Many people earn extra money from a side gig, with 36% doing so to pay bills

In today’s economy, many Americans are turning to side hustles to supplement their income. Ruth Washburn is one such individual who has found success in her side business, Quilts and Bears. While working a full-time job, Washburn spends hours each week sewing memory bears, quilts, and pillows from a loved one’s clothing. What started as a creative outlet for Washburn has now turned into a thriving side gig that brings comfort and joy to her customers.

Washburn’s motivation for creating these sentimental pieces is clear. “The most reward I can ever get,” Washburn said, “is knowing that someone has something tangible to hold onto besides just a picture.” For Washburn, the act of transforming cherished clothing into keepsakes is not just a business but a way to provide solace and connection to her clients.

According to a recent survey from Bankrate, 36% of adults in 2024 are earning extra money through a side hustle. While this percentage is slightly lower than in 2023, it is significantly higher than before the pandemic. The survey also revealed that many individuals are taking on side gigs out of necessity, using the extra income to cover bills rather than for savings or debt payoff.

Parents of young children are more likely to have a side hustle, with 45% of them engaging in additional work to make ends meet. Additionally, nearly one-third of side hustlers believe they will always need a side gig to supplement their income. This trend highlights the financial challenges faced by many Americans in today’s economy.

Dutch Mendenhall, author and founder of RADD companies, emphasizes the importance of side hustles in today’s market. He points out that many Americans have to rely on side gigs to earn enough money to support themselves. Despite the challenges, Bankrate reports that side hustlers are making an average of $891 per month in extra income, showing that their hard work is paying off.

While the financial benefits of side hustles are evident, there is also a risk of burnout for those taking on additional work. Ted Rossman of Bankrate acknowledges this challenge and encourages individuals to consider their motivations for engaging in a side hustle. Whether it’s to pay down debt or pursue a passion project, Rossman hopes that more people will find fulfillment in their side gigs, much like Ruth Washburn has with Quilts and Bears.

For Washburn, the satisfaction of creating meaningful pieces for her customers is what drives her to continue her side business. “It’s just rewarding, it touches my heart,” Washburn said. Her story serves as a reminder of the value that side hustles can bring, not just in terms of financial gain but also in the emotional connection they create with others.