As a full-time nurse who’s been in the trenches of both healthcare and the side hustle world, I’ve learned a thing or two about making extra money. Let me tell you, balancing a demanding career with additional income streams isn’t always easy, but it can be incredibly rewarding. Over the years, I’ve tried my hand at various side gigs, from the simple to the complex, and I’ve discovered what works best for those of us with limited time and energy.
I understand the struggle of wanting to boost your income without sacrificing your sanity or sleep schedule. That’s why I’ve compiled this list of 15 side hustle ideas based on the Side Hustle Database that are particularly suitable for beginners or those with demanding day jobs. These aren’t get-rich-quick schemes, but rather practical, achievable ways to supplement your income.
Whether you’re looking to pay off student loans, save for a dream vacation, or just have a little more financial breathing room, there’s likely an option here that will fit your skills and schedule. From my experience, the key is to start small, be consistent, and choose something you genuinely enjoy. After all, the best side hustle is one you can stick with long-term.
1. Become an IRL or Online Tutor
Tutoring is a flexible way to earn money by sharing your knowledge and expertise with students. You can tutor in-person or online in subjects you’re knowledgeable about, from academic topics to test prep to music lessons and more. Tutoring allows you to set your own hours and rates while helping others learn.
Tutoring rates vary widely based on subject, experience level, and location. Online tutors typically earn $10-$40 per hour, while in-person tutors can charge $20-$80+ per hour. Specialized tutors in high-demand subjects like SAT prep or advanced math/science can command $100+ per hour.
How to Get Started:
- Identify subjects you’re qualified to tutor
- Get any necessary certifications or training
- Create an online profile on tutoring websites
- Advertise your services locally and online
- Start with lower rates to gain experience and reviews
- Gradually increase your rates as you build a reputation
2. Offer Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Services
Pet sitting and dog walking are ideal side hustles for animal lovers. You can offer services like daily dog walks, pet sitting visits, or overnight stays in your home or the pet owner’s home. This flexible gig allows you to set your own schedule and rates.
According to Side Hustles Database, pet sitters typically charge $20-$40 per 30-minute visit and $40-$80 per night for overnight stays. Dog walkers can earn $15-$25 per 30-minute walk. With a steady client base, you could earn $500-$1000+ per month part-time.
How to Get Started:
- Get pet sitting/dog walking certifications if desired
- Create profiles on pet care websites like Rover or Wag
- Advertise your services locally
- Start with competitive rates to attract clients
- Provide excellent service to get positive reviews
- Expand your client base through referrals
3. Rent Out Your Home or a Spare Room
If you have extra space in your home, you can earn passive income by renting it out short-term on platforms like Airbnb or long-term to a tenant. This can be a lucrative side hustle, especially if you live in a desirable area.
Earnings vary greatly based on your location, property type, and occupancy rate. Short-term rentals on Airbnb can earn $50-$300+ per night. Long-term room rentals typically bring in $400-$1000+ per month. Entire home rentals can earn significantly more.
How to Get Started:
- Prepare your space for guests/tenants
- Take high-quality photos of the space
- Create listings on short-term rental sites
- Research local laws and regulations
- Set competitive pricing based on your market
- Provide excellent hospitality to get good reviews
- Adjust pricing seasonally to maximize earnings
4. Become a Transcriber or Translator
Transcription involves converting audio/video to text, while translation converts text from one language to another. These services are in high demand across various industries. With strong language skills and attention to detail, you can do this work remotely on a flexible schedule.
Entry-level transcriptionists typically earn $10-$15 per hour, while experienced transcribers can make $20-$30+ per hour. Translators generally earn $20-$50+ per hour depending on language pair and specialization.
How to Get Started:
- Develop your typing speed and accuracy
- Take online transcription/translation courses
- Practice with free online tools and resources
- Create profiles on freelance websites
- Apply to transcription/translation companies
- Start with lower-paying jobs to gain experience
- Specialize in high-paying niches (legal, medical, etc.)
- Build a portfolio to attract higher-paying clients
5. 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 affiliate link. This can be done through various channels like blogs, social media, or email marketing. It’s a flexible way to monetize your online presence and audience.
Affiliate marketing earnings can vary widely. According to recent data, the average affiliate marketer earns over $8,000 per month. However, top earners can make significantly more. Over 15% of affiliate marketers bring in over $50,000 annually in passive income.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a niche that aligns with your interests and expertise
- Research and join reputable affiliate programs or networks
- Create a website or build a strong social media presence
- Produce high-quality content that incorporates affiliate links
- Learn about SEO and marketing strategies to increase your reach
- Track your performance and optimize your campaigns
Learn more about how to make money with Affiliate marketing here.
