As a waiter who’s been in the service industry for years, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to make ends meet on a single income. That’s why I’ve spent countless hours exploring and experimenting with various side hustles to supplement my earnings. From delivering groceries after my shifts to starting a small blog about my city’s food scene, I’ve dipped my toes into numerous ventures to find what works best for someone with an unpredictable schedule and limited free time.
Through my journey, I’ve discovered that the key to a successful side hustle isn’t just about making money—it’s about finding something that fits your lifestyle, skills, and interests. I’ve learned that the best side hustles for beginners are those that offer flexibility, require minimal upfront investment, and allow you to leverage your existing strengths.
In this article, I’m excited to share with you 15 side hustle ideas based on the Side Hustle Database that I’ve either tried myself or seen fellow servers successfully pursue. These options range from the straightforward to the creative, and I’ve made sure to include something for everyone, regardless of your schedule or skill set.
1. Online Courses and Coaching
Online courses and coaching allow you to monetize your expertise by teaching others valuable skills or knowledge. This flexible side hustle can be done entirely remotely, making it ideal for those looking to earn extra income from home. You can create pre-recorded video courses or offer live one-on-one or group coaching sessions on virtually any topic you’re knowledgeable about.
The earning potential for online courses and coaching is significant. Course creators on platforms like Teachable can earn anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 per month by selling 10-30 courses priced between $100-$350 each. For coaching, rates typically range from $50 to $500 per hour depending on your expertise and niche.
How to Get Started
- Choose a topic you’re knowledgeable and passionate about
- Research your target audience and their needs
- Outline your course curriculum or coaching program
- Select a platform to host your courses (e.g. Teachable, Udemy) or manage coaching clients
- Create your course content or develop your coaching materials
- Set up a professional website or profile to market your services
- Promote your courses or coaching through social media and other marketing channels
2. Become a Freelance Writer or Proofreader
Freelance writing and proofreading offer flexible opportunities to earn money using your language skills. Writers create content for websites, blogs, magazines, and businesses, while proofreaders review and correct written materials for grammar, spelling, and clarity. This side hustle can be done entirely online, allowing you to work from anywhere.
According to Side Hustles Database, freelance writers can earn anywhere from $0.01 to $1 per word, with experienced writers in specialized fields commanding higher rates. On average, freelance writers earn between $15 to $150 per hour. Proofreaders can expect to earn between $15 to $50 per hour, with the average annual income for proofreaders being around $56,000.
How to Get Started
- Develop your writing or proofreading skills through practice and online courses
- Create a portfolio of your work (can include personal projects if you’re just starting)
- Set up profiles on freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or FlexJobs
- Create a professional website to showcase your services and portfolio
- Network with potential clients through social media and professional associations
- Consider specializing in a particular niche to command higher rates
3. Clean Houses
House cleaning is a straightforward side hustle that requires minimal startup costs and no specific qualifications. It involves providing cleaning services to homeowners or renters, which can include tasks like vacuuming, dusting, mopping, and organizing spaces. This side hustle offers flexibility in terms of scheduling and can be scaled up or down based on your availability.
On average, a one-person cleaning company can earn upwards of $56,000 annually. Rates typically range from $25 to $90 per hour, depending on location, services offered, and experience. With a growing client base and efficient work practices, this side hustle has the potential for significant earnings.
How to Get Started
- Gather basic cleaning supplies and equipment
- Determine your service area and target market
- Set your rates based on local competition and your expenses
- Create a simple website or social media presence to promote your services
- Start by offering services to friends, family, and neighbors for referrals
- Consider using platforms like Care.com or TaskRabbit to find clients
- Ensure you’re properly insured to protect yourself and your business
4. Mow Lawns and Do Other Landscaping Tasks
Lawn care and landscaping services are in high demand, especially during spring and summer months. This side hustle involves mowing lawns, trimming hedges, planting flowers, and performing other outdoor maintenance tasks for homeowners or businesses. It’s a great option for those who enjoy working outdoors and have some basic gardening knowledge.
The earning potential for lawn care and landscaping can be substantial. A part-time lawn care business can potentially earn around $50,000 annually, while a full-time operation could bring in up to $130,000 per year. Rates typically range from $25 to $50 per hour for basic lawn mowing services.
