According to Zapier, almost a quarter of Americans (24%) are planning to start a side hustle this year - and that doesn't even take into account the one in three Americans (34%) who already have a side hustle!
If you are one of these people looking to earn some extra cash without giving up your day job, then you're in the right place. Here we have compiled a list of 65 side business ideas that you can start today. From digital products to delivery driver gigs and everything in between, you're sure to find something for you here.
So, let's get this show on the road and help you make a little (or who knows, maybe a lot) extra cash to add to your income!
65 side business ideas for 2025
These side business ideas will give you an opportunity to be your own boss while making extra cash. Let's get into it!
1. Make bank with your extra room
That spare room you've transformed into a mini-storage facility can help you pay your bills - so put that space up on Airbnb and start rolling in extra cash. Not only can you earn extra money from this side hustle, but you can also connect with people from all over the world!
This side business is great because it is very flexible — meaning you can rent it out when you want, and have your space to yourself when you don't. Easy money, cultural exchange, and new friends? Yes, please! Simply go head to a house share website (like Air BnB or Vrbo) and follow the steps to sign up as a host.
2. Start a local transport service
This side business idea earns you cash while you drive around town with music on blast (not too loud though — consider your clients).
It's similar to an Uber or Lyft service and perfect for anyone who loves driving and flexibility. You get to work your own hours, meet a bunch of interesting people, and know parts of your city you probably didn't even know existed. Plus, because of the flexibility of this role, you can work around your full-time gig.
To get started, create your social media pages, put up some flyers, and start advertising around your local community. Alternatively, sign up as a driver on Uber or Lyft to access an existing client base.
3. Dabble in retail arbitrage
Here's an easy side business idea - be a smart shopper. You can get discounted products from stores — either online or offline — and then flip them for a profit through platforms like Amazon or eBay.
That's retail arbitrage in a nutshell, and it's a great way to earn cash on the side. You can hunt for big-ticket items with significant discounts and resell these, or go for smaller, lower-cost items and sell them easily through places like Facebook marketplace.
If you want to leverage this business idea, check out our Retail arbitrage explained guide to learn more.
4. Start tutoring
Tutoring is a way to make money by teaching others what you're knowledgeable about. It's mostly used in academic subjects, but you can also teach languages, or any other area you're an expert at.
Some people will prefer to be taught in person while others will want tutoring online. You'll discuss the specifics with your clients so you can know how to go about it. This is your business, you so you can decide how, where, and when you want to work!
A bonus with this side business idea is that besides helping kids ace their tests (though that's pretty great), you'll also be sharing your passion for learning. You can go the independent route and set up your own socials, website, and marketing, or sign up to an existing tutoring site and work as a contractor through them.
5. Deliver groceries
Delivering groceries is a side business that is both lucrative and fulfilling. The extra cash is obviously a major part of it, but for some people, you're a lifeline. You'll be helping those who depend on delivery services for their basic needs — maybe due to health, age, or personal circumstances.
There are many different ways that you can offer grocery delivery - like DoorDash, Instacart, and Shipt. So sign up with a delivery app, pick your hours, and get moving.
6. Monetize your YouTube channel
In this side gig, it's you, your camera, and multiple viewers ready to see what you're all about.
Monetizing your YouTube channel might start off slow — with ad revenue, maybe a sponsored deal here and there — but it can grow into something big, especially if you create a paid community for your followers.
What's more, you'll have an amazing time sharing your love for gaming, makeup, or daily lifestyle vlogs. Get in on this side business idea and start cashing in on the creator economy.
7. Transcribing and translating
Your fluency in another language or your lightning-fast typing skills can literally pay off.
Businesses are constantly searching for talented people to help break language barriers and make their content universally understood. You can do this by translating texts or transcribing audio.
The good thing about this side business idea is that you can get into freelance projects - simply create your resume and website and start applying for roles. This gives you the freedom to choose the type of job you want and a timeline that's comfortable for you.
8. Get paid to walk pooches
You're strolling through the park, a pack of happy pups in tow, and yes, you're actually on the clock. So if you just adore dogs, dog walking could be your next side hustle.
Needless to say, it's a good way to stay active, soak up some vitamin D, and play a fantastic role in your local furry community. Flexible hours mean you can make it work on your own time, making those doggy smiles (and yours) wider. This side hustle can be achieved by starting your own dog-walking business, or signing up to an existing service like 'Rover' as a pet sitter or dog walker.
9. Babysitting: Not just for teens
If you've been thinking that babysitting is just for high schoolers, think again. Offering babysitting services as a reliable adult can also net you some nice side income.
Babysitting is a profession that requires a high level of responsibility and trust, and who better to take on these roles than an adult?
Games, cartoons, and crafts — what's not to love? Plus with this side business idea, you get to feel like a kid again yourself. Enjoy some extra cash for playing with Legos? That's what you'll be getting from this gig. Either set yourself up as your own business, or go through a babysitting agency to access their existing client base.
10. Take advantage of paid newsletters
Yes, we're saying your emails could actually make you money. How, you ask? By launching a paid newsletter, that's how.
If you have content that people are willing to pay for — maybe expertise in a niche market, unique insights, or creative storytelling — then this is for you. It's all about building a community of subscribers who are interested in what you have to say.
Here's a tip on how you can go about it. Be consistent in releasing quality content that your readers find valuable enough to pay for. Start by offering a free version to attract subscribers, then upsell a premium, paid subscription.
