63 Trending Side Hustles for Moms to Make Extra Cash

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Moms, if you’re seeking practical ways to boost your income and add a financial cushion to your family’s budget, you’re in the right place.

We cover over 60 actionable side hustle ideas tailored for busy moms.

No time wasted, no unnecessary details – just straightforward, effective ways to make extra money while juggling your mom duties.

From flexible online gigs to hands-on opportunities, the following side hustles for moms fit with your busy lifestyle in mind.

Keep reading to discover the side hustle that suits you, allowing you to balance financial goals with family priorities.

63 Perfect Side Hustles for Moms to Make Extra Cash

Top Picks for Stay-at-Home Moms

You have unique skills, passions, and a day packed with responsibilities.

Fitting a side job into your life requires careful consideration of each job’s demands and possible rewards.

To save you time, here are our top picks depending on what you value most: earning extra money, making your own schedule, starting an online vs. offline business, and more.

• Freelance Writing: Your storytelling or informative writing can find a home on blogs, websites, or social media. Set your hours and pick projects that inspire you.
• Social Media Manager: Utilize your knack for engaging posts to manage pages for small businesses. Flexibility reigns as you craft content calendars at your convenience.
• Virtual Assistant: Offer your organizational prowess to busy professionals. You tackle task lists from home, fitting work around your family’s routine.
• Pet Sitting/Dog Walking: Combine love for animals with a brisk walk around the neighborhood. Animal care slots into your day, along with your own errands or outdoor play with the kids.
• Graphic Design: If creativity calls, freelance graphic design lets you project your artistic flair into digital or print media, working with clients from around the globe on your schedule.
• Online Store: E-commerce provides a platform to sell your crafts, vintage finds, or new products. Nurture your store during nap times or after the kids’ bedtime.

Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, but they offer you the ability to make good money while allowing you to remain in charge.

The good news is, if those don’t interest you, we have many others to consider.

Online Side Hustles

Virtual Assistant

The rise of remote work has paved the way for virtual assistants to become a staple in the modern workforce.

Virtual assistants handle several administrative tasks – akin to an in-house executive assistant.

Typical responsibilities include organizing electronic files, setting up appointments, replying to emails, and managing social media accounts.

Becoming a virtual assistant is perfect for those with existing organizational abilities who can plan.

Structuring chaos into harmony and keeping track of critical details is a sweet spot for you.

With these capabilities, you can handle multiple clients, each with their own set of demands, all while working from the comfort and convenience of your own home.

The biggest challenge you’ll face is finding clients.

But with the help of online job boards and spreading the word through social media, you can find work relatively easily.

Podcaster

As a mom exploring ways to earn extra money on the side, diving into the world of podcasting can be a fantastic avenue.

Podcasting offers a unique platform to share your thoughts, experiences, and expertise with a diverse audience.

With the freedom to discuss various topics, you can cater to a niche that resonates with your interests and skills.

If money is tight, you can start with minimal equipment; a microphone is often all you need.

Income arises from sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and listener support through platforms like Patreon.

While it may take time to build a significant audience, the intimate nature of podcasts fosters a strong connection with listeners.

However, it’s important to recognize that competition is high, and consistent content creation is vital to standing out.

Proofreading

If you possess an unerring eye for spotting grammatical errors and typos, then proofreading could be a rewarding side job for you.

This detail-oriented work involves reviewing written material to ensure clarity, coherence, and correctness.

Many businesses and authors require this service, providing a steady demand for meticulous proofreaders.

Starting involves a few critical steps.

First, develop your proofreading skill set through study and practice.

Next, establish your presence by creating a professional profile, including a dedicated website or a profile on freelancing platforms.

After that, network with writers, publishers, and content creators to grow your clientele.

Proofread Anywhere is a great way to get started on your journey.

Start a YouTube Channel

Starting a YouTube channel can be rewarding as a stay-at-home mom seeking to supplement your income through a secondary stream.

Creating content on YouTube allows you to share your expertise, interests, or daily experiences with a global audience.

Whether you’re passionate about parenting tips, cooking, DIY projects, or any other niche, there’s likely an audience eager to engage with your content.

YouTube’s monetization program enables creators to earn money through ads, channel memberships, and live streams.

While income varies, successful channels can generate substantial revenue over time.

Additionally, collaborations and sponsorships offer additional avenues for earning.

However, it’s essential to note that building a successful channel takes time, consistency, and dedication.

Challenges include navigating the YouTube algorithm, staying current with trends, and managing potential criticism.

Sell Feet Pics

Did you know you can make money online with your feet?

Selling feet pictures is a unique but controversial option to make extra money.

Some individuals use online platforms to sell images of their feet to those with a particular interest or fetish.

The process typically involves setting up a profile on websites catering to this niche market and establishing boundaries for the type of content you’re comfortable sharing.

Income can vary, with some sellers earning a decent amount for each picture.