How to Get Started
- Invest in basic lawn care equipment (mower, trimmer, etc.)
- Determine your service area and target market
- Set competitive rates based on local market research
- Create a simple website or social media presence to showcase your services
- Start by offering services to neighbors and friends for referrals
- Consider offering seasonal services (e.g., snow removal in winter) to maintain year-round income
- Obtain necessary licenses and insurance for your area
- As you grow, consider expanding your services to include more specialized landscaping tasks
5. Offer Digital Marketing Services
Digital marketing services encompass a wide range of online promotional activities, including social media management, content creation, search engine optimization (SEO), email marketing, and pay-per-click advertising. This side hustle is ideal for those with a knack for online communication and a good understanding of various digital platforms. As businesses increasingly prioritize their online presence, the demand for digital marketing expertise continues to grow.
The earning potential for digital marketing services varies widely depending on your skills, experience, and the specific services you offer. Freelance digital marketers can earn anywhere from $15 to $150 per hour. For project-based work, rates can range from $500 to $5,000 per month per client. Experienced digital marketers working with larger clients can earn six-figure incomes annually.
How to Get Started
- Develop your skills through online courses and certifications (e.g., Google Analytics, HubSpot)
- Choose your niche (e.g., social media, SEO, content marketing)
- Create a portfolio showcasing your digital marketing projects
- Set up a professional website highlighting your services and expertise
- Network with potential clients through LinkedIn and industry events
- Offer your services on freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr
- Consider starting with lower rates to build a client base, then gradually increase your prices
6. Start a Podcast
Podcasting has become an increasingly popular medium for sharing information, stories, and entertainment. This side hustle involves creating and hosting audio content on specific topics or themes. Podcasts can cover a wide range of subjects, from true crime to business advice, making it a versatile option for those with diverse interests and expertise.
The earning potential for podcasting can vary greatly. While many podcasts start with little to no income, successful podcasts can generate substantial revenue through sponsorships, advertising, and listener support. Top podcasters can earn anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000 per episode. However, for most podcasters, earnings start more modestly, with potential income ranging from $500 to $5,000 per month once established.
How to Get Started
- Choose a niche or topic for your podcast
- Invest in basic podcasting equipment (microphone, headphones, editing software)
- Plan your podcast format and content strategy
- Record and edit your first few episodes
- Choose a podcast hosting platform (e.g., Libsyn, Anchor)
- Create cover art and write compelling descriptions for your podcast
- Submit your podcast to major directories (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts)
- Promote your podcast through social media and your personal network
- Consistently release new episodes to build an audience
Learn more about how to make money with podcasting here.
7. Sell Your Photography
Selling photography as a side hustle involves creating and marketing high-quality images for various purposes, including stock photo websites, art prints, or custom shoots for clients. This side hustle is perfect for those with a passion for photography and an eye for capturing compelling images. It can encompass various types of photography, from landscapes and portraits to event photography.
The earning potential for selling photography varies widely. Stock photographers can earn anywhere from $0.25 to $0.45 per image download on popular sites, with potential for higher earnings on premium stock sites. Custom shoots for events or portraits can net $100 to $500 per hour, depending on your experience and location. Selling fine art prints can bring in $100 to $1,000 or more per print, depending on size and exclusivity.
How to Get Started
- Invest in quality photography equipment (camera, lenses, editing software)
- Develop your photography skills through practice and online tutorials
- Choose your niche (e.g., landscape, portrait, event photography)
- Create a portfolio showcasing your best work
- Set up accounts on stock photography websites (e.g., Shutterstock, Adobe Stock)
- Create a professional website or online store to sell prints directly
- Network with potential clients and other photographers
- Promote your work on social media platforms, especially Instagram
- Consider offering photography services for local events or businesses
8. Offer Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Services
Pet sitting and dog walking services cater to pet owners who need assistance caring for their animals. This can include daily walks, overnight stays, feeding, and general pet care. It’s an ideal side hustle for animal lovers who enjoy spending time with pets and have a flexible schedule. This service is in high demand, especially in urban areas where pet owners often work long hours.
