I have written quite a lot about the importance of having one or more side hustles in the past. And possibly you have already read the 199 Side Hustle Ideas that you can find in this article here.
Want to start a side hustle, but you don't know how to get started?
Here are 199 side hustle ideas to get you started right now.
While online side hustles like writing SEO-optimized content, programming websites or apps and working as a graphic designer are awesome ways to make money, these require specific skills and talent that not everybody has or is willing to learn. And I get it, you maybe want a side hustle that brings in just a few hundred or a few thousand bucks each month. And you don't want to leave your regular job. I hear you when you don't want to build the next big thing online.
Today I am writing about easy and cheap side hustles that you can start today without giving up your full-time job. Without learning new skills. And without any upfront investments.
Job – Side Hustle – Balance
Balancing a full-time job and a side hustle can be tricky. From setting aside time to manage each to finding the right energy and motivation to push forward with both, having two jobs and staying focused can require a lot of discipline. But, if you're able to master it, you'll be able to reap the rewards of having multiple sources of income plus some extra free time that can help maximize your potential in both areas.
If you're thinking about taking on a side hustle while working full-time, here are some tips for how to effectively manage your workload so you don't burn out:
- Set Achievable Goals: When starting any new project or task, it's important to set realistic goals for yourself so that you know what needs to be done and when. Start by Listing out the specific tasks associated with the job and create deadlines for each one. This will keep you organized and motivated throughout the process.
- Prioritize Your Time Wisely: You may not have as much time as you'd like available to dedicate to your side hustle while working full-time, so it's important that you make use of every minute wisely. Prioritize tasks based on their importance or urgency and then make sure they get completed on schedule. This also means learning how to say no if something arises that eats away at your allocated time without providing any real benefit.
- Get Creative With Your Schedule: As already mentioned above, finding enough hours in the day with a full-time job can be challenging but not impossible! Even though most people only have 24 hours in a day, there are ways to be creative with your scheduling by doing things like batching tasks (working on similar ones together) or even shortening breaks between activities so there's more “empty” space during which work can get done when needed.
- Set Boundaries When Working from Home: If part of your side hustle involves working from home, it's important that you set boundaries between work and personal life so that neither area gets neglected due to an overload of either one. This could mean designating certain spaces as “off-limits” when it comes to business operations (e.g., the bedroom or kitchen) or creating an office setup where professional items are kept separate from family items such as toys or games.
- Delegate Tasks If Possible: If your budget permits it, consider delegating certain tasks related to your side hustle – anything from administrative duties (answering emails) customer service (handling inquiries) through bookkeeping (proper financial management). This way you won't waste valuable time dealing with mundane details but instead focus solely on those aspects which actually bring money into your pocket! However, do this sparingly as too many people involved often means confusion about who does what and ends up costing more in additional overhead costs than necessary.
Practical Tips To Find Your Perfect Side Hustle
Finding the perfect side hustle is an incredibly personal journey. Depending on your lifestyle and needs, there are many factors to consider when choosing a part-time job or gig. Here are some practical tips that can help you decide which side hustle is best for you:
- Consider Your Personality and Lifestyle: Are you an introvert or an extrovert? Do you want to be in control of your own destiny or work with someone else? These are important questions to ask yourself when deciding on the right side hustle. Knowing how you prefer to work can give you a better idea of the types of gigs or jobs that would suit your personality and lifestyle.
- Decide Whether You Want Remote Work Or In-Person Gigs: Some people prefer staying at home and working remotely while others may like the social aspect of an in-person job. This will also depend on where you live, as certain regions often have more opportunities available for remote side hustles than others.
- Assess Your Skillset: Think about which skillset or talents you have that could be used in a side hustle role. Consider whether those skills would lend themselves to freelance gigs, remote work, part-time jobs, etc. Knowing what specific skillsets might come in handy can help narrow down potential opportunities significantly and make it easier to find the right fit for your goals and interests.
- Estimate How Much Time You Can Devote To A Side Hustle: It's important to really assess how much time and energy (and money) you're willing and able to put into a side hustle before committing to anything long-term. Make sure that any potential plan or commitment aligns with the amount of time (and money!) available in your schedule before jumping into it feet first!
- Analyze Your Goals: Figure out exactly why you want a side hustle – is it just for extra spending cash or do you hope to turn this gig into something more meaningful? It pays off to take stock of where your life is headed so that whatever role you choose doesn’t become monotonous after a few months but rather leads toward exciting plans for growth.