If you want to learn more, check out our How to sell subscriptions online guide.
11. Join marketing focus groups
Your two cents on new products could help shape their future, and companies are willing to pay for that insight.
This side business idea involves bringing about six to ten people together to give feedback on a product or concept. It typically takes 30-90 minutes with a moderator on board. If you are one of those involved in the focus group, then you get to trial new products and get paid for doing so!
The good thing about this gig is you can find both in-person and digital focus groups — meaning that you can still participate from home. Some pay in cash, others in gift cards, so make sure that you read the fine print before committing to anything.
12. Create personalized workout plans
All the hours you spend at the gym or perfecting your home workout can now fuel your side hustle. You can start designing workout plans according to your client's health needs and body goals.
Many people nowadays want healthy lifestyles but don't know where to start. So your fitness knowledge can go a long way in helping them on their journey. And thanks to platforms like Whop, you can easily market and sell your custom-built workout regimes.
So go ahead and build a business out of the workouts you love. You'll spread wellness and motivation and help build confidence in possibly hundreds.
Check out our How to earn passive income by selling digital products guide to learn more.
13. Offer music lessons
Anyone who loves music will appreciate some good music lessons — especially from someone who's actually passionate about it.
You could be into the classical oldies or shred guitar. Whatever the case, as long as you have music knowledge and can teach, there's someone out there looking for you. Music lessons can be hosted in person or through video calls, meaning you can reach students from far and wide.
So start passing your love for music through this side business idea. Begin by deciding what you want to offer, then set up your business profile (whether through social media or your own website) and start marketing in your local area through flyers, business cards, and community groups!
14. Dive into affiliate marketing
The idea of earning money while catching Z's might seem like a fantasy, but with affiliate marketing, it's 100% real.
You promote or recommend products/ services you love and earn a commission for each sale made through your link. Meaning your bank account grows even when you're offline.
You can benefit from affiliate networks through your blog or YouTube. A little help from platforms like Whop also gives you the advantage of affiliate systems for paid communities.
Watch your efforts multiply as your recommendations turn into passive income — all in your sleep.
If you're interested in learning more about affiliate marketing, take a look at our Affiliate marketing 101: How to start affiliate marketing guide.
15. Mow lawns for cash
Go outside, get some sun, and keep the neighborhood looking sharp.
You just need a lawn mower and discipline, and you'll have a satisfying side job that'll also get you acquainted with the neighbors. It's something that you can do before work, after work, or on the weekends.
This side business idea is one that's always in demand through the warmer months. Plus, the great thing about mowing is that the grass keeps growing - meaning that you can create regular, recurring revenue for your business!
Start by creating some flyers to post through mailboxes and advertising in local online community groups.
16. Start a mobile car wash
If seeing a shiny, clean car gives you pure joy, then starting a mobile car wash business is the ideal side gig for you!
Instead of having customers come to you, you take your services to them — brilliant, right? You'll be able to attract car owners who are either too busy or are always postponing taking their cars for a wash.
You just need cleaning supplies, some elbow grease, and a full smile, and you're good to go. Like lawn mowing, this side hustle is a great way to earn regular income - a clean car doesn't stay clean for long, and your customers will keep coming back!
17. Pet grooming on the go
A pet grooming service that comes to the pet owner's doorstep? Now that's what we call a mobile spa! If you have spare time on the weekend and evenings, you can travel to client's homes and groom their pets for a fee.
To get started with this side business idea, you will need to purchase specific supplies and get a little training to perfect that skill. The happy faces of pet owners and their furry best friends will definitely be worth it (and so will your paycheck!). Either set off on your own or join a larger service as a contractor.
18. Whip up a meal service
Many people are trying to juggle busy lives, leaving no time to actually get in the kitchen and cook. That's why healthy, homemade meals can be a lifesaver for them.
If a culinary storm speaks to your soul, think about starting up a meal prep and delivery service. Your potential customers are bodybuilders needing protein-packed meals, or busy parents who just want wholesome weeknight dinners.
Begin by creating a social media page and posting images of your dishes, highlighting the quality of ingredients that you use. Make sure that your page is full of your delicious meals, and clearly outlines the services that you offer. Soon, the customers will start flooding in. To make it easier on yourself, you can even batch-cook and freeze healthy, delicious meals so that you only have to cook once a week!
You'll be delivering comfort, nourishment, and flavor right to their doorsteps while making some good money. Bon appétit!
19. Launch a dropshipping business
If you want to sell products online without worrying about inventory, then dropshipping is the answer.
When you start a dropshipping business, you'll be getting into ecommerce. But with this method, you market and sell the products, and a third-party supplier handles the stock and shipping details.
However, to successfully manage this kind of business, you'll need to do good research into consumer trends to identify profitable products. You also need to build strong relationships with reliable suppliers and have effective strategies in place, to drive traffic to your online store.
With this side business idea, you'll get into the retail business with minimal startup costs and multiple product choices at your disposal.
If you want to learn more about dropshipping, take a look at our What is Dropshipping guide.
20. Flex your skills as a personal trainer
Believe it or not, most people working out don't achieve their body goals because they don't know what they're doing. And because of this, they've begun to understand the importance of personal trainers.
So if fitness is your lifestyle and you just love motivating others to reach their goals, it's time to flex your expertise as a personal trainer. You can offer one-on-one coaching, group classes, or virtual sessions to reach more clients. This side hustle is incredibly flexible, as most of your clients will want to see you outside of their 9-5, meaning that you can work around yours!
