20 Side Business Ideas (Side Hustles)

It’s the age of the side hustle, as more and more people look to make extra money or become an entrepreneur. In 2023, 45% of US adults, or nearly 95 million people, have a side business, which is a massive total.  

If you’re looking for side hustle ideas, you’ve come to the right place. This guide lays out 20 side business ideas that can boost your income or serve as a stepping stone to a big-time entrepreneurial career.  

1. Freelance Writing

Freelance writing can be a profitable side hustle, with skilled writers earning $40 an hour or more. Businesses hire freelance writers for various projects like website content, marketing copy, and white papers. To get started, build an impressive portfolio with online writing and then find clients and gigs on platforms like Upwork.

Creating a strong portfolio is crucial. Start by writing for a personal blog or contributing to reputable websites. This helps showcase your skills and provide writing samples for potential clients. Once you have a portfolio, use freelance platforms to search for clients. Craft a compelling profile, set your rates, and browse relevant job postings.

Networking is essential for finding high-paying clients outside of platforms. Utilize social media platforms, join writing communities, and showcase your work. Engaging with industry professionals and attending events can also lead to better opportunities. Specializing in a niche can help you command higher rates. Focus on industries in high demand for freelance writers and tailor your services accordingly.

2. Bookkeeping

Bookkeeping can be a lucrative side business for individuals with a knack for numbers. With this part-time gig, you have the flexibility to offer your services to both local companies and businesses across the country. Freelance bookkeepers typically earn between $25 to $40 per hour, making it possible to earn good money by dedicating 15-20 hours a week to the job.

Online platforms such as Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr offer opportunities to find remote bookkeeping gigs. Creating a professional profile on these platforms, clearly outlining your services and setting competitive rates, can help attract clients from different locations.

Effective marketing is crucial for success in the bookkeeping business. Create a professional website that showcases your skills, experience, and testimonials from satisfied clients. Utilize social media platforms to promote your services and engage with potential clients.

Maintaining accurate records and delivering high-quality work is essential for long-term success. Use reliable bookkeeping software to efficiently manage client accounts and financial data. Ensure timely and accurate completion of tasks, including financial reporting, payroll processing, and tax preparation.

As your client base grows, consider expanding your services to include additional financial consulting or advisory work. This can increase your earning potential and provide a broader range of services to your clients.

3. Proofreading

Proofreading can be a lucrative side hustle for individuals with a keen eye for detail and a knack for spotting errors. The demand for proofreaders is high, ranging from books to business plans and web content. Platforms like Upwork offer a wealth of job opportunities for proofreaders, allowing you to start earning $15 to $20 per hour right away.

To get started, showcase your proofreading skills by building a portfolio that includes samples of your work. This can include edited excerpts from books, articles, or website content. Having a portfolio readily available will help potential clients assess your abilities and make hiring decisions.

Marketing yourself as a proofreader is essential for attracting clients. Utilize social media platforms, professional networks, and online communities to promote your services. Engage with potential clients and offer valuable insights related to proofreading and editing.

As you gain experience and positive reviews, you can gradually increase your rates and take on higher-paying projects. Delivering high-quality work within agreed-upon timelines is crucial to building a reputation as a reliable and skilled proofreader.

Continuously hone your skills by staying updated on language conventions, style guides, and industry trends. This will help you maintain your competitive edge and provide exceptional proofreading services to your clients.

4. Virtual Assistant

Becoming a virtual assistant can be a profitable side hustle with the increasing demand for remote administrative support. Virtual assistants provide services such as appointment scheduling, email management, travel booking, and more. The industry is experiencing rapid growth, with a projected annual growth rate of 22% through 2028.

As a virtual assistant, you have the flexibility to work from the comfort of your own home, eliminating the need for a physical office space. This allows you to save on commuting costs and have more control over your working hours.

Virtual assistants typically earn between $20 to $25 per hour, depending on their experience and the nature of the tasks they undertake. As you gain more expertise and specialize in specific areas, you can potentially command higher rates.

To start making money as a virtual assistant, identify your skill set and determine the services you can offer. Create a professional profile that highlights your experience, qualifications, and the specific tasks you can handle effectively. Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or specialized virtual assistant websites can help you find clients and secure gigs.