- Make use of extra time: Make the most of your side hustle by utilizing any “extra” time you have (i.e., weekends or evenings). Use this extra time to work on projects, build relationships with clients, learn new skills, and network with other side hustlers. Doing so will help you better manage your side hustle, stay organized,
- Incorporate your family: If you have family, consider side hustles that you can do together such as selling homemade products or offering services like pet-sitting. Working on side hustles with your family can help create a great team atmosphere at home and give your loved ones an opportunity to learn about the world of side hustling too.
23 Side Hustle Ideas While Working Full Time
Now that we have the theory down, let's explore the best side hustles that are cheap to start, flexible to work on and don't require extraordinary skills or talent.
1. Virtual Assistant
Working as a virtual assistant is a flexible and low-cost side hustle that anybody can do from the comfort of their own home. With all the advances in technology, it's now easier than ever to be a virtual assistant (or VA) and earn an income with minimal investment.
As a virtual assistant, you'd be responsible for providing administrative support, customer service, and other miscellaneous tasks like data entry or scheduling appointments. Depending on your skill set you can also provide specialized services such as graphic design, web development, copywriting or search engine optimization (SEO).
Some of the benefits of being a virtual assistant include: working remotely; no commute time or gas money spent; a flexible schedule; control over your workload and rate; no overhead costs; access to clients all around the world; ability to choose projects based on interests and skillset.
2. Online Survey Participation
Online survey participation is a great side hustle for those looking to make some extra cash in their free time. It’s a low-cost and flexible way of making money, with no special skills or qualifications needed. Participating in online surveys can help you earn anywhere from a few cents to hundreds of dollars per survey, depending on the length and type of survey involved.
3. Social Media Specialist
Becoming a social media specialist is an increasingly popular side hustle. With the emergence of new forms of digital media, businesses around the world are relying more and more on social media marketing to promote their brands and products – making this an exciting way to make money online!
As a social media specialist, you'd be responsible for managing a company's social platforms – including crafting content, engaging with followers, analyzing data and optimizing campaigns.
4. House Sitter / Babysitting Services
House sitters and babysitters offer additional benefits beyond just making money. For example, if you’re a student or full-time worker, house-sitting and babysitting services provide an excellent opportunity to grow your skills while still being able to meet other demands in life. You can gain experience in critical thinking, problem-solving, managing resources, communication, decision-making, and more. Plus, getting paid for it is just the icing on the cake.
5. Tutoring
Getting a side hustle tutoring can be an excellent way to make some extra cash. Not only is it an easy job to find, but you can easily get started without any qualifications or experience.
Tutoring is also incredibly rewarding as it allows you to help others learn and develop their skills. Whether it's teaching a foreign language, helping with math or helping students prepare for exams, there are lots of different areas where you can use your knowledge and expertise to help. Plus, tutoring often pays pretty well so people can make a good side income from it.
The key to making the most out of tutoring is understanding your student's needs and tailoring your approach accordingly. It's important to stay organized and up-to-date with their progress – that way you know what topics need more work and what areas need more attention. With the right attitude and dedication, tutors will find great delight in seeing their student’s progress and potentially even pick up transferable skills themselves.
6. Gardening Services
Gardening is another great side hustle to consider if you have a green thumb and some spare time. There are many opportunities available for people to start their own gardening business, from landscaping to lawn care. You can easily start up your own gardening service with very little upfront costs – all you need is the right tools and knowledge of how to make gardens beautiful!
One great thing about providing garden services is that it's a job where you get to be outside and enjoy nature. Plus, the possibilities for creativity are endless when it comes to designing landscapes and gardens. Whether you're mowing lawns or tending flower beds, there's always something new and exciting to try out with each project.
Gardening services also offer great potential for networking as clients will often refer their friends or family members who need help with their lawns or gardens. With hard work, patience and a knack for problem-solving, gardening can prove to be a rewarding experience both financially and personally.
7. Pet Sitter / Dog Walker
Working as a pet sitter or dog walker can be a great side hustle if you love animals. Not only is it rewarding but you can also make some extra money while spending time with furry friends.
There are several advantages to being a pet sitter or dog walker. Firstly, it's relatively easy to get started and the requirements are minimal. You just need to have an understanding of basic animal care, good communication skills and knowledge of your local area. Secondly, most jobs involve flexible hours which is great for people with busy lives or those looking for part-time work.
It's an incredibly satisfying job that can give you great satisfaction in knowing that you're providing valuable services to both animals and their owners. With the right attitude and commitment, anyone can be successful at pet sitting/dog walking.
8. Grocery Shopper
With the rise of delivery services, many companies are now offering shoppers the opportunity to pick up groceries and deliver them right to customers' doors. This not only helps busy people save on precious time but also allows them to keep their distance from potentially crowded stores and other shoppers during the pandemic.
