As a teacher who’s walked the tightrope between grading papers and chasing extra income, I’ve dipped my toes into the vast ocean of side hustles. From the comfort of my living room to the bustling streets of my neighborhood, I’ve explored numerous ways to pad my wallet beyond my classroom salary. I understand the allure of extra cash, but also the importance of finding a side gig that doesn’t leave you burnt out before the school bell rings.
In my journey, I’ve discovered that the best side hustles for beginners are those that play to your strengths, fit comfortably into your schedule, and don’t require a significant upfront investment. Whether you’re a fellow educator looking to fund that dream vacation, a student trying to ease the burden of loans, or anyone seeking to boost their income, I’ve compiled a list of 15 side hustle ideas based on the Side Hustle Database that can help you make extra money.
These options range from the creative to the practical, from the tech-savvy to the hands-on. Some can be started with nothing more than a smartphone, while others might require a bit more effort to get off the ground. But each one offers a unique opportunity to turn your spare time into spare change.
1. Sell Print-on-Demand (POD) Products
Print-on-demand is a business model where you design custom products like t-shirts, mugs, or phone cases, and a third-party supplier prints and ships the items to customers when orders are placed. This eliminates the need for inventory and upfront costs, making it an attractive option for aspiring entrepreneurs.
The earning potential for POD businesses varies widely. Some sellers make a few hundred dollars per month, while others can generate thousands. Your earnings depend on factors like product pricing, sales volume, and marketing efforts. With effective marketing and unique designs, it’s possible to earn a substantial income from POD.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a niche and decide what products to sell
- Create unique designs or hire a designer
- Select a POD service provider (e.g., Printful, Printify)
- Set up an online store using platforms like Wix or Shopify
- Upload your designs and create product listings
- Set pricing strategies to ensure profitability
- Market your products through social media and other channels
2. Online Courses and Coaching
Creating and selling online courses or offering coaching services allows you to monetize your expertise in a particular field. This side hustle involves developing educational content or providing one-on-one guidance to students or clients seeking to learn new skills or improve in specific areas.
According to Side Hustles Database, successful course creators can earn between $1,000 to $10,000 per month on average. Top performers in this space can generate six- to seven-figure incomes annually. The earning potential depends on factors such as your niche, course pricing, and marketing efforts.
How to Get Started:
- Identify your area of expertise and target audience
- Plan your course content or coaching program
- Choose an online course platform (e.g., LearnWorlds, Teachable)
- Create engaging course materials (videos, text, quizzes)
- Set up a pricing structure (one-time fee, subscription, or tiered pricing)
- Develop a marketing strategy to attract students or clients
- Continuously update and improve your offerings based on feedback
3. Give Tours of Your Neighborhood
This side hustle involves showcasing your local area to tourists or visitors, offering unique insights and experiences that go beyond typical guidebook recommendations. You can create themed tours focusing on history, food, architecture, or local culture.
Earnings from neighborhood tours can vary based on location, tour duration, and group size. Tour guides can charge anywhere from $20 to $100 or more per person, depending on the experience offered. With regular bookings, this side hustle can generate a few hundred to a few thousand dollars per month.
How to Get Started:
- Research your local area and identify unique selling points
- Develop tour itineraries and themes
- Set pricing based on market research and your offerings
- Create a website or use platforms like Airbnb Experiences to list your tours
- Obtain necessary permits or licenses (if required in your area)
- Promote your tours through social media and local partnerships
- Gather feedback and continuously improve your tour experiences
4. Get Paid to Test Apps and Websites
This side hustle involves testing websites, apps, or digital products for usability and providing feedback to companies. Testers typically complete a set of tasks while thinking aloud, helping businesses improve their user experience.
Website and app testers can earn around $10 for every 15 to 20-minute test they complete. Some platforms offer higher rates for specialized tests or live conversations. While it’s not a full-time income, dedicated testers can earn a few hundred dollars per month as extra income.
How to Get Started:
- Sign up for user testing platforms (e.g., UserTesting, UserPeek)
- Complete a practice test to demonstrate your skills
- Ensure you have the necessary equipment (computer, smartphone, microphone)
- Fill out your profile completely to qualify for more tests
- Check regularly for available tests and respond quickly
- Provide thorough and articulate feedback during tests
- Maintain a high rating by following instructions carefully
5. IT Consulting
IT consulting involves providing expert advice and technical support to businesses or individuals on various aspects of information technology. This can include areas like network security, software development, system integration, and IT strategy.
