15 Savvy Side Gigs to Boost Your Bottom Line

As an online entrepreneur who’s dipped my toes into countless side hustles over the years, I’ve learned a thing or two about making extra cash in my spare time. Trust me, I’ve been there – juggling a day job while trying to boost my income on the side. It’s not always easy, but it can be incredibly rewarding, both financially and personally.

In this article, I’m excited to share 15 side hustle ideas based on the Side Hustle Database that I believe are perfect for beginners looking to pad their wallets. These aren’t get-rich-quick schemes or complex business models that require a Ph.D. to understand. Instead, they’re practical, accessible ways to earn extra money that I’ve either tried myself or seen friends succeed with.

1. Start a Podcast

Podcasting has become an increasingly popular medium for sharing content and building an audience. As a side hustle, it allows you to share your knowledge, experiences, or interests with listeners while potentially earning income. Podcasts can cover any topic, from true crime to business advice to pop culture commentary.

Podcasting income can vary widely depending on audience size and monetization strategies. New podcasters may earn little to nothing initially, while established podcasts can generate significant revenue:

• Small podcasts (1,000 downloads per episode): $500-$900 per month
• Medium podcasts (10,000 downloads per episode): $3,000-$5,000 per month
• Large podcasts (100,000+ downloads per episode): $10,000-$100,000+ per month

Income sources include sponsorships, advertising, merchandise sales, and listener donations.

How to Get Started

• Choose a niche or topic you’re passionate about
• Invest in basic recording equipment (microphone, headphones, recording software)
• Plan your podcast format and episode structure
• Record and edit your first few episodes
• Create podcast artwork and write a compelling description
• Choose a podcast hosting platform
• Submit your podcast to directories like Apple Podcasts and Spotify
• Promote your podcast on social media and other channels
• Consistently produce new episodes to grow your audience

2. Deliver Groceries and Other Items

With the rise of on-demand delivery services, becoming a delivery driver for groceries, meals, or other items has become a flexible side hustle option. This work involves picking up orders from stores or restaurants and delivering them to customers’ homes or offices.

Earnings for delivery drivers can vary based on location, demand, and the specific platform. According to Side Hustles Database, drivers can expect to earn:

• $15-$25 per hour before expenses
• $100-$300 per day for full-time work
• $500-$1000 per week working part-time

Some platforms offer bonuses for completing a certain number of deliveries or working during peak hours.

How to Get Started

• Choose a delivery platform (e.g., Instacart, DoorDash, Uber Eats)
• Sign up as a driver and complete the application process
• Ensure you meet the requirements (valid driver’s license, insurance, etc.)
• Download the app and complete any required training
• Set your availability and start accepting delivery requests
• Maintain a high rating by providing good customer service

3. Becoming a Brand Ambassador

Brand ambassadors represent companies and promote their products or services through various channels, including social media, events, and in-person interactions. This side hustle allows you to leverage your personality and network to earn money while supporting brands you believe in.

Brand ambassador earnings can vary widely based on the brand, campaign scope, and your level of influence:

• Entry-level: $15-$30 per hour for event-based work
• Established ambassadors: $1,000-$5,000 per month for ongoing campaigns
• Influencer-level ambassadors: $10,000+ per month or per campaign

Some brand ambassador roles also offer product samples or other perks in addition to monetary compensation.

How to Get Started

• Build a strong social media presence
• Identify brands that align with your interests and values
• Create a portfolio showcasing your personality and reach
• Apply to brand ambassador programs or reach out to companies directly
• Attend networking events in your industry
• Consistently engage with your audience and create content
• Maintain professionalism and follow through on commitments

4. Give Tours of Your Neighborhood

If you’re knowledgeable about your local area, giving tours can be an enjoyable way to earn extra money. This side hustle involves guiding visitors through interesting or historic parts of your neighborhood, sharing stories, and providing insider tips.