Get into this side business, and earn money as you watch your clients transform and achieve their goals.
21. Take on house sitting gigs
Now this is a side business idea that gets you paid to just live rent-free in someone else's house for a while.
While the owners are on vacation, you get to keep the house safe, water some plants, and feed Mr. Whiskers. The place could also double up as a retreat or a temporary workspace while you visit new neighborhoods or even countries.
One issue with this side hustle is that it would not work alongside a full-time in-office role. To truly make money by house-sitting on the side, your regular income stream would need to be remote and flexible. You can use house-sitting directories or simply post your services in local (and global!) community groups.
22. Become a driving instructor
Okay, so you're a smooth operator behind the wheel? Then make some cash teaching how to drive.
Becoming a driving instructor provides a rarely recognized opportunity to provide important life skills to youngsters — responsibility, confidence, and respect for others on the road. You'll be teaching the mechanics of driving as you secure the safety of future generations on the road.
Keep in mind though that taking a rookie and turning them into a sure-shot driver is more than a day's work. You will need to be consistent and flexible in order to make the most of this side hustle.
23. Create a paid community
If you've mastered a skill, cracked a code, or you're an absolute genius at a particular game — here's your chance to monetize that magnificent mind of yours.
How, you ask? Set up a paid community on platforms like Whop, Discord, or Telegram. People will pay for your wisdom and secret tips as you connect over other interests. This side business idea will give you a chance to influence, encourage, and earn all at the same time.
When done right, a paid community can be an excellent way to earn recurring revenue and grow your income stream. Whop is the best way to create a paid online community.
24. Work as a local tour guide
This side business idea is perfect for those who know their area's history and culture very well. You should also have charisma to engage and entertain a crowd. If this sounds like you, then step right up, because being a local tour guide might be your side hustle calling.
Knowing the creepy legends of that old mansion or where to get the best burger, will now work in your favor for this side gig. You'll be cultivating a deeper appreciation of your locality as you earn some extra bucks!
You can start your tour guide side business by creating a website (or even just a social media page) and advertising your services. After you have your first few customers, word-of-mouth will help to grow your business.
25. Offer virtual assistant services
If you can communicate efficiently and can juggle emails, schedules, and tasks like a pro — then you should have considered being a virtual assistant a long time ago.
This field is wide. You work remotely and provide support in administrative, technical, or creative tasks for businesses and entrepreneurs.
Many people have gotten used to remote work, so the demand for virtual assistants has also soared. You now have a chance to work with a diverse clientele, on your own time.
Consider this money-making option if you want to balance your personal and professional life perfectly. You can set up your own business or join a virtual assistant agency and find work through them - but remember that an agency will take a cut of your earnings.
26. Provide handyperson services
Are you the friend who gets called every time a shelf falls or a cabinet door swings loose? Congrats! It means you're handy!
If you're good at repairs and love problem-solving, offering handyperson services can fill a need in your neighborhood that's always in demand. In this side business idea, you'll have a range of tasks, including home repairs, installations, and maintenance work.
So roll up your sleeves, grab that toolbox, and take your DIY talent to another level. Begin by advertising your services in local community groups and posting flyers around your neighborhood.
27. Get paying subscribers on your podcast
Do you love a good chat and have stories or knowledge that the world needs to hear? Time to let your voice be heard and make your some money.
Start a podcast, talk about what you love, and get dedicated fans to pay for premium content.
Depending on the topic you've decided on, you can create themed episodes, hold interesting interviews, and build a loyal community of listeners. You can then start earning money through paid subscriptions, donations, sponsored content, or selling complementary products/services.
You'll also get to interact with like-minded listeners and maybe even interview some cool guests. It's your voice, your rules, and your very own show!
28. Clothing repairs and alterations
This side business idea just needs you to have a sewing machine and skills.
Today's generation prefers revamping rather than replacing. So your needlework can definitely come in handy. You'll also be playing a part in protecting the environment and contributing to the circular economy.
So if you have the skills and the time to take on clothing alterations and repairs, create a social media page, put together some flyers, and advertise in your neighborhood.
29. Sell your photography
Those stunning snaps you've captured before can give you cold, hard cash with this side business idea.
Your photos could be the perfect fit for stock websites, magazines, advertising agencies, or businesses wanting unique visual content. You can also sell directly to customers.
Digital platforms have also made selling photos easy. You'll make money while increasing your visibility and reputation. This may also get you more freelance photography assignments or collabs.
30. Social media management
Loves memes? Expert hashtag user? Can't get enough of your daily Insta-scroll? Now you can get paid for it!
Managing a brand's social media means designing marketing strategies, coming up with engaging content, tracking analytics, and interacting with followers. This role is important for businesses trying to expand their digital footprint and connect more with their target audience.
There are plenty of full-time social media management roles available, but if you want to provide these services as a side hustle then it's best to go it alone. Set up your website and put together a portfolio to demonstrate how you can transform a client's online profile.
31. Develop a SaaS product
Software as a Service (SaaS) is a fast-growing sector in the IT industry, as more businesses are leaning towards cloud-based software solutions.
To develop a SaaS product, you should have a solid technical understanding. You also need to research user needs and have business perspective so your software can be viable in the marketplace.
So, if you've got an idea that can solve a problem through software, building a SaaS product should probably be your next side business choice. You can also choose a subscription-based sale of a SaaS product to help you generate recurring revenue.
