12 Side Gigs To Earn Extra Income

As a work-from-home mom who has dabbled in various side hustles over the years, I know firsthand the challenges and rewards of trying to earn extra income while juggling family responsibilities. It’s a delicate balance, but with the right side gig, you can supplement your primary income without sacrificing too much time or energy.

In this article, I’ll share 12 of the best side hustles that have worked for me and many other work-from-home moms based on a side hustles database. These opportunities offer flexibility, decent earning potential, and the chance to put your unique skills and interests to work. Whether you’re looking to pay off debt, save for a rainy day, or simply have a little more financial freedom, one of these side gigs is sure to fit your needs and lifestyle.

1. Freelance Web Development and Design

Freelance web development and design is a popular side hustle for full-time workers looking to earn extra income. As a freelancer, you can work on projects that interest you, set your own rates, and build a diverse portfolio. The demand for skilled web developers remains strong, with employment expected to grow by 25% through 2031.

How to Get Started

1. Develop your skills: Continuously learn and improve your web development and design skills. Master popular languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks like React or Angular. Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices.
2. Create an online presence: Build a professional website showcasing your work, skills, and services. Create accounts on freelancing platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer.com. Highlight your expertise, past projects, and client testimonials.
3. Set competitive rates: Research the market rate for web development services in your area and set your rates accordingly. Consider factors like your experience, the project’s complexity, and the client’s budget. Charge more for specialized services like WordPress customization or e-commerce development.
4. Network and market yourself: Attend local meetups, conferences, or join online communities to connect with potential clients and other freelancers. Actively promote your services on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram. Offer free consultations or discounts to attract new clients.
5. Deliver high-quality work: Focus on providing excellent service and delivering projects on time. Communicate regularly with clients, address their concerns promptly, and ask for feedback. Satisfied clients are more likely to refer you to others or hire you for future projects.

2. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is another viable side hustle for web developers. By promoting products or services through affiliate links, you can earn commissions on sales generated from your referrals. This passive income stream allows you to earn money while you sleep, making it an attractive option for those with limited time.

How to Get Started

1. Choose a niche: Select a product or service that aligns with your target audience and expertise. Popular options for web developers include web hosting, domain registrars, WordPress plugins, or online courses.
2. Sign up for affiliate programs: Research and join reputable affiliate programs that offer competitive commissions and support. Some popular options include Amazon Associates, ShareASale, or ClickBank.
3. Create valuable content: Develop high-quality content, such as blog posts, tutorials, or reviews, that showcases the benefits of the products or services you’re promoting. Provide genuine insights and recommendations to build trust with your audience.
4. Promote your affiliate links: Share your affiliate links strategically across your website, social media channels, or email newsletters. Ensure that your content provides value and that the affiliate promotion feels natural and relevant.
5. Track your performance: Monitor your affiliate earnings and adjust your marketing strategies accordingly. Experiment with different content formats, promotional methods, and affiliate programs to optimize your results.

3. Blogging

Blogging is a flexible and creative side hustle that allows individuals to share their knowledge, experiences, and passions while potentially earning income through various monetization strategies. Successful bloggers can generate revenue through advertising, affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, and selling products or services. 

While it may take time to build an audience and start making significant money, many find it a rewarding endeavor that can lead to full-time opportunities. According to Side Hustles Database, on average, bloggers can earn around $45,000 annually, with most earning between $38,440 and $51,906.

How to Get Started

1. Choose a niche: Identify a specific topic or area of interest that you are passionate about and that has an audience. This could be anything from travel, food, personal finance, or technology.
2. Set up your blog: Choose a blogging platform (like WordPress, Blogger, or Medium) and purchase a domain name. Invest in a good hosting service to ensure your blog runs smoothly.
3. Create quality content: Start writing blog posts that provide value to your readers. Focus on producing high-quality, engaging, and informative content that addresses your audience’s needs and interests.
4. Promote your blog: Use social media platforms, email newsletters, and SEO strategies to drive traffic to your blog. Engage with your audience through comments and social media to build a community around your content.
5. Monetize your blog: Once you have a steady flow of traffic, explore different monetization options such as affiliate marketing, display ads, or sponsored content. Experiment with various strategies to find what works best for your niche.

