Side businesses have become increasingly popular among Americans, with many individuals turning to side hustles to earn extra money outside of their regular day jobs. According to a recent Bankrate survey, about 40% of Americans have a side business, with 28% considering it to be an ongoing financial necessity. The survey also revealed that nearly 30% of those with a side hustle made more than $500 a month from their business. The extra income generated from a side business can be used to pay off debt, invest, or treat oneself to something special.
Aside from the financial benefits, pursuing side business ideas also provides individuals with the opportunity to build new skill sets and explore their passions. Entrepreneurs who engage in side businesses often find satisfaction in creating a business from scratch and forging a new career path that offers greater security in the face of potential layoffs.
If you are considering starting a side business but are unsure of where to begin or what type of business might be the best fit for you, here is a list of 22 side business ideas that you can kick off today:
1. Start a photography business: Turn your passion for photography into a profitable side business by offering photography services in your local area or selling your photos online through platforms like Stocksy, Shutterstock, and Alamy.
2. Start a clothing line: Utilize the print-on-demand model to create and sell custom-designed clothing items without the need for upfront investment in inventory.
3. Sell your skills: Monetize your existing skills by offering services or advice in high-demand areas such as content consulting, freelance writing, or graphic design.
4. Become a virtual assistant: Utilize your organizational and management skills to provide remote administrative support to businesses and individuals.
5. Teach a language: Capitalize on the growing online language learning market by offering virtual language classes or tutoring sessions.
6. Start a cleaning business: Launch a low-cost cleaning service that can quickly generate income with a small client base.
7. Become an event planner: Tap into the lucrative event planning industry by organizing and coordinating various events, from weddings to corporate functions.
8. Start a house- or pet-sitting business: Cater to pet owners and travelers by offering house-sitting or pet-sitting services for a fee.
9. Be a usability tester: Provide feedback on websites, apps, or products to help companies improve user experience and earn compensation for your time.
10. Become a dropshipper: Partner with dropshipping suppliers to sell products online without the need to hold inventory or manage shipping logistics.
11. Rent your space: Generate income by renting out spare rooms, homes, or commercial spaces on platforms like Airbnb or Peerspace.
12. Sell thrift store finds: Source and resell unique items from thrift stores for a profit online or through marketplaces like eBay.
13. Become an influencer: Build a social media following and collaborate with brands to promote products and services to your audience.
14. Teach a class: Share your expertise by offering classes or workshops on topics you are knowledgeable about, either in person or online.
15. Start affiliate marketing: Earn commission by promoting products or services for other companies through affiliate marketing programs.
16. Become a rideshare driver: Join rideshare platforms like Uber or Lyft to earn money by providing transportation services to customers.
17. Deliver food: Work as a food delivery driver for platforms like Uber Eats, Postmates, or Deliveroo to earn money delivering meals to customers.
18. Write an ebook: Self-publish your own ebook on platforms like Kindle Direct Publishing or sell digital downloads through your own website.
19. Sell online courses: Create and sell online courses on topics you are passionate about or knowledgeable in to generate passive income.
20. Sell your art: Monetize your artistic talents by selling handmade goods, prints, or digital downloads online through platforms like Etsy.
21. Private label your own products: Outsource production of products to manufacturers and sell them under your own brand through online channels.
22. Sell handmade goods: Turn raw materials into valuable products like clothing, jewelry, or skincare items to sell online and at craft fairs.
Starting a side business can be a rewarding and profitable endeavor, providing individuals with the opportunity to explore their passions, build new skills, and generate additional income. Whether you are looking to pursue a creative outlet, supplement your current income, or eventually transition to full-time entrepreneurship, there are a variety of side business ideas to choose from. Take the first step today and start building your side business to achieve your financial and personal goals.
