23 Awesome Side Hustles For Teens: $1K to $2K Monthly Cash
Looking for side hustles for teens and ways to make some extra cash? You’re not alone. This article provides insight into 23 profitable side gigs explicitly tailored for teenagers.
From online tasks like taking surveys to offline chores such as dog walking or lawn care, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to discover your next money-making endeavor? Dive in!
Key Takeaways
- Teens can choose from online side hustles such as social media management, blogging, content creation, live streaming games, online surveys, selling photos, freelance writing, and testing websites.
- Offline side hustles for teens include babysitting or nanny services, dog walking and pet sitting, tutoring peers, or delivering newspapers.
- Side hustles provide extra cash and teach time management and entrepreneurship. They allow teens to explore their interests and passions while earning money.
Why Teens Should Consider Side Hustles
Starting a side hustle opens the door to financial independence for most teenagers. It allows teens to earn extra money outside their regular chores or part-time jobs.
Engaging in such ventures boosts creativity, teaches responsibility, and hones entrepreneurial skills early in life. With the internet offering countless opportunities, it’s easier than ever for teens to find a niche that aligns with their interests and strengths.
A teenager with a knack for social media management can offer services to businesses looking to build their own online business presence. Those excelling in school subjects might consider tutoring peers struggling with certain topics.
If writing comes naturally, freelance blogging or article-writing gigs are abundant on platforms like Fiverr and Upwork.
Staying at home doesn’t mean missing out either, as work from home hustles abound too!
A teen could channel their inner artist by designing t-shirts and mugs without leaving the comfort of home; they only need inspiration and access to graphic design tools.
Teenagers don’t always have control over their lives due to commitments like school schedules and family obligations. But launching a business gives them power over one significant item – earning potential; how much they make directly correlates with the effort put in, teaching essential lessons about hard work equaling reward.
Let’s look at specific opportunities, online and offline.
Online Side Hustles for Teens
Become a Social Media Manager
Embracing the role of a social media manager can open doors to exciting opportunities for teens. This online side hustle involves managing and updating various social media platforms for businesses or individuals.
Your job would be to post engaging content, respond to comments, and craft creative campaigns that increase brand awareness.
If you’re already glued to Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or TikTok all day anyway, why not get paid to do it?
You could earn between $100 and $1,000 monthly by managing just one account! You only need a solid understanding of different social networks and excellent communication skills.
Here’s where to find work to get started:
- Online job platforms like Indeed. Search for “Social Media Manager.”
- Freelance websites like Fiverr, Upwork, or Freelancer.
- Online tutoring sites like TutorMe, Skooli, Chegg, and Preply.
- Personal network of family, friends, or local businesses.
Start a Blog
Starting a blog not only allows you to share your knowledge and expertise, but it also has the potential to earn you and a few regular clients a substantial amount of money.
Starting a successful blog can bring anywhere from $500 to $10,000 monthly! Whether you have a passion for fashion, gaming, or cooking, starting a blog allows you to turn that passion into a passive income stream.
Here are some basic resources to get you pointed in the right direction:
A simple guide to making money blogging: TheBlogStarter.
Beginner Get Started Blogging Guide: Modern Teen.
Another great start-up guide: Learn in Color.
Content Creation
Teens who love writing and have a creative side can explore content creation as a side hustle. They can share their knowledge and passion through blog posts, articles, or even social media platforms like a YouTube channel.
By creating valuable and engaging content, teens can earn more money online through advertising revenue or sponsored collaborations. Freelance writing is another avenue where teens can showcase their writing skills and get paid for their work.
Whether starting a blog or becoming a freelance writer, content creation allows teens to express themselves while earning extra cash.
Here’s where you can find work like this:
Any freelance sites mentioned before, like Fiverr, Upwork, or Freelancer.
Live Stream Games
With the rise of Twitch and YouTube Gaming and playing video games, there is a growing demand for young gamers who can entertain and engage viewers with their gameplay skills.
By live streaming their gaming sessions, teens can build a following, interact with fans, and monetize their channel through sponsorships or donations.
YouTubers and streamers have built lucrative careers by sharing their gaming experiences. By consistently creating high-quality content that resonates with viewers, they can attract sponsors, advertisers, and secure partnerships within the gaming industry.
Participate in Online Surveys
Paid surveys are a popular side hustle for teens looking to earn extra cash. You can sign up on websites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and Branded Surveys to get paid for completing online surveys and sharing your opinions on products and services.
It’s an easy way to make money in your free time – all from the comfort of your home! These online survey sites are legitimate and allow teens to earn anywhere from $50 to $250 monthly.
Sell Photos
Teens with a knack for photography can turn their passion into a side hustle by selling their photos online. Platforms like iStockPhoto, Shutterstock, and Dreamstime offer opportunities to showcase and sell photos in various categories, such as nature, food, lifestyle, and more.
