Side businesses have become increasingly popular among Americans, with one-third of the population engaging in a small side business to earn extra income. According to a 2024 Bankrate survey, 32% of Americans believe that having a side business is essential to staying afloat financially. The average side hustler makes around $891 per month in extra income from their side business, showing a significant increase from the previous year.
Aside from the financial benefits, pursuing small side business ideas also provides individuals with the opportunity to build new skill sets and explore their entrepreneurial spirit. Entrepreneurs find satisfaction in creating a business while forging a new career path that offers greater security, especially in the face of potential layoffs.
If you are considering starting a side business but are unsure of where to begin, there are numerous options available. From low-investment business ideas to turning your hobbies into lucrative income streams, there are endless possibilities to kick off your side business today.
One popular side business idea is becoming a virtual assistant. Virtual assistants manage administrative tasks for small businesses remotely, making it an ideal home-based business to run alongside a day job. Tasks may include scheduling appointments, arranging travel, managing emails, taking phone calls, and ordering supplies. Starting a virtual assistant business can be done with minimal investment, as demonstrated by business owner Ariana Rodriguez, who began making $700 a month within months of starting her virtual assistant business.
Another lucrative side business idea is becoming a usability tester. Usability testers provide feedback on websites, apps, or products to help companies improve their user experience. Platforms like UserTesting offer compensation for testers’ time, with the potential to earn a few hundred dollars per month.
Dropshipping is another popular side business model with minimal startup costs. Entrepreneurs can sell products online without holding inventory, as a third-party business fulfills orders on their behalf. Thomas Sleeth, founder of Dropshipping Hustle, started his dropshipping business as a side hustle and eventually transitioned to full-time entrepreneurship, making more than he could have in his regular job.
Renting out space in your home or commercial property is a simple side business idea that can generate extra income. Platforms like Airbnb and Peerspace allow individuals to list their space for short-term rentals, catering to travelers, event organizers, and businesses in need of space.
Affiliate marketing is a profitable side business idea for individuals with marketing skills. By promoting products for other companies and earning a commission on sales, affiliate marketers can generate passive income through their online presence. Choosing a niche and creating engaging content around the products being promoted are key to success in affiliate marketing.
Consultancy services offer individuals the opportunity to leverage their expertise in a specific field to advise clients. Consulting requires minimal startup costs and allows for flexible hours, making it an attractive side business idea for those with industry experience.
Teaching a language is a lucrative side business idea, especially with the growing demand for online language learning. Platforms like Skooli, VIPKid, and Qkids offer opportunities for language tutors to earn up to $40 per hour teaching English online.
House- or pet-sitting is a popular side business idea for animal lovers. With more than 66% of US households owning pets, there is a constant demand for pet sitters to care for animals while their owners are away. House sitters can earn between $25 and $100 per day, depending on the location and services provided.
Becoming a rideshare driver or food delivery driver is a flexible side business idea that allows individuals to earn extra income by transporting people or delivering food. With the rideshare industry projected to grow significantly in the coming years, becoming a driver offers the opportunity to capitalize on this market.
Dog walking is another side business idea that caters to pet owners in need of regular exercise for their furry friends. Dog walkers can earn extra cash while enjoying outdoor activities and building relationships with clients.
Starting a cleaning business is a low-cost side business idea that requires minimal investment in cleaning equipment and transportation. Brian Winch, founder of Cleanlots, started his parking lot cleaning business with just $200 and eventually grew it into a six-figure income.
Event planning is a creative side business idea that involves organizing and coordinating events for clients. From weddings and birthday parties to corporate events, event planners can earn extra income by taking over the organizational aspects of hosting an event.
Offering home repairs and DIY services is a practical side business idea for individuals with handyman skills. From fixing leaky faucets to assembling furniture, there is a constant demand for small repair and maintenance tasks around the home.
Selling handmade goods is a profitable side business idea for creatives who enjoy crafting unique products. Platforms like Etsy allow artisans to showcase and sell their handmade items to a global audience.
In conclusion, starting a side business is a great way to earn extra income, build new skills, and explore entrepreneurial opportunities. With a wide range of side business ideas available, individuals can find a business model that suits their interests, skills, and budget. Whether it’s offering virtual assistant services, selling handmade goods, or providing consultancy services, there are endless possibilities to start a successful side business today.