32. DJ for events
If music is your language and you live for that moment when a beat drop unites the crowd, being an event DJ should be your next side gig. You'll get money and personal euphoria at the same time.
Turn weddings into dance-offs, and make corporate events less about stiff collars and more about just having a good time with your colleagues. This is the perfect side business to complement a 9-5, as the majority of your clients will be looking for a DJ on weekends, with the occasional weeknight event. You can even expand on your services by offering extras like lights, decor, and an MC.
33. Offer IT support services
Almost everyone has experienced some form of tech trouble — and we can't stress enough how much IT support comes through for us during such moments.
From troubleshooting hardware or software problems to setting up and maintaining networks and databases — your services will always be needed in this digital era.
As an IT professional, you can offer your services either as a freelancer or through professional agencies. You also have the option to work remotely or on-site, meaning you have all the flexibility you need.
34. Plan and organize events
This side business idea is for anyone who loves organizing, problem-solving, and making things run smoothly.
Colorful birthdays and baby showers, and successful business launches are all waiting for your creativity and skills to make them memorable.
The whole idea of this business is selecting a venue, collaborating with vendors, and creating design concepts. You will manage invites and oversee the event on the day itself. And if you need inspiration for a particular event, you can browse through social media or Pinterest.
As a successful event planner, you can slowly build a solid portfolio, which will help you get larger events, a wider network, and a higher income. Plus, as with DJing, the majority of these events will be held on the weekend - meaning that it slots in perfectly with a 9-5 day job.
35. Try trading
For all lovers of finance, money, and the stock market, trading might just spark your interest.
This side business idea is about analyzing market patterns and making data-driven decisions to earn extra income. You buy and sell stocks, currencies, commodities, or other financial instruments, hoping to profit from the price changes.
However, you should know that while you can get some good money from it, it also comes with risks.
So make sure to educate yourself about market trends, understand risk management, and have a sound trading strategy. Trading apps and platforms like trading Discord servers can keep you in the loop on topics like crypto, stocks, investor tips, and more.
Find the top Trading Discord servers here.
36. Take part in paid online surveys
Brands and market research firms often pay for completed surveys to understand customer views and preferences better.
Companies value consumer feedback, and paid online surveys are a simple way to earn extra cash from your couch.
And while it isn't likely to give you a full-time income, if you are consistent, it can be a simple, flexible way to earn some additional cash on the side. Look for well-paid online survey websites and sign up as a participant.
37. Start a print-on-demand business
Get your designs out in the world with print-on-demand. Upload your artwork onto items like t-shirts, mugs, or phone cases, and sell them online.
When orders come in, your products get printed and shipped directly to customers. No inventory headaches here — you just need to focus on producing amazing designs.
It's a creative way to make money and let your art be seen (and worn) by people worldwide. Find a POD supplier, create your designs, and start promoting your work on social media!
38. Sell art online
Visual creators nowadays have endless possibilities to showcase and sell their art online.
Online platforms give artists an avenue to reach a global audience through paintings, digital art, or photography, without having to leave their studios. Artists have also begun selling digital art through NFTs.
This side business idea is all about reaching the right audience and letting your work shine. Though it is a side business idea, it does require a lot of commitment to create and market your artwork.
39. Publish and sell eBooks
This side business idea is for those who are expert creative writers or simply have knowledge or stories to share.
Thanks to the internet, anyone can write an eBook. You could write on various topics, such as how-to guides, cookbooks, science fiction, romance novels, or personal development books.
Another perk is that eBooks remove the need for printing costs and can be sold to anyone with an internet connection. And once it's up, it's a passive income generator! This side hustle requires you to invest a lot of time up-front to create your product, but after that, it's all about marketing and selling your eBook.
40. Consider food delivery
As a delivery driver, you'll collect meals from local restaurants and deliver them to customers in your area. Food delivery apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats can be your starting point.
The beauty of this side gig is that you get to pick your hours, hit the road, and deliver happiness to people's doorsteps. It's an easy way to earn extra dough (pun intended) while exploring your city.
Oh, and let's not forget about those sweet, sweet tips! This is a very popular and simple side hustle for many - just join the platform of your choice and get started. You can even join multiple platforms to service more customers!
41. Perform data entry work
Data entry refers to transferring or converting information into a digital format, such as databases or spreadsheets.
This side business idea is perfect if it's flexibility you want and can handle a bit of monotony. It's also an easy way to earn money and understand different industries at the same time.
All you need is a computer, reliable internet, fast typing skills, and maybe a good playlist to keep things interesting. Search on freelancer sites like Fiverr and Upwork to find remote Data Entry roles.
42. Host foreign exchange students
Hosting foreign exchange students is a sweet way to score some extra cash, and learn about cultures straight from the source.
In addition, this side business idea will help you make a young person from halfway around the globe feel at home during their stay.
Schools and programs are always looking for welcoming families, providing stipends to help cover the costs. So if you're up for it, get ready for international dinners and possibly picking up phrases in another language! Ask around local schools if they are in need of hosts for foreign exchange programs, or look online for programs to take part in.
43. Sell Notion templates
If you're practically an expert at organizing on Notion, there's a whole crowd out there in need of your templates.
Consider selling your Notion templates on Whop for some extra cash to supplement your day job income.
This side business idea entails creating something sleek and functional that makes others think, "Why didn't I come up with that?". It is a super simple side hustle, and one that can earn you passive income.
