Looking to make your free time pay off? Side hustles are quickly becoming the norm across the U.S. In fact, 51% of American adults (72% if you look at Gen Z alone) are running side hustles in their spare time. People aren’t just picking up gigs to get by; they’re launching passion projects, testing new business ideas, and finding creative ways to build skills that go beyond their 9-to-5.
Side hustles come in many different forms. You might sell digital products to create passive income streams, freelance your expertise, or offer local services that solve everyday problems. The best part is that you can start small, fit the work around your lifestyle, and grow at your own pace. Let’s explore side hustles in more detail, including what they are, how they can benefit you, and the top side hustle ideas for 2025.
What is a side hustle?
A side hustle is any type of work you take on outside of your regular job to earn extra income, pursue a passion, or build new skills.
Unlike a full-time role, a side hustle is flexible and designed to fit around your schedule.
It could be as simple as walking dogs in your neighborhood or as ambitious as launching an online store. While bringing in a little more money is always a good thing, many people use side hustles to test business ideas, explore creative outlets, or gain experience in a field they’re curious about.
What makes side hustles so appealing is their versatility. You can choose something short-term and easy to start, like food delivery or freelance writing, or invest time into building something more long-term, like content creation or a consulting service.
No matter the approach, side hustles give you the freedom to shape your own path while keeping the stability of your main job. Sometimes, side hustles can even grow into full-time jobs over time.
Related: How to make money on the internet
Benefits of having a side hustle
With rising living costs and an unpredictable job market, having a side hustle in 2025 is a smart financial safety net. Thanks to remote work and digital platforms, it’s easier than ever to turn your skills, hobbies, and ideas into income streams that work on your terms. The right side hustle gives you flexibility, helps you grow new skills, and can even open the door to bigger opportunities down the road.
No matter your goal—saving for something big, paying off debt, or testing out a future career—adding a side hustle can be one of the smartest moves you make this year. Here are some of the biggest benefits:
- Extra income: Reach your financial goals faster.
- Pursue your passion: Turn a hobby into real income.
- Develop new skills: Learn and grow outside your day job.
- Career exploration: Test-drive potential career paths before fully committing.
- Income security: Create a backup plan when job markets shift.
- Flexibility: Work when and how it fits your schedule.
- Income diversification: Add new income streams and reduce reliance on a single paycheck.
- Networking: Meet new people and expand your professional circle.
- Potential to scale: With time and effort, your side hustle can evolve into a full-time career.
- Budgeting practice: Managing multiple income streams sharpens your money management.
- Time management skills: Balancing your hustle and job helps you get more done.
- Faster goals: Side income speeds up milestones like buying a home or traveling.
- Less financial stress: Extra income eases worries about bills and debt.
35 best side hustle ideas for 2025
Looking for fresh ways to grow your income this year? Side hustles are more accessible than ever, with opportunities ranging from creative digital work to local services and even AI-driven gigs. No matter your skills or schedule, there are options out there that fit your lifestyle. Explore the 35 side hustle ideas below to find the one that sparks your next move.
Creative and content side hustles
1. Freelance writing and editing
Freelance writing and editing are among the most flexible side hustles out there. You can create blog posts, web content, newsletters, or marketing copy for businesses across industries like tech, health, lifestyle, and more. Editors can offer services that focus on polishing content for clarity, grammar, and flow.
Earning potential varies, but beginners often make $0.05 to $0.15 per word, while experienced writers can earn $0.25 to $1.00 per word or more. Some specialized niches, like finance or tech, can push rates even higher. To get started, build a simple portfolio, showcase samples on LinkedIn or a personal site, and find gigs on platforms like ProBlogger or Contena. With time, you can scale this hustle into steady monthly income and even land long-term contracts.
2. Proofreading
If you’ve got an eagle eye for grammar and typos, proofreading is a simple yet high-demand side hustle. Proofreaders review everything from blog posts and business documents to ebooks and academic papers.