Earnings for local tour guides can vary based on location, tour length, and demand:

• Average hourly rate: $15-$30 per hour
• Per-tour earnings: $50-$150 for a 2-3 hour tour
• Potential monthly earnings: $500-$2,000 working part-time

Tips from satisfied customers can provide additional income.

How to Get Started

• Research your neighborhood’s history, culture, and points of interest
• Develop a unique tour concept (e.g., food tour, ghost tour, architecture walk)
• Create an engaging tour script and route
• Set your pricing and tour duration
• List your tour on platforms like Airbnb Experiences or TripAdvisor
• Promote your tours through local businesses and social media
• Gather positive reviews to build credibility
• Consider getting licensed if required in your area

5. Become an IRL or Online Tutor

Tutoring, whether in-person (IRL) or online, is a popular side hustle that allows you to share your knowledge and skills with students who need extra help. This flexible option can be tailored to your schedule and expertise, making it ideal for students, professionals, or anyone with strong subject knowledge.

Tutoring rates vary widely based on subject, experience, and location:

• Online tutoring: $15-$50 per hour
• In-person tutoring: $25-$80 per hour
• Specialized subjects (e.g., test prep, advanced math): $50-$200+ per hour

Experienced tutors with a strong reputation can command higher rates, especially for in-demand subjects.

How to Get Started

• Identify your areas of expertise and target subjects
• Obtain any necessary certifications (some platforms require them)
• Create profiles on tutoring platforms like Chegg, TutorMe, or Wyzant
• Set up a home office with reliable internet for online tutoring
• Develop a curriculum or lesson plans for your subjects
• Start with competitive rates to build a client base
• Ask for reviews and referrals to grow your business
• Consider specializing in high-demand areas like test prep or STEM subjects

6. Monetize a YouTube Channel

YouTube offers creators a platform to share content and potentially earn money through various monetization strategies. Success on YouTube requires consistent, high-quality content creation and building an engaged audience.

YouTube earnings can vary dramatically:

• Small channels (1,000-10,000 subscribers): $100-$1,000 per month
• Medium channels (10,000-100,000 subscribers): $1,000-$10,000 per month
• Large channels (100,000+ subscribers): $10,000-$100,000+ per month

Top YouTubers can earn millions annually through ad revenue, sponsorships, and merchandise sales.

How to Get Started

• Choose a niche or topic for your channel
• Invest in basic equipment (camera, microphone, editing software)
• Create and optimize your YouTube channel
• Produce high-quality, engaging content consistently
• Learn about YouTube SEO to improve video visibility
• Engage with your audience through comments and community posts
• Join the YouTube Partner Program once eligible (1,000 subscribers, 4,000 watch hours)
• Explore additional revenue streams like sponsorships and merchandise
• Collaborate with other creators to expand your audience

Learn more about how to make money with YouTube here.

7. Get Sponsorships on Social Media

Social media influencers can earn money by partnering with brands to promote products or services to their followers. This side hustle leverages your online presence and engagement to create valuable marketing opportunities for businesses.

Earnings vary based on follower count, engagement rate, and niche:

• Nano-influencers (1,000-10,000 followers): $10-$100 per post
• Micro-influencers (10,000-100,000 followers): $100-$500 per post
• Macro-influencers (100,000-1 million followers): $500-$5,000 per post
• Mega-influencers (1 million+ followers): $5,000-$100,000+ per post

How to Get Started

• Choose your primary social media platform(s)
• Define your niche and target audience
• Create consistent, high-quality content to grow your following
• Engage with your audience to build a strong community
• Use relevant hashtags and collaborate with other creators
• Develop a media kit showcasing your audience demographics and engagement rates
• Join influencer marketing platforms like AspireIQ or Upfluence
• Reach out to brands that align with your niche and values
• Negotiate fair rates and clearly disclose sponsored content

8. Get Paid to Test Apps and Websites

App and website testing involves providing feedback on user experience, functionality, and design. This side hustle is ideal for tech-savvy individuals who enjoy exploring new digital products and offering constructive criticism.