44. Bake and sell cakes
If turning flour into flourishes of art sounds like your kind of weekend, then cake-making is for you.
Birthdays, weddings, Tuesday nights — there's always a reason for a cake. And when it's your masterpiece slicing through the celebrations, well, that's just the cherry on top.
Flex those creative muscles, get social with your marketing, and watch as your hobby turns into a bustling side hustle. To get started, create beautiful social media profiles to show off your work, and publish your services and rates in local community groups and parens groups. Remember to offer seasonal specials (like teacher gifts at the end of the school year, Valentine cupcakes, and Easter cakes) to make the most of this side income earner.
45. Distribute leaflets
Do you have a pair of sneakers and don't mind stretching your legs? Leaflet distribution could be right up your alley.
Local businesses love a good old-fashioned flyer spread to get the word out, and they need people like you to make it happen. It might not be glamorous, but it's straightforward, gets you outside, and pays for those steps.
If you can find a way to do this after work or on the weekend, then this could be a great way to earn an extra income alongside your day job without having to start your own business.
46. Provide personal shopping services
Being a personal shopper is basically about understanding your clients' tastes and needs — maybe even better than they do.
You'll be finding the perfect wardrobe pieces or picking the freshest food items, either in person or online. With this side business idea, you shop on behalf of someone else — usually someone with a busy lifestyle or specific requirements they're struggling to meet.
Create an online social media profile or website and offer discounted services to begin with in exchange for photos and reviews. Then, use this to market your offerings and bring in more clients!
47. Sell Figma templates
Figma's collaborative interface and ease of use make it a go-to for web designers and UI/UX professionals. So if you create unique designs on Figma that friends (or even strangers) are always drooling over, consider selling them.
Those sleek website layouts or app designs can help others fast-track their projects as you cash in on those digital design skills.
Keep your templates user-friendly, the updates rolling, and watch your side hustle grow as you sell your Figma templates on Whop.
48. Rent out your clothes
Now here's an easy side business idea with practically zero initial costs.
If you have a wardrobe with items that are in good condition, especially if they are high-end or unique, you could rent them out. Plenty of people want to wear something special without the commitment of buying.
Special occasion wear like gowns, suits, or even costumes for a themed party, can fit this side hustle. Platforms specializing in clothes rental make the process a breeze, ensuring your beloved pieces are protected.
This side business idea is sustainable, it's fashionable, and it's downright smart. Join a clothing hire platform and earn an income in no time!
49. Organize garage sales
Garage sales are a quick and local way to turn your clutter into cash.
Clear out those closets, attics, and wherever else your unused stuff is hiding. It could be furniture that's no longer needed, toys the kids have outgrown, or clothing you haven't worn in years.
Whatever the case, it's a great way to bond with neighbors, earn extra cash, and practice your haggling skills while you're at it. Everyone loves a good bargain after all! If you don't want the hassle of setting up a stall at your house, then consider hosting an 'online garage sale' by creating a social media page and putting all of your items up for sale - you can choose to deliver to buyers for a fee, or have them come and collect their items when it is convenient for you.
50. Create and sell an online course
Does your expertise lie in a subject that others would be interested in learning? Creating an online course is a fantastic way to share your knowledge with the world.
You can create course modules on subjects ranging from graphic design to how to play the guitar. A well-crafted online course can become a leading resource in your subject area, making you a go-to expert.
What's more, after the initial time investment in creating the course, it can yield a significant passive income over time..
51. Become a virtual event host
You know how popular TedTalks are? People love attending talks from people who know their stuff, especially on practical topics like entrepreneurship, trading, cryptocurrency, and that kind of thing.
If you have knowledge and know-how on an interesting topic, you can share it through holding paid events online. The trick to making good money with this is to make each event small, interactive, and full of back-and-forth between you and the participants.
Not only does this make it more valuable for the people who join, but you’ll also be able to hold weekly events covering the same content, just with different people each time.
If you were interested in the online course idea we mentioned earlier—this is similar but way more involved. On the downside, it requires more time and effort but on the upside, that means you have a more valuable product that you can charge more money for.
You could also combine the two, creating a cheaper online course version of your knowledge and hosting semi-regular events at a higher price.
52. Offer a digital decluttering service
The average adult person has been collecting digital junk and signing up for new services for multiple decades—and for some people, it’s gotten real messy. Their passwords aren’t in a password manager, their photos are all over the place, and they can’t find files from a few years ago, let alone a decade ago.
If you’re good with a computer and with organization, you can help out. By arranging files into folders, getting rid of duplicates, moving things to cloud storage, and setting up password managers, you can declutter a client’s digital life.
As digital as this idea is, however, you would have to run it more like a local business. No one wants you controlling their computer virtually from across the world and messing with their files—you need to go in person, build a rapport, and have your clients sit in on sessions when they can. You’d probably end up with quite a few older clients too, so make sure you’re ready to explain things well and be patient.
53. Sell custom digital illustrations
Creating the digital art you want and selling it online can make you some good money, but do you know what makes better money? Creating the art your clients want. Whether they want portraits of their pets or pixel sprites for a video game, art commissions pay well and offer a lot more stability than selling personal pieces.
When you make your own piece and list it on your site, you have no idea how long it will take to sell—but with commissions, every time you sit down to work you’ll know exactly how much you’re getting and when you’ll get it.
It’s also pretty fulfilling being able to bring characters to life for people who can’t do it themselves—people tend to be extremely enthusiastic and grateful for your work.