The flexibility of this side hustle allows teens to upload and sell their photos at their convenience. With earnings ranging from $50 to $500 per month, selling photos online can be a great way for teens to earn extra cash while doing something they love.
Freelance Writing
Freelance writing is a great side hustle for teens who love writing and want to make extra money. You can use your skills to write blog posts, articles, or even social media content for businesses.
It’s a flexible gig that allows you to work from home and choose the projects that interest you. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to share knowledge and showcase creativity through writing.
Where to find this type of work to make a few extra bucks:
Freelance writing job sites like Fiverr, Upwork, Freelancer, Text Broker, and Cambly.
Test Websites
Platforms like UserTesting offer opportunities to get paid for providing feedback on various websites.
All you need to do is navigate through the site, perform specific tasks, and share your thoughts about the user experience. It’s a great way to put your attention to detail to good use while making money.
Depending on how much time and effort you put into testing websites, you can earn anywhere from $25 to $1,500 monthly.
Sell Crafts on Etsy or Shopify
Teens with a knack for crafting or creating artwork can turn their skills into a profitable side hustle by selling their crafts on platforms like Etsy or Shopify. Whether handmade jewelry, custom paintings, or unique accessories, these online marketplaces allow teens to showcase and sell their creations to a broad audience.
With the ability to create an account on Etsy at the age of 13, teens can start their online store and potentially earn anywhere from $50 to over $5,000 per month.
By leveraging these popular platforms, teens can tap into the growing demand for handmade and one-of-a-kind items while turning their passion into profit.
Offline Side Hustles for Teens
Teens can explore offline side hustles that allow them to earn money and gain valuable experience. From babysitting and pet sitting to tutoring peers or delivering newspapers, these offline side hustles provide opportunities for teens to showcase their skills and make some extra cash.
Babysitting or Nanny Services
Babysitting and nanny services are excellent side hustles for teens looking to earn some extra cash. Not only can these jobs be done from the comfort of your own home, but they also offer flexible hours that can fit around your school schedule.
On top of that, babysitters and nannies have the potential to make anywhere from $100 to $2,000 per month!
Here’s where to find babysitting and nanny jobs:
- Facebook groups and neighborhood platforms like Nextdoor.
- Babysitting websites like Babysits and Care.com have job postings for babysitters and nannies.
- Job boards like Jooble, Indeed, Snagajob, SimplyHired, ZipRecruiter, and Glassdoor.
Dog Walking and Pet Sitting
This could be a great way to earn a few dollars if you love animals. You can offer your services to neighbors, family friends, or even advertise online.
Dog walking allows you to exercise while spending time with furry companions, and pet sitting allows you to care for pets while their owners are away. Not only does this gig give you flexibility in scheduling around school and extracurricular activities, but it also teaches responsibility and essential skills in animal care.
Check out Rover.com, set up a profile with lots of photos with pets, set your availability, and watch the opportunities roll in.
Car Detailing
Car detailing is a fantastic option for teens looking to earn extra money. By offering car cleaning and maintenance services; you can turn your passion for cars into a profitable side hustle.
Whether washing and waxing the exterior, vacuuming the interior, or polishing the windows, plenty of tasks can be done to make a vehicle look brand new. Many people don’t have the time or energy to keep their cars in shape, so they’re willing to pay someone else to do it.
With some marketing and advertising, you can build a loyal customer base and make cash quickly. So if you love cars and want a little extra spending money, car detailing could be the perfect gig for you.
Sources to help you get up and running:
- Auto detailing forums like Autogeekonline can provide tips and contacts to help you start.
- Car detailing websites like Guide to Detailing and Mobile Tech RX have information on how to start a car detailing business.
- Business ideas websites like Upflip.
- YouTube channels like The Detail Geek and AMMO NYC have great tips and tutorials.
Lawn Care Services
With just a small investment in equipment, such as lawnmowers and gardening tools, you can start offering services like mowing lawns and weeding gardens.
The best part is that you can earn good money in a short amount of time. In as little as 30 minutes, you could make between $30 and $70 simply by mowing someone’s lawn. And if you offer more extensive landscaping services, you could earn hourly rates of over $50 per hour.
With the potential to earn anywhere from $100 to $4,000 monthly, lawn care services are worth considering as a teen side hustle. Snow shoveling can be another profitable opportunity during the winter months, with potential earnings ranging from $50 to $1,000 per month.
Getting started in lawn care services:
- SmallBusinessQuest.com provides information, including local laws and regulations.
- EBM has a cool video explaining the ins and outs of getting started.
- Post local ads on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace.
Tutor Peers
Tutoring peers can be a great side hustle for teens. Not only can it help you earn extra money, but it also allows you to work on your schedule. By tutoring your classmates or younger students, you can utilize your knowledge and skills to help them succeed academically.
