As we move through 2024, diversifying income streams has never been more accessible. Here are the top 10 side hustles for this year, each rated based on ease of getting started, required skill level, startup costs, starting money, and total earning potential. We’ve also provided an overall score and steps to get started for each.
1
Freelancing
Freelancing offers a flexible way to monetize your skills, whether in writing, graphic design, web development, or another area. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer make it easy to find clients and projects. Building a strong portfolio and delivering high-quality work can lead to substantial earnings over time.
Steps to Get Started:
- Identify your skills (writing, graphic design, web development, etc.).
- Create profiles on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer.
- Build a portfolio showcasing your best work.
- Start bidding on projects and delivering high-quality work to build your reputation.
2
Online Tutoring
Online tutoring allows you to leverage your knowledge in subjects or languages to help students around the world. Platforms like VIPKid, Chegg Tutors, and Wyzant make it easy to connect with learners. This side hustle requires a solid understanding of the subject matter but offers flexible hours and a good income potential.
Steps to Get Started:
- Determine the subjects or languages you can teach.
- Sign up on tutoring platforms like VIPKid, Chegg Tutors, or Wyzant.
- Complete any necessary certifications or training.
- Create a compelling tutor profile and start accepting students.
3
E-commerce
Starting an e-commerce store is a popular way to sell products online, whether handmade, dropshipped, or print-on-demand. Platforms like Shopify, Etsy, and Amazon provide the infrastructure to set up your store quickly. While initial setup and marketing require effort, the earning potential is significant.
Steps to Get Started:
- Decide what products you want to sell (handmade, dropshipped, print-on-demand).
- Choose a platform (Shopify, Etsy, Amazon).
- Set up your online store and list your products.
- Market your store through social media, SEO, and paid ads.
4
Content Creation
Content creation on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, or a personal blog allows you to share your passion and expertise with a wide audience. By focusing on niche topics and engaging with your followers, you can monetize through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing, leading to substantial income.
Steps to Get Started:
- Choose a niche you’re passionate about.
- Set up accounts on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, or a personal blog.
- Start creating and posting content regularly.
- Engage with your audience and monetize through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
5
Remote Customer Service
Remote customer service roles are in high demand as companies seek to outsource their support operations. This side hustle requires strong communication skills but minimal startup costs. It offers flexible working hours and a steady income stream.
Steps to Get Started:
- Search for remote customer service jobs on platforms like Indeed or Remote.co.
- Apply for positions that match your availability and skills.
- Complete any required training.
- Start working and gaining experience to increase your pay rate.
6
Pet Services
Pet services such as pet sitting, dog walking, and grooming are popular side hustles for animal lovers. Platforms like Rover make it easy to find clients. This side hustle requires some initial setup and certifications but can be highly rewarding.
Steps to Get Started:
- Sign up on platforms like Rover to offer pet sitting or dog walking services.
- Create a profile detailing your experience and availability.
- Get necessary certifications if required (e.g., pet first aid).
- Start accepting clients and build your reputation through reviews.
7
Delivery and Ridesharing
Delivery and ridesharing offer flexible earning opportunities. Platforms like Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, and Instacart allow you to choose your working hours. While it requires a reliable vehicle and insurance, the initial setup is straightforward.
Steps to Get Started:
- Sign up to drive for Uber or Lyft, or deliver for DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Instacart.
- Complete the application process, including background checks.
- Ensure your vehicle meets the requirements and is insured.
- Start accepting rides or delivery requests and earn money.
8
Virtual Assistance
Virtual assistance involves providing administrative support, social media management, or other services remotely. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr offer opportunities to connect with clients. This side hustle requires organizational skills and can be very lucrative with long-term client relationships.
Steps to Get Started:
- Identify the services you can offer (administrative support, social media management, etc.).
- Create profiles on freelancing platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.
- Market your services to small business owners and entrepreneurs.
- Start working with clients and build long-term relationships.
9
Stock Photography
Selling stock photography is a great way to monetize your photography skills. By uploading your photos to sites like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and Getty Images, you can earn money each time your photos are downloaded. This side hustle requires a good camera and photography knowledge but can generate passive income over time.
Steps to Get Started:
- Invest in a good camera and learn basic photography skills.
- Take high-quality photos in various categories (nature, lifestyle, business, etc.).
- Sign up on stock photography websites like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, or Getty Images.
- Upload your photos and earn money each time they are downloaded.
10
Online Courses and E-books
Creating online courses or writing e-books allows you to share your expertise and generate income. Platforms like Udemy, Teachable, and Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing make it easy to distribute your content. This side hustle requires significant upfront effort but offers high earning potential and passive income.
Steps to Get Started:
- Choose a topic you’re knowledgeable about, and that has market demand.
- Create a detailed course outline or book manuscript.
- Use platforms like Udemy, Teachable, or Coursera for courses, and Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing for e-books.
- Market your courses or books through social media, email lists, and other channels.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to leverage existing skills or explore new opportunities, these side hustles offer various ways to earn extra income in 2024.