Networking is also crucial in this field. Join relevant online communities, participate in virtual assistant forums, and engage with professionals in the industry. Networking events and conferences can also provide opportunities to meet potential clients and expand your connections.

Promote your virtual assistant services through social media platforms and your own website. Showcase testimonials from satisfied clients to build credibility and attract new customers. Consider offering package deals or specialized services to differentiate yourself from competitors.

5. Search Engine Optimization

Having SEO experience can open up opportunities for a profitable side hustle. Many small businesses recognize the importance of SEO for their online presence and are willing to outsource these services. The hourly rates for SEO work can range from $50 to $150 per hour, depending on your level of experience and expertise.

The SEO industry is rapidly growing and currently valued at over $80 billion. As businesses continue to invest in digital marketing, the demand for SEO services is expected to increase. This presents a great opportunity for those looking to earn money through SEO as a side hustle, with the potential to expand it into a full-time business.

Create a professional portfolio that showcases your SEO skills, including examples of successful projects and results achieved for previous clients. Networking is crucial in the SEO industry. Join relevant online communities, participate in SEO forums, and engage with professionals to build connections and establish your reputation.

Market your SEO services through social media, your own website, or freelance platforms like Upwork. Promote your expertise and highlight the benefits of effective SEO for businesses, such as increased website visibility, traffic, and conversions.

6. Secondhand Item Sales

Selling secondhand items can be a profitable side hustle, especially as more people embrace sustainable consumption. One way to source inventory is by visiting local garage sales, estate sales, and flea markets. These places often offer a wide range of unique items that you can purchase at affordable prices and resell for a profit.

When choosing a niche for your secondhand item sales, consider specializing in specific categories such as vintage clothing, used electronics, or collectible figurines. Focusing on a particular niche allows you to become an expert in that area and attract a targeted customer base.

To maximize your earnings, consider selling your items online through platforms like eBay, Etsy, Facebook Marketplace or specialized marketplaces for specific categories. These platforms offer a broad customer reach and provide convenient tools for listing and selling your items.

Another option is to become a flea market vendor. Renting a booth at a local flea market allows you to showcase your secondhand items directly to customers. This can be a more hands-on approach and provide opportunities for face-to-face interactions with potential buyers.

Effective marketing is crucial for attracting customers to your secondhand items. Take high-quality photos, write compelling descriptions, and highlight the unique aspects of each item you sell. Utilize social media platforms to promote your inventory and engage with potential buyers.

7. Dropshipping

Dropshipping can be a profitable side hustle and an affordable entry point into the world of ecommerce. With dropshipping, you can sell a wide range of products without the need to invest in inventory upfront. When a customer places an order on your online store, you simply forward the order to your supplier, who then ships the product directly to the customer.

The major advantage of dropshipping is that you don’t have to worry about purchasing and managing inventory. This eliminates the upfront costs and storage issues associated with traditional retail businesses. It also allows you to offer a wide variety of products to your customers without the burden of stocking them.

Because the goods are shipped directly from the supplier to the customer, you can benefit from reduced shipping costs and faster delivery times. This can be a competitive advantage that attracts customers to your online store.

Select a niche, set up an online store sing ecommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, or BigCommerce, partner with reliable suppliers, market your products effectively, provide excellent customer service, and continuously analyze and optimize your operations. With dedication and strategic execution, dropshipping can be a rewarding side business venture.

8. Pet Sitting

Pet sitting can be a rewarding and profitable side hustle, given the significant amount that Americans spend on their pets each year. As a pet sitter, your responsibilities typically involve visiting the client’s home twice a day to feed the pet, provide companionship, and potentially offer overnight care.

To make money with pet sitting, start by building a reputation and gaining experience by offering your services to friends, family, and neighbors. Ask for testimonials and referrals to establish credibility and expand your client base.

Create a professional profile and advertise your services through platforms like Rover, Wag, or local pet care directories. These platforms connect pet owners with reliable pet sitters and provide a platform for booking and payment transactions.

Offer additional services to differentiate yourself from other pet sitters. This can include dog walking, grooming, administering medications, or training sessions. By providing a comprehensive range of services, you can attract more clients and increase your earning potential.