However, it’s crucial to consider the ethical and legal implications and discomfort associated with this type of employment.

Moreover, online safety is paramount, and careful consideration of the platforms used is necessary to avoid negative experiences.

It’s essential to weigh the financial benefits against personal boundaries and societal perceptions before delving into this unconventional side hustle.

Transcriber

Transcription involves converting audio or video content into written text, and there’s a growing demand for transcription services across various industries.

Numerous online platforms, including eScribers and Scribe, connect freelancers with transcription gigs, allowing you to choose assignments that fit your schedule.

The amount of money you earn varies and depends on factors such as transcription speed, accuracy, and the complexity of the content.

While beginners may start with lower pay rates, opportunities for higher-paying projects increase as skills improve.

One downside is that dealing with varied accents or poor audio quality poses challenges.

JayDee Vykoukal of Mom Blog Life said she “struggled to pass the test on some platforms because I couldn’t type fast enough. It turns out I was unable to hear the mumbling on the test, which ultimately did me in.”

Starting Your Own Online Store

With the rise of e-commerce, you can sell unique handcrafted goods and curated merchandise or even succeed in the reselling niche with your own store.

Two of the most attractive aspects of this income opportunity are the liberty to run your business from the comfort of your home and setting your own hours.

As long as you have an internet connection and a desire to drive sales, your virtual storefront can be open 24/7, letting you tend to personal needs while bringing in revenue.

Not a tech-savvy mompreneur?

Advancements in e-commerce platforms have streamlined the setting up of shops.

You can now create an engaging outlet for your products with user-friendly tools and resources.

Furthermore, social media channels are potent allies in amplifying your online presence.

Data Entry

Data entry is a straightforward option for moms aiming to earn supplemental income.

It involves inputting information into databases or spreadsheets.

Numerous online platforms, including FlexJobs, Clickworker, and DataPlus+, offer data entry tasks, providing assignment flexibility.

Potential income varies but is generally moderate.

Downsides include its repetitive nature, possible monotony, and the need for attention to detail.

Despite this, data entry is a reliable option for those seeking a straightforward, flexible side hustle.

Amazon Reviewer

Amazon reviewers write honest reviews for products on Amazon, and some sellers may provide free or discounted items in exchange for your feedback.

Income comes from receiving products for free or at a reduced cost, but monetary compensation isn’t guaranteed.

If you do get paid, it’ll vary by client.

Downsides may include the time investment required to test and review products and the responsibility to provide unbiased feedback.

Live Chat

Being a chat agent is another untapped side hustle for making money.

While you can go the route of adult-style chat, that isn’t what I’m talking about here.

Many companies hire chat agents to answer customer questions.

There are even some companies out there that connect you with lonely people who want someone to talk to.

The benefit is that you work from your own house and set your own hours, so people with a busy schedule can make this work.

The downsides are the pay isn’t great, and as artificial intelligence grows, these jobs could vanish.

Offline Side Hustles

Babysitting

For stay-at-home moms, babysitting is a popular side hustle to consider.

Income varies depending on location, the number of children, and the duration of babysitting sessions but averages between $15-$25 an hour.

Downsides include:

• The need for flexibility in schedule.
• Dealing with any emergencies.
• Ensuring the safety and well-being of the children in your care.

Often, sitting services are needed at nights and weekends, which could be reason enough for some moms to say no to this idea.

Nevertheless, babysitting remains a reliable and straightforward option for moms with childcare experience and a nurturing demeanor.

Decluttering

For moms seeking additional income, offering decluttering services can be straightforward.

Decluttering involves assisting individuals or businesses with getting rid of unused and unwanted items and streamlining their spaces.

By clearing out unused items, you optimize the space for functionality.

Income amounts depend on the scope and size of decluttering projects.

The downsides are physical demands, the need for storage solutions, and managing client expectations.

Organizing

Many confuse organizing and decluttering, thinking they’re the same thing, but they’re very different.

Organizing involves sorting, categorizing, and arranging elements based on specific criteria or principles to enhance efficiency, accessibility, and clarity.

Many times, people who do organizing also offer decluttering services.

The income for this part-time work varies by the complexity and size of the job.

It’s a great option for moms with the skill to figure out the best way to store things.

Of course, there are downsides, including finding ideal clients and it being a physically demanding job.

Resume Writer

Resume writing involves offering professional resume writing services to individuals seeking to enhance their job applications.

The process includes:

• Gathering relevant information from clients.
• Highlighting their skills and experiences.
• Creating polished resumes.

With many employers now using artificial intelligence to pre-screen resumes, using the right words and terminology is even more critical.

Potential income varies, with rates based on the complexity of the resume and the level of expertise required.

Tutor

Are you skilled in a particular subject area?

If so, becoming a tutor is a good side job to consider.

Most work hours are during weeknight evenings and weekends, which could be a downside.

Additionally, you must adapt to different learning styles to succeed.

