Are you a teen looking to make extra cash on the side? Balancing school, friends, and family might seem like a lot already, but with the right hustle, you can make some money while still having time for everything else. Whether you’re saving up for something special or just want to have extra spending money, there are plenty of side hustle out there that are fun, flexible, and will even help you develop real-world skills. Let’s go over some of the best options for teens!
1. Tutoring
Why It’s Great: Tutoring is a fantastic side hustle for teens who excel in subjects like math, science, English, or even creative skills like music or art. If you’re the go-to person classmates turn to for help, tutoring could be a natural fit for you. Not only do you get to help others, but teaching concepts to someone else also strengthens your understanding—giving you an academic boost as well.
Pros: Tutoring is highly flexible, especially if you go the online route. There are many platforms where you can sign up to tutor younger students or even peers, allowing you to work from home, without needing to commute. You can set your schedule around school and other commitments, working as much or as little as you want. Tutoring also helps build valuable skills, like patience, communication, and leadership—qualities that look great on college applications and future resumes.
Cons: While tutoring can be rewarding, it’s not always easy to start. If you’re new, you may have to work to build credibility, especially if the subject area is competitive. Parents and students want to trust that a tutor can deliver results, so it may take time to build a client base. However, by offering your services to family friends, or volunteering at first, you can quickly establish a good reputation.
2. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
Why It’s Great: If you’re an animal lover, pet sitting or dog walking can be an enjoyable way to earn money. Many people need someone they trust to look after their pets while they’re at work or away, and they’re often willing to pay well for reliable care. Plus, dog walking or pet sitting allows you to spend time with pets without the full-time commitment of owning one. It’s a fun, low-stress job that’s also a good excuse to get outside, walk around, and enjoy some fresh air.
Pros: One of the best things about pet sitting and dog walking is the flexibility. You can set your hours and take on clients based on your schedule, making it ideal for busy students. Most of the work is outdoors, which can be a nice break from indoor schoolwork or studying. If you’re an animal lover, this “job” doesn’t even feel like work!
Cons: The pay for pet sitting and dog walking can vary widely depending on the client and area, and you may need to spend time building a client base. Handling pets can also be challenging—some dogs may pull on the leash or need special care, which requires patience and attentiveness. However, once you establish a good reputation, this can be a rewarding and steady way to make money.
3. Freelance Writing
Why It’s Great: For teens who love writing, freelance work is an excellent way to turn that passion into income. There’s a huge demand for fresh voices and perspectives, and freelance writing covers everything from blog posts and website copy to social media content. Writing for clients helps you develop skills in research, creativity, and communication. Plus, each project you complete builds your portfolio, opening up more opportunities down the road.
Pros: Freelance writing offers ultimate flexibility. You can work from home, a library, or even a coffee shop, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule. You also have control over which projects you take on, so you can focus on topics that interest you. Building a portfolio of published work is a fantastic way to showcase your abilities and build credibility, which can lead to higher-paying jobs in the future.
Cons: Competition in the freelance writing world is high, and it can take time to land regular clients. Projects may also be inconsistent, meaning you’ll have busy periods and slow ones. While starting rates may be low, gaining experience and building a network can help you establish steady income over time. If you’re persistent, freelance writing can be a fulfilling way to earn money and develop your skills.
4. Social Media Management
Why It’s Great: If you’re already comfortable using social media, why not turn it into a money-making opportunity? Small businesses and local brands often need help managing their social media presence, and as a teen, you bring a fresh, relatable perspective to these platforms. You’ll learn about content creation, branding, and social media strategy, all valuable skills in today’s digital world.
Pros: Social media management is a great way to develop skills in marketing, content creation, and engagement—skills that are valuable in almost any career. You’ll have the chance to get creative with posts, stories, and captions, and you can work from virtually anywhere. The flexible schedule is ideal for teens, allowing you to fit work around school and other commitments.
Cons: Managing social media accounts can be more time-consuming than it appears, as it often involves planning, creating, and scheduling posts, responding to messages, and analyzing engagement. Clients may also have high expectations for results, which can feel stressful if you’re new to the field. But if you’re organized and passionate about social media, it can be a rewarding and profitable hustle.
5. Stock Photography
Why It’s Great: If you love photography, stock photography could be a great side hustle for you. Stock photo sites like Shutterstock and Adobe Stock allow photographers to upload images that can be purchased by people around the world. With each sale, you earn a small commission, creating an opportunity for passive income. The more quality photos you upload, the greater your chances of earning.