IT consultants can earn significantly, with rates varying based on expertise and project complexity. Entry-level consultants might start at $50-$100 per hour, while experienced professionals can command $150-$300 or more per hour. Some consultants report earning $1,000 to $10,000 per month on average.
How to Get Started:
- Identify your area of IT expertise
- Gain relevant certifications in your chosen field
- Build a portfolio of projects or case studies
- Create a professional website showcasing your skills
- Network within the IT industry and join professional associations
- Start with small projects or part-time consulting to build experience
- Consider specializing in a niche area to stand out
6. 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.
Earnings can vary widely in dropshipping. Some successful dropshippers report making $1,000 to $50,000 per month, with profit margins typically ranging from 10% to 30%. However, it’s important to note that these figures are not guaranteed and success depends on various factors.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a niche market for your products
- Research and select reliable suppliers
- Set up an e-commerce platform (e.g., Shopify, WooCommerce)
- Create your online store and list products
- Implement marketing strategies to drive traffic to your store
- Optimize your product descriptions and pricing
- Provide excellent customer service to build a loyal customer base
7. Mow Lawns and Do Other Landscaping Tasks
This side hustle involves providing lawn care and landscaping services to homeowners or businesses. Tasks can include mowing, trimming, planting, and general yard maintenance.
Lawn care providers typically charge between $30 to $60 per hour. With efficient work and a good client base, it’s possible to earn $500 to $1,000 per week during peak seasons. Some successful lawn care businesses report annual revenues of $50,000 to $100,000 or more.
How to Get Started:
- Invest in basic lawn care equipment (mower, trimmer, etc.)
- Determine your service offerings and pricing structure
- Create a simple business plan and budget
- Obtain necessary licenses and insurance
- Start marketing your services locally (flyers, social media, word-of-mouth)
- Build a client base by offering quality service
- Consider expanding services as you grow (e.g., landscaping, snow removal)
8. Become a Transcriber or Translator
Transcription involves converting audio or video content into written text, while translation involves converting text from one language to another. Both can be done remotely and offer flexible working hours.
Entry-level transcriptionists can earn around $15 to $20 per hour. Experienced transcribers or those specializing in fields like legal or medical transcription can earn $25 to $40 per hour. Translators’ earnings vary widely based on language pair and specialization, with rates ranging from $0.06 to $0.14 per word.
How to Get Started:
- Develop strong typing skills and language proficiency
- Invest in quality headphones and transcription software
- Practice with free online transcription exercises
- Take online courses or certifications in transcription or translation
- Create profiles on freelance platforms (e.g., Rev, TranscribeMe, ProZ)
- Start with entry-level jobs to build experience and ratings
- Consider specializing in a particular field (e.g., legal, medical) for higher earnings
9. Rent Out Your Home or a Spare Room
This side hustle involves renting out your entire home, a spare room, or even a couch to travelers or long-term tenants. Platforms like Airbnb have made it easier for homeowners to become part-time landlords, offering a flexible way to earn extra income from your living space.
Earnings vary greatly depending on your location, property type, and occupancy rate. In popular tourist destinations, hosts can earn anywhere from $500 to $3,000 per month. Some successful Airbnb hosts in prime locations report earning $5,000 to $10,000 per month during peak seasons.
How to Get Started:
- Prepare your space for guests (clean, furnish, and decorate)
- Take high-quality photos of your property
- Create a listing on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO
- Set competitive pricing based on local market research
- Write an engaging property description highlighting unique features
- Establish house rules and a cleaning routine
- Obtain necessary permits and insurance coverage
10. Refereeing
Refereeing involves officiating sports games at various levels, from youth leagues to professional matches. This side hustle requires a deep understanding of the sport’s rules, good physical fitness, and the ability to make quick, impartial decisions under pressure.
Earnings for referees can vary widely based on the sport, level of competition, and location. Youth sports referees might earn $20 to $50 per game, while high school referees can make $50 to $100 per game. College and professional referees can earn significantly more, with some top-level officials making six-figure salaries annually.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a sport you’re passionate about and knowledgeable in
- Study the rules and regulations thoroughly
- Attend referee training courses and obtain necessary certifications
- Start officiating at lower levels (youth or recreational leagues)
- Join local referee associations for networking and job opportunities
- Invest in proper equipment and uniforms
- Continuously improve your skills and seek feedback from experienced officials
11. Sell Your Photography
This side hustle involves selling your photographs through various channels, including stock photo websites, print-on-demand services, or directly to clients. It’s an excellent option for those with a passion for photography and an eye for capturing marketable images.
