Top 10 Most Popular Side Hustles in the US (2025)
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| Most Popular Side Hustles in the U.S |
Quit Your Job? Here’s How Americans Are Making Real Money on the Side
In 2025, side hustles are no longer just "extra money" gigs—they’re full-fledged income streams. Across the U.S., millions are choosing to walk away from traditional 9-to-5 jobs in favor of flexible, self-driven work. According to LendingTree, 38% of Americans have a side hustle, and for many, it’s their main financial lifeline.
This guide breaks down the Top 10 most popular and profitable side hustles in the U.S., based on income potential, accessibility, market demand, and growth opportunities. Whether you're looking to quit your job or simply want to pad your paycheck, these are the most in-demand paths in the gig economy of 2025.
Side Hustle Job Trends: Key Statistics for 2025• 38% of Americans currently have a side hustle (LendingTree) • 50%+ of Gen Z say they plan to turn their side hustle into their full-time job • The gig economy is projected to exceed $500 billion in 2025 revenue |
Top 10 Most Popular and Profitable Side Hustles in the U.S
1. Food & Grocery Delivery
Platforms: DoorDash, Uber Eats, Instacart
Average Income: $15–$25/hour
Requirements: Valid driver’s license, vehicle or bike, smartphone
Why It Works: With minimal start-up effort, you can hit the ground running. Urban and suburban areas alike continue to show high demand for delivery services.
Tip for Success: Use multiple apps to maximize orders and avoid downtime.
2. Online Freelancing (Writing, Design, Coding & More)
Platforms: Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer
Average Income: $20–$60/hour (higher for skilled tech or finance roles)
Requirements: Portfolio, skillset in demand, discipline to manage projects
Why It Works: You're in control. Pick your clients, set your rate, and work remotely. There's a growing demand for specialized talent across industries.
Best For: Writers, graphic designers, web developers, consultants.
3. E-Commerce Reselling
Platforms: eBay, Amazon FBA, Poshmark, Facebook Marketplace
Average Income: $500–$5,000+/month
Requirements: Sourcing products, knowledge of market pricing
Why It Works: Reselling is scalable. From flipping thrift finds to building a wholesale inventory, anyone with an eye for deals can profit.
Hot Niches in 2025: Vintage fashion, electronics, health & wellness products.
4. Home Cleaning & Handy Services
Platforms: TaskRabbit, Handy, local directories
Average Income: $25–$50/hour
Requirements: Reliable transportation, cleaning tools, strong ratings
Why It Works: High trust = high repeat business. These services are in constant demand, especially in urban and high-income areas.
SEO Tip: Create a Google Business Profile to attract local clients.
5. Selling Handmade or Digital Products
Platforms: Etsy, Gumroad, Shopify
Average Income: $200–$2,500+/month
Requirements: Creativity, branding, social media marketing
Why It Works: Monetize your hobbies and reach a global audience. Etsy sellers of digital planners, wall art, and DIY kits are thriving.
Trending Now: AI-generated art, personalized gifts, eco-friendly crafts.
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| Most Popular Side Hustles in the U.S |
6. Online Tutoring & Teaching
Platforms: Wyzant, Outschool, Preply, Teachable
Average Income: $20–$50/hour
Requirements: Subject expertise, communication skills, webcam
Why It Works: Demand is booming for K–12 tutoring, test prep, and adult education. Teachers and professionals are finding reliable income from home.
Pro Tip: Package recorded lessons into passive-income courses.
7. Pet Sitting & Dog Walking
Platforms: Rover, Wag!
Average Income: $15–$30/hour
Requirements: Love for animals, background check, flexible schedule
Why It Works: Americans spent over $140 billion on pets in 2024. The need for trusted, local care is only rising—especially in cities.
Bonus: Great exercise and minimal upfront investment.
8. Seasonal or Part-Time Retail Work
Examples: Events, pop-up shops, warehouse gigs
Average Income: $12–$20/hour
Requirements: Flexible availability, entry-level skills
Why It Works: Ideal for fast cash during holidays or event seasons. Retail chains and local businesses often hire temporary help.
Best Times: Black Friday, back-to-school, summer fairs.
9. Content Creation & Social Media Influencing
Platforms: TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn
Average Income: $100–$1,000/post (micro), $5,000+/month (established)
Requirements: Consistency, niche expertise, audience engagement
Why It Works: Brands want visibility, and creators deliver it. You don’t need millions of followers—just a loyal niche audience.
Monetization Paths: Sponsorships, affiliate links, digital product sales.
10. Subscription-Based Content (e.g. OnlyFans, Patreon)
Platforms: OnlyFans, Patreon, Substack
Average Income: Varies widely; many earn $1,000–$10,000+/month
Requirements: Personal brand, audience, unique content
Why It Works: Direct-to-fan business models allow creators to profit from exclusive content. It’s not just adult content—fitness coaches, musicians, and educators use these platforms too.
Best Practices: Be transparent, build trust, offer real value.
How to Choose the Right Side Hustle for YouWhen picking a side hustle, consider: • Time commitment: How many hours/week can you realistically dedicate? • Skill level: Do you need to learn something new or can you start now? • Income goals: Are you looking for quick cash or long-term growth? • Scalability: Can this grow into a full-time business? |
Final Thoughts: Is 2025 the Year You Quit Your Job?
The American workforce is evolving. Traditional employment isn’t the only path to financial security anymore. With so many tools and platforms available, anyone can find a side hustle that matches their goals, schedule, and lifestyle.
Want more freedom, income, and purpose?
Explore these top side hustles—and maybe, just maybe, hand in that resignation letter.
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