Network within your local pet community by attending pet-related events, connecting with local veterinarians, and joining pet-focused groups or organizations. Word-of-mouth recommendations and personal connections can be instrumental in gaining new clients.

9. Online Courses

Selling online courses can be a lucrative side hustle if you have expertise in a specific area. Platforms like Coursera and Teachable allow you to create and upload course materials that students can access for a fee.

To get started, identify your area of expertise and determine the niche or subject matter for your course. Conduct market research to validate the demand for your chosen topic and ensure there is an audience interested in learning about it.

Create high-quality course materials, including video lectures, written content, quizzes, and assignments. Ensure that your course provides value and is well-structured to guide students through the learning process effectively.

Choose a platform that suits your needs and budget. Coursera offers a broader reach and an established audience, while Teachable provides more flexibility and customization options. Evaluate the features, pricing, and audience reach of different platforms to make an informed decision.

Market your course through various channels to attract students. Utilize social media platforms, create a website or landing page, engage in content marketing, and leverage your professional network. Highlight the benefits and unique aspects of your course to entice potential students.

10. House Sitting

House sitting can be a profitable side hustle for individuals who are responsible and trustworthy. When people go on vacation, they often hire house sitters to ensure their homes are taken care of and protected from potential theft or damage. As a house sitter, your main responsibilities include staying in the house and performing basic tasks like watering plants.

To make money with house sitting, you can charge an average rate of around $50 per day, although rates can vary depending on factors such as location and additional responsibilities. This allows you to earn a steady income while still being able to attend to your regular work or commitments.

Building a reputation as a reliable house sitter is crucial. Start by offering your services to friends, family, and acquaintances who may be in need of a house sitter. Request testimonials and referrals to establish trust and credibility.

Join reputable house-sitting websites and platforms like TrustedHousesitters or MindMyHouse. These platforms connect house sitters with homeowners seeking their services. Create a professional profile that highlights your reliability, experience, and any additional skills you can offer, such as pet care or basic household maintenance.

Market your services locally by networking within your community. Spread the word through word-of-mouth referrals, social media groups, and local neighborhood forums. Additionally, consider reaching out to local travel agencies, pet care services, or real estate agents who may have clients in need of house sitting.

11. Driving Lessons

Providing driving lessons can be a profitable side hustle for individuals with a good driving record and a passion for teaching. As a driving instructor, you can earn an hourly rate ranging from $40 to $60, depending on your experience and location. This allows you to make a significant income during evenings and weekends while contributing to road safety.

To get started, you will need to obtain a driving instructor’s license or certification, which typically involves completing a training program and passing a written and practical exam. Research the specific requirements in your area to ensure you meet all the necessary criteria.

Collaborating with local schools can be a fruitful way to find clients. Reach out to driving schools, high schools, and colleges in your area to inquire about potential partnership opportunities. Schools often refer students who need additional practice or specialized instruction to private driving instructors.

Market your services by creating a professional website or utilizing social media platforms. Highlight your qualifications, experience, and any specialized areas you focus on, such as defensive driving or parallel parking. Word-of-mouth referrals can also be a powerful tool, so encourage satisfied students to recommend your services to their peers.

12. Babysitting

Providing driving lessons can be a profitable side hustle for individuals with a good driving record and a passion for teaching. As a driving instructor, you can earn an hourly rate ranging from $40 to $60, depending on your experience and location. This allows you to make a significant income during evenings and weekends while contributing to road safety.

To get started, you will need to obtain a driving instructor’s license or certification, which typically involves completing a training program and passing a written and practical exam. Research the specific requirements in your area to ensure you meet all the necessary criteria.

Collaborating with local schools can be a fruitful way to find clients. Reach out to driving schools, high schools, and colleges in your area to inquire about potential partnership opportunities. Schools often refer students who need additional practice or specialized instruction to private driving instructors.

Market your services by creating a professional website or utilizing social media platforms. Highlight your qualifications, experience, and any specialized areas you focus on, such as defensive driving or parallel parking. Word-of-mouth referrals can also be a powerful tool, so encourage satisfied students to recommend your services to their peers.