4. Rent Out a Room or Your Home

Renting out a room or your entire home is a lucrative side hustle that can provide significant passive income. With platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, homeowners can easily list their properties for short-term rentals. This side hustle is particularly appealing for those who travel frequently or have extra space in their homes, allowing them to earn money while they are away or during times when the space is unoccupied.

How to Get Started

1. Evaluate your space: Determine if you have a spare room, guest house, or entire home that can be rented out. Ensure that the space is clean, safe, and comfortable for guests.
2. Research local regulations: Check local laws and regulations regarding short-term rentals to ensure compliance. Some areas may have restrictions or require permits.
3. Create a listing: Sign up on rental platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo and create an appealing listing. Include high-quality photos, a detailed description of the space, and highlight amenities and nearby attractions.
4. Set competitive pricing: Research similar listings in your area to set a competitive price. Consider seasonal demand and adjust your rates accordingly to maximize occupancy.
5. Prepare for guests: Ensure that your space is well-prepared for guests, including providing clean linens, toiletries, and necessary kitchen supplies. Be responsive to inquiries and maintain good communication with guests to enhance their experience.

5. Deliver Food or Packages

Delivering food or packages is a popular side hustle for full-time workers looking to earn extra income. As a delivery driver, you can work flexible hours, be your own boss, and earn tips on top of your base pay. The demand for delivery services has surged in recent years, with companies like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Amazon Flex offering opportunities for independent contractors.

How to Get Started

1. Choose a delivery service: Research and sign up with reputable companies like DoorDash, Uber Eats, GrubHub, Amazon Flex, or FedEx Ground. Each service has its own requirements and pay structure.
2. Meet the requirements: Most delivery services require you to be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license, a reliable vehicle, and a smartphone. Some may also conduct a background check.
3. Complete the onboarding process: Fill out the necessary paperwork, provide required documents, and attend any orientation sessions. Once approved, you’ll receive any necessary equipment like a delivery bag or prepaid card.
4. Set your schedule: Most delivery services allow you to work whenever you want, so choose hours that fit your full-time job and lifestyle. Weekends and mealtimes tend to be the busiest.
5. Deliver efficiently: Use navigation apps, plan your route, and keep your vehicle clean and organized. Provide excellent customer service by delivering orders promptly and communicating with customers.
6. Track your earnings: Monitor your earnings through the delivery service’s app or website. Expenses like gas and vehicle maintenance should be factored in when calculating your net income.

6. Sell Products Online

Selling products online is a scalable side hustle that allows you to reach a global audience. Whether you create your own products or source them from suppliers, an online store gives you the flexibility to run your business around your full-time job. Platforms like Etsy, eBay, and Shopify make it easy to set up and manage an online shop.

How to Get Started

1. Find a niche: Identify a product category or market that aligns with your interests and skills. Research competitors and customer demand to ensure there is a viable market for your products.
2. Source your products: If you’re creating your own products, invest in the necessary materials and equipment. If you’re reselling products, find reliable suppliers that offer wholesale pricing and drop-shipping options.
3. Set up your online store: Choose an e-commerce platform like Etsy, eBay, or Shopify and create your online store. Optimize your listings with compelling product descriptions, high-quality images, and relevant keywords.
4. Market your products: Promote your store through social media, email marketing, and online advertising. Engage with your customers, offer excellent service, and encourage reviews to build a loyal customer base.
5. Manage your inventory and shipping: Keep track of your inventory levels and fulfill orders promptly. Provide accurate shipping estimates and consider offering free shipping or expedited options to stay competitive.
6. Analyze your data: Use the analytics tools provided by your e-commerce platform to track sales, customer behavior, and marketing performance. Use this data to optimize your product offerings, pricing, and marketing strategies.

