25 Easiest Side Hustles to Start This Week (That Actually Pay)

Side hustles aren’t just for extra coffee money anymore — for millions of Americans, they’re a financial necessity in today’s economy. With inflation pushing up costs and traditional job security becoming increasingly uncertain, developing additional income streams has become an essential strategy for financial resilience. According to a Bankrate survey, over 45% of Americans now have a side hustle, up significantly from pre-pandemic levels.

But not all side hustles deliver on their promises of easy money and flexibility. We’ve researched and compiled 25 legitimate, beginner-friendly ways to earn extra cash quickly — some with potential to grow into full-time businesses, others designed to provide just enough supplemental income to ease monthly financial pressure. Each option has been selected based on low startup costs, minimal skill requirements, and proven earning potential.

1. Sell Print-on-Demand Products on Etsy or Amazon

You don’t need inventory or advanced design skills to start selling custom mugs, shirts, or phone cases online. Print-on-demand platforms like Printful or Printify handle production, shipping, and customer service — you simply upload designs and collect profit when items sell. This business model eliminates upfront investment in products and warehousing.

Most beginners make $200-$500 monthly, while established sellers earn $2,000-$5,000 or more, according to Printful’s seller success stories. Use free design tools like Canva or AI image generators like Midjourney to create appealing designs, then list them on marketplaces such as Etsy (which hosts over 7.5 million sellers) or Amazon Merch. Focus on trending niches and seasonal designs to maximize sales potential.

2. Become a Freelance Proofreader

If you have an eye for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors, proofreading offers a flexible side hustle with growing demand. The digital content boom has created endless opportunities to review everything from blog posts and ebooks to academic papers and business documents. No formal certification is required to begin, though basic language skills are essential.

Entry-level proofreaders typically earn $20-$30 per hour, with experienced professionals commanding $40-$50+, according to ProofreadAnywhere. Start by creating profiles on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or specialized sites such as Scribendi or EditFast. Tools like Grammarly and the Hemingway Editor can help you work more efficiently and catch subtle errors that might otherwise be missed.

3. Rent Out a Spare Room or Property on Airbnb

Got extra space in your home, an unused basement, or a vacation property sitting empty most of the year? Short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb can transform these spaces into significant income generators with relatively minimal effort. The sharing economy has made this process easier than ever for ordinary homeowners.

Airbnb hosts in major metropolitan areas earn an average of $900-$2,500 monthly per property, according to AirDNA market data. Success factors include high-quality photos, competitive pricing (check Airbnb’s pricing tool), clear house rules, and prompt communication with guests. Many hosts automate management through services like Guesty or Hostfully to reduce the time investment required.

4. Offer Dog Walking or Pet Sitting

Animal lovers can monetize their passion by providing pet care services for busy or traveling pet owners in their area. Apps like Rover and Wag have streamlined connecting with clients, handling payments, and building a reputation through reviews. The low-stress nature and flexibility make this an ideal side hustle for students or those with variable schedules.

Dog walkers typically earn $15-$30 per 30-minute walk, while overnight pet sitting can command $50-$75 per night, according to Rover’s earnings data. Building a loyal client base through excellent service and reliability can lead to recurring weekly bookings and referrals. Pet sitters who offer specialized services like medication administration or care for exotic pets can charge premium rates.

5. Get Paid to Test Websites and Apps

Companies constantly need real users to evaluate their digital products for usability issues and provide authentic feedback. This side hustle requires zero technical expertise — just the ability to navigate websites or apps while sharing your honest thoughts. Testing sessions typically take 15-30 minutes and can be done from anywhere with an internet connection.

User testing platforms like UserTesting, TryMyUI, and PlaytestCloud pay $10-$60 per completed test, with most tests averaging $10-$20 for a 20-minute session, according to UserTesting’s compensation information. Many testers report qualifying for their first paid test within 24-48 hours of signing up. Higher-paying opportunities become available as you build a positive rating history and demographic qualifications.

6. Resell Items from Thrift Stores or Garage Sales

Reselling undervalued items found at thrift stores, estate sales, or clearance racks remains one of the most accessible entry points to entrepreneurship. This arbitrage strategy requires an eye for value, basic research skills, and minimal startup capital. Success comes from identifying items with significant markup potential.