Rates typically range from $20 to $50 per hour, depending on experience and the complexity of the project. Beginners can find their first clients on sites like Upwork and Fiverr, while more advanced proofreaders may land long-term clients in publishing or corporate settings. Like writing and editing, proofreading is 100% remote-friendly, making it easy to balance alongside a day job.
3. Freelance graphic design
Graphic design is one of the most in-demand creative hustles for 2025. Businesses are constantly looking for original, eye-catching visuals, like logos, brand kits, ad creatives, packaging, and social media posts.
Entry-level designers might start at $25 to $40 per hour, while seasoned pros with niche expertise (like UI/UX or brand identity) often charge $100+ per hour. Some designers prefer flat-rate packages for logos or social media bundles, which can bring in steady, repeatable income.
To start a graphic design side hustle, you need to be proficient in software like Adobe Creative Suite and have a portfolio on platforms like Behance or Dribbble that highlights projects that show versatility. Websites like 99designs or Upwork are good for early gigs, but many designers land long-term clients through referrals or their own websites.
Want to stay ahead of the competition? Read this guide to the latest 2025 graphic design trends for inspiration.
4. Photography
If you enjoy capturing life’s biggest moments, photography can be both a creative outlet and a profitable side hustle. Photographers can specialize in areas like weddings, portraits, events, or stock photography.
Earnings range widely depending on the type of photography you offer. Wedding photographers can make $1,000 to $5,000+ per event, while portrait sessions may bring in $100 to $300 each. Stock photography usually pays less per image but can create passive income over time. Before providing services, you’ll need a quality camera, editing software, and a strong portfolio.
You can promote your photography through social media marketing, word-of-mouth, and platforms like SmugMug or Shutterstock. With dedication, photography can grow into a steady income stream or even a full-time career.
5. Podcasting
Podcasting is an engaging way to share stories, knowledge, or expertise with a global audience. While it often takes time to gain traction, podcasts can generate revenue through sponsorships, ad placements, listener donations, and merchandise sales.
Most new podcasters start small, but once an audience builds, earnings can climb to several hundred to several thousand dollars per episode. If you go this route, you’ll need to invest in a good microphone, editing software, and a podcast hosting platform. Podcasting may not pay off right away, but it’s a fun and scalable way to build a personal brand and community. Learn more about how to start a podcast here.
6. YouTube content creation
YouTube remains one of the most popular platforms for creators to share tutorials, entertainment, or behind-the-scenes content. Side hustlers can monetize channels through ad revenue, brand partnerships, affiliate marketing, and merchandise sales.
Many successful YouTube creators make a few hundred dollars per month, but the biggest channels can scale to thousands per month or even six-figure annual incomes. If you want to earn money through this side hustle, you’ll need a camera (your phone works), video editing software, and a content plan that fits your niche. Growth depends on consistency, engagement, and delivering value that keeps viewers coming back, so be patient and get creative.
7. Online course creation
If you’ve got expertise in a subject people want to learn, creating an online course can be a powerful side hustle. Courses cover everything from coding and digital marketing to cooking, fitness, and photography. The best part? Once you put in the upfront work—planning lessons, recording videos, and setting up your course—it can generate passive income.
Earnings range widely: some creators bring in a few hundred dollars a month, while others see five- or six-figure annual income from a single course. To get started, all you need is a solid grasp of your topic, basic video gear, and a hosting platform like Teachable or Udemy. Success comes down to creating engaging, valuable content and marketing it well through social media or your own website.
8. Social media management
Every business wants to build a strong online presence, but they don’t all know how to do it. Social media managers create content calendars, design posts, engage with followers, and shape strategies that grow audiences on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, X, LinkedIn, and more to help businesses find their footing online.
Rates typically start around $20 to $40 per hour, but experienced social media managers can often earn $50 to $100+ per hour, especially if they specialize in areas like paid advertising or influencer partnerships. With time, this hustle can evolve into a part-time agency or even a full-fledged career.
