Last Updated on February 18, 2025 by Caesar
As a graphic designer, I’ve always loved the creative freedom my job offers, but like many of us, I’ve also found myself looking for ways to make a little extra money on the side. Over the years, I’ve dipped my toes into various side hustles—some were wildly successful, while others taught me valuable lessons about what works (and what doesn’t). Whether you’re saving up for something special, trying to pay off debt, or just want to explore new opportunities outside your 9-to-5, side hustles can be an exciting and rewarding way to boost your income.
The great thing about side hustles is that there’s something for everyone, no matter your skills or experience level. From creative gigs to online opportunities and service-based work, many of these ideas are beginner-friendly and don’t require a huge upfront investment.
In this article, I’ll share 12 side hustle ideas based on the Side Hustle Database that can help you make extra money. These are practical, flexible options that I’ve either tried myself or seen others succeed with—and who knows? One of these might just be the perfect fit for you! Let’s dive in!
1. Become an Affiliate Marketer
Affiliate marketing involves promoting a company’s products or services and earning a commission for every sale, lead, or action generated through your referral link. Affiliates use platforms like blogs, YouTube, or social media to share their unique links and drive traffic to the merchant’s website. This is a scalable side hustle with potential for passive income.
Earning Potential:
- Beginners can earn $10,000 to $100,000 annually depending on traffic and niche.
- Commission rates vary widely: low-ticket items may offer 1%-20%, while high-ticket programs can exceed 20% per sale.
- Experienced affiliates may earn up to $10,000 monthly or more by promoting lucrative programs.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a niche that aligns with your interests and expertise.
- Select a platform (e.g., blog, YouTube, Instagram).
- Join affiliate programs like Amazon Associates, ClickBank, or ShareASale.
- Create content that adds value (e.g., reviews, tutorials) and includes affiliate links.
- Focus on SEO and social media marketing to drive traffic.
2. Deliver Groceries and Other Items
Grocery and item delivery services like Instacart, DoorDash, and Shipt allow you to earn money by shopping for and delivering items to customers. This flexible gig is ideal for those who enjoy driving and want a side hustle with minimal barriers to entry.
Earning Potential:
- According to Side Hustles Database, average earnings range from $15-$25 per hour, including tips.
- High-performing drivers can earn up to $30 per hour during peak times or with bonuses.
How to Get Started:
- Meet basic requirements: valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, smartphone, and ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
- Sign up on platforms like Instacart, Shipt, or DoorDash.
- Pass background checks and complete onboarding processes.
- Use the app to accept delivery requests and optimize your schedule for peak hours.
3. Participate in Paid Online Surveys
Online surveys are a simple way to earn extra cash by sharing your opinions on products or services. Companies use these surveys for market research to improve their offerings. Tasks are flexible and can be done from home.
Earning Potential:
- Small surveys (5-10 minutes): $0.50-$2 each.
- Medium surveys (10-20 minutes): $2-$5 each.
- High-paying surveys (30+ minutes): $10-$50 each.
- Monthly earnings range from $20-$200 for casual users; active participants can earn up to $500 by combining multiple platforms.
How to Get Started:
- Sign up for reputable survey platforms like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, Pinecone Research, or Toluna.
- Complete your profile to receive relevant survey opportunities.
- Dedicate time daily or weekly for maximum earnings.
- Redeem rewards via PayPal or gift cards depending on the platform.
4. Start a Podcast
Podcasting involves creating audio content on topics that interest you or resonate with an audience. Once established, podcasts can generate income through sponsorships, ads, listener donations, or merchandise sales.
Earning Potential:
- New podcasters may earn small amounts initially through listener donations or affiliate marketing.
- Established podcasts with significant audiences can make $500-$900 per episode through sponsorships; top-tier podcasters earn thousands per episode.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a niche and define your target audience.
- Invest in basic equipment: microphone, headphones, and editing software.
- Plan episodes and create engaging content regularly.
- Host your podcast on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Anchor.
- Monetize through sponsorships (e.g., via Podcorn), ads (e.g., Anchor Ads), or Patreon subscriptions.
5. Resell Used or Vintage Goods
Reselling used or vintage goods involves sourcing items like clothing, furniture, electronics, or collectibles and selling them for a profit. Platforms like eBay, Poshmark, Depop, and Facebook Marketplace make it easy to reach buyers. This side hustle is great for those with an eye for valuable items or a passion for thrifting.
Earning Potential:
- Part-time sellers can make $200-$1,000 per month.
- Full-time resellers focused on high-demand items can earn $5,000+ monthly.
- Profit margins depend on sourcing costs and the item’s condition or rarity.
How to Get Started:
- Identify a niche (e.g., vintage clothing, electronics, or furniture).
- Source items from thrift stores, garage sales, clearance sales, or online marketplaces.
- Create accounts on platforms like eBay, Poshmark, or Depop.
- Take high-quality photos and write detailed descriptions for listings.
- Price competitively and offer excellent customer service to build your reputation.
6. IT Consulting
IT consulting involves providing expert advice and solutions to businesses or individuals in areas like cybersecurity, software implementation, network setup, or troubleshooting. This side hustle is ideal for tech-savvy professionals with experience in IT or related fields.
Earning Potential:
- Hourly rates range from $50-$200 depending on expertise and project complexity.
- Monthly earnings can range from $1,000 (part-time) to $10,000+ (full-time).
How to Get Started:
- Identify your area of expertise (e.g., cloud computing, cybersecurity).
