Side hustles have become increasingly popular among Americans as a way to earn extra income and work towards financial freedom outside of their regular 9-5 jobs. According to Bankrate’s research, more than one-third of U.S. adults, including nearly half of Gen Z and millennials, have a supplemental gig. Whether individuals are looking to pay off bills, save for a vacation or retirement, or simply have more spending money, starting a side hustle can be a flexible and low-commitment way to achieve those financial goals, especially if it doesn’t require extensive experience.
In 2025, high-paying and ready-to-start side hustles are in demand. Financial services company NetCredit recently analyzed thousands of publicly available job ads to identify the hourly gigs that pay the most and require little-to-no experience for success. The top-paying side hustle that meets these criteria is participating in focus groups, which pays an average of $28 per hour. Other lucrative side hustles include working as a virtual assistant, website tester, dog walker, and nanny, with rates averaging between $21-$26 per hour.
According to NetCredit’s research, some of the best side hustles are those where the buyer simply needs a “regular person,” and lack of experience can actually be an advantage. These “no experience” side hustles often capitalize on backgrounds or skills that individuals may not have considered valuable. This opens up opportunities for individuals to explore new avenues and potentially earn a significant income through their side hustle.
For those looking to start a side hustle but unsure where to begin, NetCredit has compiled a list of the 10 highest-paying, “little experience”-necessary side hustles in the U.S. These opportunities provide a great starting point for individuals looking to supplement their income and work towards their financial goals. Whether it’s participating in focus groups, working as a virtual assistant, or taking on tasks like website testing or dog walking, there are plenty of options available for those willing to put in the effort.
In conclusion, side hustles continue to be a popular way for Americans to earn extra income and achieve financial freedom. With the right opportunities and a willingness to explore new avenues, individuals can find success in the world of side hustles. Whether it’s through participating in focus groups or taking on tasks that require little experience, there are plenty of ways to make money on the side and work towards a more secure financial future.