Earnings for app and website testing are typically per-task:

• Short tests (5-15 minutes): $3-$15
• Longer tests (15-30 minutes): $10-$30
• Live testing sessions (30-60 minutes): $30-$100

Experienced testers who qualify for more specialized tests can earn higher rates.

How to Get Started

• Sign up for testing platforms like UserTesting, Testbirds, or TryMyUI
• Complete your profile with detailed information about your demographics and tech expertise
• Pass any required qualification tests
• Install necessary testing software or apps on your devices
• Check regularly for available tests that match your profile
• Complete tests thoroughly and provide clear, actionable feedback
• Submit tests promptly to maintain a good rating
• Build your reputation by consistently delivering high-quality feedback
• Consider specializing in certain types of apps or websites to qualify for higher-paying tests

9. Refereeing

Refereeing involves officiating sports games at various levels, from youth leagues to professional matches. This side hustle is ideal for sports enthusiasts who have a deep understanding of game rules and can maintain composure under pressure. Referees are responsible for ensuring fair play, enforcing rules, and managing the flow of the game.

Earnings vary based on the sport, level of competition, and experience:

• Youth leagues: $25-$50 per game
• High school games: $50-$100 per game
• College games: $100-$300 per game
• Professional matches: $500-$3,000+ per game

Top-level professional referees in major sports can earn six-figure salaries annually.

How to Get Started

• Choose a sport you’re passionate about and knowledgeable in
• Research local refereeing associations and certification requirements
• Complete required training courses and pass certification exams
• Purchase necessary equipment (whistle, uniform, rule book)
• Start with lower-level games to gain experience
• Network with other referees and join local officiating organizations
• Continuously study rules and improve your skills
• Gradually work your way up to higher-level games
• Consider specializing in a particular sport or level to increase earning potential

10. Babysitting and Child Care

Babysitting and child care involve looking after children when parents or guardians are unavailable. This side hustle can range from occasional evening babysitting to regular after-school care. It requires patience, responsibility, and a genuine interest in working with children.

Rates for babysitting and child care vary based on location, experience, and number of children:

• Average hourly rate: $15-$25
• Experienced sitters or those with special skills: $25-$40 per hour
• Full-time nannies: $30,000-$60,000+ per year

Additional factors like late hours, special needs children, or extra responsibilities can increase rates.

How to Get Started

• Gain experience by caring for family members or friends’ children
• Take a babysitting course and get CPR/First Aid certified
• Create a profile on babysitting websites like Care.com or Sittercity
• Ask for references from previous babysitting jobs
• Set competitive rates based on your experience and local market
• Clearly communicate your availability and services
• Consider specializing in areas like newborn care or special needs children
• Always prioritize child safety and follow parents’ instructions
• Build a reputation through word-of-mouth referrals

11. Selling Old Clothes

Selling old clothes is an eco-friendly way to declutter your wardrobe while earning extra money. This side hustle involves identifying valuable items in your closet, preparing them for sale, and finding the right platforms to reach potential buyers.

Earnings from selling old clothes can vary widely:

• Average earnings: $100-$500 per month
• High-end or designer items: $50-$1,000+ per item
• Vintage or rare pieces: $100-$5,000+ per item

Consistent sellers with a good eye for fashion trends can potentially earn more.

How to Get Started

• Sort through your wardrobe and identify items to sell
• Research similar items to price your clothes competitively
• Clean and repair items as needed
• Take high-quality photos in good lighting
• Write detailed descriptions including size, brand, and condition
• Choose selling platforms (e.g., Poshmark, Depop, ThredUP, local consignment shops)
• Create appealing listings and share them on social media
• Package items carefully and ship promptly
• Provide excellent customer service to encourage positive reviews
• Consider expanding to buying and reselling clothes from thrift stores

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 side hustle allows you to run an online store with minimal upfront investment.

Dropshipping income can vary significantly:

• Beginners: $100-$1,000 per month
• Established stores: $1,000-$10,000 per month
• Successful businesses: $10,000-$100,000+ per month

Profit margins typically range from 10% to 30%, depending on the products and marketing strategies.