13. Social Media Marketing

Social media marketing can be a lucrative side hustle for individuals with expertise in utilizing social media platforms. Businesses often outsource their social media marketing needs, presenting an opportunity for you to assist them in building their online presence.

As a social media marketer, you can provide services such as content creation, community management, campaign planning, and analytics tracking. These tasks help businesses engage with their target audience, increase brand visibility, and drive traffic to their websites.

Social media marketers typically earn a minimum of $50 per hour, although rates can vary depending on factors such as experience, scope of work, and client budget. With the right skills and clients, you have the potential to earn even more.

Create a professional portfolio showcasing your previous work, including successful campaigns, content samples, and measurable results. This allows potential clients to assess your abilities and understand the value you can bring to their business.

Identify your target market and specialize in specific industries or niches. This allows you to tailor your services and knowledge to meet the unique needs of businesses within those industries.

Market your social media marketing services through various channels. Utilize social media platforms to showcase your expertise and engage with potential clients. Attend networking events, join professional communities, and leverage word-of-mouth referrals to expand your client base.

14. Mobile DJ

Making money as a mobile DJ can be a profitable and enjoyable side hustle. With the rising popularity of DJ services for various events, there is a demand for talented DJs to provide entertainment.

If you have prior experience as a DJ, you can leverage your skills and knowledge to start your mobile DJ business. However, even if you don’t have prior experience, you can learn and acquire the necessary skills through online tutorials, courses, or by shadowing experienced DJs.

Mobile DJs have the flexibility to perform at a range of events, including weddings, parties, corporate functions, and school dances. This diversity allows you to cater to different audiences and expand your client base.

Market your mobile DJ services by creating a professional website or social media pages that showcase your expertise, equipment, and testimonials from satisfied clients. Utilize online platforms such as GigSalad or WeddingWire to connect with potential clients seeking DJ services.

Networking is crucial in the DJ industry. Attend industry events, join DJ associations or forums, and collaborate with event planners, photographers, or venue managers to expand your professional connections and increase referrals.

With passion, dedication, and a knack for entertaining, you can establish a successful side business as a mobile DJ and make up to $1,000 per event.

15. Wedding Photography

Wedding photography can be a lucrative side hustle for individuals who have a passion for photography. With the average job paying around $3,000, even booking one wedding per month can provide a decent income.

To start a wedding photography business, ensure you have the necessary photography skills and equipment. Invest in a high-quality camera, lenses, and other essential accessories to capture stunning images.

Create a professional portfolio showcasing your best work. Include a variety of wedding photos to demonstrate your ability to capture special moments, emotions, and the overall atmosphere of weddings. This will help you attract potential clients and showcase your style and expertise.

Market your services through various channels, such as social media, your own website, or by joining wedding vendor directories. Utilize platforms like Instagram and Pinterest to showcase your work and engage with potential clients. Consider collaborating with wedding planners or venues to increase your visibility and reach a wider audience.

16. Blog

Creating a blog can be a lucrative side hustle that allows you to monetize your writing skills and passion for a particular subject.

To make money with a blog, start by choosing a niche or topic that you are knowledgeable and passionate about.

Set up your blog using a user-friendly platform like Wordpress or Wix and create high-quality content that provides value to your readers. Build an audience by utilizing SEO techniques, social media promotion, and networking.

Once your blog has gained a following, you can monetize it through advertising. Sign up for ad networks like Google AdSense or Media.net to display ads on your blog and earn money based on ad impressions or clicks.

Another way to make money is through affiliate marketing, where you join relevant affiliate programs and promote products or services through unique affiliate links. You earn a commission when readers make a purchase through your affiliate link.

Additionally, you can write sponsored posts or reviews for companies, collaborate with brands in your niche, offer digital products or services, build an email list, engage with your audience, collaborate with other bloggers or influencers, and utilize social media platforms to promote your blog content.

Tracking your blog’s performance and staying consistent with high-quality content are key to maximizing your blog’s earning potential.

17. Consulting

Consulting can be a profitable side hustle if you have expertise in a specific field such as business, marketing, IT, or any other business-related area. Starting a consulting service allows you to leverage your skills and knowledge to help clients solve problems and improve their businesses.