Ecommerce side hustles
9. Affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing lets you earn commissions by promoting other companies’ products or services. It’s one of the simplest ways to monetize a blog, YouTube channel, podcast, or even your social media following. You’ll share unique referral links, and every time someone makes a purchase through them, you earn a cut.
With dedication and a large, consistent audience, affiliate marketers can earn anywhere from $100 to $10,000+ per month. The keys to success are choosing products that fit your niche, building trust with your audience, and creating valuable content that naturally drives clicks. It’s low-cost to start and flexible enough to run alongside a full-time job, making it a great option for earning extra income online.
10. Dropshipping
Dropshipping is an ecommerce model where you sell products online without ever handling inventory. When someone places an order, your supplier ships it directly to the customer. That means your focus is on building the store, marketing products, and handling customer service.
Earnings depend heavily on the niche and marketing. Many dropshippers earn a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month, with the potential to grow into a full-time small business. Startup costs are low, but success relies on finding reliable suppliers and products that resonate with buyers. If you’re drawn to ecommerce but don’t want to manage inventory, dropshipping is a practical entry point.
11. Print-on-demand products
Print-on-demand is a creative ecommerce hustle where you design custom products like t-shirts, mugs, or tote bags. A third-party service prints and ships each order as it comes in, so you don’t have to hold stock.
Income can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month, depending on how well your designs perform. All you need to start this business are strong visuals (or a designer you can collaborate with) and a storefront on platforms like Printful or Redbubble. The most successful print-on-demand shops focus on niche audiences and trendy, unique designs. This hustle is fully online and easy to scale once you have winning products.
12. Sell handmade items
Handmade goods never go out of style, and ecommerce platforms like Etsy, Amazon Handmade, or even your own online store make it simple to reach buyers who value craftsmanship. From jewelry and candles to home décor and art, handmade products offer a personal, one-of-a-kind appeal.
Earnings vary based on product type and demand, but many sellers generate a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month. Success often comes down to high-quality craftsmanship, professional product photography, and a brand story that connects with buyers. Selling handmade crafts online lets you turn creativity into income while building a business you fully control.
Related: How to find your Etsy shop name
13. Flipping items for profit
Flipping is all about finding undervalued items and reselling them for more. Furniture, electronics, clothing, and collectibles are common picks. You can source from thrift stores, flea markets, garage sales, or online marketplaces, then resell through eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Amazon. If you’re new to these platforms, read these guides to selling on Amazon and selling on Facebook for advice.
Some flippers make $500 a month as a hobby, while others turn it into a $5,000+ side hustle with enough volume. It takes time to source, clean, and list items, but if you enjoy treasure hunting, this side hustle is both fun and rewarding. As you gain experience, you’ll get better at spotting value and moving inventory quickly.
Education and coaching side hustles
14. Online tutoring
Online tutoring is a flexible way to share your knowledge and help students succeed. You can teach academic subjects, language skills, test prep, and more from the comfort of your own home.
Rates typically range from $20 to $60 per hour, with higher earnings for specialized subjects like STEM or standardized test prep. All you need is subject expertise, a reliable internet connection, and a computer with a webcam. Platforms like VIPKid, Chegg, and Pear Deck Tutor connect you with students around the world. The best part? You set your own schedule.
Online tutoring is a flexible side hustle that allows you to share your knowledge and help students learn. As an online tutor, you can teach a variety of subjects, from academic topics to language skills or test preparation.
15. Online personal trainer
For fitness enthusiasts, online personal training is a rewarding way to turn passion into income. Trainers create customized workout plans, lead virtual sessions, and often provide nutrition guidance to clients looking to meet their health goals.
Online trainers generally make $30 to $100+ per hour, depending on their experience and specialization. Certifications from organizations like NASM or ACE help build credibility, and you can expand your reach by offering coaching packages or creating on-demand workout content. Many trainers start part-time while working at a gym, then grow into online coaching businesses with recurring income streams.