How to Get Started

• Research profitable niches and products
• Choose an e-commerce platform (e.g., Shopify, WooCommerce)
• Find reliable suppliers (AliExpress, Oberlo, SaleHoo)
• Set up your online store and customize its design
• Add products to your store with compelling descriptions and images
• Set competitive prices that ensure a profit margin
• Implement a marketing strategy (social media, content marketing, paid ads)
• Optimize your store for search engines (SEO)
• Provide excellent customer service to build a good reputation
• Continuously analyze and adjust your product offerings and marketing tactics

13. Create and Sell Your Own Handmade Goods

Creating and selling handmade goods allows you to turn your crafting skills into a profitable venture. This side hustle involves designing, producing, and marketing unique items such as jewelry, clothing, home decor, or artisanal products. It’s an excellent option for creative individuals who enjoy working with their hands and want to share their creations with others.

Earnings from selling handmade goods can vary widely:

• Part-time crafters: $200-$1,000 per month
• Established sellers: $1,000-$5,000 per month
• Successful businesses: $5,000-$20,000+ per month

Profit margins typically range from 20% to 60%, depending on materials, time invested, and pricing strategy.

How to Get Started

• Identify your craft niche and develop your unique style
• Perfect your techniques and create high-quality products
• Calculate costs and set competitive prices
• Develop a brand identity for your handmade goods
• Set up an online shop on platforms like Etsy or Shopify
• Take professional photos of your products
• Write compelling product descriptions
• Establish a social media presence to showcase your work
• Participate in local craft fairs and markets
• Consider offering custom or personalized items
• Continuously refine your products based on customer feedback

14. Sell Print-on-Demand (POD) Products

Print-on-Demand (POD) is a business model where you design graphics for products like t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and more, but only produce them when an order is placed. This side hustle combines creativity with e-commerce, allowing you to sell custom products without holding inventory or handling shipping.

POD earnings can vary based on sales volume and profit margins:

• Beginners: $100-$500 per month
• Established sellers: $500-$3,000 per month
• Successful businesses: $3,000-$10,000+ per month

Profit margins typically range from 10% to 30% per item, depending on the product and pricing strategy.

How to Get Started

• Choose a niche or theme for your designs
• Learn basic graphic design skills or hire a designer
• Select a POD platform (e.g., Printful, Printify, Redbubble)
• Create unique designs that appeal to your target audience
• Set up an online store or use existing marketplaces
• Upload your designs and apply them to various products
• Set competitive prices that ensure a profit margin
• Develop a marketing strategy (social media, influencer partnerships)
• Optimize product listings for search engines
• Analyze sales data and adjust your product offerings
• Stay updated on trends to create timely, relevant designs

15. Offer Services Like Car Washing and Detailing

Offering car washing and detailing services is a hands-on side hustle that caters to car owners who want to keep their vehicles in top condition. This service can range from basic exterior washes to comprehensive interior and exterior detailing. It’s an ideal option for those who enjoy working with cars and have attention to detail.

Earnings from car washing and detailing can vary based on services offered and location:

• Basic car wash: $10-$30 per vehicle
• Full exterior detailing: $50-$150 per vehicle
• Complete interior and exterior detailing: $100-$300+ per vehicle

With efficient work and repeat customers, you could potentially earn:

• Part-time (weekends): $500-$1,500 per month
• Full-time: $2,000-$6,000+ per month

How to Get Started

• Research car washing and detailing techniques
• Invest in quality cleaning supplies and equipment
• Determine your service offerings and pricing
• Create a mobile setup if you plan to offer on-site services
• Develop a booking system for appointments
• Set up a simple website or social media page to showcase your services
• Offer promotional deals to attract initial customers
• Provide excellent service to encourage repeat business and referrals
• Consider eco-friendly options to appeal to environmentally conscious customers
• Learn advanced techniques like paint correction or ceramic coating to increase your earning potential
• Build relationships with local car dealerships or auto shops for potential partnerships