In a world that keeps getting more expensive, people are constantly looking for different ways to earn extra income. With economic uncertainty lingering, nearly 40% of Americans now rely on secondary income sources to manage expenses or build savings. With so many options out there, there is a side hustle for everyone, and here are some of the top choices.
1. Freelance Digital Marketing
If you know social media and the online world, going into digital marketing might be the perfect option for you. These agencies specialize in paid advertising, social media strategy, or email marketing automation to help businesses grow their online presence. Platforms like Upwork and LinkedIn connect freelancers with clients, while tools like AI-driven analytics simplify campaign optimization. Depending on expertise, a social media manager might charge $26–$100/hour, making this an excellent option for any freelancer.
2. Virtual Assistant
Being a virtual assistant gives you a flexible way to earn extra income. Main duties include administrative support, email management, or calendar coordination with businesses and professionals. Platforms like Fiverr list virtual assistants earning $300–$1,700/month, a tremendous financial boost when you’re just starting.
3. Print-on-Demand Business
Print-on-demand has become very popular over the past few years as the need for custom products has skyrocketed. Design custom apparel, mugs, or home goods without upfront inventory costs. Platforms like Printful or Redbubble handle production and shipping, allowing you to focus on creativity. Earn $50–$2,500/month by uploading designs and leveraging social media for promotion.
4. Brand Collaborations & UGC
Social media has taken over the world and opened up the opportunity to make money online while enjoying yourself. Create TikTok/Instagram content for brands or produce unposted UGC (User-Generated Content). The more followers you have, the more you can charge for collaborations or advertising. Many people make more money with content creation than they would have made in a year, but consistency is key.
5. Lawn Care or TaskRabbit Services
If you’re good with your hands or have free time, consider offering landscaping services, handyman work, or errand-running via TaskRabbit. Lawn care professionals earn ~$55/hour, while Taskers set their rates. You might need some equipment, but it’s a great part-time gig.
6. Renting Out Your Home
If you have a spare room or garage that you can convert, you can quickly turn it into an additional income. You can list your property on Airbnb or Vrbo. You can even enhance your earnings by offering guest amenities (e.g., local guides) or selling branded products via QR codes.
7. Sell Digital Products
If you’ve got knowledge that other people are willing to pay for, why not leverage that? Monetize expertise through ebooks, courses, or templates. Platforms like Gumroad simplify sales, while AI tools streamline content creation. A four-figure monthly income is achievable by selling niche guides (e.g., productivity hacks) or licensing PLR content.
8. Affiliate Marketing
This is an easy way to make money without selling any products or providing a service. High-ticket affiliate programs (e.g., software subscriptions) can yield $50–$1,450 per referral. You can promote these affiliates and drive traffic with a blog, social media, or YouTube, eventually becoming a passive income stream.
9. Delivery Driving
Sign up with apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Amazon Flex to deliver groceries, packages, or takeout. Flexible scheduling allows you to choose when you work, with earnings varying by demand and location.
References:
12 most popular side hustles in 2025
Top 10 Side Hustle Ideas to Make Extra Money in 2025
30 Side Hustle Ideas That Don’t Need Experience