16. Tech tutor for elders
Technology is constantly changing, which creates a growing need for patient, knowledgeable tutors for older adults. As a tech tutor, you’ll help seniors learn how to use smartphones, tablets, email, video calls, apps, and social media. You may also assist with device setup, online safety, and troubleshooting common problems.
Earnings usually range from $20 to $50 per hour, with potential to earn more by offering group classes at senior centers or retirement communities. Sessions can be done in person or remotely, and word-of-mouth referrals are common once you build trust. This side hustle is perfect if you’re tech-savvy and enjoy making a positive impact by helping people stay connected and independent in the digital age.
Administrative and professional services
17. Virtual assistant
Virtual assistants handle tasks like email management, scheduling, data entry, research, and more remotely. The work is varied, and the role is easy to customize based on your skills.
Rates typically range from $15 to $50 per hour, but specialists in areas like bookkeeping, email marketing, or project management often charge more. To get started, you’ll need strong organizational and communication skills, a reliable internet connection, and a laptop. Platforms like Upwork, Belay, and Virtual Assistant Jobs are good places to find new clients, but building direct relationships can help you land long-term contracts.
This side hustle offers great flexibility, allowing you to work from anywhere and often set your own hours. It's an excellent option for those with strong administrative skills looking for a flexible online side gig.
18. Bookkeeping
Bookkeeping is one of the most reliable side hustles for people who are detail-oriented and comfortable with numbers. Bookkeepers help businesses track income and expenses, reconcile accounts, and prepare financial reports.
People who do bookkeeping as a side hustle usually charge between $25 and $60 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the work. You don’t need to be a CPA, but training or certifications in bookkeeping software like QuickBooks or Xero can boost your credibility and help you land more jobs.
19. Translation services
If you’re fluent in more than one language, you can turn your language skills into income. Translators work with everything from marketing materials and websites to legal documents and medical reports. These jobs can be performed for businesses or individuals.
Earnings range from $20 to $80 per hour, with specialized areas like legal, financial, or medical translation commanding the highest rates. Platforms like ProZ, TranslatorsCafe, and Upwork make it easier to connect with clients worldwide.
20. Transcription
Transcriptionists convert audio or video into written text. This can include things like interviews, podcasts, medical dictations, and more. It’s a detail-oriented side hustle perfect for strong typists.
Rates start at $15 to $30 per hour, with specialized niches (like medical or legal transcription) paying more. Beginners can start with platforms like Rev.com and TranscribeMe (which may pay per word rather than per hour), while experienced transcriptionists often secure higher-paying gigs on freelance sites. All you need is a laptop, quality headphones, and fast, accurate typing skills.
21. Website design
Website design combines creativity with technical know-how. Businesses and individuals need modern, user-friendly sites, and skilled designers can deliver.
Earnings range from $500 to $5,000+ per project, depending on complexity and experience. Many designers use no-code platforms to streamline builds, while others code custom sites with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Make sure you have a strong portfolio to share with potential clients if you want to make money building websites from home.
22. Digital unclutter coach
With so much of life happening online, digital clutter is becoming a real problem. A digital unclutter coach helps people and businesses organize inboxes, streamline files, sort photos, and optimize productivity tools.
Rates often fall between $25 and $75 per hour, but some coaches choose to offer flat-rate packages instead. Success depends on being organized, tech-savvy, and good at teaching practical systems that clients can maintain. As remote work continues to rise, so does demand for this service. It’s a unique side hustle for those who love creating order out of digital chaos.
23. Website accessibility auditor
Web accessibility is a growing priority for businesses, and website auditors play an important role in helping sites meet standards like WCAG and ADA compliance. This side hustle involves reviewing websites for barriers like poor contrast, missing alt text, or inaccessible navigation.