Experienced resellers often achieve 100-400% returns on investment, with profits ranging from $500-$3,000 monthly according to Side Hustle Nation. Popular platforms include eBay (best for collectibles and unique items), Poshmark (fashion-focused), and Facebook Marketplace (furniture and local sales). Create detailed listings with multiple high-quality photos and accurate descriptions to maximize selling prices.

7. Do Microtasks with Amazon Mechanical Turk or Clickworker

Microtask platforms pay users to complete small, simple jobs that require human intelligence but take only minutes to finish. Tasks might include data categorization, content moderation, survey participation, or transcription snippets. This option works well for those who can only dedicate short, irregular time blocks to side hustling.

While individual tasks pay modestly (often $0.10-$2.00 each), dedicated users who develop efficient workflows can earn $6-$12 hourly or $100-$500 monthly, according to MTurk Crowd forums. Successful microworkers use browser extensions like MTurk Suite to identify higher-paying tasks and track earnings. This hustle offers immediate payment opportunities with no approval processes or client acquisition costs.

8. Start a Cash-Back Hacking Routine

Cash-back stacking turns everyday shopping into a strategic earning opportunity by layering multiple rewards programs for the same purchases. This approach requires minimal time investment once set up and generates earnings from spending you’re already doing. The key is systematic use of multiple platforms simultaneously.

By combining apps like Rakuten (offering up to 40% back at select retailers), Ibotta (for grocery purchases), and credit card rewards, savvy consumers earn $50-$300 monthly, according to The Points Guy. Browser extensions like Honey automatically apply the best available coupon codes at checkout. For maximum returns, focus on major purchases like electronics, travel bookings, and insurance premiums where cash-back percentages translate to significant dollar amounts.

9. Deliver Food or Groceries (Uber Eats, Instacart, DoorDash)

Delivery gigs continue offering one of the fastest paths to earning income on a completely flexible schedule. Basic requirements typically include a smartphone, vehicle (car, bike, or scooter in some markets), valid driver’s license, and passing a background check. The gig economy has expanded dramatically, with food delivery spending increasing over 70% since 2019.

Delivery drivers earn $15-$25 hourly after expenses, with potential for higher earnings during peak periods, according to Gridwise driver data. Maximizing earnings requires strategic timing (focusing on dinner rushes and weekends), multi-app usage, and careful tracking of expenses for tax purposes. Services like Gridwise or Hurdlr help drivers optimize their routes and track business mileage for tax deductions.

10. Start a TikTok Faceless Channel or Theme Page

Content creation without showing your face has become a viable income stream through short-form video platforms. Faceless TikTok channels focus on trending sounds, informational content, or entertainment clips that don’t require the creator to appear on camera. This approach works well for privacy-conscious individuals or those uncomfortable on camera.

Monetization begins at around 1,000 followers through the TikTok Creator Fund, brand sponsorships, and affiliate marketing, with established creators earning $500-$2,000 monthly according to Influencer Marketing Hub. Video editing apps like CapCut streamline production, while text-to-speech tools create professional voiceovers. Successful niches include finance tips, cooking demonstrations, data visualization, and aggregated news content.

11. Teach English or Tutoring Online

The global demand for English instruction has created abundant opportunities for native and fluent English speakers to teach remotely. Many platforms no longer require teaching credentials or degrees, making this accessible to anyone with strong communication skills and cultural awareness. The flexibility to teach from anywhere with an internet connection makes this ideal for digital nomads.

Online tutors earn $14-$25 hourly on platforms like Cambly, Preply, or iTalki, according to Teachaway’s salary guide. Higher rates are available for specialized subjects like test preparation or business English. Most platforms allow tutors to set their own hours and availability, with some offering lesson planning materials to reduce preparation time.

12. Become a Notary Signing Agent

Notaries verify document signings for legal transactions, with notary signing agents specializing in loan documents and real estate closings. This regulated profession requires state certification, which typically involves a background check, exam, and surety bond. The entire process can be completed in 2-4 weeks in most states.

