. If you like working by yourself, this is a terrific way to make money.
As with other opportunities, use resources like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace to find clients. Read our guide on other side hustles for artists to identify other crafty ways to make money.
Income potential: $1,000+ per month
50. Sell Plasma
Selling plasma may not be pretty, but it’s a relatively easy way to make money fast. I did this for several months while paying off debt and it gave me needed funds to attack debt.
Each plasma center has its own requirements and payment amounts, so contact them before going to know what to expect. Read our detailed guide on selling plasma for money to learn what’s needed to start.
Income potential: $400 per month
51. Clean Homes
If you don’t mind cleaning, you can make good money cleaning houses. While not glamorous, a growing client base can turn this into a legitimate side job.
Commercial cleaning companies are expensive, and they’re often not very good. You can offer a more personal service without the high cost of a commercial cleaning provider.
Many house cleaners in Omaha make $20+ per hour. Word of mouth works best to find opportunities, but Facebook Marketplace or Taskrabbit can be a good source for finding clients.
Income potential: $500+ per month
52. Yard Work Services
People hate to do yard work and will pay you to do it for them. Take advantage of their laziness. Mow yards, pull weeds, or aerate lawns and you can make some nice cash.
Ask around your neighborhood to find people who want help with their yard work. You can also advertise on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace to get clients.
Income potential: $500+ per month
53. Help People Move
Moving is a hassle most like to avoid. If you don’t mind the physical work, this can be an awesome way to supplement your income. People are always moving, so there’s plenty of opportunity.
You can either make money helping people load their moving trucks or lifting heavy items. Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist are good resources for finding people who need help moving.
Income potential: $500 per month
54. Wash Windows
We have a friend who has a side business washing windows, and he makes great money. He started with a fellow business owner and grew the business from there.
You will need a few supplies to start, but this can be a lucrative side hustle if you make good connections. You can also advertise your services on a site like Taskrabbit to get clients.
Income potential: $500 per month
55. Deliver Newspapers
Yes, delivering newspapers is still a thing. You may think people only get their news online, but many people still pay for newspaper delivery to their home or business.
Our friend has delivered papers for years to make money on the side. If you don’t mind early mornings, this can be a great way to make extra money.
Income potential: $1,000 per month
56. Teach Music Lessons
Teaching music lessons is a good way to make money from home with your talent. We have several friends who teach different musical instruments as a way to make money.
You can teach individuals in your home, or you can travel to their homes to increase earning opportunities. There are many ways to get students, but advertising on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace is a good place to start.
Income potential: Depends on the instrument and number of students
57. Scoop Dog Poop
No, this isn’t a glamorous job but it can be a good-paying side gig. You can do this for residential and business customers alike who want to have a clean yard or place of business.
It’s not a time intensive job, but with a few clients it’s easy to make $50 an hour, or more.
Income potential: $250+ per month
58. Car Repair for Hire
If you enjoy working on cars, a site like YourMechanic is a great resource to make money nearby using your skills.
The site helps you locate clients and lets you work on your own schedule.
YourMechanic claims earnings of up to $65 per hour. You only do basic repair and auto maintenance, like oil changes and brake pad replacement.
Income potential: $500+ per month
59. Trash Pick Up
Businesses hate to have litter in their parking lot. If you don’t mind picking it up, you can earn up to $50 with this opportunity. All you need is some trash bags and something to pick trash up with.
Like other gigs, advertise on social media and contact local businesses to find work.
Income potential: $500 per month
60. Loan Signing Agent and Notary
Loan signing agents and notaries are one of those obscure gigs that are always in demand. Although seemingly random, it can pay $100 an hour.
This is a terrific side hustle for stay-at-home parents and retirees. After taking a simple training course with Loan Signing System, you can submit your name in your local notary database to get gigs.
Income potential: $500+ per month
61. Officiate Weddings
Each state varies with what they require, but getting ordained is a relatively simple process. Websites like the Universal Life Church Monastery, among others, provide you the ability to get licensed to officiate weddings.
There will be a small upfront cost, but that can be well offset by officiating a few weddings.
Income potential: $250+ per month
62. Plan Weddings
If you’re a strategic planner and can handle a stressful situation well, you can make money as a wedding planner. Start out helping friends to gain experience.
Take pictures and get a testimonial or two. Use them to create a portfolio you can use to market to newlyweds. Get in front of other potential couples with word-of-mouth marketing.
Income potential: $1,000 per month
63. Be a Professional Cuddler
This is likely the strangest way to make extra money on the side, but it does work.