6. Deliver Groceries and Other Items
With the rise of on-demand delivery services, there’s a growing opportunity to earn money by delivering groceries, meals, and other items to customers. This flexible gig allows you to work on your own schedule using your vehicle.
Earnings vary based on location, hours worked, and the specific platform. As of July 2024, the average pay for grocery delivery drivers in the U.S. was $18.45 per hour. Some drivers report earning $100-$300 per day, depending on factors like tips and peak hours.
How to Get Started:
- Sign up with delivery platforms like Instacart, DoorDash, or Shipt
- Ensure you meet the requirements (age, valid driver’s license, vehicle)
- Complete the application process and background check
- Download the app and familiarize yourself with how it works
- Start accepting delivery orders and maximizing your earnings
7. IT Consulting
IT consultants provide expert advice and solutions to businesses on various technology-related issues. This can include project management, maintenance and repair, security, and other specialized IT services. It’s an ideal side hustle for those with strong technical skills and problem-solving abilities.
According to PayScale, the average IT consultant salary in 2023 is $83,559, with an average hourly rate of $32.61. However, rates can vary significantly based on expertise, location, and client needs. Some experienced consultants charge $100+ per hour for specialized services.
How to Get Started:
- Gain relevant education and certifications in IT fields
- Build your expertise through work experience or personal projects
- Define your niche and services (e.g., cybersecurity, cloud migration)
- Create a business plan and decide on your business structure
- Set up a professional website and online presence
- Network and market your services to potential clients
- Consider joining IT consulting platforms or freelance marketplaces
8. Design and Sell Your Own T-Shirts
Creating and selling custom t-shirts online has become increasingly accessible thanks to print-on-demand (POD) services. This side hustle allows you to express your creativity, tap into niche markets, and earn money without holding inventory.
Earnings can vary widely depending on your designs’ popularity, marketing efforts, and profit margins. Some successful t-shirt businesses report monthly earnings of $1,000 to $10,000 or more. The global market for custom t-shirt printing is expected to reach over $10 billion by 2025.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a niche or theme for your t-shirt designs
- Create unique designs using graphic design software
- Select a print-on-demand platform (e.g., Printful, Printify)
- Set up an online store (e.g., Shopify, Etsy) or use the POD platform’s marketplace
- Price your products competitively while ensuring a good profit margin
- Market your t-shirts through social media and other channels
- Continuously create new designs and analyze sales data to optimize your offerings
9. Become a Freelance Writer or Proofreader
Freelance writing and proofreading offer flexible opportunities to monetize your language skills. Writers create content for various platforms, including blogs, websites, and publications. Proofreaders review and correct written materials for grammar, spelling, and clarity. Both roles allow you to work remotely and often on your own schedule.
Freelance writers typically earn between $0.05 to $1 per word, depending on their experience and the complexity of the project. Many writers report earning $200-$1000 per article. Proofreaders can earn $20-$50 per hour, with experienced professionals commanding higher rates. Full-time freelancers in both fields can potentially earn $50,000-$100,000+ annually.
How to Get Started:
- Develop your writing or proofreading skills through practice and courses
- Create a portfolio of your best work
- Set up profiles on freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr
- Start a blog or website to showcase your expertise
- Network with other professionals in your field
- Apply for entry-level jobs to gain experience and testimonials
- Gradually increase your rates as you build a reputation
10. Start a Podcast
Podcasting has become an increasingly popular medium for sharing information, stories, and entertainment. As a podcaster, you can create content on topics you’re passionate about and potentially monetize your audience through sponsorships, advertising, and merchandise.
Podcast earnings vary widely based on listenership and monetization strategies. According to recent industry reports, podcasts with 10,000 downloads per episode can earn $500-$900 per episode through advertising. Top podcasters can earn millions annually, while smaller niche podcasts might earn a few hundred dollars per month.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a niche or topic for your podcast
- Invest in basic podcasting equipment (microphone, editing software)
- Plan and record your first episodes
- Select a podcast hosting platform
- Create cover art and write compelling descriptions
- Submit your podcast to major directories (Apple Podcasts, Spotify)
- Promote your podcast on social media and other channels
- Consistently produce high-quality content to grow your audience
11. Babysitting and Child Care
Babysitting and child care services are always in demand, making this a reliable side hustle option. This can include regular after-school care, occasional evening babysitting, or full-day care during holidays. It’s an ideal option for those who enjoy working with children and have a flexible schedule.
