The Best Side Hustles to Earn Extra Cash
Are you tired of watching your paycheck disappear before the month ends? Maybe you’re considering leaving your current job and want to test the waters in freelancing, or perhaps you’re just looking for a way to fund your next vacation or save for a rainy day. Whatever the reason, now is the perfect time to explore side hustles as an additional income stream.
In 2025, nearly 40% of Americans are engaging in some type of side hustle, with many using the extra cash to pay down debt, build savings, or simply increase their financial flexibility. From gig work to freelancing to creative ventures, the opportunities are endless for those willing to dedicate their time and skills.
In this guide, we’ll explore 15 of the best side hustles for 2025, complete with insights on how much you can expect to earn. We’ve gathered real-world data from companies and workers to give you an accurate view of each opportunity.
Top Profitable Side Hustles
1. Take online surveys
Companies rely on consumer data to drive decisions, and they’re willing to pay for it. By participating in online surveys, you can share your opinions and earn cash or rewards in return.
Survey platforms like Survey Junkie and Swagbucks are popular choices, with millions of users worldwide. Many platforms offer points you can redeem for PayPal cash, gift cards, or other perks. Survey Junkie users, for example, report earning an average of $1–$3 per survey, with some opportunities offering up to $50 for specialized panels.
Pro tip: Log in frequently to find surveys that match your demographics. Companies often seek specific participant profiles, so checking often boosts your chances of getting selected.
2. Deliver food
Food delivery has become a staple of modern life, with platforms like DoorDash, Grubhub, and UberEats driving the market. DoorDash alone accounts for nearly 60% of the U.S. food delivery market, making it a great option for new drivers.
Earnings vary based on location and demand. Most delivery drivers earn between $15 and $25 an hour, while those working during peak times or in high-demand areas can bring in $30 an hour or more. Additionally, tips can significantly boost your income.
Pro tip: Use strategies like working during dinner rushes or focusing on high-tip areas to maximize earnings.
3. Shop for groceries
With grocery delivery apps like Instacart and Shipt, you can turn your knack for shopping into a profitable side hustle. These platforms allow you to shop and deliver groceries for customers who prefer the convenience of having their orders brought straight to their door.
Instacart shoppers earn an average of $15 to $20 per hour, with top earners making $45 an hour or more during peak times. You’ll also keep 100% of your tips, which can range from 5% to 20% of the order total. In fact, in 2024, Instacart reported that the average tip per order increased by 10% compared to previous years, reflecting growing customer appreciation for this service.
Pro tip: Shopping during weekends or evenings can help you snag more lucrative orders. Plus, maintaining a high rating increases your access to better-paying gigs.
4. Give rides
Ride-sharing platforms like Uber and Lyft remain top choices for those with reliable vehicles and flexible schedules. In 2025, drivers report earning between $15 and $50 per hour depending on their location, hours worked, and rider demand.
Surge pricing, airport runs, and late-night rides can significantly boost your earnings. Blogs and online forums often share strategies, like focusing on high-demand areas or leveraging bonuses offered to new drivers. For example, Lyft’s 2025 driver bonus program pays up to $500 for completing a set number of rides in your first 30 days.
Pro tip: Some drivers pair ride-sharing with food delivery to maximize their time on the road, accepting orders or rides based on peak demand.
5. Rent out your car
If your car spends more time parked than on the road, you could earn passive income by renting it out on platforms like Turo or Getaround. Car-sharing services have seen significant growth, with Turo reporting over 14 million active users in 2024.
To list your car, it needs to meet specific requirements, such as being less than 12 years old and passing an inspection. The average host on Turo earns $500–$1,000 a month, with high-demand vehicles like SUVs or electric cars bringing in even more.
Pro tip: Keeping your car clean and responding quickly to booking inquiries can help you maintain high ratings and attract repeat renters.
6. Lend a hand
For those skilled in home repairs, yard work, or household chores, platforms like TaskRabbit offer an opportunity to get paid for helping others. Whether it’s assembling furniture, cleaning, or running errands, the variety of tasks truly means there’s something for everyone.
TaskRabbit’s highest earners report making $6,000–$8,000 a month, while average Taskers earn a few hundred dollars monthly depending on their availability and the types of tasks they accept. Cleaning and moving jobs tend to offer the highest payouts, with some Taskers charging $50 or more per hour.
Pro tip: Specializing in high-demand skills like plumbing or handyman work can help you command higher rates and build a loyal client base.
7. Clear out your clutter
Most households are filled with items that no longer serve a purpose. Selling unused items can not only declutter your home but also provide a quick cash infusion. In fact, according to recent surveys, the average American household contains over $3,000 worth of unused items.
Platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist are great for selling items like furniture, electronics, and seasonal decor. Niche platforms like Decluttr specialize in electronics, while OfferUp can help you connect with local buyers quickly.