7. Become a Virtual Assistant

Becoming a virtual assistant (VA) is an increasingly popular side hustle for full-time workers, offering flexibility and the opportunity to leverage various skills. Virtual assistants provide administrative support to businesses and entrepreneurs, handling tasks such as email management, scheduling, social media management, and customer service. The demand for virtual assistants continues to grow as more companies embrace remote work, making this an ideal way to earn extra income while maintaining a full-time job.

How to Get Started

1. Identify your skills: Determine what services you can offer based on your skills and interests. Common tasks for VAs include data entry, social media management, bookkeeping, and content creation.
2. Create a professional profile: Set up a profile on freelancing platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or specialized VA websites. Highlight your skills, experience, and the services you provide to attract potential clients.
3. Network and market yourself: Use social media, LinkedIn, and local business groups to network and promote your services. Consider reaching out to small businesses or entrepreneurs who may need assistance.
4. Set your rates: Research the market to understand what other VAs charge for similar services. Set competitive rates based on your experience and the complexity of the tasks you’ll be handling.
5. Start small: Begin with a few clients to manage your workload effectively alongside your full-time job. As you gain experience and confidence, you can take on more clients or increase your rates.
6. Deliver quality work: Focus on providing excellent service to your clients. Good communication, reliability, and attention to detail will help you build a strong reputation and lead to referrals.

8. Tutor Students Online

Tutoring students online is another rewarding side hustle for full-time workers, especially those with expertise in specific subjects or skills. Online tutoring allows you to teach students of all ages in a flexible environment, often from the comfort of your home. With the rise of e-learning platforms, there is a growing demand for tutors in various subjects, including math, science, languages, and test preparation.

How to Get Started

1. Choose your subject: Identify the subjects or skills you are proficient in and comfortable teaching. This could range from academic subjects to specialized skills like coding or music.
2. Select a tutoring platform: Sign up on reputable online tutoring platforms such as Tutor.com, Chegg Tutors, or VIPKid. These platforms provide access to students and handle scheduling and payments.
3. Create a profile: Develop a professional profile that highlights your qualifications, teaching style, and experience. Include any relevant certifications or degrees to enhance your credibility.
4. Set your availability: Determine your tutoring schedule based on your full-time job and personal commitments. Many platforms allow you to set your hours, making it easy to find a balance.
5. Prepare your materials: Develop lesson plans and resources tailored to your students’ needs. Utilize online tools and resources to enhance your teaching effectiveness.
6. Engage with students: Foster a positive learning environment by being patient, encouraging, and responsive to your students’ needs. Regular feedback and communication can help improve their learning experience.

9. Rent Out Your Car

Renting out your car is a lucrative side hustle that allows you to earn extra income from a vehicle that you may not use frequently. Platforms like Turo and Getaround enable car owners to list their vehicles for rent, providing an opportunity for passive income. This business model is particularly appealing in urban areas or near airports, where demand for rental cars is high. While it can be a profitable venture, it also comes with responsibilities and risks, such as potential damage to the vehicle and the need for proper insurance coverage.

How to Get Started

1. Check your vehicle’s eligibility: Ensure your car meets the rental platform’s requirements, typically including being less than 12 years old and having fewer than 130,000 miles. It should also be in good condition with a clean title.
2. Choose a rental platform: Sign up for a car-sharing service like Turo or Getaround. These platforms allow you to list your car, set your own rental prices, and manage bookings.
3. Create an appealing listing: Take high-quality photos of your car and write a detailed description highlighting its features and benefits. Be honest about any imperfections to maintain transparency with renters.
4. Set competitive pricing: Research similar listings in your area to determine a competitive rental rate. Consider factors like demand, vehicle type, and location when setting your prices.
5. Manage bookings and communication: Respond promptly to rental requests and maintain clear communication with renters. Ensure that you have a system in place for handing over keys and conducting vehicle inspections before and after rentals.
6. Maintain your vehicle: Regularly service your car to keep it in good condition and minimize the risk of issues during rentals. Consider investing in additional insurance coverage specifically for rental situations.