The pay is good, considering most parents are willing to pay a premium to ensure their child gets good grades.

Coach

When you think of a coach, you might think first of a sports team.

But today, there’s a tremendous demand for other types of coaches, including life, career, or parenting.

Many first-time parents will pay to have someone with experience talk to them about potty training, independent sleeping, and more.

While they can get this advice online, it’s generic and not tailored to their situation.

You can make good money, sometimes $100 an hour or more, no matter your coaching route.

Possible drawbacks are:

• The need for effective time management.
• Establishing credibility.
• Adapting to diverse client personalities.

Daycare

Starting a daycare is a practical option for stay-at-home moms with kids not yet in school.

The process includes creating a safe environment, planning age-appropriate activities, and ensuring the well-being of the children.

Potential income varies based on location, the number of children, and the hours of operation.

Even if you charge half of what a traditional daycare center charges, you still earn a few hundred dollars a month.

Downsides to child care include:

• The need for licensing.
• Adherence to safety regulations.
• Managing potential challenges in dealing with children’s diverse needs.

Photographer

If you have a passion for taking photos, you have various options to make extra money with additional employment as a photographer.

For starters, you could take lifestyle, holiday, engagement, or wedding photos for clients.

Or you could take photos of nature, landscapes, and other random things and sell these to art collectors.

You might consider selling your images on stock photo sites where you earn a small income every time someone downloads your photo.

Your income will vary significantly because of the different paths you can take.

For example, selling stock photos will earn you $1 or less per download, while a photo shoot for a client could earn you a few hundred dollars.

The most significant downside is the initial cost of photography equipment, as top-line gear can run you thousands of dollars.

Sell Breast Milk

If you’re a mom who has an oversupply of breast milk, don’t pour that money down the drain.

Potential clients include moms who are having trouble making enough milk and, as oddly as it sounds, bodybuilders.

The amount of money you can make varies, and rates are often negotiated based on factors like the volume provided and the demand in the market.

Possible downsides include the time-consuming nature of expressing and storing milk, legal and health considerations, and the need to ensure ethical practices.

Personal Laundry Concierge

While you could buy and run your own laundromat, this is too much of a commitment for most stay-at-home moms.

But here’s a unique twist on this idea.

Partner with a local laundromat offering services to its clients.

You can wash, dry, and fold customers’ clothes for a small fee.

If you want to avoid partnering with a laundromat, consider posting on local online groups to promote your services.

The income can be significant, depending on how much laundry you’re willing to do.

As for downsides, you have to get an idea of how much each load will cost you so you can ensure you turn a profit.

Additionally, you’ll have to keep track of each customer’s requirements regarding detergent, among other factors.

Cleaning Services

Providing cleaning assistance to individuals or businesses, covering tasks like house cleaning, office maintenance, or specialized cleaning services, is a smart way to earn extra cash.

Depending on your kids’ age, you could have them help you clean faster, allowing you additional customers.

Of course, there are other things to consider, too.

Tamara White from The Thrifty Apartment started cleaning houses but realized she couldn’t scale the business. “I decided I did not want to continue with that hustle. Unfortunately I had a difficult time finding and keeping talent to do the job.”

Your income depends on factors like the scope of services offered, your pricing structure, and the demand in your area.

Downsides include:

• Physical exertion.
• The need for effective time management.
• Competition in the cleaning service market.

Creative Side Hustles

Renting Baby Gear

Sometimes, to make extra cash, you have to think outside the box, which is what renting baby gear is all about.

Think about it. New gear like strollers, cribs, or car seats cost a fortune, and many parents don’t have the resources to get everything they want.

You can create a side business renting out this equipment for a fraction of the price.

Start with your own kids’ toys and gear and grow from there.

The process involves acquiring a range of baby equipment, such as strollers, cribs, or car seats, and offering them for short-term rentals to needy parents.

Expected pay depends on the demand in the local market and the quality and variety of available gear.

The initial investment in purchasing the equipment, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and managing logistics, such as cleaning and maintenance, are all possible drawbacks.

Making Scented Candles

Another creative avenue to consider is scented candles.

Many people love the aroma of candles, but in some cases, the prices can be prohibitive.

We usually only buy during the holidays when stores offer great sales.

If you can create lovely-smelling candles at a fraction of the cost, you can make serious money.

Income amounts vary but ultimately come down to effective marketing.

The downsides to this venture are:

• The initial investment in supplies.
• Competition in the candle market.
• The need for storage space.

Sewing/Knitting

Engaging in sewing or knitting presents practical part-time work for moms looking to augment their income.

Consider everything people need knitted or sewed: hats, gloves, blankets, clothes, etc.

Getting started is easy, too, as the things you need are low-cost.

It’s more a matter of knowing how to sew or knit.

The income you earn varies based on the quality and uniqueness of the products, along with effective marketing.

The biggest drawback is the time-intensive nature of handcrafting.