It’s a rewarding experience that not only benefits you financially but also makes a positive impact on others. So if you’re looking for a flexible and profitable side hustle, consider becoming a tutor for your peers.
Deliver Newspapers
Delivering newspapers is a classic side hustle for teenagers. It’s an offline job that allows you to earn extra cash while getting out and about in your neighborhood. You can choose your schedule, making it a flexible option that fits well with school and other commitments.
Plus, delivering newspapers allows you to explore the outdoors more and get some exercise. While the potential earnings aren’t specified, this side hustle can be a great way to start earning money as a teen.
This one is pretty simple to get started. Just check with your local newspaper to see if there are delivery openings. You can call or look for a posting in the newspaper in the classified section.
So grab those newspapers and hit the streets – it’s time to make some pocket money!
Shovel Snow
Shoveling snow is a fantastic side hustle for physically fit teens who enjoy being outdoors. You can earn over $25 per hour, but the potential earnings range from $50 to $1,000 monthly.
It’s a flexible gig, too – you can shovel snow as a mobile service or from home. Plus, it’s a great way to develop strength and endurance while making extra cash.
So grab your shovel and get ready to turn winter into an opportunity!
Work Part-Time Jobs
Teenagers can earn extra money by working part-time at odd jobs or as a side hustle. These offline side hustles include selling crafts, tutoring, and even becoming a lifeguard.
Working part-time helps teenagers earn some cash and gives them valuable work experience and the chance to develop essential skills. Whether babysitting, mowing lawns, or working at a local store, these jobs allow teens to gain independence and learn responsibility while earning their own income.
Hit up the job boards like Indeed and ZipRecruiter, and don’t forget to use your network of friends to get employer referrals. This is the best way to get your foot in the door.
Flipping Furniture
Flipping furniture is a fun and profitable side hustle for teens. It involves buying used furniture at low prices and then sprucing it up to sell for a higher price. You can find great deals on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Craigslist, Mercari, and Decluttr.
Refurbishing the furniture and giving it a new look can attract buyers willing to pay more. Flipping furniture also offers flexibility since you can work on your schedule.
Just remember that some initial investment may be needed to purchase the furniture and materials for refurbishment. This side hustle not only helps you make money but also allows you to develop important skills like negotiation, marketing, and project management.
House Cleaning Services
House cleaning services can be a fantastic side hustle for teenagers looking to make extra cash. Not only is it a profitable opportunity, but it’s also a great way to learn valuable skills and build your own business.
You could earn anywhere from $75 to $5,000 monthly by offering house cleaning services. You can control how much you make with flexible hours and the ability to set your rates.
Plus, homeowners always need reliable and trustworthy cleaners, so you’ll never lose potential clients. So why not put your tidying skills to good use and start offering house cleaning services today?
Unique Side Hustles for Teens
Interested in trying something different? Check out these unique side hustles for teens that will set you apart from the crowd. From becoming an influencer to donating plasma for money, countless opportunities await you.
Don’t miss out on these exciting ventures!
Become an Influencer
Teenagers who dream of making money doing something they love should consider becoming influencers. Being an influencer allows teens to share their passions and interests with a large audience while earning money through sponsorships, brand collaborations, and ad revenue.
Whether it’s fashion, gaming, beauty, or any other niche, an audience is waiting to connect with them. By building a solid online presence on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, or Twitter and consistently creating engaging content that resonates with their target audience, teenagers can turn their passion into a profitable side hustle.
Best of all? They get to be their own boss and set their own schedule while doing something they truly enjoy.
Donate Plasma for Money
Donating plasma can be a lucrative way for teenagers to earn extra money. It’s a unique side hustle option that allows you to make a difference while getting paid. However, it’s important to note that donating plasma may have certain age requirements or require the permission of a legal guardian.
If you meet the qualifications, this opportunity can provide you with some much-needed cash flow. So consider donating plasma as an unconventional way to make money and contribute to those in need at the same time.
Sell Collectibles Online
Have you ever had a collection of something you no longer want or need? Instead of letting those items gather dust, turn them into cash Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Craigslist, Mercari, and Decluttr are great places to sell unwanted possessions.
My kids sold their old but barely worn sneakers and shoes recently to the tune of several hundred bucks!
Poshmark is the perfect resource for selling clothes if you’re into fashion. And if you have rare or valuable collectibles, Shopify and Etsy are excellent platforms to showcase and sell your treasures.
So go ahead and clean out that closet or attic – your collection could be worth more than you think!
Pool Cleaning Services
Pool cleaning services can be a unique and profitable side hustle for teens. Not many people enjoy maintaining their pools themselves, which means there is a demand for this service.
Teens can earn money by offering pool cleaning services while providing practical and in-demand skills. It’s an opportunity to learn about pool maintenance and gain experience in the industry.
