12 Side Hustle Ideas To Make Extra Money

ByCaesar Reading Time: 6 minutes

In today’s fast-paced world, many people are looking for ways to supplement their income and achieve financial stability. Whether you’re saving for a big purchase, paying off debt, or simply looking to increase your disposable income, a side hustle can be an excellent solution.

According to a 2022 survey, 45% of working Americans have a side hustle or have added an additional income stream. This growing trend highlights the increasing need for financial security and the desire to explore entrepreneurial opportunities.

In this article, we’ll explore 12 side hustle ideas selected  from the Side Hustle Ideas Database that can help you make extra money.

1. Become an Affiliate Marketer

Affiliate marketing involves promoting other people’s products and earning a commission for each sale made through your referral link. This can be done through blogs, social media, or dedicated websites.

Earnings can vary widely. Some affiliates make a few hundred dollars a month, while top earners can make six figures annually. Commissions typically range from 5% to 50% of the sale price, depending on the product and affiliate program.

To get started:

  • Choose a niche that interests you.
  • Join affiliate programs like Amazon Associates, Clickbank, or ShareASale.
  • Promote products through your blog, social media, or email marketing.
  • Track your performance and optimize your strategies.

2. Start a Blog or Newsletter

Blogging and newsletters involve creating content on topics you are passionate about and monetizing through ads, affiliate marketing, or paid subscriptions.

Income can range from a few dollars per month to thousands, depending on traffic and monetization strategies. Successful bloggers and newsletter creators can earn six figures annually.

To get started:

  • Choose a niche and create a content plan.
  • Set up a blog using platforms like WordPress or a newsletter using tools like Substack.
  • Promote your content through social media and SEO.
  • Monetize through ads, affiliate links, or paid subscriptions.

3. Sell Your Photography

Photographers can sell their work as stock photos, prints, or through freelance gigs. Stock photo websites like Shutterstock and Getty Images are popular platforms for selling images.

Earnings vary based on the platform and the quality of photos. Stock photo sales can bring in a few dollars per image, while freelance gigs and print sales can be more lucrative, potentially earning hundreds to thousands per project.

To get started:

  • Build a portfolio of high-quality images.
  • Sign up with stock photo websites or create your own online store.
  • Promote your work through social media and photography communities.
  • Consider offering freelance photography services for events or businesses.

4. Participate in Paid Online Surveys

Paid online surveys involve providing feedback on products and services in exchange for cash or gift cards. Companies use this data for market research.

Earnings are generally modest, ranging from a few cents to a few dollars per survey. Some dedicated survey takers can earn up to $100 per month.

To get started:

  • Sign up for reputable survey sites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and InboxDollars.
  • Complete your profile to receive relevant surveys.
  • Take surveys in your spare time and accumulate points or cash rewards.
  • Redeem your earnings through PayPal or gift cards.

5. Get Paid to Test Apps and Websites

Website and app testing involves evaluating the usability and functionality of digital products. Testers provide feedback to help developers improve their products.

Testers can earn $10 to $60 per test, depending on the complexity and duration. Some platforms offer additional bonuses for detailed feedback15.

To get started:

  • Sign up with testing platforms like UserTesting, Trymata, and TestingTime.
  • Complete a sample test to qualify.
  • Accept testing opportunities and provide detailed feedback.
  • Get paid via PayPal or other payment methods.

6. Start a Podcast

Podcasting involves creating audio content on topics of interest and distributing it through platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Monetization can come from ads, sponsorships, and listener donations.

Earnings vary widely. Some podcasters make a few hundred dollars per month, while popular shows can earn thousands through sponsorships and ads.

To get started:

  • Choose a niche and format for your podcast.
  • Invest in basic recording equipment and software.
  • Record and edit your episodes.
  • Publish your podcast on platforms like Anchor or Libsyn.
  • Promote your podcast through social media and collaborations.

7. Design and Sell Your Own T-Shirts

Designing and selling t-shirts involves creating unique designs and selling them through platforms like Teespring, Redbubble, or your own online store.

Earnings depend on the popularity of your designs and marketing efforts. Some designers make a few dollars per sale, while successful ones can earn thousands per month.

To get started:

  • Create unique and appealing designs.
  • Sign up with print-on-demand platforms.
  • Upload your designs and set your prices.
  • Promote your products through social media and online communities.

8. Get Sponsorships on Social Media

Social media influencers can earn money by promoting brands and products to their followers. Sponsorships can come in the form of paid posts, free products, or affiliate commissions.

Earnings vary based on follower count and engagement. Micro-influencers can earn a few hundred dollars per post, while top influencers can make thousands.

To get started:

  • Build a strong social media presence in a specific niche.
  • Engage with your audience and grow your follower count.
  • Reach out to brands for sponsorship opportunities.
  • Create high-quality content that aligns with your brand and audience.

9. Give Tours of Your Neighborhood

Offering tours involves guiding visitors through your local area, sharing insights and stories about the history, culture, and attractions.

Tour guides can earn $20 to $50 per hour, depending on the location and type of tour. Tips can also add to the income.

To get started:

  • Research and plan interesting tour routes.
  • Promote your tours through platforms like Airbnb Experiences or local tourism websites.
  • Offer unique and engaging experiences to attract customers.
  • Collect reviews and feedback to improve your tours.

10. Mow Lawns and Do Other Landscaping Tasks

Landscaping tasks include mowing lawns, trimming hedges, planting flowers, and other yard maintenance services. This can be a seasonal or year-round side hustle.

Earnings can range from $20 to $50 per hour, depending on the complexity of the tasks and the local market.

To get started:

  • Invest in basic landscaping equipment.
  • Advertise your services through local classifieds, social media, or flyers.
  • Offer competitive pricing and excellent customer service.
  • Build a regular client base through word-of-mouth and referrals.

11. Start a Dropshipping Business

Dropshipping involves selling products online without holding inventory. When a customer makes a purchase, the supplier ships the product directly to them.

Earnings depend on the niche, product selection, and marketing efforts. Successful dropshippers can earn thousands of dollars per month.

To get started:

  • Choose a niche and find reliable suppliers.
  • Set up an online store using platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce.
  • List products and set competitive prices.
  • Drive traffic to your store through SEO, social media, and paid ads.

12. Become an IRL or Online Tutor

Tutoring involves teaching students in person or online in subjects you are knowledgeable about. This can range from academic subjects to music or language lessons.

Tutors can earn $20 to $100 per hour, depending on the subject and level of expertise. Online platforms may take a commission.

To get started:

  • Identify your areas of expertise and target audience.
  • Sign up with tutoring platforms like Tutor.com, Wyzant, or VIPKid.
  • Create a profile and set your rates.
  • Promote your services through local schools, community centers, or online forums.

If these 12 side hustle ideas aren’t for you, visit the Side Hustles Database to explore more options. With hundreds of ideas available, you’re bound to find a suitable one. 

Additionally, you can take the side hustle quiz to discover which option best aligns with your personality or goals.

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