However, many cite doing this as a stress reliever.

Making Bath Bombs

Bath bombs are a popular trend as people look for creative self-care ideas.

If you’re into aromatherapy and essential oils, this is your money-making venture.

You can let your creativity shine as you customize shapes, colors, and scents to appeal to a broad market.

The income potential varies and depends on the quality of your bath bombs and effective marketing.

You might even consider expanding into other self-care products, as well.

The biggest hurdle for most is ensuring consistency in product quality and meeting safety standards.

Event Planner

If you love planning and are a people person, event planning could be for you.

You can organize and coordinate various events such as parties, weddings, or corporate gatherings.

Your responsibilities include finding a rental space or venue, catering arrangements, and overall event logistics.

With the rise of the internet, you could even try your hand at virtual event planning.

Planning virtual events has its own set of challenges, primarily technical.

Potential income depends on the scale and type of events you handle, with fees typically based on a percentage of the overall budget or a flat rate.

Downsides are the need for strong organizational skills, managing client expectations, and stress associated with event deadlines.

Etsy Shop Owner

If you enjoy creating homemade items, selling on Etsy could be for you.

Alternatively, you can also do this if you can source unique items to sell.

The biggest benefit of Etsy is it takes care of certain aspects of marketing and the sales process.

Plus, you have a built-in market without having to advertise on your own.

Of course, they take a fee for their services, but many accept this as a part of doing business.

Other drawbacks include the competition within the Etsy marketplace and managing shipping and customer inquiries.

Baker

If you enjoy spending time baking various treats or coming up with your own homemade ideas, baking could be your path to a side income.

You can start to sell baked goods by advertising locally or through social media platforms.

You could expand into dog treats, as a booming pet market allows you to make more money.

Potential income depends on the quality of your baked goods, your pricing strategy, and market demand.

Downsides may include the initial cost of ingredients and equipment, time constraints associated with baking, and competition in the market.

Author

In the past, becoming an author was a struggle as you needed to find a publisher willing to take a chance on you.

But with the rise of self-publishing, you can more easily become an author.

Create and self-publish books in print or digital formats on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing.

You can choose genres that align with your interests or expertise.

While most ebooks sell for $10 or less, the sales volume can be significant if you can get people to see your book on Amazon.

Plus, if you build a library of books, you don’t need to rely on one book to earn an income.

Potential income varies based on book sales, pricing strategy, and marketing efforts.

The drawbacks to becoming an author are:

• The time-intensive nature of writing.
• Competition in the book market.
• The need for effective self-promotion.

Driving Side Hustles

Grocery Shopper

We all need groceries, but the truth is that not everyone enjoys this chore.

If you don’t mind grocery shopping, why not make money doing it?

The most popular service is Instacart, where you can either shop for groceries or choose to shop and deliver groceries.

Alternatively, you can create your own service, making it less expensive for your customers by not charging all the fees.

The amount you earn depends on the number of clients you have, the complexity of their shopping lists, and your pricing structure.

Efficient time management, vehicle wear, and juggling multiple shopping lists at the same time are things you need to consider.

Delivery Driver

Another option is running a delivery service.

A popular version of this is Uber Eats or DoorDash, where you deliver food to customers.

But there are other options.

You could deliver mail or packages or anything else you can think of.

Potential income depends on the number of deliveries completed and tips.

The wear and tear on your vehicle, fuel and maintenance costs, and the need for time flexibility are all drawbacks to this side hustle.

Ride Share Service

Becoming a ride-share driver is a practical moonlighting option if you’re a people person.

Ride-sharing involves partnering with platforms like Uber or Lyft, where you can offer rides to passengers using your own vehicle.

The number of completed rides, including surge pricing during peak hours, all factor into your income.

Downsides of vehicle wear and tear, fuel costs, and the need for a flexible schedule need consideration.

If you go this route, reach out to your insurance company to ensure your current coverage is sufficient since you’re now using your vehicle for business purposes, not solely personal use.

Run Errands

If you’re a mom who’s always on the go, why not earn some money running errands for others?

Errands you could offer include picking up prescriptions, handling miscellaneous chores, shipping packages, dropping off Amazon returns, and more.

Potential income varies based on the tasks and time involved, and you can set your own rates.

Downsides are the need for time flexibility, wear on your vehicle, and managing multiple tasks simultaneously.

Personal Shopper

Personal shopping involves offering your expertise to assist individuals with their shopping needs, whether for clothing, gifts, or groceries.

Potential income depends on your pricing structure, the number of clients, and the complexity of their requests.

The need for effective communication and understanding clients’ preferences, managing time efficiently, and travel expenses are all possible drawbacks.

Car Advertising

Did you know you can earn money while driving your car around town?

Car advertising involves partnering with companies that pay you to display advertisements on your car.

Once you agree to an ad, you’ll go to a service center to have your car wrapped with the ad.

Then, you drive around as if you’re a mobile billboard.

