Finding ways to make extra money as a teen can be both exciting and empowering. Whether you’re saving for a big purchase, building a college fund, or just looking for some spending cash, there are countless side hustles that can fit your interests and schedule. Here’s a list of 54 side hustles that teens can start right now to earn extra money.
Table of Contents
54 Side Hustles for Teens
1. Online Surveys
Participate in paid surveys on sites like Swagbucks or Survey Junkie. It’s an easy way to make money from your phone during your free time.
2. Social Media Management
Help local businesses manage their social media accounts. If you’re good at creating posts and engaging with followers, this could be a fun way to earn.
3. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
Offer pet sitting or dog walking services to neighbors and friends. Apps like Rover can connect you with clients.
4. Babysitting
Babysitting remains a classic side hustle for teens. Take a babysitting course to boost your skills and confidence.
5. Sell Handmade Crafts on Etsy
If you’re crafty, create and sell your handmade goods on platforms like Etsy. From jewelry to home decor, the possibilities are endless.
6. YouTube Channel
Start a YouTube channel about something you’re passionate about. Monetize with ads and sponsorships as your audience grows.
7. Tutoring Younger Students
If you excel in a particular subject, offer tutoring services to younger students in your school or community.
8. Car Wash Services
Set up a car wash station in your neighborhood or offer mobile car washing. It’s a straightforward way to earn, especially in warmer months.
9. Lawn Mowing and Yard Work
Offer lawn mowing, leaf raking, and yard cleanup services. This hustle is perfect during spring, summer, and fall.
10. Sell Old Clothes Online
Declutter your closet and sell gently used clothes on apps like Depop, Poshmark, or Mercari.
11. Freelance Writing
If you enjoy writing, look for freelance writing gigs online. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr have opportunities for beginner writers.
12. Graphic Design
Create designs for social media, logos, or t-shirts. Use your skills to work with small businesses or start your own design shop on sites like Redbubble.
13. Sell Digital Products
Create digital products like printables, e-books, or templates and sell them on Etsy or Gumroad.
14. Photography
Offer photography services for events, senior portraits, or local businesses. Start by building a portfolio and promoting your work on Instagram.
15. Virtual Assistant
Help small business owners with tasks like managing emails, scheduling, and social media. You can find VA gigs on freelance platforms.
16. Flipping Items
Buy items from garage sales, thrift stores, or clearance racks and resell them for profit on eBay or Facebook Marketplace.
17. House Cleaning
Offer house cleaning services to neighbors and friends. Start small and build a reputation for being reliable and thorough.
18. Sell Baked Goods
If you love baking, sell your creations at local farmers’ markets, to friends, or through social media.
19. Gaming YouTube or Twitch Streaming
If you’re into gaming, start streaming on Twitch or create a gaming YouTube channel. Monetize with ads, donations, and sponsorships.
20. Tech Support for Seniors
Offer tech support services to seniors who need help setting up phones, computers, or social media accounts.
21. Personalized Gift Baskets
Create and sell customized gift baskets for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions. Use your creativity to make them stand out.
22. Shoe Cleaning Service
Sneaker cleaning is popular among teens. Offer to clean and restore sneakers for a fee.
23. House Sitting
Offer house-sitting services when neighbors go on vacation. It’s a great way to make money by simply checking in on someone’s home.
24. Sell Stock Photos
If you love photography, sell your photos as stock images on platforms like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock.
25. Seasonal Decorator
Help people decorate their homes for holidays or special events. It’s a fun, creative job that pays well during busy seasons.
26. Test Websites
Get paid to test and review websites and apps on sites like UserTesting. Provide feedback and earn money.
27. Start a Blog
Create a blog about something you’re passionate about. Monetize with ads, affiliate links, or sponsored posts.
28. Offer Personalized Art Commissions
If you’re an artist, offer custom artwork or digital portraits on platforms like Fiverr or Instagram.
29. Event Setup and Cleanup
Offer event setup and cleanup services for parties, weddings, or local businesses. This gig often pays well for a few hours of work.
30. Snow Shoveling
In the winter, offer snow shoveling services in your neighborhood. It’s a great way to make money when it’s cold outside.
31. Rent Out Your Stuff
Rent out items like bikes, lawn equipment, or even video games to friends or neighbors.
32. Create a Podcast
Start a podcast on a topic you love. Monetize through sponsorships, listener support, or selling merchandise.
33. Recycling for Cash
Collect and recycle cans, bottles, or electronics for cash at local recycling centers.
34. Gift Wrapping Service
Offer gift-wrapping services during holidays or special occasions. People are often willing to pay for beautifully wrapped gifts.
35. Social Media Influencer
Build a following on platforms like TikTok or Instagram. Collaborate with brands for sponsored posts as your audience grows.
36. Sell Customized T-Shirts
Create and sell custom t-shirts on print-on-demand sites like Teespring or Printful.
37. Fitness Training or Coaching
If you’re into fitness, offer coaching or create workout plans for friends, family, or peers.
38. Transcription Work
Transcribe audio files for cash on platforms like Rev. It’s a flexible job that can be done from home.
39. Makeup Artist
Offer makeup services for events like prom, homecoming, or special occasions. Start by practicing on friends and building a portfolio.
40. Custom Jewelry Making
Design and sell your custom jewelry pieces on Etsy or at local craft fairs.
41. Voice Acting
Offer voiceover services on platforms like Fiverr. You can find gigs for commercials, video games, or YouTube videos.
42. Create a Subscription Box
Curate items around a theme you love and sell them as subscription boxes. It’s a creative way to make recurring income.
43. Rent Out a Room for Storage
If you have extra space, rent it out as storage. Apps like Neighbor can help you connect with people in need of storage.
44. Craft Fair Vendor
Sell your handmade goods at local craft fairs or markets. It’s a great way to connect with customers directly.
45. Personal Shopper
Offer personal shopping services for busy parents or seniors who need help with groceries or other errands.
46. Design and Sell Stickers
Create custom sticker designs and sell them on Etsy or Redbubble. Stickers are popular and have a low upfront cost.
47. Fitness App or Online Course Creation
If you have expertise in fitness or wellness, create an online course or app to sell your knowledge.
48. Mobile Car Detailing
Offer mobile car detailing services in your neighborhood. With minimal supplies, you can start this side hustle quickly.
49. Neighborhood Newspaper Delivery
Deliver newspapers or flyers in your local area. It’s a reliable way to earn a steady income.
50. Junk Removal Service
Help neighbors get rid of unwanted items by offering junk removal services. Charge by the load or by the hour.
51. Window Washing
Offer window washing services to homeowners and businesses. It’s a job that requires minimal equipment but pays well.
52. Sell Digital Art Prints
Turn your artwork into digital prints and sell them online. Buyers can download and print them, making it a passive income stream.
53. Personal Chef for Families
If you love to cook, offer meal prep or personal chef services to busy families in your community.
54. Virtual Fitness Classes
Offer virtual fitness or yoga classes via Zoom. Promote your classes on social media to attract students.
Wrapping Up
These 54 side hustles offer teens a wide range of opportunities to make extra money, whether you prefer working online or getting involved in your local community. Start exploring what interests you the most, and you’ll be on your way to earning extra cash in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best side hustle for a teen to start with no money?
Starting with online surveys or freelance writing requires no upfront costs, making them great options for teens without startup capital.
How much can a teen earn with these side hustles?
Earnings vary based on the hustle and how much time you invest. Some teens earn a few hundred dollars a month, while others can make significantly more.
Are there any legal restrictions for teens doing side hustles?
Yes, age restrictions and labor laws vary by location. Always check local regulations to ensure your side hustle complies with any legal requirements.
