Turn your ideas into profits with Printify

Start your own print-on-demand business and make money while you sleep – no inventory, no hassle.

Business tips & ideas

35 Side hustle ideas to try in 2025

June 5, 2025 16 minutes

Side hustle made easy – Print, sell, profit.

Looking for side hustle ideas that don’t involve awkward phone calls or soul-crushing commutes? We’ve got 35 fresh ways to earn extra cash in 2025 – online, on the go, or in your neighborhood. From creative gigs to easy wins, there’s something here for every vibe and schedule.

Disclaimer

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no additional cost to you.

Key takeaways

  • You can start a side hustle that fits your lifestyle, skills, and schedule – even with a full-time job.
  • Side hustle ideas range from passive (like Print on Demand) to hands-on (like mobile car washes).
  • Many side hustles can be started with little or no upfront cost.
  • Search engines, social media, and niche platforms like Fiverr and Upwork help you find clients fast.
  • Creative options like content creation or calligraphy can turn into serious income.
  • Work-from-home gigs like transcription and tutoring are great for introverts or remote workers.
  • Printify makes it easy to launch a print-on-demand store with built-in tools and global shipping.

12 Online side hustles – The digital money makers

These are side hustles you can start from your laptop – a top choice for creatives, tech-savvy folks, or anyone wanting location freedom.

1. Print on Demand – Sell custom products with your designs

A man is making a print on a fabric.

Print on Demand (POD) is a business model where products are made only when someone places an order – so no stock, no waste, and no garage full of unsold mugs. 

You upload a design, choose what to sell (think t-shirts, tote bags, phone cases), and your POD partner handles the printing, packing, and shipping. 

It requires little initial investment, but can grow into a full-time income stream. Your bank account will thank you for avoiding upfront expenses, and your creativity gets to shine. Plus, you can sell globally from your couch. Not bad, right?

How to start a side hustle with Print on Demand

Ready to kick it off? 

  • Sign up for Printify (it’s free!).
  • Pick from over 1,300 products (from apparel and accessories to home decor, pet gear, custom games, and more).
  • Start designing.

Our Product Creator makes it a breeze with AI tools, a pattern generator, a multi-language text editor, and a free graphics library. Customize to your heart’s content. 

  • Connect to a sales channel like Etsy, TikTok Shop, Amazon, or Shopify. 
  • List your product, set your price, and let our network handle the rest – from production to delivery. 

Easy-peasy, global-reachy.

Sell products on your own website, at your own schedule, from your own home

2. Resume writing services – Write or polish professional resumes

A person writes on a piece of paper with a pen.

Got a way with words and a knack for structure? Resume writing is a great side hustle where you help others land their dream jobs. Clean up grammar, organize content, and highlight skills like a pro.

How to start: Join platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or ResumeGenius, or create your own mini brand on social media. Bonus points if you can turn boring into brilliant.

3. Virtual bookkeeping – Handle finances for small businesses

Virtual bookkeeping might be your jam if you love order, spreadsheets, and making sense of numbers. Help small businesses keep their finances tidy from anywhere.

How to start: Learn the basics on platforms like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning, then find clients through QuickBooks ProAdvisor, Upwork, or Bench.

Quick tip

Explore 30 more ideas on how to make money online.

4. Social media management – Manage posts and grow followings

A woman sitting on a stairway, holding a cell phone and looking thoughtfully at the screen.

If you’re glued to social media platforms anyway, why not turn that habit into a hustle? Help brands or creators manage social media accounts, schedule posts, and grow their presence – all without quitting your day job.

How to start: Use tools like Canva, Buffer, or Later. Build a portfolio, then find gigs on Fiverr, Freelancer, or reach out directly to small businesses.

5. Freelance writing – Create blogs, articles, and web content

Love words? Freelance writing gigs let you flex your creative skills and earn money online writing about everything from tech to tacos.

How to start: Pitch on sites like ProBlogger, Contently, or Medium’s Partner Program. Start a blog to show off your style and turn your passion for words into profit.

6. Content editing – Polish and proofread for writers or brands

Got an eagle eye for typos and love grammar, clarity, and correcting “their” to “they’re”? Content editing is your zone. Help writers, bloggers, and brands shine by fixing grammar, tightening flow, and ensuring clarity.

How to start: Offer services on Upwork, Reedsy, or Fiverr. Bonus tip: Brush up on editing skills via Grammarly or the Hemingway.

7. Online tutoring – Teach students virtually

A woman tutoring an online class.