Shopping for groceries can be an incredibly rewarding job as you get to help out your community while getting paid. Additionally, you don't need any special qualifications or prior experience in order to start – just an eye for detail and a commitment to providing excellent customer service! Most companies provide all the necessary equipment so you'll be ready in no time.
Grocery shopping is also one of the most flexible side hustles out there with plenty of opportunities available on weekdays as well as weekends.
9. Cleaner / Housekeeper
Cleaning and housekeeping jobs offer flexible hours, so you can easily work around your other commitments. Most out-calls are generally paid by the hour, so you can determine your own rate and even negotiate with clients if you feel that they're offering too little. Additionally, you don't need any special qualifications in order to start working – all that's required is an eye for detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality service.
The job also provides lots of satisfaction, as not only will your clients thank you for returning their homes to a comfortable state but also knowing that you’re relieving them from unnecessary stress.
10. Handyman / Handywoman
Handymen and women are in demand all over the country, so you can easily find work without having to commit to long-term positions.
By performing minor repairs and maintenance services, you’ll gain practical skills that will come in handy even when you don’t have a job. Moreover, most of the materials and tools required are often provided by clients, so you won't need to spend extra money on equipment.
The best part about this job is that it can be done on your own time, at any time of day or night – making it perfect for busy people who have other commitments during the day.
11. Event Planning & Coordination
Event planning and coordination is a great way for those who are passionate about organizing parties, gatherings, and other events to turn that passion into profit. It requires excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to think strategically, in order to successfully plan and manage all aspects of an event.
Those with a knack for hospitality will find this job particularly rewarding. It's all about ensuring that every detail of an event is taken care of – from coordinating vendors, venues and catering, to making sure there are enough decorations to greet guests on arrival. As an event planner/coordinator you'll be responsible for running the show and ensuring that everything goes smoothly.
Having knowledge of various decorating styles, equipment rental stores, designing seating arrangements and managing budgets are also essential components of successful event planning. Being creative while keeping a tight budget in mind can be challenging but also satisfying when your client is delighted with how everything turns out.
12. Car Detailing
Detailing a car involves cleaning and restoring its appearance – both inside and out. This includes everything from washing, vacuuming, waxing and buffing the exterior, to shampooing carpets, leather care, window cleaning, trim restoration and engine compartment detailing on the interior of the car.
It's important to keep up with advancements in technology and products when it comes to car detailing. There are a variety of specialized tools available now that allow you to quickly clean cars with greater precision and effectiveness. With proper training, you can learn these skills in no time at all.
Having an eye for detail is also essential – being able to spot dirt that may be hard to reach or simply overlooked – is key for success in this field. And of course, customer satisfaction should remain your top priority throughout the entire process.
13. Event Staffing Services
Event staffing services provide a great opportunity to earn extra income while working flexible hours. It involves providing assistance at events such as weddings, concerts, conferences, conventions and more. The duties can vary depending on the event but usually involve welcoming guests, setting up tables and chairs, decorating venues, serving food and drinks, taking care of transportation needs and other tasks assigned by the event planner.
Having strong communication skills is important since you’ll be interacting with people from all walks of life. Being able to think on your feet is also key – there could be last-minute changes or requests that you need to deal with efficiently. It's also essential that you pay attention to detail when it comes to following instructions in order to ensure the smooth flow of any event.
14. Home Stager & Organizer
Home staging & organizing involves preparing homes for sale, which requires cleaning, decluttering, rearranging furniture and decorating the space to increase its appeal to potential buyers.
It’s important that you have an eye for design and color coordination so that you can present the home in its best light. You should also be familiar with current trends in interior design and be able to offer suggestions on how to maximize the potential of each space. Being able to think quickly on your feet and handle last-minute requests or challenges is also essential in this field.
Having experience in painting, carpentry or handyman jobs will help you stand out from the competition. You should also have excellent customer service skills as there will be times when clients may need extra help or advice.
15. Personal Shopper
You’ll be responsible for finding apparel, accessories and other items based on the customer’s tastes and budget. You should have good knowledge of fashion trends as well as an eye for detail when it comes to selecting items that will flatter the customer’s figure.
It's important that you're able to work quickly without compromising on quality. Good organizational skills will come in handy too, as you will need to keep track of customers' orders, billing information, sizes and colors. Having strong communication skills is also key – you should be able to explain different options and make honest recommendations based on your observations about the person's needs.
Having an understanding of the target market is essential if you want to stay competitive. It pays to have a network of contacts so that you can source unique pieces or arrange special orders for customers who are looking for something extra special.
16. Website Design & Maintenance
To be successful in this field, you should have a solid understanding of how websites are built and maintained. You should also possess the technical skills needed to work with coding languages such as HTML and CSS, as well as frameworks like WordPress.