Earnings from selling photography can vary greatly. Stock photographers might earn $0.25 to $0.45 per image download, with popular images generating hundreds of downloads. Direct sales to clients or through print-on-demand services can yield higher profits, with some photographers earning $500 to $3,000 per month or more.
How to Get Started:
- Develop your photography skills and define your style
- Invest in quality camera equipment and editing software
- Build a diverse portfolio of high-quality images
- Create accounts on stock photo websites (e.g., Shutterstock, Adobe Stock)
- Set up a photography website to showcase your work
- Explore print-on-demand services for selling physical prints
- Network with potential clients and promote your work on social media
12. Do Makeup for Special Events
This side hustle involves providing professional makeup services for special events such as weddings, proms, photo shoots, or other occasions. It requires skill in applying makeup, knowledge of different skin types and tones, and the ability to create looks that suit various styles and preferences.
Makeup artists can earn anywhere from $50 to $200 per client for special events. Wedding makeup often commands higher rates, with some artists charging $300 to $500 or more for bridal makeup packages. Experienced makeup artists working in high-demand areas can earn $1,000 to $5,000 or more per month.
How to Get Started:
- Develop your makeup skills through practice and online tutorials
- Consider taking professional makeup courses or workshops
- Build a makeup kit with high-quality products
- Create a portfolio showcasing different makeup looks
- Set up social media accounts to display your work
- Offer services to friends and family to gain experience and testimonials
- Network with wedding planners, photographers, and event organizers
13. Become an Affiliate Marketer
Affiliate marketing involves promoting other companies’ products or services and earning a commission for each sale or lead generated through your unique referral link. This can be done through various channels such as blogs, social media, email marketing, or YouTube videos.
Earnings from affiliate marketing can vary widely. Beginners might make $100 to $500 per month, while experienced marketers can earn $1,000 to $10,000 or more monthly. Some top affiliate marketers report six-figure annual incomes. However, it’s important to note that success often requires time, effort, and strategic marketing.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a niche that aligns with your interests and has market demand
- Research and join affiliate programs relevant to your niche
- Create a website or blog to host your content
- Produce high-quality content that provides value to your audience
- Incorporate affiliate links naturally within your content
- Learn about SEO to improve your content’s visibility
- Build an email list to engage with your audience
- Experiment with different marketing strategies and track your results
14. Participate in Paid Online Surveys
This side hustle involves completing online surveys for market research companies. These surveys gather consumer opinions on various products, services, or topics. While it’s a simple way to earn extra money, it typically provides lower income compared to other side hustles.
Earnings from online surveys are generally modest. Most surveys pay between $0.50 to $5, with some longer or more specialized surveys offering $10 to $20. Dedicated survey takers might earn $50 to $200 per month. It’s important to note that this is unlikely to replace a full-time income but can provide some extra pocket money.
How to Get Started:
- Research reputable survey sites (e.g., Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, Vindale Research)
- Create accounts on multiple survey platforms to increase opportunities
- Complete your profile thoroughly to qualify for more surveys
- Set aside specific times for taking surveys
- Be consistent and check for new surveys regularly
- Be honest in your responses to maintain account integrity
- Cash out your earnings once you reach the minimum threshold
Learn more: Best Online Survey Sites For Money
15. Monetize a YouTube Channel
This side hustle involves creating and uploading video content to YouTube, then monetizing it through various methods such as ad revenue, sponsorships, merchandise sales, or affiliate marketing. Successful YouTubers often build a loyal audience around a specific niche or content type.
Earnings from YouTube can vary dramatically. Smaller channels might earn $100 to $1,000 per month from ad revenue, while popular channels can earn tens of thousands or even millions annually. Factors affecting earnings include view count, engagement rate, niche, and additional revenue streams beyond ads.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a niche or content type that you’re passionate about
- Invest in basic video equipment (camera, microphone, editing software)
- Create and optimize your YouTube channel
- Produce high-quality, engaging content consistently
- Learn about YouTube SEO to improve your videos’ visibility
- Engage with your audience through comments and community posts
- Once eligible, apply for the YouTube Partner Program to monetize with ads
- Explore additional revenue streams (sponsorships, merchandise, Patreon)