If you’re a whiz at math, science, AI training, English, or even guitar, you can teach it online. Students (and parents) are searching for tutors every day. This is a great way to reach potential clients globally.

How to start: Apply on tutoring sites like Wyzant, Preply, or Cambly, search online, or join tutoring Facebook groups.

8. Etsy side hustle – Open a shop for handmade goods

Got a creative streak? Turn your crafts into cash by launching an Etsy shop. Whether it’s pottery, art prints, or crochet hats, this can generate significant income and even lead to financial independence.

How to start: Create an Etsy seller account, list a few handmade items, add great photos, and promote your shop on Pinterest or Instagram.

Quick tip

Read our Etsy guide to learn the ins and outs of running your own store.

9. Digital product sales – Create and sell downloads or tools

Create once, earn forever. Digital products like planners, templates, social media kits, or printables are hot sellers with no shipping required. Just upload, list, and cha-ching.

How to start: Create your product using Canva or Google Docs. Sell on Gumroad, Etsy, or Payhip. Promote using email lists, Pinterest, or short-form video content.

Quick tip

Read our guides and learn to sell digital products on Etsy, Shopify, or Amazon.

10. Affiliate marketing – Promote links and earn commission

Affiliate marketing is a low-cost way to start a profitable business. You share products online – through blogs, YouTube, social media – and earn a commission every time someone buys using your link. You don’t need to create a product, just promote it.

An affiliate marketer can thrive in countless niches: beauty, fitness, tech, parenting, pets – you name it. With the right digital marketing strategy and a bit of hustle, you can turn an existing audience (or build one) into a money-making machine.

How to start: Sign up with affiliate platforms like Amazon Associates, Printify, or ShareASale. Pick products you genuinely like, create content that fits, drop your custom links, and start making more money every time someone clicks Buy.

Quick tip

Explore top affiliate marketing programs and social media marketing tips for affiliate success.

Earn money as an affiliate with the Printify Affiliate program

11. Transcription services – Convert audio into text

A woman wearing a headset, focused on her work in a modern office environment.

If you’ve got sharp ears and fast fingers, transcription can be a great gig. Turn podcasts, interviews, or video content into readable text and get paid per file. Perfect for introverts, students, or multitaskers with headphones.

How to start: Apply to sites like Rev, TranscribeMe, or GoTranscript. Use free tutorials or practice files to sharpen your skills. Grammar nerds thrive here.

12. Dropshipping business – Sell products without holding inventory

Dropshipping is like running an online store, without the hassle of packaging or storing anything. Unlike Print on Demand, though, you can’t customize the products – you resell existing items from suppliers. 

How it works? You partner with a reliable dropshipping supplier, list their products in your own online store, and – once a customer buys from you – you forward the order to the supplier, who takes care of packaging and shipping.

How to start: Pick a dropshipping niche, set up a dropshipping store, and use apps like DSers or Spocket to import products. Focus on one target audience, product trends, customer service, and solid marketing to earn.

5 Easy side-hustle business ideas

These side gigs are easy to start, require minimal upfront investment, and are perfect for beginners looking to earn fast.

13. Join focus groups – Share opinions for quick payouts

Got opinions? Of course you do. Companies want to hear from real people – and they’ll pay for your feedback on products, ads, or services. Just show up, share your thoughts, and get paid fast.

How to start: Register on sites like User Interviews, FocusGroup.com, or Respondent. Some sessions are virtual, others local. Either way, it’s cash for chatting.

14. Take online surveys – Earn cash in your spare time

Scrolling your phone during downtime? Swap the doomscrolling for some extra bucks by taking paid surveys. It’s easy, low-effort, and can be done anywhere – even in pajamas.

How to start: Join trusted sites like Swagbucks, InboxDollars, or Survey Junkie. Rack up points answering quick questions, then cash out through PayPal or gift cards.

Quick tip

Explore other ways to make money from your phone.

15. Do task-based work – Get paid for small gigs

From assembling furniture to picking up groceries, task-based apps let you earn extra income by helping people with everyday jobs. No desk required.

How to start: Download apps like TaskRabbit, Handy, or Gigwalk. Set your availability, browse local gigs, and start stacking cash for stuff you already know how to do.

16. Rent out your space – Monetize a room or garage

A man showing an apartment for a couple.

Got a spare room, garage, or even a backyard studio space? You could be sitting on serious rental potential. People need good spots – for storage, working, or short stays – and they’re willing to pay good money for it.

How to start: List your space on Airbnb or Neighbor. Snap good photos, add details, set your rate, and start earning passively.