This is also a pretty easy business to set up since you already have all the things you need to make the art. The only thing you need to get ready is an ecommerce storefront and a platform to chat with your clients on—or a place that can do both (*cough* Whop).
54. Get into remote tech tutoring
No one can escape the necessity of tech these days, not even people who are older than the entire industry. We all know that older people often struggle to understand computers and online services—and that they are more vulnerable to online scams than anyone.
If you fancy doing a bit of good (and getting paid for it) tech tutoring could be the perfect business. Even seniors with families often don’t get the tutorage they need for this kind of thing because their young relatives just don’t have the patience to teach them.
Some jobs would need to be local, teaching seniors or beginners the basics in person—but other jobs with clients who are comfortable using video conferencing software could be done virtually.
This idea might not be the biggest money maker, but helping people protect themselves from AI-powered scams and nasty malware could be quite fulfilling.
55. Put together subscription boxes
If you don’t mind dealing with all the fulfillment work that comes with physical products, subscription boxes are a great way to sell fun products. Because part of the product is the curation of the items, you can sell your boxes for a higher price than its contents would usually fetch.
There are all sorts of niche topics to choose from, including food, stationery, socks, books, games, coffee, alcohol, mini-figures, toys, science experiments, and more. Some are aimed at adults, others at children, and you can offer as many as you like.
In fact, offering a range of subscription boxes for different members of the family in one place is great since both you and the customer will be able to save on shipping when multiple boxes are going to the same address.
Subscription businesses don’t have to sell literal boxes full of physical products, however, you can also sell virtual subscription bundles. These could include ebooks, digital stationery, videos, games, recipes, and whatever else you can think of.
56. Start hosting online language exchanges
If you know how to teach a language, you can tutor people online—but you can also help people learn languages without knowing anything about teaching or knowing any extra languages yourself.
How? By being a conversation practice partner. It’s never easy for language learners to find people to chat with in their target language because, in most situations, people don’t have the patience. They will just switch to a language you have in common or end the interaction as quickly as they can.
So what do language learners do? They pay for people to talk to them! It would be too expensive to hire qualified teachers for this job, so instead, they just pay friendly people who speak the target language.
This is great for English speakers since so many people are always learning English. Combine your natural conversational abilities with some organizational skills and you can set up online language exchanges where everyone pays a fee to join and chat with others.
57. Create a virtual book club
Book clubs used to be quite a popular pastime but that isn’t really the case anymore. To work properly, people need to be serious about doing the reading and you also need a club host who knows the content and leads a proper discussion.
So what should you do when you can’t find enough people to share your hobby with? Take it online! By going virtual and widening the scope of your search, book club enthusiasts have a much better chance of finding dedicated members and starting a club that will last.
If you’re a bookworm yourself and you think you can lead interesting discussions and encourage others to share their opinions—the role of book club host could be perfect for you.
While this might have been a free activity once upon a time, it’s now fair game to put a price on anything that takes time and dedication to pull off, and organizing a well-oiled book club is no different. If you’re clever, you could even sell the books you cover so your members don’t have to go find them.
58. Run a niche blog
If you want something that combines both hobbies and money-making, running a blog could be a good idea. A blog can make good money when it’s run the right way and enough time and effort goes into it—but it’s also something that can make no money.
This is why blogs need to be a sort of hobby project as well—you need to be willing to put in effort even when no money is coming in. The type of blogs that are easiest to monetize are often review blogs for niche products.
By being a source of trustworthy information and recommendations in an area that doesn’t get a lot of coverage, you can build a loyal following and get the attention of whatever companies manufacture the products you review.
This can easily turn into a regularly visited site with context-appropriate ads, and some companies will even start sending products to you for free.
59. Sell DIY craft kits
Do you ever walk into a supermarket planning to make something like chicken korma curry and just wish that you could pick up a box that contained all the ingredients you need in exactly the right quantities?
It would make things so much quicker and easier, plus you’d only be paying for exactly what you need, rather than having to pay for more without knowing if you’ll get around to using it.
Well, this kind of thinking applies to all sorts of things other than food. Arts and crafts is a great example. Someone might want to get into diamond painting, crocheting, knitting, felting, or clay sculpting—but the amount of time that goes into researching, and the amount of money that goes into buying equipment and materials can be a real hurdle for people.
Imagine if people could just buy craft kits that included everything they needed to complete a specific project? All the customer would have to do is pick which project looks good to them and that would be it. No research, no sourcing materials from different stores, no overbuying, and no fuss!
These products do exist in some places but they tend to be quite limited and just pop up in random places. A dedicated craft store that sold not just one random felting kit to make a cat but 25 different kits for all kinds of projects, would make it so much easier for people to try out new things in a fun and comparatively inexpensive way.
60. Become a freelance voiceover artist
If you’ve got a good microphone and a passion for acting, there’s actually a lot of voiceover gigs out there. They’re not all glamorous and exciting but considering that all you have to do is sit at home and say some words from a script—it can be a pretty chill way to make money.
Whether you want to build a portfolio and work towards better gigs or earn some cash while going to auditions, voiceovers can be a great side gig. You don’t have to be that interested in the wider industry, however.
As long as you are good with your voice, anyone can do this job. It could also be a good side gig if you’re currently growing a podcast—might as well put all that talking practice to good use.
61. Start an online curation business
If you consider the sheer number of websites out there plus all of the scams and AI fakes, you’ll realize it’s actually getting pretty hard to find stuff online. Some of the busiest subreddits around are dedicated to finding legitimate sites to buy certain items from because things are just not easy to source anymore.
