10 Side Hustles for Teens to Make Extra Cash (Online & Offline)

Fact-checked by Laurynas Cesnys
Editor
Updated on: August 25, 2024
side hustles for teens

Side hustles for teens are the perfect way to earn extra cash in 2024. Whether you're saving for college or just want more spending money, there's an opportunity out there for you.

This guide breaks down the top 10 side hustles for teens, covering both online and offline options. From online surveys to part-time jobs, we'll show you how to turn your skills into money-making ventures that fit your schedule.

Ready to start your own successful side hustle? Explore the best ways for teens to make money and take control of your financial future.

Online Side Hustles for Teens

1. Start a Blog or YouTube Channel

Have a knack for creating engaging content? Do you have a passion for gaming, makeup, etc.? Starting a blog or YouTube channel might be the perfect way to make money online for teens like you. Share your expertise, build an online presence, and turn your passion into extra income.

Get Started: Tips for Blogging and YouTube Success 

  1. Choose a niche that aligns with your interests and skills
  2. Create high-quality, valuable content consistently
  3. Invest in decent equipment (camera, microphone, lighting) 
  4. Optimize your content for search engines (SEO) 
  5. Engage with your audience and build a community 

Monetize Your Content: Earn Money on Your Terms 

  • Display ads: Earn money when visitors view or click on ads 
  • Sponsorships: Partner with brands to promote products or services 
  • Affiliate marketing: Earn commissions by promoting products with special links

Potential earnings

Small YouTubers can make $500 per month, while top creators can make millions annually. Bloggers can earn anywhere from a few hundred to tens of thousands per month, depending on traffic and monetization strategies. It's an excellent way for teens to make some extra cash and potentially grow into a full-fledged online business.

2. Do Online Surveys 

Taking online surveys is one of the best side hustles for teenagers looking to make a little extra money without much effort. There are plenty of legit online survey sites that offer an easy way to make a few extra bucks by sharing your thoughts and opinions.

Start Earning with Online Surveys: A Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Sign up for reputable survey sites like Survey Junkie or Swagbucks 
  2. Complete your profile to receive targeted survey invitations 
  3. Choose surveys that interest you and fit your schedule 
  4. Complete surveys honestly and thoroughly to maximize earnings 
  5. Cash out your rewards as gift cards or PayPal payments 

Potential Earnings: Realistic Expectations for Survey Side Hustles 

Taking online surveys is one of the best side hustles for teenagers looking to make a little extra money without much effort. There are plenty of legit online survey sites that offer an easy way to make a few extra bucks by sharing your thoughts and opinions.

3. Sell Stuff Online

If you are a crafty teen with a passion for creating unique handmade items or finding cool stuff, consider selling your goods on popular online platforms. It's one of the great side hustles for teens looking to earn some extra cash doing something they love. Etsy is an online marketplace perfect for handmade and vintage items, while eBay is great for various goods.

Get Started: Tips for Launching Your Online Selling Side Hustle 

  • Choose a platform that suits your products (e.g., Etsy for handmade/vintage, eBay for various goods)
  • Create eye-catching product listings with high-quality photos and detailed descriptions 
  • Set competitive prices and offer excellent customer service to stand out 
  • Promote your online store on social media (Instagram, TikTok) to drive traffic and sales 

Potential Earnings: How Much Can You Make Selling Online? 

The amount you can earn selling stuff online varies depending on factors like the products you sell, your prices, and the time you invest. Some successful Etsy sellers report earning hundreds or even thousands of dollars per month.

4. Become a Freelancer

Are you a tech-savvy teen looking for the best side hustle to earn some extra money? Freelancing might be an excellent opportunity for teens with skills in writing, graphic design, or web development. This side hustle allows you to offer your talents to clients worldwide, creating an online income stream while building your portfolio and gaining valuable experience. 

Launch Your Freelance Career: A Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Identify your marketable skills and niche
  2. Create a strong portfolio showcasing your best work
  3. Join popular freelance platforms like Fiverr and Upwork
  4. Take offers that you really can work on, time and skillswise. 
  5. Deliver high-quality work and communicate effectively with clients

Earning Potential: How Much Can Teen Freelancers Make?

As a teenage freelancer, your earnings will depend on factors like your skills, experience, and the time you dedicate to your side hustle. Entry-level freelancers on platforms like Fiverr can earn anywhere from $5 to $50 per project, while more experienced freelancers can command higher rates.

5. Tutor Online

If you excel in subjects like math, science, or languages, consider sharing your knowledge with others. This opportunity allows you to help other students while earning little extra spending money. If you're confident in your academic skills, this could be an ideal way to make some extra money. 