Pros: Stock photography offers a lot of flexibility. You can take photos in your free time, upload them to stock sites, and earn money whenever someone downloads your images. There’s no strict schedule, and you can build a portfolio of work over time. It’s a great way to practice and refine your photography skills while making extra cash. If your photos are unique and high-quality, they have the potential to sell for years, generating passive income.
Cons: The initial costs for photography equipment can be high, as quality images require a decent camera and, ideally, editing software. Sales can be slow when you’re starting out, and it may take time to see consistent earnings. However, if you’re patient and passionate about photography, this side hustle can turn into a long-term source of income and a great way to share your creativity with the world.
6. Babysitting
Why It’s Great: Babysitting has been a go-to side hustle for teens for decades. If you enjoy spending time with kids, it’s a great way to earn money while building responsibility. Many parents are looking for reliable babysitters, especially for evenings or weekends when they need a break or have errands to run. If you’re good with children and have references from family or friends, babysitting can be a steady, rewarding job.
Pros: Babysitting doesn’t require any formal qualifications, making it an accessible job for teens. You can start by babysitting for relatives, neighbors, or family friends, and build your reputation from there. Pay is typically on an hourly basis, and for responsible sitters, it can be a reliable way to earn extra cash. It’s also a great job if you like flexibility—you can accept or decline jobs based on your schedule, whether it’s weekends, school holidays, or evenings.
Cons: Babysitting can be physically demanding, especially if you’re caring for younger children who need constant attention. Some kids may be harder to manage than others, which could make the job tiring. Pay also varies depending on location and the number of children, and in some cases, it may not be as high as other jobs. However, if you enjoy working with kids, it can be a fun and worthwhile experience.
7. Deliver Food
Why It’s Great: If you’re 18 and have a driver’s license, food delivery is a solid side hustle that offers flexibility and the chance to earn tips. With the rise of apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub, there’s high demand for food delivery drivers, and you can choose your own hours. This allows you to work when it fits into your schedule, whether it’s after school, on weekends, or during breaks.
Pros: One of the major benefits of delivering food is that the demand is high, especially in urban areas. You can work during peak hours like lunch and dinner to maximize tips, and the base pay is often supplemented by these tips, making the gig potentially lucrative. You also have the freedom to choose how much or how little you work. Plus, food delivery can be a good way to get to know your local area while making money.
Cons: The job can be physically tiring, especially if you have to carry large orders or navigate through busy streets. The base pay for deliveries can be low, and there’s no guarantee of how much you’ll make each time. Tips are not always guaranteed, and the weather or traffic can affect how much money you make. However, if you enjoy being on the go, this can be a flexible and relatively easy hustle.
8. House Cleaning or Yard Work
Why It’s Great: House cleaning or yard work is a straightforward way to make extra money. Offering services like lawn mowing, leaf raking, or general cleaning to neighbors or local families is a good way to put your energy to use. It’s also a job that’s always in demand, especially during seasonal changes when people want their homes and yards spruced up.
Pros: One of the benefits of house cleaning and yard work is the low-stress nature of the tasks. It’s usually a one-time job, which means you can finish a task and move on to the next without worrying about long-term commitments. Plus, you can set your own hours and decide how much work you want to take on. You also don’t need a lot of special skills—just basic cleaning supplies or lawn care tools, making it a simple hustle.
Cons: While it’s low-stress, these jobs can be physically demanding. Cleaning homes or doing yard work can take time and energy, especially if the property requires a lot of attention. Some clients may only need help once in a while, so this may not provide a regular income stream. However, it’s a great way to make extra cash while helping others keep their homes or yards in shape.
9. Online Surveys
Why It’s Great: Taking online surveys is one of the easiest ways to make money online. There are numerous legitimate websites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and InboxDollars that offer rewards for filling out surveys, watching videos, or trying new products. While you won’t make a fortune, it’s a simple way to earn a bit of extra cash in your free time.
Pros: The best part about online surveys is that they have minimal requirements. You don’t need any special skills or equipment—just a device with internet access. They’re easy to do during downtime, like after school or while relaxing at home. Some survey sites even reward you with gift cards, points, or cash for completing tasks, giving you flexibility in how you redeem your earnings.