Creating user-friendly experiences is important too and requires an understanding of basic user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) principles. Having knowledge of search engine optimization (SEO) techniques will help your client’s website rank higher in search engines – something which can be extremely beneficial for businesses who rely heavily on internet traffic.
17. Delivery Worker
Driving for a delivery service is a great way to make some extra cash, especially if you have your own vehicle and are willing to drive around the city. As a delivery worker, you'll be responsible for picking up orders from local stores such as supermarkets, convenience stores and restaurants, and delivering them to customers.
You should be familiar with navigation apps like Google Maps, as well as platforms like Instacart which helps facilitate grocery deliveries. As a delivery worker, you'll need to be reliable, punctual and efficient at all times so that customers receive their orders on time and without any problems.
18. Host Podcasts
Podcast hosting is an increasingly popular side hustle that can be very rewarding. As a podcast host, you'll be in charge of creating, recording and editing audio shows – this could include interviews, panel discussions and stories.
You'll need to identify topics that will appeal to your listeners and research the content you plan to discuss. You'll also require audio-editing software to select tracks for the show, as well as equipment such as microphones and recording devices. Depending on your budget, you may even consider investing in soundproofing panels to keep out noise from outside sources.
Once you're all set up, it's time to launch your podcast! You'll need to create a website and upload your recordings onto podcast hosting platforms so that people can access them easily. There are many ways of monetizing a podcast – you could start by running ads or offering exclusive content for paying customers.
19. Artisanal Products Maker
As an artisanal products maker, you'll be crafting unique, handmade items such as jewelry, pottery, woodwork and clothing. This side hustle is the perfect way to express your creativity while earning some extra cash in your spare time.
To become an artisanal products maker, you'll need to learn about a range of materials and techniques to create products. You could take up courses or watch tutorials online to familiarize yourself with the basics. You might also consider setting up a home studio or small workshop where you can work on your projects.
When it comes to selling your creations, there are several options available. Online platforms such as Etsy provide a great outlet for budding entrepreneurs – this way, customers from all over the world can find and purchase your designs.
20. Food Blogging
To become a successful food blogger, you'll need to research the latest culinary trends and create content that's both informative and entertaining. You'll also require access to decent photo-editing software if you plan on taking pictures of your meals. If you're more of a videographer, investing in quality video recording equipment will come in handy.
The next step is to set up and design a website for your blog – this includes creating pages for recipes, reviews, ingredients and nutrition information. Once you have everything ready, it's time to start promoting your blog on social media so that people can find it easily.
21. Thrift Store Flipper
Have you ever thought of flipping thrift store items to make a profit? Many people have turned this into an incredibly successful side hustle. All you need is an eye for detail, some basic knowledge of fashion trends and a knack for bargain-hunting.
The first step is to visit popular thrift stores in your area and source items that are still in good condition. Once you've found something that's worth investing in, it's time to bring it home and give it a makeover. You can use basic sewing skills to fix any holes or rips, as well as clean up the item with a washing machine or some DIY tricks.
The final step is finding the right venue to sell your thrift gems – this could range from online marketplaces like eBay or Poshmark or attending local flea markets. With the right skill set and commitment, thrift store flipping promises great returns.
22. Gift Wrapping Service Provider
Have you ever considered providing gift-wrapping services? It's a great way to make extra money and help out fellow busybodies who don't have the time or skills to wrap gifts themselves.
To start, all you need is some wrapping paper, ribbon, tape, scissors – and of course, your creativity! If you find that you're struggling for ideas, there are plenty of online tutorials available to help you find inspiration. Once you've chosen a style, it’s time to put it into practice. Practice makes perfect!
Let your friends and family know about your new venture so they can spread the word – post flyers around town or set up a website with information about your services. You can also offer free pickup and delivery services if needed.
23. Rent out your spare space on Airbnb
With Airbnb, it's never been easier to turn unused rooms into a profitable side hustle. With just a few simple touches, your underused bedroom, garage or backyard can be transformed into a money-making machine.
First, you'll need to assess the amount of space you have and determine what type of rental property you'd like to offer. Different sizes and types of accommodations will appeal to different people, so it's important to focus on what works best for you. Once you've decided on the size, it’s time to get creative! Spruce up your place with comfortable furniture and stylish decor that will entice potential renters.
When listing your property, be sure to include all of the amenities available – this can range from WiFi access or cleaning services to free airport pickups or transport help. Additionally, create an attractive profile page that showcases your property in its best light. With a bit of luck and effort, renting out your spare space could become quite a successful side hustle.
Final Words
If you've made it this far, you won't have any more excuses to start your side business 😉
All it takes is the first step. You heard that right, just start. Every journey starts with the first step. So map out your plan and put it into action.