Accessibility auditors can earn $30 to $100+ per hour, depending on expertise and the depth of the audit. Tools and training are available to help you learn best practices, but attention to detail and basic web knowledge are crucial.
Tech and digital services
24. AI chatbot developer
Businesses are turning to AI chatbots to streamline customer service and handle common questions 24/7. As a chatbot developer, you’ll design conversation flows, integrate bots into websites or apps, and help brands improve efficiency. Demand is growing fast, especially among small businesses and startups looking for affordable automation.
Freelance chatbot developers can earn $30 to over $100 per hour. Tools like ManyChat or Botpress make it easier to get started without deep coding skills, though technical knowledge gives you an edge. This side hustle is perfect for tech enthusiasts who enjoy problem-solving and user experience design.
25. AI prompt creator
As AI tools like ChatGPT, DALL·E, and Midjourney go mainstream, users want better results. A prompt creator designs and sells effective prompts or prompt bundles for specific tasks like content creation, coding, image generation, or marketing.
Some creators sell $10 to $50 prompt packs, while others run successful online shops generating hundreds to thousands of dollars per month. You can sell them through freelance sites like Fiverr, or via marketplaces like PromptBase. This is a side hustle for creative thinkers who enjoy experimenting with AI and want to help others unlock its full potential.
26. No-code app builder
No-code platforms like Bubble, Glide, and Webflow make it possible to build apps and websites without traditional coding. As a no-code app builder, you can create booking systems, client portals, directories, or internal tools for businesses that need affordable custom solutions.
Rates usually start at $25 to $75 per hour, with advanced builders charging $100+ per hour or flat fees of $1,000 to $5,000+ per project. You don’t need to be a developer, but you’ll need an eye for design and a knack for problem-solving. This side hustle is highly scalable: you can freelance, package templates for resale, or even launch your own SaaS product.
27. AI job application assistant
Job seekers need resumes and cover letters that stand out, and AI-powered tools can give them a boost. As an AI job application assistant, you’ll help clients optimize resumes for applicant tracking systems (ATS), polish LinkedIn profiles, and even generate tailored cover letters.
Earnings range from $50 to $200 per project, with the potential for higher income through bundled services or ongoing career coaching. You don’t need to be a recruiter, but experience in HR, writing, or career services is helpful. Platforms like LinkedIn and Fiverr are great for landing your first clients.
Services-based side hustles
28. Babysitting/childcare
Babysitting and childcare services are classic side hustles that never go out of style. Parents are always looking for reliable, trustworthy caregivers, especially for evenings and weekends.
Childcare rates vary by location, experience, and services offered, but many people earn between $15 and $30 per hour. You can increase your credibility by getting CPR certificates and collecting references. Local Facebook groups, Care.com, and UrbanSitter make it easier to connect with families near you.
29. Elder care
Providing elder care is a meaningful side hustle focused on companionship, errands, meal prep, or light household tasks. Many families are looking for empathetic, reliable support for their loved ones that allows them to live their day-to-day lives.
Earnings generally range from $20 to $30 per hour, with potential for more depending on the level of care required. This side hustle works best for patient, caring individuals who enjoy making a positive difference in their community. The flexible hours and personal connections make it especially rewarding.
30. House cleaning
House cleaning is a straightforward side hustle with consistent demand. Cleaners help homeowners maintain tidy spaces, and recurring clients can turn this into reliable income.
Rates usually fall between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on location and home size. All you need to start are basic supplies, transportation, and a willingness to do physical work. It’s hard work, but it’s steady and flexible.
31. Renting out your home
Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO make it easy to rent out your home—or even just a spare room—for extra cash. Depending on location and demand, hosts often earn $500 to $2,500+ per month.
Success comes from creating a welcoming, well-staged space, posting high-quality photos, and keeping your calendar updated. You can offer short-term stays, longer leases, or even rent your property as a filming location. It’s a side hustle that requires some upfront effort but can deliver significant passive income.