Cons: The pay for online surveys is usually very low, and you won’t make a substantial amount of money this way. Also, some survey sites can be a waste of time, as they might offer too few opportunities or require you to disqualify from many surveys. It’s important to stick to trusted platforms to avoid scams. Still, if you’re looking for a no-effort way to make a little extra money, surveys are an easy option.
10. Dropshipping
Why It’s Great: Interested in entrepreneurship? Dropshipping is an online business model that allows you to sell products without ever holding inventory. You create an online store, promote products from suppliers, and when someone places an order, the supplier ships it directly to the customer. This makes it an appealing, low-cost way to start an e-commerce business, especially if you’re a teen looking to dive into the world of online sales.
Pros: Dropshipping offers flexible hours, as you can run your online store from anywhere. It’s a relatively low-cost business to start, and you don’t need to purchase products upfront or worry about managing inventory. It also teaches valuable skills like marketing, customer service, and e-commerce management. With the right niche, dropshipping can become a profitable side hustle.
Cons: While it’s low-cost to start, dropshipping requires a lot of effort in terms of marketing and customer service. You’ll need to learn how to market your products effectively, drive traffic to your store, and handle any customer issues. There’s also fierce competition, so success isn’t guaranteed. Building a brand and a customer base can take time, but with effort and persistence, dropshipping can be a great learning experience and a profitable hustle.
11. Virtual Assistant
Why It’s Great: A virtual assistant (VA) helps small businesses or entrepreneurs manage basic administrative tasks remotely. This could include things like scheduling appointments, answering emails, managing social media accounts, or organizing files. If you’re organized, detail-oriented, and good at multitasking, being a virtual assistant can be a great way to make money without leaving home. Plus, you’ll learn valuable administrative skills that are useful in many future careers.
Pros: The best part about being a VA is the ability to work remotely. You can take on clients from anywhere, setting your hours around your school schedule or other activities. You’ll gain experience with office software, time management, and customer service—all skills that look great on a resume or college application. Working as a VA can also be highly flexible, as you can choose the types of tasks you want to assist with, whether it’s scheduling, email management, or customer service.
Cons: The job can be repetitive, as many of the tasks involve handling routine work like responding to emails or organizing data. You’ll need solid time management skills to juggle your VA tasks with school or other commitments. Also, finding clients can take time, and pay may not be very high initially. However, once you build a client base, the work can become more steady and lucrative.
12. Reselling Thrifted Finds
Why It’s Great: If you have a passion for fashion or a keen eye for unique items, reselling thrifted finds can be a fun and profitable side hustle. Thrift stores and secondhand shops are full of treasures, from vintage clothing to home decor, and many items can be sold for a profit online. Platforms like Depop, eBay, and Poshmark are perfect for reselling thrifted items, allowing you to reach a large audience and make extra cash.
Pros: The main advantage of reselling is the flexibility it offers. You can shop for items whenever you want and sell them when it’s convenient for you. It’s also a great way to profit from items you already own or find at a low cost. If you have a good eye for quality items, you can make a substantial profit, especially if you specialize in certain categories, like rare vintage clothing or collectibles.
Cons: While the potential for profit is there, reselling requires an initial investment—money to buy items from thrift stores or online sources. The process can also be time-intensive, as you need to clean, photograph, and list the items online. Building a solid inventory and gaining traction can take time. However, if you have a passion for thrifting and fashion, this hustle can be both fun and profitable.
13. Content Creation for YouTube or TikTok
Why It’s Great: If you love being creative, sharing your thoughts, or entertaining an audience, content creation for platforms like YouTube or TikTok can be a rewarding side hustle. Whether you create videos on gaming, fashion, beauty, tutorials, or funny skits, there’s a massive audience out there. As your channel grows, you can earn money through ad revenue, sponsorships, and even selling products or services.
Pros: Content creation allows you to express your creativity in unique ways. You have full control over the content you produce, whether it’s videos, vlogs, or tutorials. If your content resonates with people, you can build a loyal audience and make passive income over time. You also have the potential for collaborations and sponsorships, which can significantly increase your earnings. Plus, the skills you develop in video production, editing, and marketing will be valuable in future career paths.
Cons: Success on YouTube or TikTok doesn’t happen overnight. It requires consistent posting, high-quality content, and time to build a following. There’s a lot of competition, and standing out can be challenging. Growing a platform takes persistence, and monetizing can take months or even years. However, if you stay dedicated and passionate about your niche, content creation can eventually become a lucrative hustle.