People can spend hours searching and come up with nothing and, in the end, they often give up. But what if you could offer them an alternative? Whether it’s clothes, antiques, books, information, or old videos, people could pay you to find the things they can’t.
This side gig is best suited for someone who knows how to use a computer well and can employ various tricks to make the job easier—that way you can succeed more often and do it in way less time than the average online shopper.
All you need to do is set up a storefront to advertise your services and chat with clients, and the rest is all just you and your computer.
62. Become a virtual interior design consultant
Everyone wants to live in a nice house but hiring an interior designer is usually way out of people’s budgets. You don’t have to be a super-posh curator of designer items with a degree in something artsy to help people plan a better room layout.
That’s not even the kind of interior design most people want. Instead, if you have a knack for this kind of thing, you can get on Zoom and help people from all over the world.
You don’t need to charge a fortune or play a part in purchasing the items—just have discussions, give ideas, and send plenty of links to good stores and interesting products. It’s all about decreasing the amount of research, effort, and money people need to spend to get a decent result.
63. Work as a graphic designer
People need a little bit of design help for so many reasons—a logo for a podcast, a header for a new storefront, a cover for an ebook, thumbnails for YouTube videos or blog posts, and so much more.
The world is used to pretty high-tier visuals at this point and no one wants to attach a lame logo to a product they’ve put their heart into creating. So they turn to a freelance graphic designer in the hopes of achieving a better result.
One of the best parts about this gig is that it’s easy to just start from nothing. Learn how to use some software, do a few practice projects, and then start helping people for a small fee to build up experience. In some industries, no one wants a beginner—everyone is looking for an expert with ten years of experience.
That’s not the case with graphic designers. There are so many newbies out there with barely any cash to spare who still need your help—and that means you can get experience quickly.
64. Offer programming services
Working as a freelance programmer can be a real money maker—especially if you’ve got some legitimate skills. One of the best parts is that you don’t have to care about the success of the product.
It might sound a little cutthroat, but it doesn’t matter if the project is doomed or the idea is no good—all that matters is that they pay you upfront and you deliver on your side of the deal. If things start to get annoying, you can walk away with no further commitments to worry about.
Okay, that definitely sounds cutthroat—but it’s a legitimate business model. Just give the people what they want, even if it doesn’t make any sense. You can also go the other way, of course, offering advice and guidance alongside your code. A sort of technical consultant—it’s totally a thing.
65. Sell handmade jewelry
Jewelry as an industry is a little bit behind the times, have you ever noticed? Consumers nowadays love unique products, niche themes, and pieces that would never have existed 50 years ago.
But the majority of proper jewelry stores just sell the same old "traditional" styles and “classic” motifs—it’s really a bit boring. That’s why so many people go for fashion jewelry now, which leaves behind precious metals and stones and focuses on cool designs.
The best part of all this is that you don’t need to be some kind of artisan to make your own. Just thread beads together or craft tiny animals out of clay and you can make your own handmade jewelry that people will love.
And you don’t need to worry about rushing each piece to make a profit—people are willing to pay for your artistry, so take your time and make each piece as perfect as possible. Then all you have to do is find a place to sell your jewelry and you’re gold.
Why should you start a side business?
As you can see from the sheer variety in our list of ideas, the main draw of a side hustle is flexibility. Essentially, the top reason you should consider starting a side business is that there’s something for everyone.
Whether you want a passive income stream with minimum maintenance, a passion project that you could grow until it surpasses your day job, or something in between—you can find the perfect balance for you.
So, if you can find a way to make a bit of extra money by putting in only the exact amount of time and effort that you’re willing to commit to—there’s kind of no reason not to do it.
Trying out new ideas like this can also help you build new skills, gain experience, and find new things to be passionate about. What starts as a little side gig could turn into something much more significant—but you’ll never know until you try!
There are also very practical reasons to start a side business rather than getting a second job or quitting your current job to start a full-time business. For one thing, side businesses are often low-risk and low-investment.
This means you won’t lose big even if your idea doesn’t work out, and you can try out multiple ideas without feeling pressured to succeed.
How to choose a side hustle
Okay, now that you have an idea of some good small business options, let's talk about finding the perfect one for you. There are various factors to consider to make sure you'll be comfortable enough to see it through.
So what should you look at when choosing your ideal side hustle?
1. Where do your skills lie?
First up, think about what you're good at or what you're really into. It could be making amazing graphics, writing creative stories, or knowing everything about fitness.
The best part about digital products is they have room for everyone — whether you're planning to draft eBooks, develop apps, or start on some fitness guides. Your options are endless.
Read more about selling digital products here!
2. What's hot right now?
Next, take a peek at what's hot in the market. A quick nosedive into Google Trends could tell you what services people are currently interested in.
If there's a spike in people wanting to learn coding and you've got the skills, put together an online course. Or if it's all about mindfulness, a series of guided meditation audios could be your best pick.
3. What resources would you need?
Now, let's talk resources.
Whether it's baking, pet grooming, or mowing lawns, these side business ideas all require some basic equipment. So make sure you're considering such factors.
One of the sweetest parts about digital products (eBooks, online courses, software), is you don't require much — just your brain, a computer and internet, and suitable software or platforms like Whop to create and sell your product.
So, do a quick check to make sure you've got (or can get) everything you need for the side business you've chosen, without breaking the bank.