32. Rideshare driving
Driving for apps like Uber or Lyft offers flexibility and the ability to earn on your schedule. You set your hours and decide how often you want to drive.
Drivers typically earn $15 to $25 per hour before expenses, though this varies by city, time of day, and demand. You’ll need to pass a background check, as well as have a reliable vehicle and a clean driving record. It’s important to factor in fuel, maintenance, and insurance costs, but rideshare driving remains one of the fastest ways to start earning right away.
33. Gig-based delivery services
Food and grocery delivery through apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Instacart has become a go-to side hustle. You can log in whenever you want and make money delivering meals or essentials.
Earnings generally range from $15 to $25 per hour with tips, though location and demand affect totals. Some drivers find certain neighborhoods or times of day much more profitable. You’ll need a car, bike, or scooter, plus a smartphone. It’s an easy, low-barrier entry point into the gig economy.
34. Local experience curator
If you love your city and enjoy sharing it with others, curating local experiences can be a fun and profitable side hustle. Think food tours, art walks, outdoor adventures, or hands-on workshops.
Successful curators often charge $20 to $100+ per guest, depending on the activity. Platforms like Airbnb Experiences and Eventbrite make it easy to set up and sell tickets. This is an ideal hustle for outgoing people who know their community well and want to turn that knowledge into income.
35. Pet sitting/dog walking
Pet sitting and dog walking are enjoyable ways for animal lovers to earn extra money. You can offer daily walks, overnight care, or drop-in visits for owners on the go.
Rates depend on your location, experience, and the services you offer, but they generally range from $15 to $50 per hour. People who provide overnight accommodations for pets often use flat-rate pricing instead of hourly rates. Apps like Rover and Wag! connect sitters with pet owners, but positive reviews and word-of-mouth are the real keys to building long-term clients.
30 more side hustle ideas
If the previous 35 side hustle ideas aren’t enough to kickstart your journey, don’t worry—there are nearly endless possibilities out there. The truth is, side hustles come in all shapes and sizes, and sometimes the best opportunities are the ones you haven’t considered yet. Check out the table below for even more side hustle ideas you can explore.
| 36. Voice-over work (aka voice acting/narration) | 51. Personal chef services for special diets/Meal prep services |
| 37. Creating and selling mobile apps | 52. Calligraphy and hand lettering services |
| 38. Bicycle repair and maintenance | 53. Social media influencer |
| 39. Virtual event hosting or moderation | 54. Professional organizing services for homes/businesses |
| 40. Mystery/secret shopping | 55. Tech setup services (e.g. setting up home networks, smart home devices) |
| 41. Equipment rental (cameras, tools, instruments, etc.) | 56. Online coaching/consulting |
| 42. Freelance SEO services | 57. Personal shopping services |
| 43. Vacation planning services | 58. Aquarium maintenance |
| 44. Scrap metal collection and recycling | 59. Genealogy research services |
| 45. Mobile car washing and detailing | 60. Virtual event planning |
| 46. User testing websites/apps | 61. Wedding officiant services |
| 47. 3D printing | 62. Making and selling stock music |
| 48. Selling digital templates (resumes, spreadsheets, etc.) | 63. Home staging for real estate sales |
| 49. Teaching music lessons online | 64. Mobile laundry services |
| 50. Offering virtual interior design consultations | 65. Beekeeping and honey production |
How to find the best side hustle for you
To find the right side hustle for you, start by asking yourself:
- What skills do I already have? Think about strengths you can turn into income.
- What do I actually enjoy? Choosing something that aligns with your interests makes it easier to stay motivated.
- Is there market demand for it? A good side hustle solves a real problem or meets a need in the market.
Be realistic about your time and lifestyle, too. Do you have available evenings, weekends, or just an hour here and there? Are you looking for quick cash or building something long-term? Research your competitors, look for gaps you can fill, and don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the right fit.