14. Remote Tech Support or IT Assistance
Why It’s Great: If you have a knack for technology, offering remote tech support can be a great side hustle. Many people struggle with setting up devices, fixing software issues, or troubleshooting their Wi-Fi. As a teen with tech knowledge, you can help family, friends, or small businesses with these tasks and earn money in the process. This side hustle is in high demand, especially as more people work and study from home.
Pros: The major advantage of offering tech support is the flexibility. You can work remotely, helping people from the comfort of your home. You’ll be in high demand since many people need tech assistance but don’t know where to turn. Plus, you’ll gain valuable experience in IT and customer service, skills that are useful in almost any career. The pay can be competitive, especially for more advanced tech issues.
Cons: The work can be sporadic, depending on how many clients need help at a given time. Some clients might also have more complex problems, requiring more time and effort to resolve. Additionally, you need a solid understanding of tech and troubleshooting, which may take time to develop if you’re new to the field. However, if you’re already tech-savvy, this can be a great hustle to earn money while helping others.
15. Custom Art or Crafts Shop
Why It’s Great: If you’re creative and love making art or crafts, selling your creations can be a fun and profitable side hustle. Platforms like Etsy, Instagram, and local markets provide great opportunities for teens to sell custom artwork, jewelry, clothing, or home decor. Whether you’re painting, knitting, or making candles, there’s a growing demand for unique handmade items, and people are often willing to pay a premium for something one-of-a-kind.
Pros: One of the best things about this hustle is the ability to express your creativity while earning money. You set your own hours and can work on your craft in your free time. You also get to connect with customers who appreciate your work. Plus, platforms like Etsy offer built-in audiences, which can help you reach customers globally. As you grow your brand, there’s potential for increased sales and even collaborations with other artists or influencers.
Cons: Starting a custom art or crafts business requires an upfront investment in materials, such as paints, beads, or fabric. It can also take time to build a customer base and establish your brand. Shipping and packaging materials can add to costs, and sales may be slow at first. However, once you gain traction, it can become a profitable and fulfilling hustle that allows you to do what you love.
FAQs
Can Teens Under 16 Get a Side Hustle?
Yes! Teens under 16 can absolutely pursue side hustles, but it’s important to focus on opportunities that don’t have strict age restrictions. Babysitting, pet sitting, tutoring younger kids, selling handmade crafts, and helping neighbours with chores like lawn mowing or shovelling snow are all great options. Many of these jobs don’t require formal work permits, but you’ll still want to get your parents’ approval and make sure you’re following any local laws or regulations related to youth employment.
If you’re interested in online jobs, always be cautious about providing personal information, especially for tasks that might involve sharing sensitive details. Stick to platforms that are known for being safe and reliable for young people, and always keep your parents in the loop, especially when it comes to any money transactions or personal data sharing. With the right support and guidance, you can start earning money and gaining experience even before turning 16!
Which Side Hustles Help Build Skills?
If your goal is to build your resume and develop valuable skills while earning money, there are several side hustles that are perfect for this. Tutoring is a great way to reinforce what you know while helping others learn, improving your communication and teaching skills. Social media management is another excellent choice, where you can gain experience in digital marketing, branding, and creativity, which are all in-demand skills.
Freelance writing helps develop writing, research, and communication abilities, and working as a virtual assistant can teach you organizational skills, time management, and customer service. These types of jobs not only make you money now, but they also equip you with skills that will look impressive on a future resume and help set you apart in any future job market. Whether it’s working remotely or face-to-face, these side hustles will teach you real-world lessons and boost your confidence in handling professional tasks.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right-side hustle as a teen can be a game-changer for your financial goals, skill development, and overall confidence. You’re not just earning money—you’re building a foundation for your future. Whether you’re interested in creative work, tech, or helping others, there are so many side hustle that can fit your interests and schedule. It’s all about finding the right balance between making money and learning new skills that will benefit you in the long term.
Each side hustle offers a unique experience, and you can switch it up as your interests evolve. Start small and grow with each job you take on. Remember, it’s okay if you don’t have it all figured out right away. Explore, try new things, and learn along the way.
If this post was helpful to you, feel free to share it with a friend who could benefit from it, or leave a comment below sharing which side hustle you’re most excited to try. I’d love to hear from you!