Potential income depends on the advertising campaign, your driving habits, where you live, and the specific terms of the agreement.

Disadvantages of this idea are:

• The need for a well-maintained vehicle.
• Restrictions on personal vehicle use.
• The visual impact of ads on your car.

Side Hustles That Can Replace Your Job

Bookkeeping

If you’re good with numbers, virtual bookkeeping is a great way to make extra money and replace your full-time job.

Virtual bookkeeping involves providing remote services to businesses or individuals, managing financial records, and ensuring accurate accounting.

You can offer your services on freelancing platforms or independently.

Not only can you create your own schedule and work from the comfort of your own home, but it can be very lucrative.

Some people report earning $80,000 or more annually.

However, there are downsides, including the need for accounting knowledge, managing multiple clients, and ensuring client confidentiality.

Social Media Manager

Social media management has exploded in popularity in recent years.

Many businesses lack the knowledge to increase sales using their social media accounts, which is where you come in.

Simply find local businesses who want more online fans and customers and offer to handle managing their social media page.

Not only is this a side gig you can do in your free time, but you can make anywhere from a few hundred to over $1,000 a month.

Ashley Pichea, mom of five and content manager for AwesomeMitten.com, says, “social media influencing had the best return on investment. Within a year, I was able to turn my blogging and social media knowledge into a flexible freelance consulting and virtual assistance gig, providing my family with needed income while allowing me to stay home with my little ones. Ten years later, my kids were in school, and I was able to transition to a full-time job in digital marketing and online publishing.”

The biggest downside is the ever-changing algorithms these platforms use.

You might have a solid campaign one day, but you need to change your strategy the next day.

Voice Over Artist

People are consuming media in various formats, and one popular avenue is podcasts and audiobooks.

If you have a unique voice, you can be the voice for a famous novel’s audiobook.

Or you can contact website owners and offer to turn their articles into podcasts.

Options don’t end there, either, as animated shows, films, and commercials are all options.

The most accessible place to start is ACX.com, where you can offer audiobook services.

Potential income depends on the demand for your voice, project complexity, and pricing structure.

Downsides may include the need for audio recording equipment, competition in the voice-over industry, and the challenge of breaking into the market.

Blogger

Opting for running your own website is a practical way to make money.

The process involves creating a website around a niche or interest, producing content, and monetizing through ads, affiliate marketing, or the selling of products or services.

Running a website is what Tiffany McCauley of The Gracious Pantry did to bring in some money: “I started my blog as a side business as a stay-at-home mom. I was determined to be home to raise my son, but I also needed a way to contribute financially to my family. It wasn’t instantaneous income, but it started to add up over time. I was able to work while my baby napped. It’s my full-time business today, and I couldn’t be happier.”

Potential income depends on website traffic, content quality, and chosen monetization strategies.

In the beginning, you won’t make much money.

But with hard work, you could earn four or five figures a month.

Downsides may include the time and effort required for website maintenance, competition in the online space, and the need for consistent content creation.

Freelance Writing

If you possess the power of expression, a command over words, and an attentive ear that herds thoughts into coherent streams, consider becoming a freelance writer.

Freelance writing offers many opportunities to articulate your ideas, share expertise, or narrate captivating stories.

Websites, blogs, social media pages, and online magazines constantly search for fresh content that resonates with their audience.

You could be the voice that captivates and informs readers across the globe.

Former freelancer Anika Jindal, CPA at WhatAnikaSays.com, said, “I used to work as a freelance writer when I was a full-time stay-at-home mom. I started when my son was born, and I was getting overwhelmed by just taking care of him and house duties. I wanted to do something for myself that would give me a break from the same routine.”

While she isn’t a freelancer now, she turned that part-time work into running her website, where she earns much more.

Income could be better when you start, as you might earn $0.03 per word or $30 for a typical blog article.

But as you gain experience, you can earn $0.25 per word or more, which is $250 for an article.

The biggest drawback currently is artificial intelligence writing articles cheaply.

However, the quality isn’t great, and if you can write with personality, this can be a lucrative side hustle.

Graphic Design

Becoming a graphic designer is a viable side hustle option to make money from home.

If you have an eye for creating visual content, such as logos, websites, or marketing materials, this could be your ticket.

You can be a freelance graphic designer and promote your business on platforms like Fiverr and Upwork, or you can find clients locally.

Income depends on your expertise, project demand, and pricing structure, but it could be a few hundred to a thousand dollars a month.

Downsides may include the need for graphic design software and equipment, competition in the freelance market, and potential tight deadlines.

Dropshipping

Dropshipping is a great way to run a business without the hassle of keeping inventory.

Simply set up an online store and partner with suppliers who handle inventory and shipping.

When a customer makes a purchase, the product is shipped directly from the supplier to the customer.

Selling online is easy with sites like eBay, Amazon, and others.

Your possible income depends on effective marketing, niche selection, and profit margins.