You can make good money cuddling with a stranger, with many companies charging $80 per hour for a cuddle – the Snuggle Buddies being one such company.
If cuddling with a stranger doesn’t gross you out, this is a fun, platonic way to earn cash.
Income potential: $250+ per month
64. Become a Referee
Do you live in a medium to large-sized community? If so, you can earn money on the side as a referee.
Recreational and organized leagues need a lot of referees. You can work several games each weekend and earn extra money.
It’s a seasonal opportunity, but a good way to supplement your income.
Income potential: $500 per month
65. Become an Interior Designer Consultant
Do you have the ability to make a room or house pop? If so, you can be a interior designer consultant for hire.
The key with this opportunity is to get good pictures of the finished product, and foster worth-of-mouth business.
You can work with realtors who need the services for their clients or use social media to build awareness of your business.
Income potential: $1,000 per month, within a year
66. Make Jewelry
Making jewelry to sell is similar to refurbishing antiques for cash. There are many items you can make, from earrings to necklaces and more.
This side hustle may require a few extra tools or skills to make money, but there are many opportunities to sell items for cash. Sell items at farmer’s markets, or use Etsy, eBay or Facebook Marketplace too.
Read our guide on sites like eBay to learn more about the top choices.
Income potential: $500 per month
67. Refurbish Antiques
Do you have an eye for hidden gems that can be returned to their former glory? You can make money by refurbishing and flipping antiques.
Refurbishing antiques is more talent than skill, but it can be a great way to make extra cash. If you live in an area with antique shops or flea markets, scope them out for items to refurbish and flip.
Income potential: $500 per month
68. Brand Ambassador
Companies hire brand ambassadors to increase awareness of their products and services. This can include anything from liquor to clothing.
This often involves being at stores handing out samples and talking to customers. Pay is often up to $25 an hour, plus free products.
Income potential: $500+ per month
69. Work as a Doula
Do you love babies? A doula is someone who is trained to advise and offer emotional or physical support to expecting mothers.
DoulaMatch is a website that pairs you with customers looking for Doula assistance during birth. After getting certified, this can be a rewarding side hustle.
We used a doula with a few of our children’s births, and it was invaluable.
Income potential: $1,000 per month within a year
70. Flyer Delivery
Flyers are still a marketing tool for firms. You can approach local businesses to offer flyer delivery and posting.
This a fun way to get paid to walk and spend time outside.
Income potential: $100+ per month
71. Photography Services
Are you a photographer who likes working events instead of selling stock photos? You can make money photographing events like weddings or family photos.
Thanks to needing good cameras, this is a more expensive side hustle to start, but it can be profitable. Having a studio is a nice touch, but not necessary to succeed.
Income potential: $500+ per month within a year
72. Professional Handyman
Are you a skilled electrician, plumber, or installation tech? You can make money helping people with any of those needs. You can advertise your services online, or use a site like Handy to find clients.
Top contractors earn $1,000 a week through the site.
Income potential: $1,000+ per month within a year
73. Sports Coaching
Do you love sports, and working with children? If so, one of the best side hustle jobs is coaching a local sports team. You can set your own rate and coach your favorite sport.
This is may also be a seasonal opportunity.
Income potential: $500 per month
74. Sell Lesson Plans
If you’re a teacher, this is a terrific way to make money. Sites like Teachers Pay Teachers let you sell lesson plans and educational materials.
Earnings vary, but it can be a simple way to supplement your income.
Read our guide on other summer jobs for teachers to earn extra cash.
Income potential: $250+ per month
75. Tutor for Hire
This is another legit gig for teachers. Websites like Wyzant let you work as a tutor in your area. You can create your own schedule and rate.
I searched for high school English tutors in Omaha, and the results were $35 to $60 an hour, so this can be a high-paying opportunity.
Income potential: $500 per month within a year
76. Be a Mystery Shopper
Retailers rely on information from mystery shoppers to know how to improve their service or customer experience. If you don’t mind shopping and reporting back on your experience, this is a fun gig.
Field Agent is one firm that hires mystery shoppers. You receive payment and compensation for your purchases.
Income potential: $250 per month
77. Work for Gigwalk
Gigwalk is similar to Field Agent. Instead, you complete additional tasks on top of reporting back on a shopping experience. Pay ranges widely, from several dollars to $100.
Income potential: $250 per month
78. Pet Sitting
Love the idea of walking dogs, and want to earn more? You can offer pet sitting services to diversify your opportunities.
Rover.com is a perfect platform to find clients. They report that dog or cat boarding is the most lucrative way to make money. Read our guide on the top dog walking job apps to learn more.