Notary signing agents earn $75-$200 per signing appointment, which usually takes 1-2 hours to complete, according to the National Notary Association. Industry platforms like Snapdocs, SigningOrder, and NotaryRotary connect signing agents with title companies and signing services. Mobile notaries who travel to clients’ locations can charge travel fees in addition to their base rates, further increasing earnings.

13. Sell AI-Generated Art or Tools

The explosion of artificial intelligence tools has created a new category of digital products that require minimal artistic training to create. Using platforms like Midjourney, DALL·E, or Stable Diffusion, individuals can generate unique artwork, patterns, or illustrations that can be sold as digital downloads, prints, or applied to physical products.

AI artists earn $500-$2,000 monthly through marketplaces like Etsy, Creative Market, or their own Gumroad stores, according to Gumroad creator economy reports. The highest earnings come from creating specialized design assets like Photoshop brushes, textures, or graphic templates that incorporate AI-generated elements. Success depends on understanding effective prompts and post-processing techniques to create truly unique outputs.

14. Flip Furniture or Decor

Furniture flipping involves finding undervalued pieces, refurbishing them, and reselling at higher prices. This side hustle combines treasure hunting with basic DIY skills, requiring only minimal tools and space to work. The sustainable nature of furniture restoration appeals to eco-conscious consumers willing to pay premium prices for unique pieces.

Furniture flippers earn $200-$2,000 monthly depending on volume and piece selection, according to Flea Market Flipper. Successful strategies include focusing on solid wood pieces (avoiding particleboard), developing signature finishing techniques, and staging attractive photos for online listings. Facebook Marketplace and local pickup options eliminate shipping complexities, while before/after transformation photos dramatically increase perceived value.

15. Write for Blogs or News Sites

Content writing offers a low-barrier entry into the gig economy for those with solid writing skills. The digital publishing industry’s continual need for fresh content creates steady opportunities across countless niches. Beginners can start without formal qualifications, building a portfolio through initial assignments.

Freelance writers earn $50-$500 per article depending on complexity, research requirements, and publication prestige, according to ProBlogger job board data. Entry points include content platforms like Textbroker or ContentFly, industry-specific publications, and direct pitching to blogs in your interest areas. Writers who develop expertise in lucrative niches like finance, healthcare, or technology command significantly higher rates.

16. Offer Virtual Assistant Services

Virtual assistants provide remote administrative support to entrepreneurs, small businesses, and busy professionals. Tasks typically include email management, scheduling, basic customer service, and data entry. The growing acceptance of remote work has expanded this market significantly since 2020.

Beginning VAs earn $15-$30 hourly, with specialized skills commanding $40+ per hour, according to Virtual Assistant Assistant salary surveys. Start by offering services on Upwork, Fiverr, or specialized platforms like Time etc. Creating packages for specific client types (e.g., “Social Media Manager for Realtors”) helps you stand out in a competitive marketplace.

17. Dropship Niche Products

Dropshipping allows entrepreneurs to sell products without handling inventory or shipping. When customers place orders through your online store, the supplier ships directly to them. This business model requires minimal startup capital and eliminates inventory risk.

Successful dropshippers earn $1,000-$5,000 monthly after establishing their stores, according to Shopify’s success stories. Using platforms like Shopify with apps such as DSers or Spocket streamlines the process. Focus on solving specific problems within micro-niches rather than competing in oversaturated general markets.

18. Create and Sell Digital Planners

Digital planners and journals have exploded in popularity with the rise of tablet devices and note-taking apps. Creating templates for productivity, budgeting, fitness tracking, or specialized hobbies requires minimal design skills but generates completely passive income once created.

Digital planner sellers earn $500-$3,000 monthly through platforms like Etsy, Gumroad, or their own websites, according to Etsy seller statistics. The most successful creators offer both basic templates and premium bundles with additional features. Creating seasonal updates (yearly planners, holiday trackers) ensures repeat customers and consistent revenue.

19. Become a Local Tour Guide on Airbnb Experiences

Airbnb Experiences allows locals to create and host unique activities for travelers in their area. Whether it’s a food tour, historical walk, or craft workshop, sharing your local knowledge and passion can become a rewarding side income stream. No formal tourism credentials are typically required.

