5 Options if You Want to Start a Side Hustle

1

If you are tired of trying the same things and getting the same results, consider switching things up.

So, if you’re working hard but don't have enough to save, invest, or do other things, requesting a raise from your employer might not be enough. Changing things up might mean giving yourself a raise -- and you can do that by picking up one or more side hustles.

One source says around four in 10 Americans report having a side hustle. It’s a way to make more money by creating new revenue streams. While there are many ways you can bring in more money on the side, what follows is a look at five specific options you might want to tackle.

1. Investment Property

Buying a rental property is one way to create a new revenue stream. Of course, going this route will cost you something. But if you have the financial wherewithal and desire, buying an investment property is a good option.

Few things are as attractive as owning an investment property, charging rent, and using that passive monthly income to pay off the mortgage, invest, save, or do other things. It'll give you options.

While owning a rental property can be the ultimate side hustle, it can quickly feel more like a full-time job. You’ll have to find quality tenants, provide customer service, collect rent, follow up with tenants who don’t pay on time, market vacant units, maintain and repair the property, and more. It can become an overwhelming undertaking, which is why a property manager is worth considering if you buy an investment property.

Do your research to find a service provider that won’t let you down. One thing to consider is where the property manager is based. If your property is in The Woodlands, Texas, you need a property management company serving The Woodlands. A long-distance relationship with your property manager will break down at some point. So, consider the location to get the required help, take the load off your shoulders, and enjoy a good work-life balance.

2. Ride Sharing

Another possible side hustle is to join a ride-sharing platform and use your vehicle to take people where they want to go. It’s as simple as finding a platform, ensuring you fit the criteria and own a reliable car, and applying.

According to Statista, the ride-hailing segment could reach a user count of 99.94 million by 2029. It adds that the estimated average revenue per user is projected to be $591.87. Offering rides could be a way for you to make more money each month.

3. Delivering Food and Groceries

Yet another way to increase your monthly income is to sign up to deliver food and groceries to people’s homes. It’s a matter of convenience that many people are willing to pay for.

You can sign up and set your schedule. If you love driving, enjoy helping people, and have some free time, delivering food and groceries to people in the community might be a good side hustle for you.

4. Dog Walker

Did you know the dog walking services market in the U.S. was worth $1.7 billion in 2023? It might not surprise you that many people want what’s best for their pets. If unable to take their dogs out -- whether because of work commitments or mobility issues -- many of them are willing to pay dog walkers to help keep their friendly pooches healthy and happy.

You might be a dog lover and pet owner yourself. Walking dogs can be a great way to spend time with man and woman’s best friends while getting some fresh air and exercise for you and the dogs.

5. Package Delivery

You can also make some money in your free time by signing up to deliver packages. Some companies assign some delivery work to independent contractors, which means there are opportunities for some work. You can set your schedule and deliver packages when convenient for you.

These five options are the tip of the iceberg. So, if none of them are a good fit for you, do some research to find a side hustle that you enjoy. It’ll be hard to stick with a side hustle you don’t enjoy, so the goal should be to find one that’s a blessing rather than a burden.