Pro tip: Well-lit photos, detailed descriptions, and competitive pricing help your listings stand out.
8. Resell clothing
Your closet could hold hidden treasures, especially if you have brand-name items, vintage pieces, or clothing with tags still on. Platforms like Poshmark, ThredUp, and Depop make it easy to turn your unused wardrobe into cash.
Poshmark reports that top sellers earn $5,000–$10,000 annually, while part-time sellers bring in a few hundred dollars a month. If you’re savvy at finding thrift store gems, you could create a profitable business by flipping items for a markup.
Pro tip: Focus on in-demand categories, such as athleisure, name-brand handbags, or designer jeans, to maximize sales.
9. Sell handmade items
If you’re a crafty person, you can turn your creativity into income by selling handmade goods online or locally. Platforms like Etsy are top choices, with popular categories including jewelry, home decor, and seasonal gifts. In 2024, Etsy reported that top sellers averaged $40,000 in annual revenue, with part-time sellers bringing in a few hundred dollars a month.
Local farmers’ markets or craft fairs can also be a great way to connect with customers directly while building a loyal following. Items like candles, custom mugs, and holiday decorations tend to perform especially well.
Pro tip: Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok can help showcase your work and drive traffic to your shop.
10. Rent your space
Whether it’s a spare room, a guesthouse, or even an RV, renting out your space can generate consistent income. Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo make it easy to list and manage bookings. Airbnb hosts in the U.S. earned an average of $14,000 in 2024, with popular destinations earning significantly more.
Modern safety features, such as identity verification and background checks, provide peace of mind for hosts. You can also tailor your listing for niche markets, like offering pet-friendly stays or catering to remote workers with high-speed internet.
Pro tip: Investing in quality photos and writing a detailed description of your space can significantly increase bookings.
11. Tutor K-12 students
If you excelled in school or have a knack for teaching, tutoring could be a rewarding way to earn extra cash. The demand for online and in-person tutoring has surged, especially in core subjects like math, science, and English. In 2025, the average tutor earns $25–$40 per hour, with specialized subjects like SAT prep or advanced math bringing in even more.
Platforms like Wyzant, TutorMe, and Chegg connect tutors with students nationwide, while local tutoring can offer opportunities for one-on-one sessions. A teaching certification or degree is helpful but not always required, especially for K-12 tutoring.
Pro tip: Create a niche by specializing in high-demand areas, like test prep or STEM subjects, to stand out from other tutors.
12. Transcribe audio recordings
If you have sharp listening skills and quick fingers, transcription work could be an ideal side hustle. Industries like healthcare, legal, and media require accurate transcripts, and companies like Rev, Scribie, and GoTranscript regularly hire transcriptionists.
New transcriptionists typically start at $10–$15 per hour, but experienced professionals can earn up to $25 per hour or more. With dedication and practice, some transcriptionists bring in $1,000+ weekly by improving their speed and accuracy.
Pro tip: Invest in transcription tools like a foot pedal and noise-canceling headphones to boost productivity and efficiency.
13. Care for kids and pets
Babysitting and pet sitting remain classic and reliable ways to earn extra cash. With platforms like Care.com, SitterCity, and Rover, finding clients has never been easier. These services connect sitters with families and pet owners in need of trustworthy care.
In 2025, babysitters earn an average of $20 per hour, while pet sitters typically make $15 per hour. Some sitters boost their income by offering additional services, such as dog walking or overnight care.
Pro tip: Building a positive reputation through client reviews can lead to higher rates and repeat customers.
14. Do the heavy lifting
Labor-intensive tasks like moving furniture, shoveling snow, and yard work are perfect side hustles for those who don’t mind getting their hands dirty. Many people are willing to pay for help with these chores, and the work often pays better than minimum-wage jobs.
Advertising on platforms like TaskRabbit, Nextdoor, or local Facebook groups can quickly connect you with neighbors in need of assistance. The average pay for these jobs ranges from $20 to $50 per hour, depending on the task and your location.
Pro tip: Offering services seasonally, like snow shoveling in the winter or lawn care in the summer, can help you secure a steady stream of clients year-round.
15. Take your regular job freelance
Your existing skills might be your greatest asset when starting a side hustle. Many professionals are monetizing their expertise by freelancing on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal.
Freelancing is a flexible way to earn extra income while honing skills and building a portfolio. For instance, graphic designers, writers, and developers often earn $30–$100 per hour, depending on their experience and specialization. In 2025, the global freelance market is projected to exceed $400 billion, reflecting the high demand for independent professionals.
Pro tip: Start with small projects to build client relationships and earn positive reviews, which can lead to higher-paying gigs.
Related: Pros and Cons of Freelancing
