Many of us have hobbies that we enjoy in our spare time. For some, these interests can become the perfect side hustle.
Across the UK, individuals are on the hunt for jobs to earn a bit of extra cash. Beyond the usual pub, barista, or supermarket roles available, there's a variety of 'side hustle' style jobs you could consider.
Ed Huang, a side hustles and career expert from SideHustles.com, commented: "Side hustles are more than just a way to make extra money-they're an opportunity to turn your passions into profit. Whether you're freelancing, tutoring, or managing social media, each gig allows you to hone your skills, expand your network, and potentially pave the way for a full-time career."
Experts from SideHustles.com have gathered insights through direct conversations with leading experts in personal finance and the gig economy.
Their guide provides a fresh take on maximising side hustles, detailing the necessary skills, the estimated time commitment, potential earnings, and even some expert tips.
Top 20 side hustles that can earn the most money
1. Freelance Writing.
Skills Required: Strong writing, grammar, and research skills.
Estimated Time Commitment: Varies; 5-20 hours per week.
Potential Earnings: $20-$50 per hour (roughly £15 - £38).
Tips: Build a portfolio, join freelance platforms, and network with potential clients.
2. Data Entry.
Skills Required: Attention to detail, basic computer skills.
Estimated Time Commitment: Flexible; 10-30 hours per week.
Potential Earnings: $15-$20 per hour (roughly £11 - £15).
Tips: Use reputable platforms, manage time efficiently, and ensure accuracy.
3. Virtual Assisting.
Skills Required: Organisational, communication, and multitasking skills.
Estimated Time Commitment: Part-time; 10-20 hours per week.
Potential Earnings: $15-$25 per hour (roughly £11 - £19).
Tips: Specialise in a niche, create a professional online presence, and offer excellent customer service.
4. Transcription.
Skills Required: Fast typing, good listening, and attention to detail.
Estimated Time Commitment: Varies; 5-15 hours per week.
Potential Earnings: $15-$25 per hour (roughly £11 - £19).
Tips: Improve typing speed, use transcription software, and focus on accuracy.
5. Proofreading.
Skills Required: Excellent grammar, spelling, and attention to detail.
Estimated Time Commitment: Flexible; 5-15 hours per week.
Potential Earnings: $25-$35 per hour (roughly £19 - £27).
Tips: Build a strong portfolio, join proofreading platforms, and continuously update grammar knowledge.
6. Consulting.
Skills Required: Expertise in a specific field, analytical and communication skills.
Estimated Time Commitment: Part-time; 5-10 hours per week.
Potential Earnings: $100+ per hour. (roughly £77).
Tips: Network within your industry, offer value-driven services, and maintain a professional reputation.
7. Online Tutoring.
Necessary Skills: Expertise in a specific subject, teaching abilities.
Time Commitment: Part-time; 5-15 hours weekly.
Potential Income:$15-$30 per hour. (roughly £11 - £23)
Advice: Develop engaging lesson plans, utilise interactive tools, and accumulate positive reviews.
8. Freelancing.
Necessary Skills: Specific skill set (e. g. graphic design, web development), time management.
Time Commitment: Varies; 5-20 hours weekly.
Potential Income: $5-$50 per hour. (roughly £3 - £38)
Advice: Effectively promote your services, continuously update skills, and deliver high-quality work.
9. Website Testing.
Necessary Skills: Basic web navigation, critical thinking.
Time Commitment: Flexible; 5-10 hours weekly.
Potential Income: Depends on projects.
Advice: Register on multiple testing platforms, provide detailed feedback, and maintain consistency.
10. Product Testing.
Necessary Skills: Honest reviewing, attention to detail.
Time Commitment: Varies; 5-10 hours weekly.
Potential Income: Depends on products.
Advice: Join reputable testing sites, provide thorough reviews, and be honest in your feedback.
11. Dog Walking.
Necessary Skills: Basic animal care, reliability.
Time Commitment: Part-time; 5-10 hours weekly.
Potential Income: $15-$30 per hour (roughly £11 - £23)
Advice: Build a client base, offer flexible scheduling, and provide excellent care.
12. House Sitting.
Skills Required: Trustworthiness, attention to detail.
Estimated Time Commitment: Flexible; varies.
Potential Earnings: $25-$50 per day. (roughly £19 - £23).
Tips: Join house-sitting websites, get references, and communicate effectively with homeowners.
13. Photography.
Skills Required: Photography skills, creativity.
Estimated Time Commitment: Part-time; 5-15 hours per week.
Potential Earnings: $25-$100 per hour. (roughly £19 - £77).
Tips: Build a portfolio, specialise in niches (e. g. weddings, events), and market your services.
14. Event Planning.
Skills Required: Organisational, communication, and multitasking skills.
Estimated Time Commitment: Part-time; 10-20 hours per week.
Potential Earnings: $20-$50 per hour. (roughly £15 - £38).
Tips: Network with vendors, create detailed plans, and offer personalised services.
15. Social Media Management.
Skills Required: Social media expertise, marketing skills.
Estimated Time Commitment: Part-time; 5-15 hours per week.
Potential Earnings: $15-$40 per hour. (roughly £11 - £44).
Tips: Stay updated on trends, create engaging content, and track analytics.
16. Personal Training.
Skills Required: Fitness knowledge, motivational skills.
Estimated Time Commitment: Part-time; 5-15 hours per week.
Potential Earnings: $30-$70 per hour (roughly £23 - £54).
Tips: Get certified, offer customised programs, and build a client base.
17. Etsy Selling.
Skills Required: Crafting, creativity.
Estimated Time Commitment: Flexible; varies.
Potential Earnings: Varies based on sales.
Tips: Create unique products, market your shop, and provide excellent customer service.
18. Airbnb Hosting.
Skills Required: Hospitality, management skills.
Estimated Time Commitment: Part-time; varies.
Potential Earnings:$50-$200+ per night (roughly £38 - £155)
Tips: Keep the property clean, offer amenities, and communicate well with guests.
19. Delivery Driving.
Skills Required: Reliable transportation, time management.
Estimated Time Commitment: Flexible; 10-30 hours per week.
Potential Earnings: $10-$25 per hour (roughly £7 - £19)
Tips: Join multiple platforms, provide good service, and manage time efficiently.
20. Blogging.
Skills Required: Writing, SEO, marketing.
Estimated Time Commitment: Flexible; 5-20 hours per week.
Potential Earnings: Varies; can grow significantly with traffic and monetization.
Tips: Choose a niche, create valuable content, and monetize through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