Downsides include the need for careful supplier selection, shipping delays, and managing customer expectations.

Amazon FBA

If you want more control than dropshipping offers, consider selling through Amazon Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA).

To start, you source products selling at deep discounts or ones that are on clearance and send them to Amazon’s fulfillment centers and sell them for a profit.

When you do this, you let Amazon handle the storage, packing, and shipping when customers make purchases.

You might wonder how you can resell items for a profit.

You have to remember that items cost different amounts depending on where you are in the country.

So, while you may find these items on clearance, a store in another part of the country could be selling the same items for full price.

Income amounts depend on your product selection, marketing efforts, and sales volume.

Downsides include initial investment in inventory, competition on the Amazon marketplace, Amazon fees, and adherence to Amazon’s policies.

Consulting

You could become a business consultant if you have expertise in a specific field from your previous jobs.

Offering businesses an outside viewpoint can help them to fix bottlenecks in their workflows and increase revenue.

Potential income depends on your niche, experience, and the value you provide.

Downsides may include the need for effective marketing to attract clients, irregular income, and managing client expectations.

Homeschool Teacher

Many parents are looking for alternatives to traditional school.

While most consider alternative or private schools, the cost can be too much for them.

As a homeschool teacher, you can offer to teach 5-10 kids during the school year.

The price you charge can be significantly less than other options for parents but still provide you with a healthy income.

Depending on the arrangement, you can structure income on an hourly or per-student basis.

Downsides may include:

• The need for teaching qualifications or expertise in specific subjects.
• Adapting to diverse learning styles.
• Managing multiple students.

Real Estate Agent

Selling homes offers significant income and allows you to control the entire process of how many clients you want to work with, who you want to work with, and when you want to work.

Potential income depends on property values, market demand, and your commission structure.

The biggest downside is the time and financial investment in obtaining a license.

Sell Your Poop

When it comes to odd jobs, nothing is crazier than selling your poop.

But you can do it, and it’s arguably the best side hustle.

Go to Human Microbes and read through the qualifications to become a donor.

If you meet the requirements, each stool sample is worth $500.

The only downsides are meeting the qualifications and dealing with your bowel movements.

Passive Income Ideas

Create Online Courses

Unleashing your knowledge into the world can be rewarding, especially by creating online courses.

You can tap into your expertise, no matter the niche, be it baking artisan bread, mastering Excel, or excelling in home organizing, and turn that into a course that empowers and educates others seeking those skills.

The initial groundwork demands a focused effort: designing the curriculum, recording comprehensive video lessons, and creating resourceful worksheets.

Yet once you set the foundation, the course evolves into an asset capable of generating revenue repeatedly without direct time input on every sale.

Platforms like Teachable or Udemy simplify this process by handling the minutiae of payment processing and course delivery so you can focus on what you do best: sharing knowledge.

The downsides include finding a customer base and the time involved in creating a detailed course worth paying for.

Invest in Dividend Stocks

Buying stocks that pay dividends is an outside-the-box idea to earn an income.

But the process is entirely passive once you decide on the stocks you want to own.

Ideally, you want to own 10-15 high-quality stocks, preferably dividend aristocrat companies.

Potential income comes from regular dividend payouts, providing a steady stream of passive income.

Downsides may include market fluctuations affecting stock values, risks associated with individual companies, and the need for a long-term investment approach.

Read now: Here is how to get started with dividend investing

Real Estate Crowdfunding

If you want to invest in real estate but don’t have the cash, consider crowdfunded real estate.

Real estate crowdfunding involves pooling funds with other investors to invest in real estate projects through online platforms like Arrived.

Potential income arises from rental income or property appreciation, and you can start with a relatively small investment.

Downsides may include the lack of direct control over property management decisions, market risks, and liquidity constraints.

Rent Out Your Car

If you have a car you don’t need daily, why not rent it out and get some money?

Plenty of online peer-to-peer car-sharing platforms allow you to list your vehicle and your price for those looking for a car.

Potential income depends on factors such as the make and model of your car, location, and rental demand.

Some people living near major airports turn this idea into a full-time income, purchasing multiple cars and renting them out to travelers for a week.

Downsides may include wear and tear on your vehicle, insurance considerations, and the need for effective communication with renters.

Rent Out Space

Most people think about renting out their entire house using Airbnb or other rental websites when renting out space.

But you can also rent out a spare room or your parking space.

One rental option gaining momentum is renting out your garage for storage.

If you charge less than a storage facility, you can have your choice of potential clients.

The income varies based on the location, amenities offered, and rental demand.

Downsides may include the need for effective communication with guests, wear and tear on your property, and the time investment in managing bookings and cleaning.

Private Label Rights

Most people have no idea that private label rights (PLR) exist, but it can be a great way to earn residual money.

As a PLR writer, you create ebooks, presentations, guides, and other short marketing materials.

Businesses then purchase these items and re-brand them with their company logo.