10. Freelance Writing and Editing

Freelance writing and editing is a versatile side hustle that allows individuals to utilize their writing skills to earn extra income. This field encompasses a wide range of opportunities, including content creation, copywriting, blogging, and editing services for businesses, websites, and publications. With the rise of digital media, the demand for quality written content has surged, making it a viable option for those looking to supplement their full-time income.

How to Get Started

1. Identify your niche: Determine what type of writing or editing you want to pursue based on your interests and expertise. This could include topics like technology, health, travel, or marketing.
2. Build a portfolio: Create samples of your work to showcase your writing and editing abilities. If you don’t have previous work, consider writing guest posts for blogs or contributing to online publications to build your portfolio.
3. Set up a profile on freelancing platforms: Join websites like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr to connect with potential clients. Create a compelling profile that highlights your skills, experience, and the services you offer.
4. Network and market yourself: Use social media, professional networks, and writing communities to promote your services. Engage with potential clients and share your expertise to build credibility.
5. Set your rates: Research market rates for freelance writing and editing services to determine your pricing. Consider factors such as your experience, the complexity of the work, and the client’s budget.
6. Deliver high-quality work: Focus on meeting deadlines and maintaining clear communication with clients. Ask for feedback and be open to revisions to ensure client satisfaction, which can lead to repeat business and referrals.

11. Become a Virtual Bookkeeper

Becoming a virtual bookkeeper is a lucrative side hustle for full-time workers looking to earn extra income while working remotely. As a virtual bookkeeper, you’ll provide essential financial services to clients, such as managing financial transactions, maintaining accurate records, preparing financial statements, and ensuring compliance with tax regulations. This flexible arrangement allows you to work from anywhere with a reliable internet connection, making it an attractive option for those seeking a remote career.

How to Get Started

1. Invest in your work tools: Ensure you have a reliable computer, a fast internet connection, and a dependable communication setup to stay in touch with clients.
2. Gain bookkeeping training and certification: Complete a bookkeeping training program, such as Bookkeeper Launch or Universal Accounting, to learn the technical aspects of bookkeeping and accounting software. Obtain a QuickBooks Online certification to demonstrate your proficiency in the most widely used accounting software.
3. Develop a niche: Consider specializing in a specific industry, such as construction, online stores, retail, or professional services, to stand out from the competition and offer tailored services.
4. Create a professional profile: Set up a profile on freelancing platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, highlighting your skills, experience, and the services you provide. Develop a compelling portfolio showcasing your work to attract potential clients.
5. Market your services: Use social media, professional networks, and online communities to promote your virtual bookkeeping services. Engage with potential clients, share your expertise, and build a strong online presence.
6. Deliver high-quality work: Focus on providing excellent service, meeting deadlines, and maintaining clear communication with clients. Continuously improve your skills, stay up-to-date with industry trends, and seek feedback to ensure client satisfaction and repeat business.

12. Participate in Focus Groups

Participating in focus groups is a flexible side hustle that allows you to earn extra income by sharing your opinions and insights on various products, services, and topics. Focus groups are typically conducted by market research companies to gather consumer feedback, which helps businesses make informed decisions about their offerings.

How to Get Started

1. Sign up with market research companies: Register with reputable focus group companies, such as Focus Pointe Global, Schlesinger Group, or 20|20 Research, to be considered for upcoming studies.
2. Complete your profile: Provide detailed information about your demographics, interests, and experiences to help match you with relevant focus groups.
3. Be responsive: When you receive an invitation to participate in a focus group, respond promptly to increase your chances of being selected. Be honest about your qualifications and availability.
4. Prepare for the focus group: Review the study details and any provided materials before attending the focus group. Be ready to share your opinions and engage in discussions actively.
5. Attend the focus group: Arrive on time and be prepared to spend anywhere from 1 to 2 hours participating in the study. Actively listen to others, share your thoughts, and follow the moderator’s instructions.
6. Get paid: After completing the focus group, you will receive compensation, typically in the form of cash, gift cards, or checks. The amount varies depending on the length and complexity of the study.