Babysitting rates vary by location, experience, and the number of children. According to recent data, the average hourly rate for babysitters in the U.S. is $18.50 per hour for one child, with rates increasing for additional children or specialized care. In major cities, experienced sitters can charge $25-$35+ per hour.
How to Get Started:
- Gain relevant certifications (First Aid, CPR)
- Create profiles on babysitting websites or apps
- Ask for referrals from friends and family
- Consider specializing in certain age groups or care types
- Set competitive rates based on your experience and local market
- Provide excellent care to build a positive reputation
- Expand your services as you gain more experience
12. 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.
Dropshipping profits can vary widely. Recent studies suggest that the average dropshipper earns $1,000-$5,000 per month, with top performers making $10,000-$50,000+ monthly. Profit margins typically range from 15% to 45%, depending on the product and market competition.
How to Get Started:
- Research profitable niches and products
- Choose an e-commerce platform (e.g., Shopify, WooCommerce)
- Find reliable suppliers or use a dropshipping app
- Set up your online store and add products
- Optimize your product listings and store design
- Implement a marketing strategy (social media, SEO, paid ads)
- Provide excellent customer service to build trust
- Continuously analyze and optimize your product offerings and marketing efforts
13. Do Makeup for Special Events
Makeup artistry for special events is a rewarding side hustle that allows you to showcase your creativity and help people look their best for important occasions. This can include bridal makeup, prom makeup, photoshoot makeup, and more. It’s an ideal option for those with a passion for cosmetics and a steady hand.
Makeup artists’ earnings can vary significantly based on location, experience, and the type of events. According to recent industry data, freelance makeup artists earn an average of $60-$100 per hour. Bridal makeup often commands higher rates, with many artists charging $150-$300 or more for bridal packages. Top makeup artists in major cities can earn $500-$1000+ per event.
How to Get Started:
- Develop your makeup skills through practice and online tutorials
- Consider taking professional makeup courses or workshops
- Build a diverse portfolio showcasing different makeup styles
- Invest in high-quality makeup products and tools
- Create a social media presence to showcase your work
- Offer free or discounted services to friends and family to gain experience
- Network with photographers, wedding planners, and event coordinators
- Set competitive rates based on your skill level and local market
14. Participate in Paid Online Surveys
Participating in paid online surveys is a simple way to earn extra money in your spare time. Companies and market research firms pay for consumer opinions to help shape their products and services. While it won’t make you rich, it can be an easy way to earn some extra cash or gift cards.
Earnings from online surveys are typically modest. Most surveys pay between $0.50 to $5, with some longer or more specialized surveys offering $10-$20 or more. Dedicated survey takers report earning $50-$200 per month, depending on the time invested and qualification for higher-paying surveys. Some platforms also offer sign-up bonuses or rewards for consistent participation.
How to Get Started:
- Research and sign up for reputable survey sites (e.g., Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, Vindale Research)
- Create detailed profiles to qualify for more surveys
- Set aside regular time to check for and complete surveys
- Be consistent and patient, as earnings accumulate over time
- Cash out your earnings regularly
- Be wary of scams and only use legitimate survey sites
- Consider using multiple survey platforms to maximize opportunities
15. Create and Sell Your Own Handmade Goods
Creating and selling handmade goods allows you to turn your hobby or craft skills into a profitable side hustle. This can include jewelry, pottery, knitted items, woodworking, candles, soaps, and more. With the rise of online marketplaces for handmade items, it’s easier than ever to reach potential customers worldwide.
The earning potential for handmade goods varies widely depending on the product, materials cost, time invested, and market demand. Many successful handmade sellers report earning $500-$2000 per month part-time, with some full-time creators earning $5000+ monthly. Profit margins typically range from 30% to 50%, but can be higher for unique or high-end items.
How to Get Started:
- Identify your craft or product niche
- Refine your skills and develop a unique style
- Calculate costs and set competitive prices
- Create a collection of products to sell
- Take high-quality photos of your items
- Set up an online shop on platforms like Etsy or Shopify
- Develop a brand identity and packaging
- Market your products on social media and at local craft fairs
- Provide excellent customer service to encourage repeat business
- Continuously innovate and expand your product line
