Side businesses have become increasingly popular among Americans as a way to earn extra income and build new skill sets. According to a 2024 Bankrate survey, one-third of Americans have a small side business, with 32% believing they’ll always need one to stay afloat. The average side hustler makes $891 on average per month in extra income from their side business, showing a significant increase from $810 in 2023.
Financial benefits aside, pursuing small side business ideas also gives individuals the satisfaction of creating a business while forging a new career path that provides greater security, especially amid the common looming threat of layoffs. Whether you want to start a side business to earn extra money or explore your entrepreneurial spirit, there are numerous opportunities available to kick off a side business today.
From low-investment small business ideas to turning your hobby into a lucrative income stream, there are various options to choose from. Here are 30 of the best side business ideas that you can start today:
Become a virtual assistant: Utilize your organizational and time management skills to manage administrative tasks for small businesses remotely.
Be a usability tester: Provide feedback on websites, apps, or products to help companies improve user experience.
Become a dropshipper: Start an ecommerce business with minimal startup costs by selling products online through a third-party fulfillment service.
Rent your space: Earn extra income by renting out a spare room, vacant home, or commercial space on platforms like Airbnb or Peerspace.
Start affiliate marketing: Promote products for other companies and earn commission on sales made through your referral links.
Offer consultancy services: Use your expertise in a specific field to advise clients and provide guidance on various topics.
Teach a language: Monetize your language skills by offering virtual language classes to individuals looking to learn a new language.
Start a house- or pet-sitting business: Provide pet-sitting services for pet owners who need someone to care for their pets while they are away.
Become a rideshare driver: Join a rideshare platform like Uber or Lyft to earn money by transporting people around the city.
Deliver food: Work as a food delivery driver for platforms like Uber Eats, Postmates, or Deliveroo to deliver food to customers.
Become a dog walker: Offer dog-walking services to pet owners who need help exercising their pets.
Start a cleaning business: Provide cleaning services for homes or businesses with minimal startup costs.
Become an event planner: Organize and plan events like weddings, parties, or corporate gatherings for clients.
Clean cars and mow lawns: Offer car cleaning and lawn mowing services to individuals looking for help with household tasks.
Sell coffee to local businesses: Brew and deliver high-quality coffee and cold brew to local offices, cafes, or shops.
Grow and sell microgreens: Cultivate nutrient-packed microgreens and sell them to health-conscious consumers, chefs, and restaurants.
Start a photography business: Turn your passion for photography into a side business by offering photography services for events, portraits, or products.
Sell thrift store finds: Flip thrift store items for a profit by selling them online through platforms like eBay or Depop.
Teach a class: Share your skills and expertise by offering classes or workshops on topics you are knowledgeable about.
Sell online courses: Create and sell online courses on topics you are passionate about or have expertise in.
Organize people’s homes: Help individuals declutter and organize their homes to create functional and clutter-free spaces.
Repair and troubleshoot tech devices: Offer tech repair services for mobile phones, laptops, or other electronic devices.
Offer home repairs and DIY services: Provide handyman services for small repairs, maintenance tasks, and DIY projects around the house.
Sell your skills: Monetize your skills by offering services or advice in areas where you have expertise.
Start a clothing line: Launch a clothing line using the print-on-demand model to create and sell custom apparel.
Become an influencer: Build a following on social media and collaborate with brands to promote products and services.
Write an ebook: Self-publish your own ebook on topics you are knowledgeable about and sell it online.
Sell your art: Create and sell your art online through platforms like Etsy or Society6.
Private label your own products: Outsource the production of a product to a manufacturer and sell it under your own brand.
Sell handmade goods: Create and sell handmade goods online, such as clothing, jewelry, or skincare products.
Starting a side business allows individuals to explore their entrepreneurial spirit, earn extra income, and potentially transition into full-time entrepreneurship in the future. By choosing a side business idea that aligns with your skills, interests, and market demand, you can set yourself up for success and financial growth. Whether you’re looking to start a side business to earn extra money or pursue your passion, there are numerous opportunities available to kick off a side business today.
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