Looking for practical ways to earn extra income or get a fresh start financially? A side hustle might be your answer.
With the rising cost of living, many people are turning to part-time gigs and small businesses to supplement their main income. In fact, a recent study found that around 10% of Americans started a side business or second job in 2025 because their primary income wasn’t enough to cover expenses.
Below are 17 smart and realistic side hustles to consider — both online and offline — to help you make more money this year.
💻 How to Make Money Online
Who doesn’t want to earn income from the comfort of their home? While some online hustles take time to build, others can give you small, quick wins right away.
1. Start Freelancing Online
Freelancing remains one of the best ways to earn money online. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com allow you to offer services such as writing, web design, programming, data entry, or virtual assistance.
While AI tools are becoming popular, there’s still growing demand for human-centered skills like coaching, marketing, and training. For example, Upwork’s 2025 data shows strong growth in technical and personal development fields.
Many freelancers charge anywhere from $20 to $100+ per hour, depending on skill and experience.
Pro tip: Keep your rates competitive and regularly update your portfolio.
Example: Soraya Ivette, a Fiverr freelancer, started part-time while caring for her kids and quickly built consistent monthly income through regular clients.
2. Earn Money Through Legit Survey Sites
Survey apps won’t make you rich, but they can earn you some small, easy cash or gift cards in your spare time.
Popular options include Swagbucks and Survey Junkie. While payouts are usually low, they’re quick to start and perfect for light, passive earnings.
3. Monetize a Blog with Affiliate Marketing
If you already have a website or blog that attracts traffic, you can earn by adding affiliate links. This means partnering with brands like Amazon, ClickBank, or ShareASale and earning a commission every time someone buys through your link.
Your success depends on how well you can build and grow your audience — through SEO, social media, or email lists.
4. Sell Handmade Goods on Etsy
If you enjoy crafting — like jewelry, pottery, art, or embroidery — you can sell your creations on Etsy, which has over 95 million active buyers.
While starting an Etsy shop is simple, you’ll need attractive product photos, solid marketing, and competitive pricing to stand out. Research what similar sellers are doing to gain inspiration.
5. Sell Digital Products on Gumroad
Digital products can be a great source of passive income. Platforms like Gumroad or Etsy allow you to sell e-books, guides, printable planners, templates, or even online courses.
Use free design tools like Canva to create your products.
Example: A 280-page digital cookbook on Gumroad sells for $39 and has dozens of positive reviews — proof that digital content sells when it provides real value.
6. Self-Publish an E-book on Kindle
If you’re good at writing, consider publishing an e-book through Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). It’s free to publish, and you can earn up to 70% royalties on each sale.
Simply upload your manuscript, write a catchy description, set your price, and publish. You’ll earn money every time a reader buys your book.
7. Earn from YouTube Ads
If you love creating video content, start a YouTube channel. Once you reach 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours, you can apply for the YouTube Partner Program and start earning from ads.
You can also access channel memberships once you hit 500 subscribers, which lets followers support you monthly.
8. Stream on Twitch
Twitch is the go-to platform for gamers and live streamers. If you can build a steady audience, you can earn through Bits (virtual cheers), subscriptions, and ad revenue.
Once you reach Affiliate or Partner status, your income potential grows significantly.
🚗 How to Make Money Offline
Not all profitable hustles happen online. Some involve getting out, meeting people, and offering hands-on services. Here are a few offline options that can help you earn extra cash.
9. Deliver for DoorDash, Instacart, or Amazon Flex
Food and parcel delivery services are in high demand. Apps like DoorDash, Instacart, and Amazon Flex pay per delivery — plus tips.
You can deliver using a car, bike, or even a scooter in some cities. Most services require a quick background check before approval.
10. Walk Dogs with Rover or Wag
If you love animals, become a dog walker or pet sitter through apps like Wag or Rover.
You can earn an extra $300 or more per month, depending on your area and the number of clients you serve. Some users also offer overnight pet care for extra income.
11. Rent Out a Room on Airbnb
Got a spare room or an empty apartment? Rent it out on Airbnb to earn passive income.
Keep in mind that hosting requires upkeep — cleaning, replacing items, and following local regulations or HOA rules. But if done well, it can bring in steady cash each month.
12. Sell Secondhand Clothes
Turn your closet into cash by selling items you no longer wear. You can use local consignment shops or online resale platforms like Poshmark and ThredUp.
Take bright, clear photos and check what similar items are selling for before setting your prices.
13. Offer Babysitting Services
Babysitting remains a flexible and reliable way to earn. Sign up on Care.com or Sittercity to reach more families, or rely on referrals from friends and neighbors.
Highlight any special skills, such as CPR certification, to stand out.
14. Rent Out Your Car on Turo
If your car sits unused for long periods, rent it out on Turo or Getaround. You’ll earn money every time someone rents your vehicle, while the platforms handle insurance coverage and logistics.
You can create a listing in under 30 minutes and start earning quickly.
15. Join TaskRabbit
If you enjoy helping others with errands or repairs, try TaskRabbit. You can find local jobs like assembling furniture, cleaning, moving, or even remote work like data entry.
Your earnings depend on your skill, availability, and location, but it’s a reliable way to make a few hundred dollars extra per month.
16. Become a Private Tutor
If you’re good at a subject — like math, science, or language — you can earn by tutoring students online or in person.
Websites like Tutor.com, Care.com, and local schools can connect you with students. Your rates can vary depending on expertise and demand.
17. Drive for Uber or Lyft
Driving for Uber or Lyft is one of the most popular ways to earn money flexibly. You’ll need a reliable car, a clean background check, and a valid driver’s license.
Your income depends on when and how often you drive — peak hours and busy locations often pay more.
⚠️ Be Careful with Online Money-Making Scams
While there are many legitimate side hustles, scams are also common. Avoid any offer that:
-
Asks for upfront payment or “training fees.”
-
Requests your personal financial details or credit card info.
-
Sounds “too good to be true.”
Always research before signing up.