Income potential: $1,000+ per month within a year
79. Train Pets
A well-trained dog is a joy to have in your home, but that takes work. If you have experience doing this, even for just your dog, this is a terrific chance to make money.
Let friends know you’re looking for clients, or go to dog parks in your city to find paying clients.
Income potential: $250+ per month
80. Shovel Snow
This is a seasonal opportunity, but it can be very rewarding. There are several people in our neighborhood who offer snow removal services for $25+ per yard.
If you have a snow thrower and don’t mind the cold, you can make good money.
Income potential: $500 per month.
81. Move Furniture
Moving furniture is a hassle, especially for busy or elderly people. If you’re able-bodied, this is a good way to make money on the side.
Facebook Marketplace and Taskrabbit are both great sources to find paying work.
Income potential: $250 per month
82. Clean Cars
I love a clean car, but don’t often get around to cleaning ours. I know I’m not alone. If you like cleaning, and spending time outside, you can make money from our laziness.
You will need a few supplies, but most are affordable. Start by doing it for friends, and use that to build an offering.
Income potential: $250+ per month
83. Bartend
Do you consider yourself a mixologist? More importantly, do your friends? If you know your way around a bar, you can work events and parties as a side hustle.
If you don’t mind the late hours, this is one of the more fun part-time weekend jobs to supplement your income.
Income potential: $250+ per month
84. Bookkeeping
Don’t think of this as accounting, as it’s not. As a bookkeeper you reconcile bank accounts, create balance sheets, and monitor cash flow for businesses.
Reach out to local firms, network, and tell friends you’re looking for work. This is a personal job, so networking is essential.
Income potential: $1,000 per month within a year
85. Bake Desserts
If you love to create pieces of art with baked goods, an in-home bakery is a terrific way to make extra money on the side.
We know someone who does this in Omaha and they’re always booked a month or more in advance.
You may need a business license, and there may be local laws to follow for this gig.
Income potential: $500+ per month
86. Take Part in Medical Research Studies
If you don’t mind some risk, participating in medical studies is a legit way to earn cash. Trials are necessary to test new drugs before they go to market.
If you’re comfortable with the risk and potential side effects, you can make money. ClinicalTrials.gov is a good resource to find studies near you.
Income potential: $100 to $250 per month
87. Scan In-Store Items With Your Phone
This is like mystery shopping, but with no purchases required. Shopkick is an app that pays you to walk into a store and scan barcodes.
You earn points for these tasks, which you can redeem for gift cards to your favorite retailers.
To get a $5 signup bonus with Shopkick, use code FRUGALRULES.
Income potential: $50 per month
88. Start Personal Training
Are you a licensed personal trainer or fitness expert? You can make money as a personal trainer at gyms, or in-home to paying clients.
Care.com can be a good resource to find customers, or contact local gyms to see what opportunities they have.
Income potential: $1,000+ per month within a year
89. Become an Event Planner
We discussed wedding planning, so this is for other events. Planners are necessary for numerous type of events, including:
- Birthday parties
- Corporate events
- Fundraising events
If you’re highly detail-oriented and enjoy managing many moving parts, this could be the gig for you.
Income potential: $1,000+ per month within a year
90. Edit College Admission Essays
Can you write a compelling story and are you good with grammar? Parents are looking to editors to help them improve upon college admission essays written by their children.
An improved essay may increase chances of getting into the school of their choice, so they’re willing to pay.
Income potential: $500 per month
91. Work for an Event Staffing Agency
Holiday parties are popular at the end of the year. If you don’t mind staffing them to serve food, set up equipment, and welcome guests, this is a fun way to earn an income on the side.
Contact local event staffing companies near you to find work.
Income potential: $500+ per month
92. DJ Weddings and Events
Do you love music and entertaining people and have DJ equipment? You can DJ events to make a living, or earn extra money.
Contact local agencies near you or use social media to promote your work.
Income potential: $1,000+ per month within a year
93. Groom Pets
Cleaning and maintaining pets takes time and patience. You can work for pet owners to do the work of cleaning and grooming their pets.
You will need some accessories, and possibly a large tub to do this, but they’re not expensive. It’s best to get certified as a National Certified Master Groomer to increase your earning potential.
Income potential: $250+ per month
94. Offer In-Home Help for Homebound People
This is a necessity for people needing in-home care. You help people with dressing, basic hygiene, and other simple tasks. You must have a lot of patience and empathy for this role.
Getting certified with the National Association of Home Health and Hospice is a good first step. If you’re a registered nurse, you may also qualify for this side job.
Care.com is a good website to find paying work.
