With the ever increasing stampede of businesses going online, finding easy ways to make money online has become a game-changer for the little guy or “solopreneur”.
Whether you’re looking to supplement your income, pay off debt, or save for something special, side hustles can offer flexible, straightforward ways to earn extra cash.
The best part? You don’t need to be a tech guru or invest a ton of money upfront. Here are some simple and easy-to-start online side hustles that have already helped people make real money.
1. Freelance Writing
If you have a knack for words, freelance writing is a fantastic side hustle. Companies, blogs, and websites are always in need of fresh content, and they’re willing to pay for quality work. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are great places to start.
- Verified Income Potential: Many freelance writers make between $500 to $1,000 per month part-time, with some experienced writers earning up to $3,000 per month, according to The Penny Hoarder.
2. Online Tutoring
Online tutoring has seen a surge in demand, especially with the growing popularity of remote learning. If you’re knowledgeable in subjects like math, science, languages, or even music, you can share your skills with students across the globe through platforms like VIPKid and Chegg Tutors.
- Verified Income Potential: Online tutors can earn between $15 to $25 per hour, according to Business News Daily. If you tutor for 10 hours a week, that’s an easy $600 to $1,000 per month.
3. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing involves promoting other people’s products and earning a commission for every sale made through your referral link. This side hustle is perfect for bloggers, social media influencers, and website owners. Websites like Amazon Associates and ShareASale make it easy to get started.
- Verified Income Potential: Beginners can expect to earn around $100 to $500 per month, while seasoned affiliate marketers can make upwards of $5,000 per month, as noted by Investopedia.
4. Dropshipping
Dropshipping is an e-commerce model where you sell products without holding inventory. When a customer makes a purchase, the supplier ships the product directly to them. You can set up a store through platforms like Shopify and Oberlo.
- Verified Income Potential: Dropshippers can earn between $200 to $2,000 per month, depending on the niche and marketing strategies, according to Shopify.
5. Selling Digital Products
Creating and selling digital products like eBooks, printables, or online courses can be a lucrative side hustle. Once you’ve created the product, you can sell it repeatedly without any additional work. Platforms like Etsy, Teachable, and Gumroad are excellent for this purpose.
- Verified Income Potential: Digital product creators can earn anywhere from $100 to $10,000 per month, depending on the product’s popularity and price point, according to Side Hustle Nation.
6. Virtual Assistant
As businesses continue to move online, the demand for virtual assistants (VAs) is growing. VAs handle tasks like email management, social media scheduling, and customer service. You can find VA jobs on sites like Belay and Fancy Hands.
- Verified Income Potential: Virtual assistants typically earn between $10 to $25 per hour, which can translate to $400 to $1,000 per month for part-time work, according to ZipRecruiter.
7. Online Surveys and Market Research
While it may not make you rich, taking online surveys and participating in market research is an easy way to earn extra cash in your spare time. Sites like Swagbucks and Survey Junkie offer rewards for your opinions.
- Verified Income Potential: Expect to earn around $50 to $300 per month depending on how much time you invest, according to Money Under 30.
8. Content Creation on YouTube
YouTube offers a platform for creators to share videos on any topic, from gaming to cooking to personal finance. With monetization options like ad revenue, sponsored content, and affiliate links, you can turn your hobby into a profitable side hustle.
- Verified Income Potential: YouTubers typically start earning around $100 to $1,000 per month after reaching the monetization threshold, with potential to earn much more as your channel grows, as reported by Influencer Marketing Hub.
9. Print on Demand
Print on demand (POD) allows you to design custom merchandise like t-shirts, mugs, and phone cases, which are only produced when someone makes a purchase. Platforms like Printful and Redbubble handle production and shipping for you.
- Verified Income Potential: POD sellers can earn between $200 to $2,000 per month, depending on the quality and appeal of their designs, according to Printful.
10. Remote Customer Service
Many companies are outsourcing their customer service needs to remote workers. If you have good communication skills and a reliable internet connection, this could be a perfect side hustle for you. Companies like Amazon and Apple frequently hire remote customer service representatives.
- Verified Income Potential: Remote customer service reps can earn between $10 to $20 per hour, or roughly $400 to $800 per month for part-time work, according to The Balance Careers.
11. Selling Handmade Crafts
If you’re crafty, selling handmade items online can be a rewarding side hustle. Platforms like Etsy and Shopify make it easy to set up shop and start selling to a global audience.
- Verified Income Potential: Many crafters make between $100 to $1,000 per month, with some successful sellers earning much more, according to The Work at Home Woman.
12. Transcription Services
Transcription involves converting audio or video recordings into written text. If you’re a fast typist with good listening skills, this could be an ideal side hustle. Companies like Rev and TranscribeMe offer transcription jobs.
- Verified Income Potential: Transcribers can earn between $15 to $25 per hour, which can translate to $300 to $1,000 per month for part-time work, according to The Work at Home Woman.
13. Social Media Management
If you’re savvy with social media platforms, managing social media accounts for businesses can be a lucrative side hustle. You’ll be responsible for creating content, scheduling posts, and engaging with followers. Platforms like Hootsuite and Buffer can help you manage multiple accounts efficiently.
- Verified Income Potential: Social media managers typically earn between $15 to $50 per hour, which can add up to $600 to $2,000 per month for part-time work, according to ZipRecruiter.
14. Renting Out Space
If you have an extra room, garage, or parking space, renting it out can be an easy way to earn extra money. Websites like Airbnb and Neighbor allow you to list your space and connect with potential renters.
- Verified Income Potential: Depending on location and demand, you can earn between $100 to $1,500 per month, as noted by The Penny Hoarder.
15. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
Animal lovers can turn their passion into profit by offering pet sitting and dog walking services. Websites like Rover and Wag! connect pet owners with local caregivers.
- Verified Income Potential: Pet sitters and dog walkers typically earn between $15 to $30 per hour, or $300 to $1,200 per month for part-time work, according to Side Hustle Nation.
Conclusion
There are countless easy ways to make money online, and these side hustles are just a starting point. Whether you’re looking to earn a little extra cash or build a sustainable income stream, the key is to choose a side hustle that aligns with your skills, interests, and available time.
The flexibility of online work means you can start small (even as a home based business if you desire), scale up, and ultimately achieve your financial goals.
Remember, success in any side hustle requires dedication, consistency, and a willingness to learn. Take the first step today, and you could be on your way to earning real money online.
Until we speak again, remember…
Be Yourself, Help Others, NEVER QUIT!
-Seely Clark IV