17. Flip thrifted goods – Resell secondhand finds for a profit

Are you a thrift store treasure hunter? Turn it into a money-making mission. Find hidden gems at garage sales or flea markets, then resell them for extra money. It’s fun, eco-friendly, and can bring in steady monthly income.

How to start: Look for quality secondhand items, clean them up, then list on eBay, Poshmark, or Facebook Marketplace. Great photos equal higher profit.

5 Creative side hustle ideas to make extra money

Perfect for artistic souls who want to monetize their skills, hobbies, or handmade creations.

18. Voice-over services – Lend your voice for quick cash

If you’ve got a smooth, quirky, or powerful voice, brands want to hear it. Voice-over gigs are booming for audiobooks, YouTube intros, eLearning, and ads – and they pay surprisingly well.

How to start: Create a voice sample reel using Audacity or GarageBand. Then sign up on Fiverr, Voices.com, or Bunny Studio to start booking projects.

19. Graphic design services – Design logos, websites, or templates

A man wearing glasses is seated at a desk, working on a laptop.

Design-savvy? Offer graphic design services for clients who need logos, social media graphics, or custom templates. You don’t need web development skills – just a good eye and solid design tools.

How to start: Use Canva, Adobe Express, or Figma. Post your services on Fiverr or 99designs, or reach out to small businesses and creators on Instagram or LinkedIn.

20. Freelance photography – Shoot portraits, products, or events

A woman holds a camera in front of a bright light, preparing to take a photograph.

Turn your camera hobby into a side gig. People need high-quality photos for events, headshots, or product listings. From graduations to Etsy sellers, photography can be a creative and profitable hustle.

How to start: Build a portfolio with free or low-cost shoots. Share your work on Instagram, then book clients through Upwork, Bark, or local Facebook groups.

Quick tip

Read more tips on how to make money with photography.

21. Calligraphy services – Design invitations, signs, or prints

Got beautiful handwriting? Turn it into a business. From wedding invites to event signage and personalized art prints, it’s a creative hustle with charm and demand.

How to start: Build a sample portfolio, then list your services on Etsy, Fiverr, or social media. Try tools like Creative Fabrica or Procreate to digitize your lettering for prints.

22. Content creation – Build an audience on social media

This side hustle is blowing up. If you’re good on camera or love sharing tips, reviews, or stories, content creation can bring in brand deals, affiliate cash, and even a full-time revenue.

How to start: Choose a niche, post consistently on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube, and engage with your audience. Use tools like CapCut and Adobe to level up fast.

Quick tip

Read how content creators make money and use some ideas for your side hustle.

7 Best side hustle ideas for the road

For those who don’t mind getting out and about, these options are flexible and mostly app-driven.

23. Drive for rideshare apps – Earn by giving people lifts

Got a car and some free hours? Turn your commute or weekend into a cash machine by driving for rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft. It’s flexible and great for social folks.

How to start: Sign up with your license and car details, pass a quick background check, and start accepting ride requests via the app whenever you’re free.

24. Deliver Amazon packages – Get paid to drop off parcels

Be the hero who gets those Prime orders to doorsteps on time. Amazon Flex lets you deliver packages on your schedule with your own car. It’s gig work, but with solid structure.

How to start: Download the Amazon Flex app, pick a delivery block, show up at a warehouse, load your car, and hit the road. Easy, reliable pay.

25. Do food delivery – Bring meals to doorsteps in your free time

A courier delivering an order to the person.

Craving extra bucks in your spare time? Sign up with delivery services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Grubhub and bring tasty meals to hungry customers. Work when you want – zero commitments.

How to start: Use your phone to register, pass a quick background check, grab a hot bag, and start taking orders near you. Tips + pay = nice stack.

26. Shop and deliver groceries – Help others with their errands

Grocery delivery apps like Instacart or Shipt pay you to shop for someone else – yep, it’s that simple. It’s great if you like errands and want a flexible income stream, ideal for college students and people with lots of free time.

How to start: Sign up online, complete a quick onboarding, get your shopper card, then accept orders nearby. You’ll shop, check out, and deliver.

27. Rent out your car – Let it earn for you while parked

When your car’s not in use, why not let it work for you? Platforms like Turo and Getaround let you rent it out by the hour or day – and make passive income while you chill.

How to start: Create a listing, upload photos, and set your rates and availability. The app handles booking, insurance, and payments. You just hand over the keys.

Quick tip

Explore other services and things to sell to make extra money.

28. Advertise on your car – Wrap it with ads for passive income

Your daily commute could bring in passive income – just by wrapping your car in ads. Companies like Wrapify or Carvertise pay drivers to promote brands as they drive.