- Build a professional online presence with a website or LinkedIn profile showcasing your skills and experience.
- Network with potential clients through industry events or freelancing platforms like Upwork or Toptal.
- Offer free consultations initially to build credibility and attract clients.
- Use project management tools to streamline client work.
7. Online Courses and Coaching
If you have specialized knowledge or skills in a particular field (e.g., fitness, marketing, photography), you can create online courses or offer coaching services. Platforms like Udemy, Teachable, and Zoom make it easy to share your expertise with a global audience.
Earning Potential:
- Online courses: Beginners may earn $500-$5,000 per course launch; experienced creators can earn $10,000+ per month with multiple courses.
- Coaching: Hourly rates range from $50-$300 depending on the niche and experience level.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a topic you’re skilled in and passionate about teaching.
- Create course materials (videos, slideshows, PDFs) using tools like Canva or PowerPoint.
- Host courses on platforms like Udemy or Teachable; for coaching sessions, use Zoom or Calendly for scheduling.
- Market your courses/coaching through social media, email newsletters, and partnerships with influencers in your niche.
- Continuously gather feedback to improve your offerings.
8. Babysitting and Child Care
Babysitting and child care involve looking after children while their parents are away at work or attending events. This side hustle is perfect for individuals who enjoy working with kids and have flexible schedules.
Earning Potential:
- Hourly rates range from $10-$25 depending on location and experience. Specialized care (e.g., for infants) may command higher rates.
- Monthly earnings can range from $500-$2,500 depending on hours worked.
How to Get Started:
- Obtain certifications such as CPR/First Aid training to increase credibility.
- Sign up on babysitting platforms like Care.com or Sittercity to find clients.
- Network locally by offering services to friends, family members, or neighbors.
- Create a profile highlighting your experience with children and any special skills (e.g., tutoring).
- Set clear expectations with parents regarding duties and schedules before starting.
9. Give Tours of Your Neighborhood
If you live in a city or area with cultural, historical, or natural attractions, offering guided tours can be a rewarding side hustle. This is ideal for people who enjoy storytelling and sharing local knowledge with visitors. You can specialize in walking tours, food tours, or even themed tours (e.g., history or ghost tours).
Earning Potential:
- Tour guides typically earn $15-$50 per hour per person, depending on the type of tour and location.
- Group tours can generate $100-$500+ per session.
- Tips from satisfied tourists can significantly boost income.
How to Get Started:
- Research your area’s unique attractions and develop a compelling tour itinerary.
- Obtain any necessary permits or licenses (varies by location).
- Partner with platforms like Airbnb Experiences, GetYourGuide, or ToursByLocals to find customers.
- Invest in marketing materials like flyers or social media ads to promote your services locally.
- Practice your storytelling skills and ensure you provide an engaging experience.
10. Clean Houses
House cleaning is a straightforward and in-demand side hustle that requires minimal startup costs. Whether you offer basic cleaning services or specialize in deep cleaning or organizing, this gig works well for people who are detail-oriented and enjoy physical work.
Earning Potential:
- Hourly rates range from $20-$50 depending on the location and services offered.
- Monthly earnings can range from $500 (part-time) to $3,000+ (full-time).
How to Get Started:
- Gather basic cleaning supplies (vacuum cleaner, mop, cleaning solutions).
- Offer services locally through word-of-mouth, community boards, or platforms like TaskRabbit or Thumbtack.
- Set competitive rates based on local market research.
- Build trust by offering references or testimonials from initial clients.
- Expand by offering specialized services like move-out cleaning or eco-friendly cleaning.
11. Start a Blog or Newsletter
Blogging or running a newsletter allows you to share your expertise, hobbies, or interests with an online audience while earning money through ads, affiliate marketing, sponsorships, or paid subscriptions. This side hustle is ideal for strong writers who enjoy creating content.
Earning Potential:
- New bloggers may earn $100-$500/month within the first year through ads and affiliate links.
- Established blogs/newsletters can generate $1,000-$10,000+ monthly through diversified income streams like sponsorships and premium subscriptions.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a niche that aligns with your interests and has audience demand (e.g., personal finance, travel).
- Set up a blog using platforms like WordPress or start a newsletter on Substack or ConvertKit.
- Create high-quality content consistently to attract readers/subscribers.
- Monetize through Google AdSense, affiliate programs, sponsored posts, or paid subscriptions.
- Promote your blog/newsletter on social media and via email marketing.
12. Monetize a YouTube Channel
YouTube offers creators the opportunity to earn money by uploading videos on topics they’re passionate about—ranging from tutorials and reviews to vlogs and entertainment content. Once you meet YouTube’s monetization requirements, you can earn income through ads, sponsorships, merchandise sales, and more.
Earning Potential:
- Ad revenue: $3-$5 per 1,000 views (depending on niche and audience demographics).
- Sponsorships: $100-$10,000+ per video based on subscriber count and engagement rates.
- Successful creators can earn $1,000-$10,000+ monthly with consistent uploads and diversified monetization streams.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a niche that aligns with your skills/interests (e.g., gaming, beauty tutorials).
- Invest in basic equipment: camera (or smartphone), microphone, and lighting setup.
- Create engaging content consistently and optimize videos for SEO (titles, tags).
- Apply for YouTube’s Partner Program once you reach 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours within 12 months.
- Diversify income streams through sponsorships (via platforms like FameBit), affiliate links in descriptions, and selling merchandise.
