10 Side Hustles Worth Your Time Looking For 2025
According to a Self survey, nearly 45% of working Americans have a side hustle, and for good reason. On average, side hustlers make an additional $688 monthly, with nearly 19% earning over $1,000 monthly. These extra earnings can make a significant difference, whether paying down debt, saving for a big purchase, or just trying to boost your financial security.
If you’re looking to get started, plenty of side hustles pay well, and can also be flexible with your schedule. Whether freelancing, selling products online, or tutoring, there’s something for everyone.
1. Freelance Writing
As a freelance writer, your job includes ideating and writing content for clients in any industry. You can be a niche writer such as a travel writer, finance writer, recipe blogger, etc., or a generalist who is a jack of all trades.
You can begin working on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork or finding clients independently through LinkedIn, cold emails, networking, etc.
According to ZipRecruiter, the average hourly rate in the US is $23.27.
2. Bookkeeping
Bookkeepers handle tasks like reconciling accounts, managing invoices, processing payroll, and preparing financial statements. You don’t need to be a certified accountant to offer bookkeeping services, but having a solid grasp of financial management and software like QuickBooks or Xero can give you an edge.
You can start by offering your services to local businesses. Small businesses and freelancers always look for reliable bookkeepers to help them manage their finances.
According to ZipRecruiter, the average hourly rate for bookkeepers in the US is $24.31.
3. Amazon KDP
Whether you write fiction, non-fiction, or even children’s books, Amazon KDP makes it easy for authors to upload their work, set pricing, and earn royalties. You retain full rights to your book and can earn up to 70% royalties on sales, depending on the price and format.
Getting started is straightforward—you can publish directly on Amazon’s platform without needing an agent or publisher, and it’s free. The only costs involved may be editing, cover design, and marketing, depending on how professional you want your book to be.
4. Stock Images and Videos
Stock footage is in high demand across industries. From marketers and content creators to filmmakers and businesses, everyone uses stock videos and photos in their content.
You can sell landscape scenes, cityscapes, nature shots, business environments, and lifestyle videos. There’s also growing demand for drone footage, slow-motion videos, and clips that depict diverse cultures or everyday moments.
You can sell footage on platforms like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, Pond5, or iStock, and earn royalties each time someone purchases your video clips. Stock footage sites typically offer 30% to 60% in royalties, depending on exclusivity agreements and the platform you choose.
5. Etsy Store
Whether you create jewelry, home decor, art prints, or custom gifts, Etsy provides a platform with a built-in audience of buyers who love one-of-a-kind products.
Setting up a shop is straightforward. Etsy charges 0.20 USD per listing and takes approximately 6.5 percent of each sale. You can find more about their fees here. With the right products and marketing, many sellers can earn a steady income, turning their passion into profit.
6. Video Editor
As a video editor, your job involves taking raw video footage and turning it into polished, engaging content for clients. You can specialize in wedding videos, corporate presentations, YouTube editing, or short films.
Building a solid portfolio is crucial for attracting high-paying clients. The best way to do this is to contact relevant businesses directly via email.
According to ZipRecruiter, the average hourly rate for video editors in the US is $57.50, making it a lucrative freelance gig with high demand across multiple industries
7. Odd Jobs
As an odd job worker, your role involves handling various small tasks and gigs that people need help with but may not have the time, tools, or skills to do themselves. These jobs can range from assembling furniture, moving assistance, yard work, or even minor home repairs.
You can begin finding work on platforms like TaskRabbit, or by advertising your services locally through flyers, Facebook groups, or neighborhood apps like Nextdoor. Word of mouth and building a local reputation are key to growing this hustle.
According to ZipRecruiter, the average hourly rate for odd job workers in the US is $14.95.
8. Pet Sitting
Your job is to care for people’s pets while the owners are away, ensuring the animals are fed, walked, and given attention. This could involve dog walking, overnight stays, or daily visits to check in on pets. You can specialize in caring for certain types of animals, like dogs and cats, or offer services for a variety of pets, including birds, fish, and small animals.
You can start by offering your services on platforms like Rover or Wag!, or by finding clients independently through word of mouth, social media, or local advertising. Building trust with pet owners is key, as they are looking for reliable and caring individuals to watch over their furry friends.
According to ZipRecruiter, the average hourly rate for pet sitters in the US is $13, but rates can increase based on experience, location, and the level of care required.
9. Makeup Artist
As a makeup artist, your job involves applying makeup for clients for various events such as weddings, photoshoots, special occasions, or even theatrical performances. You can specialize in areas like bridal makeup, glam looks, or SFX (special effects) makeup.
You can start by offering your services in the neighborhood to friends and family. Once you have experience, you can find clients through flyers, local advertising, Instagram, or word of mouth.
Building a solid social media presence is essential in this visual field to showcase your skills. According to ZipRecruiter, the average hourly rate for makeup artists in the US is $25.58.
10. Social Media Management
As a social media manager, you work on developing strategies to increase engagement, analyzing performance metrics, and interacting with the audience to build a community. You can specialize in certain industries, like fashion, travel, or food, or work as a generalist managing multiple niches.
You can start by offering your services on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork, or by finding clients through LinkedIn, networking, or cold emailing. It is important that you have a portfolio that shows you can drive results.
According to ZipRecruiter, the average hourly rate for social media managers in the US is $24.74, making it a rewarding side hustle.
Statistics according to a Self.
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