How to start: Sign up, share your driving routine, and see if you qualify. If approved, they’ll wrap your car and send monthly payments.

29. Offer mobile car washes – Clean vehicles on-site, anywhere

A man in overalls washes a white car.

Got a knack for keeping things spotless? A mobile car wash service lets you go straight to customers and clean their ride at home, work, or wherever they park. All you need are supplies and a smile.

How to start: Offer services locally via Facebook Marketplace or Nextdoor. Use your own gear or start with a basic car wash kit and grow from there.

6 Service hustles that make a local impact – and extra cash

Use your hands and skills to help others in your neighborhood and build a word-of-mouth business.

30. Pet sitting and dog walking services – Care for pooches in your area

A woman walks three dogs on leashes.

Dog lovers, rejoice! Offer pet sitting or walk dogs in your neighborhood and turn puppy playtime into profit. Apps like Rover make it easy to get started and find clients.

How to start: Create a pet-friendly profile, set your schedule and rates, and start booking jobs. You probably won’t make a million dollars, but the industry is full of opportunities (and tail wags).

Quick tip

Explore other fun and secret websites to make money in 2025.

31. House cleaning – Keep homes spotless and stress-free

Turn your cleaning skills into a tidy income. House cleaning is in constant demand, especially for busy families or professionals. It’s simple, flexible, and pays well per job.

How to start: List your services on platforms like Thumbtack or Care.com, or go old school with flyers in your area. Bring your own supplies and let your work shine.

32. Event planning – Help organize parties, weddings, or meetups

A woman sits at a desk with a laptop open and a calendar beside her, focused on her work.

Love logistics and a good party? Event planning lets you help local businesses or individuals throw unforgettable events. From decor to scheduling, your creativity and organization pay off.

How to start: Build a small portfolio with mock events, offer your services to friends or local groups, then promote yourself through social media, Eventbrite, or Facebook.

33. Personal training – Train clients at home or in the park

Fitness-focused? Personal training is a rewarding side hustle where you help others meet their health goals. Train in person, at parks, or even online – no gym required.

How to start: Get certified (try ISSA or NASM), create workout plans, and find clients via social media or apps like Trainerize. Bonus: You stay in shape, too.

34. Car detailing – Make vehicles shine inside and out

If you’ve got an eye for all things clean and neat, car detailing can be a lucrative hustle. People pay well for deep cleans, waxing, and polishing – especially when it’s done at their home or office.

How to start: Invest in basic supplies, advertise locally, and consider listing on TaskRabbit or offering packages for regular clients. Your work speaks for itself, so make it sparkle.

35. Lawn mowing and landscaping – Mow, trim, and beautify yards

Put your green thumb to work and earn cash mowing lawns, trimming hedges, or doing seasonal yard cleanups. It’s perfect for weekends and can grow into a steady local biz.

How to start: Grab your gear, print some flyers, and offer your services around your neighborhood. Apps like GreenPal can help you land your first gigs fast.

Side hustle ideas: FAQ

To make $1,000 a month, focus on side hustles with strong earning potential and low startup costs. Print on Demand is a great option – create a simple store and start selling custom products with platforms like Printify. Other ideas include online tutoring, writing, or offering digital services like social media management.

The most profitable side hustles often involve skills like software development, online course creation, or digital marketing. According to Side Hustle Nation, once established, most hustlers earn more than $5,000 per month. Niches like eCommerce, real estate, and high-ticket affiliate marketing lead the pack.

Fun side hustles let you get creative while making extra bank – try content creation, voice-over work, running a booth at a farmer’s market, or flipping vintage finds. If it makes you smile and pays the bills, you’ve found a winner. Bonus: You can often turn hobbies into side businesses with little effort.

Work from home jobs include writing, tutoring, transcription, content editing, affiliate marketing, and Print on Demand. Use search engines to explore what fits your skill set, schedule, and income goals. Many side business ideas can scale into something big – right from your laptop.

Start a side hustle on your own terms

A full-time job doesn’t have to limit your income – or your creativity. Whether you’re delivering groceries, running an Etsy shop, or launching a digital product, there’s a side hustle for every vibe. 

Try something fun like dog sitting or voice-over work, or explore Print on Demand with Printify and build a business that works while you sleep.

Looking for an awesome side hustle? Try POD!

Be your own boss 
with Printify

Open your business today: Create and sell beautiful custom-products within minutes. Printify prints, and delivers 1,300+ products at the lowest prices around. No risk, all reward.

100% free · Easy to use · 1,300+ products