So if you’re looking for a side hustle that sets you apart, consider offering pool cleaning services!
Advantages and Disadvantages of Side Hustles for Teens
Engaging in a side hustle as a teenager comes with various pros and cons. Understanding these can help you decide on the side hustle that suits your skills and lifestyle best.
Advantages | Disadvantages |
Side hustles provide the potential for high earnings, depending on the amount of work you put in. | Some side hustles, such as tools, equipment, or a Go Fund Me account, may require an initial investment. |
Starting a business allows you to control your schedule and earning potential, giving you more freedom and financial independence. | Being your own boss requires self-discipline and time management skills. Not everyone thrives in this kind of environment. |
Side hustles encourage you to evaluate and utilize your talents and skills, helping to build self-confidence. | If not properly managed, side hustles can distract you from school work or other essential commitments. |
Side hustles enable you to not solely depend on family money or part-time jobs for extra cash. | Working online involves certain risks, such as potential scams and cyber threats. |
Online side hustles like online surveys, gaming, freelance writing, and social media influence allow you to work from home. | Working from home can lead to a lack of social interaction, which is crucial for a teenager’s emotional and social development. |
Traditional side hustles like babysitting, selling photos, and selling online collectibles can also be a great way to earn money while learning about responsibility and financial management. | Traditional side hustles may have limited earning potential compared to some online opportunities. |
Tips on Starting a Side Hustle as a Teen
Starting a side hustle as a teen can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Explore your passions and interests: Choose a side hustle that aligns with your hobbies or skills. This will make the work more enjoyable and increase your chances of success.
- Set clear goals: Define what you want to achieve with your side hustle, whether earning extra money, gaining experience, or building a portfolio. Having specific goals will keep you motivated and focused.
- Create a schedule: Allocate dedicated time for your side hustle, balancing it with schoolwork and other commitments. Establishing a routine will help you stay organized and manage your time effectively.
- Market yourself: Promote your side hustle through social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok, creating engaging content that showcases your products or services. Utilize hashtags relevant to your niche to reach a wider audience.
- Research pricing: Determine how much to charge for your products or services by researching similar offerings in the market. Consider factors such as materials cost, time investment, and perceived value.
- Network with others: Connect with fellow entrepreneurs or individuals in your chosen industry who can offer guidance or collaboration opportunities. Attend local meetups or join online communities related to your side hustle.
- Stay organized: Keep track of expenses, sales, and customer inquiries using spreadsheets or apps like Google Sheets or Microsoft Excel. Being organized will help you manage finances and provide better customer service.
- Learn from mistakes: Don’t be discouraged by setbacks along the way. Use them as learning experiences to improve and grow your side hustle further.
In Summary
In summary, teens have countless opportunities to embark on side hustles and earn some extra cash. The possibilities are endless, whether they explore online options like social media management or freelancing or go for offline gigs like babysitting or lawn care services.
Side hustles provide financial independence and teach valuable skills like time management and entrepreneurship. So why wait? It’s time for teenagers to unleash their inner hustler and start making money while doing what they love!
FAQs on Teen Side Hustles
What are some ways teens can make money quickly? What side hustle is best for a teen to start with? Can teens sell items to make money?
How can a teenager make money fast?
Teenagers can make money quickly by exploring various opportunities available to them. One way is to play game apps that offer real cash prizes, such as Bingo Cash and Solitaire Cash.
Another option is selling crafts on platforms like Etsy, where teenagers can showcase their creativity and earn extra income. Additionally, they can sell unwanted items on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or eBay.
Selling photos on passive income websites like iStockPhoto, Shutterstock, and Dreamstime is also a profitable side hustle for teens with a passion for photography. Finally, during the colder months, shoveling snow in their neighborhood can give teenagers a quick way to earn cash.
What is the best side hustle for a teen to start with?
One of the best side hustles for teens to start with is selling their creations online. Whether handmade crafts, artwork, or even custom designs on t-shirts and mugs, platforms like Etsy and Instagram provide opportunities to showcase and sell their products.
Teenagers can also use passive income websites such as iStockPhoto and Dreamstime to make money by selling their photos. This allows them to tap into their creativity while earning some extra cash on the side.
So if you have a talent for creating unique items or capturing stunning photographs, consider turning your hobbies into a profitable side hustle!
What can a teen sell to make money?
Teenagers have plenty of options for selling items and making money. One option is to sell their own creations, such as handmade crafts or artwork, on platforms like Etsy.
Another option is to sell unwanted possessions on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Mercari. Teens can even sell photos on passive income websites like iStockPhoto and Shutterstock.
Also, shoveling snow can be a profitable side hustle during the winter months. And for those with writing skills, freelance writing allows teenagers to share their knowledge through blog posts and earn extra cash.