Management consulting, in particular, is a thriving industry worth over $300 billion. Consultants in this field can earn an hourly rate ranging from $50 to $200, depending on their experience, specialization, and the complexity of the projects they undertake.

To make money with consulting as a side hustle, establish your niche and target market. Identify the specific area where you can offer valuable insights and solutions.

Build a professional network by attending industry events, joining professional associations, and leveraging your existing connections. Networking can help you find potential clients and referrals.

Create a professional website or online portfolio that showcases your expertise, services, and client testimonials. Use digital marketing techniques such as search engine optimization (SEO) and social media marketing to increase your online visibility.

Offer a range of consulting services tailored to your clients’ needs. These services may include strategy development, market research, process improvement, project management, or technology implementation.

Promote your consulting services through targeted marketing efforts. Utilize content marketing by writing blog posts, publishing white papers, or hosting webinars to showcase your knowledge and attract potential clients.

18. House Flipping

House flipping can be a lucrative side hustle if you’re willing to invest time, effort, and research into the local real estate market. In 2022, the average profit on flipped homes exceeded $70,000, showcasing the potential for significant earnings.

To start house flipping, research the real estate market in your area to identify profitable opportunities. Look for undervalued properties, distressed homes, or those in need of renovation that can be purchased at a lower price.

Secure financing for your house flipping projects. This can be through personal savings, loans, partnerships, or private investors. Ensure you have a solid understanding of your financial capabilities and risks associated with borrowing or leveraging funds.

Once the renovations are complete, stage the property to maximize its appeal. Consider hiring a professional stager or utilizing cost-effective staging techniques to make the home more attractive to potential buyers.

List the property for sale through a real estate agent or by utilizing online platforms. Market the home with high-quality photos, engaging descriptions, and open houses to attract potential buyers.

Negotiate offers and close the sale. Work with a real estate attorney or agent to ensure all legal requirements and paperwork are handled appropriately.

Build a network of professionals in the real estate industry, including real estate agents, contractors, lenders, and other house flippers. Collaborate, learn from their experiences, and seek advice to enhance your own house flipping endeavors.

Ensure compliance with local regulations and obtain any necessary permits or licenses required for renovation work. Failure to comply with legal requirements can lead to costly penalties or delays.

19. Vending Machines

Owning and operating vending machines can be an appealing side hustle that offers a relatively low maintenance business opportunity. With vending machines present in various locations, you might have wondered what it would be like to own such a business. The process is relatively straightforward: you maintain the machines, keep them stocked, and count your earnings. It’s a passive income stream that requires minimal effort once the machines are up and running.

Typically, a vending machine in a good location can bring in $300 to $400 per month, so having a few machines makes for a nice added income stream.

Choosing the right type of vending machine is the first step. Consider your target market and the location where you plan to place the machines. Options range from snack and beverage machines to specialty vending machines catering to specific products or niches.

Next, secure prime locations for your vending machines. Look for areas with high foot traffic and a suitable target demographic, such as office buildings, schools, shopping centers, or gyms.

Once you have your machines and locations set up, stock them with popular and in-demand products. Maintaining your vending machines involves restocking products, collecting cash, and performing routine maintenance and cleaning.

Marketing your vending machines is also essential to attract customers to your locations. Consider distributing flyers, utilizing digital advertising, or partnering with local businesses to increase visibility and reach.

20. House Painting

House painting is a great weekend business that can bring in thousands of dollars per job. A With some basic equipment, a ladder, and a vehicle, you can get started in this business.

To attract clients, create a portfolio showcasing your previous painting projects. This can include before and after photos, highlighting the transformations you have achieved.

Market your services to homeowners in your local area. Use both online and offline channels to promote your business, such as creating a website or social media presence, distributing flyers or business cards, and networking within your community.

When setting prices, consider factors like the size and complexity of the project, the type of paint required, and any additional services such as pressure washing or minor repairs. Research local market rates to ensure your pricing is competitive and profitable.

Provide excellent customer service by maintaining open communication, being punctual, and delivering high-quality work. Satisfied customers are more likely to recommend your services and become repeat clients.