4. How much time can you spare?
Be real with yourself about how much free time you have. Starting a side business can be time-consuming to begin with, especially if you are undertaking something as laborious as lawn mowing or dog grooming.
This is why digital products are such a great idea. They may take some time to set up, but the good thing is, once it's up and running, it takes care of itself. Yes, it actually brings in cash while you sleep (hello, passive income!).
5. What’s your location?
If you’re thinking about selling passive digital products, you can do that from pretty much any location in the world. But if you’re planning on working with physical products or communicating with customers in real-time, it’s important to think about where you are and where your target audience is.
For instance, if you’re in the United States and you’re planning on shipping goods to other people in the United States, that’s about as easy as it can get. But if you’re across the world from your target audience, it will make things a lot more bothersome and expensive for both you and your customers.
Alternatively, if you need to host events regularly and your participants are in a different time zone to you, this could be quite difficult to pull off without it seriously affecting your lifestyle.
6. Can this grow?
Think about whether your side hustle can scale, so you can reach a wider audience and earn more in the future — while saving on costs.
Always keep an eye out for ways to grow, like adding more features or services. For example, expanding your eBook into a webinar series.
If you're looking for high-earning opportunities, check out these million business ideas.
How to start a side business selling digital products
So we've already gone over how to pick a side business according to your strengths and interests. Now, if you've decided that selling a digital product is right for you, then you can start your business today with Whop! Here's how:
Step 1: Decide on your digital product
Time to pick your champion — could be an ebook, an online course, some unique software, or your own digital artwork. The important thing here is to play to your passions because it will help you stay motivated.
Step 2: Set up on Whop and create your digital product
Once you've decided on your product, the next step is to find a platform to sell it on.
Whop is a great choice for creating and selling digital products. It's designed to be user-friendly and makes it easy for entrepreneurs to get their businesses off the ground. We also handle a lot of the heavy lifting — from secure payments to helping you reach potential buyers.
Here's how to get set up on Whop:
- Create an Account: Visit Whop.com and sign up to create your account.
- Brand Your Business: Choose a catchy business name and add your social media handles to start building your brand's online presence.
- Product Description: Clearly describe the digital products you're selling, one that catches the interest of potential buyers.
- List Your Product: Navigate to your dashboard to list your product. Here, you'll set your price and create a catchy product description that shows buyers what they'll get from their purchases.
- Launch Checklist: Whop provides a handy launch checklist to make sure you're ready to go live. Once you've completed it, your product is set to be introduced to the world.
Launch your side business today with Whop
Turn that dream side hustle into a success that you can see and touch today with Whop. That hobby or interest does not just have to be something you do when you're idle — it can be a source of income, career growth, and personal achievement.
With its intuitive interface, Whop puts the power in your hands, so you can concentrate on perfecting your digital product. You also have a partner that walks with you throughout your exciting side business journey. With Whop, your potential is practically limitless.
Launch your business with Whop today and let's help you put that digital product in the limelight.
Side business FAQs
Since you're planning on starting a side business, you probably have many questions about how you can make it successful. Here are some side business FAQs to help you along the way.
How do I balance my full-time job and my side business?
To strike a balance between your full-time job and side business, you'll need to be intentional about your scheduling and time management. You can use time blocking for your side business tasks and stick to those blocks.
Can I turn my hobby into a side business?
Absolutely! Many successful side businesses start as hobbies. It could be baking, woodwork, designing jewelry or even gardening.
Once you've confirmed that there's demand for your product or service, you can start thinking about turning your hobby into something profitable.
How do I know if my side business is profitable?
Knowing if you are making profit sometimes isn't always as straightforward as it seems. It involves deducting all your associated costs (materials, platform fees, advertising, shipping, etc.) from your income.
If you make more than you spend, your side hustle is profitable. It's also important to factor in the time you spend on it, as your time is valuable.
How can I ensure my side business stands out?
Standing out in your side business mostly comes down to two things: uniqueness and quality. Whether you're selling a product or service, make sure it has a unique purpose or serves a niche audience.
Quality is also important. Customers are more likely to come back or recommend you if you provide a superior product or service.
Do I need to register my side business legally?
This depends on the country, state/province you're in, and the size and nature of your side business. There are also required licenses and permits to make sure you're in line with the law. Check with local tax laws or consult a business advisor to make sure that you're compliant.
Can my side business interfere with my primary employment?
Some employers may have stipulations prohibiting employees from running businesses that could be seen as a conflict of interest, or that interfere with your job performance.
Review your employment contract or talk to your HR department to clarify these rules before starting a side business.
How can I scale my side business?
To scale a side business, you need strategic planning and investment. You might have to hire part-time staff, advertise, or upgrade your equipment to increase production. Scaling should be a gradual process that goes hand in hand with your revenue growth and customer demand.
What are the possible tax deductions I can claim for side businesses?
There are a number of tax deductions available for side businesses, such ass home office deductions, internet and phone bills, advertising and promotion, and car and travel expenses, among others.
How can I market my side business?
You'll need to combine various tactics if you want your marketing to be successful. It could be improving your social media presence, optimizing your website for search engines (SEO), email marketing, or even good old-fashioned word-of-mouth.
What if I have limited skills or a low starting budget for my side business?
The internet has plenty of flexible and low-cost side hustles that require little to no formal training. Check out the list we've just mentioned above, for example. Side business ideas like reselling or delivering groceries can be budget-friendly starters.