The best side hustle will feel like a natural extension of your strengths and bring you closer to your financial or personal goals. It may take some trial and error, but once you hit that sweet spot, you’ll know you’ve found the one worth sticking with.
How to kickstart your side hustle
Before embarking on your side hustle venture, put together a simple plan. Set clear, achievable goals, then break them into smaller tasks so you can keep moving forward without feeling overwhelmed.
Next, let’s talk tech for your side hustle
Digital tools can make starting your side hustle easier than ever. Want to sell your skills? Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr connect you with clients. Thinking about tutoring? Sites like VIPKid or Chegg are a good place to begin.
If content creation is your path, GoDaddy’s WordPress Hosting is a great way to get your blog up and running. For ecommerce, you can build and customize your store with GoDaddy’s Online Store Builder. No matter the hustle, creating a simple website and keeping your social media active helps boost visibility and trust.
Start small, focus on delivering great work, and let your reputation grow. As you gain traction, keep an eye on what’s working, refine your approach, and be ready to adapt. Small steps today can lead to big wins tomorrow.
Tips and strategies for successful side hustling
Balancing a side hustle with a full-time job isn’t always easy, but with the right strategies, it’s completely doable. Build a schedule you can actually stick to and focus on progress over perfection. Be prepared to invest some effort—and maybe a little money—upfront, and remember to celebrate small wins along the way. Not every idea will be a hit, and that’s okay. Learn from what doesn’t work, adjust, and keep moving forward.
Manage your energy and focus
Avoid burnout by keeping an eye on your energy levels. Focus on tasks that play to your strengths and give you energy rather than drain it. Build in short breaks to recharge, stay active, and find routines that support your mental well-being. When you protect your focus, you’ll be able to grow your side hustle without sacrificing your health.
Maintain high performance in your primary job
Your side hustle should never come at the expense of your main career. Keep clear boundaries so your full-time work stays strong and dependable. Excelling in your primary job secures your main income and builds a stable foundation to grow your side hustle.
Set clear metrics for success
Define what success looks like before you dive in. Whether it’s a specific revenue target, a number of new clients, or audience growth, having measurable goals makes it easier to track progress and know when to pivot. Regular check-ins with your numbers keep your hustle aligned with your bigger financial and career goals.
Assess whether you truly need the extra income
Before jumping into a side hustle, take a step back and look at your finances. Do you need extra income to cover expenses, save faster, or invest in long-term goals? Knowing your “why” will help you pick the right hustle and stay motivated when things get busy.
Side hustle success stories – real people, real results
Wondering what’s truly possible with a side hustle? These real-life stories prove that with creativity, persistence, and the right tools, anyone can turn an idea into extra income, or even a thriving business.
Ryn Scull: Scull House Sweets
In Austin, Texas, Ryn Scull set out to bake the perfect chocolate chip cookie and ended up building Scull House Sweets during the COVID-19 pandemic. With no formal baking background and while working full-time as a hospice social worker, Ryn used creativity and a GoDaddy website to grow her customer base. Her advice for others: “Do it scared.” Her story is proof that you don’t need years of experience—just passion, persistence, and the right tools.
Olive Klug: Musician as digital entrepreneur
Independent singer-songwriter Olive Klug shows how artists can turn their craft into income by building a strong digital presence. Olive uses their website to bring music, merch, and tour dates together in one place and connects with fans directly through email lists instead of relying only on social media algorithms. Their journey is a reminder that creative professionals can monetize their work by taking control of their online presence and brand.
Consuelo Rosales: Consuelo Cleaning Services
In Arkansas, Consuelo Rosales started a cleaning service as a way to support her family and create independence. With digital tools, word-of-mouth referrals, and the help of a microloan, she grew her side hustle into a full-fledged business. Consuelo’s story highlights how providing essential services—combined with persistence and smart use of resources—can lead to financial stability and long-term success.
What kind of side hustle to avoid?