The earning potential for pet sitting and dog walking can be quite lucrative. Dog walkers typically charge $15 to $30 per 30-minute walk, with potential to earn more in larger cities. Pet sitters can charge $25 to $75 per day for daily visits or $50 to $150 per night for overnight stays. With a regular client base, it’s possible to earn $20,000 to $50,000 annually as a part-time pet sitter or dog walker.
How to Get Started
- Gain experience by pet sitting for friends and family
- Obtain any necessary certifications (e.g., pet first aid)
- Create a business plan and set your rates
- Set up profiles on pet sitting platforms like Rover or Wag
- Create a website or social media presence to market your services
- Network with local veterinarians and pet stores for referrals
- Consider getting insurance to protect your business
- Develop a system for scheduling and managing client information
- Offer additional services like pet grooming or training to increase earnings
9. Start a Dropshipping Business
Dropshipping is an e-commerce business model where you sell products without holding inventory. When a customer places an order, you purchase the item from a third-party supplier who then ships it directly to the customer. This side hustle allows you to run an online store without the need for upfront inventory costs or managing product storage and shipping.
The earning potential for dropshipping can be significant, but it varies widely. Successful dropshippers can earn anywhere from $1,000 to $50,000 per month, with some reaching six-figure annual incomes. However, it’s important to note that profit margins in dropshipping are typically lower than traditional retail, often ranging from 15% to 45% per sale.
How to Get Started
- Choose a niche market for your dropshipping store
- Research and select reliable suppliers (e.g., through AliExpress or domestic suppliers)
- Set up an e-commerce platform (e.g., Shopify, WooCommerce)
- Create your online store and add products
- Set competitive prices that allow for profit
- Develop a marketing strategy (social media, content marketing, paid ads)
- Optimize your store for search engines
- Provide excellent customer service to build reputation
- Continuously test and optimize your product offerings and marketing efforts
10. Do Makeup for Special Events
Offering makeup services for special events like weddings, proms, photoshoots, and other occasions is a creative and potentially lucrative side hustle. This business caters to individuals who want professional makeup application for important events or photo opportunities. It’s ideal for those with a passion for cosmetics and a talent for enhancing people’s appearances.
Makeup artists for special events can earn a substantial income, especially during peak seasons. Rates typically range from $50 to $200 per client for standard makeup application, with bridal makeup often commanding higher rates of $100 to $500 or more. With a steady stream of clients, particularly during wedding season, a part-time makeup artist could potentially earn $20,000 to $50,000 annually.
How to Get Started
- Develop your makeup skills through practice and online tutorials
- Consider taking professional makeup courses or getting certified
- Build a makeup kit with high-quality, diverse products
- Create a portfolio showcasing your work (can include friends and family at first)
- Set up a professional social media presence, especially on Instagram
- Network with wedding planners, photographers, and event coordinators
- Offer your services to friends and family to gain experience and referrals
- Set competitive rates based on your skill level and local market
- Consider specializing in a particular niche (e.g., bridal, editorial, special effects)
11. Become an Affiliate Marketer
Affiliate marketing involves promoting other companies’ products or services and earning a commission for each sale made through your unique referral link. This side hustle can be done entirely online through various channels such as blogs, YouTube videos, social media, or email marketing. It’s an attractive option for those who enjoy creating content and have a knack for persuasive communication.
The earning potential for affiliate marketing varies widely. Beginners might earn a few hundred dollars per month, while experienced affiliate marketers can earn six or seven-figure incomes annually. Commission rates typically range from 5% to 30%, depending on the product and affiliate program. Some high-ticket items or digital products may offer even higher commission rates.
How to Get Started
- Choose a niche that aligns with your interests and has good earning potential
- Research and join relevant affiliate programs (e.g., Amazon Associates, ClickBank)
- Create a platform to promote products (blog, YouTube channel, Instagram account)
- Produce high-quality content that provides value to your audience
- Incorporate affiliate links naturally within your content
- Learn about SEO and implement strategies to increase organic traffic
- Build an email list to market to your audience directly
- Stay updated on FTC guidelines for disclosing affiliate relationships
- Track your performance and optimize your strategies accordingly
12. Sell Print-on-Demand (POD) Products
Print-on-Demand (POD) is a business model where you design custom products like t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and more, which are then produced and shipped by a third-party supplier when an order is placed. This side hustle is ideal for creative individuals who want to sell custom merchandise without the need for inventory or handling shipping logistics.