Local experiences hosts earn $50-$150 per guest, with average groups of 4-8 participants, according to Airbnb host data. Successful experiences focus on unique access, insider knowledge, or specialized themes that travelers can’t easily recreate on their own. Photography-focused tours and food-related experiences consistently rank among the highest-earning categories.

20. Record Voiceovers for Commercials and Videos

The exploding content creation economy needs voice talent for explainer videos, commercials, audiobooks, and e-learning materials. Modern technology allows quality recording from home with minimal equipment. This side hustle rewards those with clear pronunciation and expressive delivery.

Beginning voice actors earn $100-$300 per project on platforms like Fiverr and Voices.com, according to Voice Acting Club. Investment in a good USB microphone and basic acoustic treatment dramatically improves audio quality and booking rates. Creating a diverse demo reel showcasing different vocal styles and emotions helps attract a wider range of clients.

21. Sell Stock Photos from Your Smartphone

Smartphone cameras now rival professional equipment for many photography applications, opening stock photography to anyone with a decent phone and basic composition skills. Sites like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and specialized apps like Foap pay for quality images that meet market demands.

Stock photographers earn $0.25-$5 per image download, with popular photos generating hundreds of sales, according to Stock Photo Secrets. Focus on in-demand categories like authentic lifestyle images, business concepts, and seasonal themes. Consistent uploading of new content improves visibility and algorithm rankings on stock sites.

22. Participate in Paid Online Focus Groups

Companies pay for consumer insights through focus groups, product testing, and market research studies. These opportunities offer higher pay than surveys because they require more in-depth participation. Sessions typically last 30-90 minutes and can be completed remotely.

Focus group participants earn $50-$250 per session depending on demographic requirements and time commitment, according to Survey Junkie. Legitimate research panels include User Interviews, Respondent, and Fieldwork. Creating detailed profiles that highlight your consumer behaviors and professional background increases invitation rates to higher-paying studies.

23. Create and Sell Canva Templates

Canva has become the go-to design tool for non-designers, creating a massive market for pre-made templates. Social media graphics, presentation slides, resume designs, and invitation templates sell consistently to users seeking professional-looking designs without design skills.

Template creators earn $500-$3,000 monthly through Canva’s template marketplace, Etsy, or Creative Market, according to Creative Hive Co.. Focus on creating template bundles for specific industries or purposes (e.g., “Instagram Stories for Fitness Coaches”). Each template can be sold repeatedly with no additional work, creating a truly passive income stream.

24. Manage Social Media for Local Businesses

Many local businesses need social media management but lack the time or expertise to handle it effectively. This creates opportunities for side hustlers with basic social media knowledge to offer simplified management packages to small businesses that can’t afford agencies.

Beginning social media managers charge $300-$500 monthly per client for basic posting and engagement services, according to Social Media Examiner’s industry report. Tools like Canva, Buffer, and Later streamline content creation and scheduling. Target locally-owned businesses that benefit from community engagement but struggle with consistent posting.

25. Offer Freelance Bookkeeping Services

Small businesses constantly need help managing their finances, making bookkeeping a stable, in-demand service. Basic accounting knowledge and familiarity with software like QuickBooks or Xero is sufficient to start offering services to small business clients.

Freelance bookkeepers earn $20-$50 hourly depending on expertise and client complexity, according to Bookkeepers.com. Getting certified through programs like QuickBooks ProAdvisor (which is free) significantly increases credibility and earning potential. Monthly retainer arrangements provide stable, predictable income compared to one-off projects.

Exploring the Many Ways to Make Money From Home and Online

Starting a side hustle doesn’t require special connections, expensive degrees, or large investments — just the willingness to begin with available resources and consistently improve. The 25 options presented here offer varying combinations of passive versus active income, creativity versus technical skills, and immediate versus long-term payoff potential. According to a Zapier survey, over 40% of Americans with side hustles now earn at least one-third of their total income from these additional streams.

Remember that the most successful side hustlers typically start small, learn through direct experience, and gradually scale what works for their specific circumstances and skills. Choose an option that aligns with your available time, existing strengths, and financial goals rather than chasing trending opportunities with poor personal fit. Most importantly, protect your primary income source until your side hustle demonstrates consistent profitability and growth potential.