They can also edit the document to fit their needs.

The benefit for you is that you create the item once, and then various businesses will buy that one document and format it for their needs.

The drawback is the time it takes to create a stockpile of items to sell.

Your potential income will vary, but it could be a few hundred dollars a month.

Extra Cash Gigs

Dog Walker

There are multiple benefits when it comes to dog walking.

You get to be outside, enjoy nature, get a workout, and are paid to do it.

It’s easy to start.

Reach out to neighbors who have dogs and tell them you’d be willing to walk their dogs.

Then, use them to refer additional clients.

You can even market yourself on local social media groups.

Potential income varies based on the number of clients, the frequency of walks, and your pricing structure.

If you can strategically get a few clients who live in the same area, you can walk multiple dogs at once, increasing your hourly rate.

Downsides may include the need for flexibility in your schedule, weather-related challenges, and managing dogs with different temperaments.

Pet Sitter

If you love all pets, then consider pet sitting.

Pet sitting involves offering your services to care for pets in their owners’ absence, either at your home or the pet owner’s residence.

This can be for a day or two or up to a week or more.

Potential income depends on the number and type of pets, the duration of care, and your pricing structure.

Downsides may include the need for a flexible schedule, allergies or discomfort with certain animals, and managing unexpected situations.

Assembling Furniture

Are you someone who’s hands-on and enjoys putting things together?

Did you know you can turn this skill into a money-making venture?

Furniture assembly involves offering your skills to read instructions and assemble various pieces for individuals or businesses lacking the time or expertise.

The amount you earn depends on the complexity of the furniture, your efficiency, and your pricing structure.

Downsides may include the need for proficiency in furniture assembly, heavy lifting, and managing client expectations.

Shopkick

Utilizing the Shopkick app won’t allow you to make a lot of money, but it’s a simple way to earn free gift cards.

You can use these gift cards to offset some of your spending or as gifts for others.

The app has you earn points, or “kicks,” by performing simple tasks like scanning product barcodes, making purchases, or submitting receipts in partner stores.

Potential income depends on how quickly you can accumulate kicks.

For many, earning a $25 gift card every month or two is still possible.

Downsides may include the time investment required for point accumulation, limited availability of tasks in certain locations, and changes in reward values.

Online Surveys

Online surveys are similar to Shopkick, where you aren’t going to become rich doing it.

Sign up with survey sites, such as Survey Junkie, MyPoints, and Branded Surveys, and get paid when you use your free time to share your opinions on various products and services.

Some allow for you to participate in focus groups, earning extra income.

Potential income depends on the number of surveys available, your eligibility, and the payout per survey.

For most people, earning $25 every month or two is possible.

Downsides may include the time investment for relatively low compensation, survey disqualifications, and the need for consistent survey availability.

Read now: Learn the tricks I use to maximize my survey income

Use Cash Back Websites

Utilizing online cashback sites is a simple idea that everyone who shops online should be using.

To earn cash back, you shop through cashback platforms that offer a percentage of your purchase amount back as cash or gift cards.

Rakuten and Swagbucks are two popular options.

Potential income depends on your shopping habits and the cashback rates provided by the platform. (Here’s a bonus tip: Use these sites and pay with a cashback credit card to maximize your cash back!)

Downsides may include a delay in receiving cashback, minimum payout thresholds, and variations in cashback rates across different retailers.

Netflix Tagger

Did you know you can get paid to watch movies on Netflix?

As a Netflix tagger, you watch shows and movies and assign specific keywords to the streaming giant to categorize the content correctly.

Average pay is around $15 an hour, and they ask you to work approximately 20 hours per week.

The drawbacks include the job not being available all the time, as well as needing enough time to meet the job requirements.

Check the Netflix jobs page regularly if you want to do this job.

House Sitter

Becoming a house sitter is an idea you might not have thought of.

House-sitting involves:

• Offering your services to stay in someone else’s home while they’re away.
• Taking care of tasks like watering plants.
• Collecting mail.
• Ensuring the property’s security.

Many people use this hustle to visit locations they’ve always wanted to travel to but haven’t had the chance.

The allure isn’t only free accommodations, but you earn money to stay there!

Potential income includes compensation from homeowners or the benefit of staying in a residence rent-free.

Downsides may include:

• The need for flexibility in your schedule.
• Responsibilities beyond basic house care.
• Finding consistent opportunities.

The easiest way to get started is to use TrustedHousesitters.

This website is an intermediary to help limit fears or concerns about working with people you don’t know.

Sell Baby Clothes and Gear

I touched on renting out baby gear earlier, but here’s another option: selling these items.

There are sales like Just Between Friends, where you can sell baby items on consignment.

These sales are enormous, and you can make good money.

My sister sells at these events and makes a couple hundred dollars in every sale.

They have sales throughout the country, so you should be able to find one in your area.

At the very least, you can post your items on Facebook Marketplace.

