Starting a side business is a great way to earn extra money and explore new skills outside of your day job. According to a 2024 Bankrate survey, one-third of Americans have a small side business, with many believing it is necessary to stay afloat financially. The average side hustler makes around $891 per month from their side business, showing the potential for additional income.
Aside from the financial benefits, pursuing small side business ideas also provides an opportunity to build new skill sets. Entrepreneurs enjoy the satisfaction of creating a business while forging a new career path that offers greater security, especially in the face of potential layoffs.
If you’re interested in starting a side business but aren’t sure where to begin, there are plenty of options to choose from. From low-investment business ideas to turning your hobbies into lucrative income streams, there are numerous opportunities to kick off a side business today.
Here are 30 of the best side business ideas to consider:
Become a virtual assistant: Manage administrative tasks for small businesses remotely.
Be a usability tester: Provide feedback on websites, apps, or products.
Become a dropshipper: Sell products online without holding inventory.
Rent your space: List your spare room or commercial space on platforms like Airbnb or Peerspace.
Start affiliate marketing: Earn commission by promoting products for other companies.
Offer consultancy services: Use your expertise to advise clients in a specific field.
Teach a language: Monetize your language skills by offering virtual classes.
Start a house- or pet-sitting business: Care for pets or homes while owners are away.
Become a rideshare driver: Join platforms like Uber to transport people around the city.
Deliver food: Work as a food delivery driver for services like Uber Eats or Postmates.
Become a dog walker: Offer dog walking services to busy pet owners.
Start a cleaning business: Provide cleaning services for homes or businesses.
Become an event planner: Organize weddings, parties, or corporate events for clients.
Clean cars and mow lawns: Offer car cleaning and lawn mowing services to customers.
Sell coffee to local businesses: Brew and deliver high-quality coffee to offices or cafes.
Grow and sell microgreens: Cultivate and sell nutrient-packed microgreens to health-conscious consumers.
Start a photography business: Offer photography services for events, families, or products.
Sell thrift store finds: Flip second-hand items for a profit online.
Teach a class: Share your skills and expertise by offering classes in your community.
Sell online courses: Create and sell online courses on topics you’re knowledgeable about.
Organize people’s homes: Help clients declutter and organize their living spaces.
Repair and troubleshoot tech devices: Offer tech repair services for mobile phones, laptops, or gaming consoles.
Offer home repairs and DIY services: Help with small repairs, maintenance tasks, or DIY projects around the house.
Sell your skills: Monetize your skills by offering services or consulting in a specific field.
Start a clothing line: Design and sell clothing items using the print-on-demand model.
Become an influencer: Build a following on social media and collaborate with brands for sponsored content.
Write an ebook: Self-publish your own ebook on a topic you’re passionate about.
Sell your art: Create and sell art pieces online through platforms like Etsy.
Private label your own products: Outsource production to manufacturers and sell products under your brand.
Sell handmade goods: Create and sell handmade products online, such as jewelry, clothing, or skincare items.
Each of these side business ideas offers a unique opportunity to earn extra income, explore new skills, and potentially grow into a full-time venture. Whether you’re looking to start a side business from home, with no money upfront, or with a bigger budget, there are options available for every interest and skill set.
Starting a side business is a great way to test the viability of your ideas, earn extra money, and potentially transition into a full-time entrepreneurial venture. With the right planning, dedication, and creativity, you can turn your side business into a successful and fulfilling endeavor.