Not every side hustle is worth investing your time, energy, and resources in. While there are countless legitimate opportunities out there, there are also plenty of traps. Here are a few red flags to watch out for:
- “Get rich quick” schemes: If someone promises overnight success, it’s a scam.
- High upfront costs: Be cautious of side hustles that require big investments before you start earning.
- Multi-level marketing (MLM) setups: If the focus is on recruiting people instead of selling real products, steer clear.
- Costly certifications or training: Legitimate gigs don’t require expensive buy-ins just to get started.
- Heavy inventory requirements: Avoid any opportunity that pushes you to buy bulk products upfront without proof of demand.
- Unclear business models: If you can’t explain how the money is made in one sentence, it’s probably not worth your time.
Do your research, ask questions, and trust your gut. A good side hustle should put money in your pocket by using your skills or resources, not drain your savings with empty promises.
Start your side hustle today
At the end of the day, the best side hustle is the one that fits your skills, lifestyle, and goals. The opportunities are out there, and you can get started in as little as a few hours.
GoDaddy Airo gives you the tools to do just that. From building a website and creating a logo to writing content and launching marketing campaigns, Airo makes it simple to bring your side hustle to life.
FAQs about your side hustle journey
How much money can you earn with side jobs?
Earnings from side jobs vary widely based on the job, your skill level, and the time you invest. Freelance writers, for example, can earn between $50 to $1,000 per article, while dog walkers make around $20 to $40 per walk. Start small, excel at your tasks, and your income can grow as you gain experience and clients.
What are the most profitable side hustles?
The most profitable side hustles often involve specialized skills or high-demand services. These include freelance web development, social media management, and high-end tutoring. Lucrative options also extend to ecommerce businesses like dropshipping or print-on-demand. Real estate investing, such as property flipping or vacation rentals, can also be highly profitable. However, significant effort and time investment are usually required.
What’s an easy side hustle?
Easy side hustles typically require minimal startup costs and leverage skills you already have. Examples include taking online surveys, pet sitting, dog walking, selling unused items online, or renting out a spare room on Airbnb. These options are straightforward and low-effort, making them ideal for beginners.
How do you find side gigs?
Finding side gigs is straightforward in the digital age. Use freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr, and check job boards such as FlexJobs and Indeed. Network on social media, especially LinkedIn, and inform friends and family about your availability. Local community boards and apps like NextDoor can also help you find nearby opportunities.
Should I start an LLC for my side hustle?
Forming an LLC (Limited Liability Company) can be a smart move once your side hustle starts to grow. An LLC separates your personal finances from your business, which helps protect your personal assets if any legal or financial issues come up. It can also add credibility to your business and make it easier to open a business bank account. That said, you don’t have to create an LLC to get started. Many side hustlers begin as sole proprietors because it’s the simplest setup. For more information, check out this guide on how to start a business in 10 steps.
What are fun side jobs?
Fun side jobs are those that align with your interests and feel more like a hobby than work. For animal lovers, pet sitting or dog walking can be a blast. If you're crafty, selling handmade items on Etsy can be rewarding.
Photography enthusiasts might enjoy doing weekend photo shoots. Foodies could have fun as food delivery drivers, sampling local restaurants. Gaming aficionados could try streaming on Twitch.
Are side hustles worth it?
Yes, side hustles can be worth it if they’re managed well. They give you extra income, new skills, and the chance to explore passions outside your main job. The challenges usually come from time management, stress, or upfront costs if your hustle requires equipment or inventory. To avoid burnout, pick something that fits your interests and schedule, and set realistic goals so you can balance work, life, and your hustle without stretching yourself too thin.
How to file taxes for a side hustle?
Income from a side hustle is taxable, so you’ll need to report it when filing. Keep track of your earnings and expenses throughout the year, and set aside money for taxes. Depending on your setup, you may also need to know the difference between an EIN vs. TIN. To stay on top of filing dates, review these business tax deadlines.