The earning potential for POD businesses can be substantial, especially if your designs become popular. Profit margins typically range from 20% to 40% per sale, depending on the product and pricing strategy. Successful POD entrepreneurs can earn anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 per month, with some reaching higher figures as their business grows.
How to Get Started
- Choose a niche or theme for your designs
- Create unique designs using graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Canva)
- Select a POD platform (e.g., Printful, Printify, Redbubble)
- Set up an online store (through the POD platform or your own website)
- Upload your designs and apply them to various products
- Set competitive prices that allow for profit
- Create mockups and product photos for marketing
- Develop a marketing strategy (social media, content marketing, influencer partnerships)
- Continuously create new designs and test different product types
- Monitor trends and customer feedback to inform your design choices
13. Deliver Groceries and Other Items
Delivering groceries and other items has become an increasingly popular side hustle, especially with the rise of on-demand delivery apps. This service involves picking up groceries, meals, or other items from stores or restaurants and delivering them directly to customers’ homes or offices. It’s a flexible option that allows you to work on your own schedule and is ideal for those who enjoy driving and providing customer service.
The earning potential for delivery services can be quite good, especially in urban areas with high demand. Drivers typically earn between $15 to $25 per hour, including tips. Some experienced drivers report earning up to $30 per hour during peak times. With consistent work, it’s possible to earn $500 to $1,000 per week as a part-time delivery driver.
How to Get Started
- Sign up for popular delivery apps (e.g., Instacart, DoorDash, Uber Eats)
- Ensure you meet the requirements (valid driver’s license, insurance, age restrictions)
- Complete any necessary background checks and onboarding processes
- Familiarize yourself with the app’s interface and delivery procedures
- Invest in a reliable vehicle and smartphone
- Consider getting insulated bags for food deliveries
- Learn your local area well to optimize delivery routes
- Provide excellent customer service to increase your ratings and tips
- Track your expenses for tax purposes
14. Start a Blog or Newsletter
Starting a blog or newsletter allows you to share your knowledge, opinions, or experiences on topics you’re passionate about. This side hustle involves creating regular content for an audience, whether through a website (blog) or email (newsletter). It’s an excellent way to build a personal brand and can lead to various monetization opportunities over time.
The earning potential for blogs and newsletters can vary widely. In the beginning, earnings may be minimal or non-existent as you build your audience. However, established bloggers and newsletter writers can earn anywhere from $500 to $10,000 per month or more. Top bloggers in popular niches can earn six or seven-figure incomes annually through various revenue streams such as advertising, sponsored content, affiliate marketing, and digital products.
How to Get Started
- Choose a niche or topic for your blog or newsletter
- Select a platform (e.g., WordPress for blogs, Substack for newsletters)
- Create a content strategy and editorial calendar
- Develop a unique voice and style for your writing
- Consistently produce high-quality content
- Build an email list to engage with your audience directly
- Implement SEO strategies to increase organic traffic (for blogs)
- Promote your content through social media and other channels
- Explore monetization options (ads, sponsorships, affiliate marketing)
- Network with other bloggers or newsletter writers in your niche
15. Give Tours of Your Neighborhood
Offering tours of your neighborhood or city is a great side hustle for those who love their local area and enjoy interacting with people. This can include historical tours, food tours, art walks, or any other themed exploration of your area. It’s an excellent opportunity to share your knowledge and passion for your community while earning extra income.
The earning potential for local tour guides can be quite good, especially in popular tourist destinations. Tour guides typically charge between $20 to $75 per person for a group tour, or $100 to $300 for a private tour. With regular bookings, particularly during peak tourist seasons, a part-time tour guide could potentially earn $500 to $2,000 per month.
How to Get Started
- Research your local area’s history, culture, and points of interest
- Develop a unique tour concept or theme
- Create a detailed itinerary for your tour
- Set competitive pricing based on local market research
- Consider getting certified as a tour guide (if required in your area)
- Create a website or social media presence to market your tours
- List your tours on platforms like Airbnb Experiences or TripAdvisor
- Network with local hotels, tourist information centers, and travel agencies
- Prepare informative and engaging scripts for your tours
- Practice your public speaking and storytelling skills
- Consider offering tours in multiple languages to attract more customers