Income potential: $1,000 per month
95. Organize Other People’s Homes
Channel your inner Marie Kondo in this role and help people organize their cluttered homes. You will visit homes to ascertain their needs.
Care.com is a good resource to find clients. You may also want to create a simple website to market to clients and get work.
Income potential: $1,000 per month within a year
96. Become a Hair Stylist
Thanks to the pandemic, this is a growing need for many people who are averse to visiting a busy salon. If you’re a trained beautician, or have experience cutting and styling hair, this is a way to replace your income.
Facebook and Instagram are the perfect platforms to profile your work. Just make sure clients are okay with you showing them off.
Income potential: $500 per month
97. Test Products at Home
Companies depend on product testing before launching a new item. You can help them ensure it works as they, and their customers, want.
Opinion Outpost connects you with firms that need you top test products. Sometimes this requires a purchase, so read the details before accepting gigs.
Income potential: $50 per month
98. Clean Carpets
Carpet cleaning machines are expensive, so most people hire out this job. If you have a machine, or are willing to buy one, it’s an excellent way to make extra money on the side.
One-time gigs are great, but look for recurring work to increase your income.
Income potential: $500+ per month
99. Pressure Wash Houses
Pressure washing a house is something a lot of people overlook. If you have a machine, you can turn it into a profit center. Advertise on social media, or use Taskrabbit to find gigs.
Income potential: $500+ per month
100. Repair Appliances
I hate to spend money to replace an appliance. I’d rather spend money to repair it and get more life from it. We have an appliance repair man who supports his family by repairing residential appliances.
It’s not glamorous work, but he makes good money. If you’re handy, and knowledgable, this is a great way to earn extra cash.
Read our guide on the best places to sell used appliances for cash near me to get some ideas where you can post your items for sale.
Income potential: $1,000+ per month within a year
101. Tailor Clothing
This is a skill many no longer learn, but tailoring and repairing clothes is still a necessity. If you have a sewing machine, and know how to adjust or fix clothing, this is a legit way to earn cash on the side.
Income potential: $250 per month
Common Questions
Do you want to make money on the side but have questions before you start? Here are some common questions we receive.
Do I Need Advanced Skills?
No! Many people miss out on extra money opportunities because they believe they need advanced skills to have a profitable side hustle. That is not the case.
Many good side hustles require little to no special skills. All that’s required for many opportunities is the willingness to work and time.
What Opportunities Should I Avoid?
There are thousands of ways to make extra money floating around online. Some of them are scams.
Avoid all of the following:
- Requesting a cash investment
- Promises of unreasonable income potential
- Participating in a pyramid scheme
- No clear explanation of how compensation works
If you avoid the above red flags, you should have no problem.
Can I Really Make Money From Home?
This is a common question people who are looking to start a home-based side gig have. Many people don’t realize there are legitimate work-from-home jobs available.
As you can see from our list, there are many reputable ways to earn money from home. You can run a writing business from home, or you can do something less skilled like babysitting at your home.
The possibilities are endless; you just need to find an option that works for you.
What’s the Best Way to Make Money on the Side?
There are a lot of ways to make extra money. The best way to approach it is to find what you enjoy, what fits into your schedule, and that provides a good income.
Not all side gigs are worth your time. Pick a few from our list, or create several of your own and find what you like best. If you tie the income to a goal, you will increase chances of success.
Furthermore, don’t overlook working multiple gigs simultaneously. Read our guide on how to create a side hustle stack to maximize your earnings this way.
How do I Make an Extra $1,000 a Month?
Several of the choices on our list will let you earn an extra $1,000 a month. A delivery gig like DoorDash is one example as it has flexible hours and you can earn good money.
Don’t overlook doing multiple side hustles to reach your goal.
Bottom Line
Earning money on the side is an excellent way to reach goals. There is more opportunity than ever to grow your income. You just need the desire and willingness to put in the work.
Select an opportunity from our list and start today.
What are some other fast ways to make money? What’s one side hustle idea that has not worked out for you?
*Earning more on certain types of orders (ex. alcohol): Earn more per order as compared to restaurant orders. Actual earnings may differ and depend on factors like number of deliveries you accept and complete, time of day, location, and any costs. Hourly pay is calculated using average Dasher payouts while on a delivery (from the time you accept an order until the time you drop it off) over a 90 day period and includes compensation from tips, peak pay, and other incentives.
*Get paid instantly (DasherDirect): Subject to approval
*Cash out daily (Fast Pay): Fees apply
*Start Dashing today: Subject to background check and availability
*Dash anytime: Subject to availability
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