And here’s a bonus tip to make even more: Find gently used clothes and gear at yard sales and online and flip them for a profit!

The biggest downside is the time tagging the items you want to sell.

Product Testing

Product testing has you sign up with companies that send you products to test and provide feedback.

You can even do this virtually by testing websites to ensure they’re user-friendly.

Potential income often comes from keeping the tested products or receiving nominal compensation.

Downsides may include:

• The sporadic availability of product testing opportunities.
• Competition for spots.
• The time investment for detailed feedback.

What To Avoid When Trying To Make Money on the Side

When looking into secondary income streams, many consider direct sales (Avon, Pampered Chef) or multi-level marketing strategies (Stampin’ Up!, Young Living, Usborne Books).

While these options are well-known, it doesn’t mean they’re ideal options.

Many of the above ideas are head and shoulders better than direct sales or MLMs.

There are a few reasons for this.

First, with either of them, many people rely on their friends and family for customers.

Over time, doing this can annoy your loved ones, and they may distance themselves from you.

Second, you need to meet monthly minimums with most of these to keep your account active.

If you don’t have enough sales, you must make the purchases and lose money in the process.

Finally, you need to be careful with these ideas, as many are scams.

They’re great at convincing you lots of money can be made and promote this by showing you images of successful people traveling, living in large homes, and driving fancy cars.

Rarely do they talk about the effort you need to put in to reach these sales levels.

You’re best bet to save yourself headaches and money is to skip these ideas and think of another way to earn a living.

Things To Consider for a Successful Side Hustle

You need to consider four things that can lead to success and happiness in your side job venture.

They include time, money, interest, and effort.

Let’s briefly look at the importance of each.

Time

One of the most crucial factors to weigh is time, both the time you have available and the time you can commit to a side gig.

Your schedule is full of responsibilities, and choosing something that aligns with the time you can realistically dedicate is paramount.

Consider the flexibility of the side job, whether it complements your existing routine and if it allows you to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

While the allure of income is essential, finding the right freelance job that respects your time constraints ensures sustainability and success.

Money

It’s also important to be clear about your monetary goals, whether it’s covering specific expenses or contributing to savings.

Different side hustles offer varying income potentials, so align your expectations with the earning capacity of the gig.

Consider the balance between effort and income, as some ideas require more time for substantial returns, while others offer quick, smaller gains.

By evaluating your financial goals and the earning potential of moonlighting, you can make a strategic choice that aligns with your needs and ensures the best return on your investment of time and effort.

Interest

To be successful, you should opt for a gig that aligns with your passions.

Going this route ensures you do more enjoyable work and increases your chances of success.

Think about what activities genuinely engage and motivate you, as this will contribute to your overall satisfaction and commitment.

With that said, don’t be afraid to try something new.

You may be curious about baking.

Give it a try.

Even if you fail, you won’t have to wonder “what if?”

Or you might discover a new passion that increases your happiness.

Effort

Finally, assess how much effort you’re willing to invest to get started and offer on an ongoing basis.

Some side gigs require minimal setup and allow you to start quickly, while others demand more time and energy.

Think about your desired work intensity and how it aligns with your lifestyle.

Opt for a project that matches your willingness to put in the effort, balancing your commitment with the results you aim to achieve.

Maximizing Earnings With Multiple Side Gigs

You can enhance your earnings by diversifying your side hustles.

Instead of picking one idea, you pick a few and schedule your time accordingly.

Of course, there are pros and cons to this concept.

On the positive side, diversifying your income streams can provide financial stability, especially if one side hustle is more seasonal or variable.

It allows you to capitalize on various skills and interests, maximizing your earnings.

However, the downside lies in the increased demand for your time and energy.

Balancing multiple gigs requires effective time management and organizational skills, and you risk spreading yourself too thin.

Assess your capacity to handle multiple commitments and weigh the benefits against the challenges before pursuing several side hustles simultaneously.

Strategies for Balancing Side Hustles and Family Time

Striking a balance between your side hustle and family time is crucial, regardless of whether you’re a mom.

Here are some strategies to consider:

• Ensure you prioritize effective time management by creating a realistic schedule that allocates dedicated time for both work and family.
• Set clear boundaries and communicate your availability to family members and clients alike.
• Embrace the power of delegation, whether involving family members in household tasks or outsourcing certain aspects of your side hustle.
• Learn to say “no” when necessary, focusing on quality over quantity in your work and personal commitments.
• Utilize technology to streamline tasks and stay organized.
• Regularly reassess your schedule to ensure it aligns with your family’s needs and side hustle goals, maintaining a healthy equilibrium between work and home life.

Finally, remember that some days will be more productive than others.

Be flexible and kind to yourself.

When family needs unexpectedly take priority, adjust your schedule accordingly.

The beauty of side hustles lies in their adaptability.

With a strong plan and the right mindset, you can generate revenue without missing out on precious moments.