Start Your Online Tutoring Journey: A Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Identify your areas of expertise and target age group
  2. Research online tutoring platforms that hire teenagers (e.g., TutorMe, VIPKid)
  3. Meet the platform's age and education requirements 
  4. Pass background checks and subject proficiency tests
  5. Create an engaging tutor profile highlighting your skills and experience

Earning Potential: How Much Can Teen Tutors Make?

Online tutoring platforms typically pay tutors by the hour, with rates varying based on factors like subject, experience, and student demand. According to TutorMe, their tutors can earn up to $16 per hour, while VIPKid states that their tutors can make up to $22 per hour. As you gain experience and positive reviews, you may be able to increase your hourly rate.

In-Person Side Hustles for Teens

1. Babysit or Be a Mother's Helper

Good with kids? Consider becoming a babysitter or mother's helper. This classic side hustle is perfect for teens who want to earn money while making a positive impact on kids' lives and helping busy parents in their community.

Launch Your Babysitting Career: Tips for Success

  1. Offer your services to neighbors, family friends, and parents from your school
  2. Take a babysitting certification course (e.g., American Red Cross
  3. Learn child safety, basic care, and age-appropriate activities
  4. Be reliable, punctual, and communicative with parents
  5. Engage kids with fun, educational activities and games

Earning Potential: How Much Can Teen Babysitters Make?

Babysitting rates vary depending on factors like location, experience, and the number of children. According to Care.com, the average hourly rate for babysitters in the United States is $16.50 per hour. With a strong reputation and regular clients, babysitting can become a lucrative and rewarding side hustle for teenagers.

2. Pet Sit or Dog Walk

Animal-loving teens can turn their passion into profits by becoming pet sitters or dog walkers. This fun and rewarding side hustle allows teenagers to earn good money while spending time with adorable pets.

Start Your Pet Care Journey: Tips for Success

  1. Promote your services locally through flyers, social media, and word-of-mouth
  2. Offer a range of services, such as feeding, watering, playing, and exercising pets
  3. Be responsible, punctual, and attentive to each pet's unique needs
  4. Keep owners informed with regular updates and photos
  5. Build a strong reputation through excellent care and customer service

Earning Potential: How Much Can Teen Pet Sitters and Dog Walkers Make?

Pet sitting and dog walking rates vary based on factors like location, experience, and the level of care provided. According to Thumbtack, the average pet sitting rate in the United States is $25 to $30 per day, while dog walking rates typically range from $10 to $30 per 30-minute walk..

3. Do Yardwork or Odd Jobs

Teenagers looking for a tried-and-true way to earn extra cash should consider doing yard work and odd jobs for neighbors. This flexible side hustle allows teens to work around their school schedule while helping others in their community and earning money.

Get Started: Tips for Landing Yard Work and Odd Job Gigs

  1. Identify in-demand services based on the season (e.g., mowing lawns, raking leaves, shoveling snow)
  2. Offer additional tasks like garage cleanouts, moving assistance, or running errands
  3. Promote your services through flyers, local Facebook groups, and word-of-mouth
  4. Be reliable, hardworking, and communicative with clients
  5. Invest in basic equipment (e.g., lawnmower, rake, snow shovel) to expand your service offerings

Earning Potential: How Much Can Teens Make with Yardwork and Odd Jobs?

Earnings from yard work and odd jobs vary depending on factors like the type of task, the size of the job, and your location. According to HomeAdvisor, the average hourly rate for lawn mowing services is $25 to $60 per hour, while snow removal can earn you $30 to $100 per hour. 

For odd jobs like garage cleanouts or moving assistance, rates typically range from $20 to $50 per hour. By building a strong reputation and securing regular clients, teens can turn yard work and odd jobs into a lucrative side hustle.

4. Work in Food Service

Teenagers looking to earn money and gain valuable work experience should consider getting a part-time job at a local restaurant, cafe, or ice cream shop. This popular side hustle not only provides a source of income but also helps develop essential skills for future careers.

Launch Your Food Service Career: Tips for Teen Success

  1. Research local restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops hiring teens
  2. Prepare a resume highlighting your skills, education, and any relevant experience
  3. Practice interview skills and showcase your enthusiasm for the job
  4. Be flexible with scheduling to accommodate the needs of the business
  5. Develop essential skills like customer service, teamwork, time management, and responsibility

Earning Potential: How Much Can Teens Make in Food Service?

While base pay for food service jobs may start at minimum wage, the potential to earn tips can significantly boost your income. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for food and beverage serving and related workers, including tips, is $11.63. 

5. Be a Retail Worker

Teenagers looking to earn money and develop valuable skills could work in retail as a side hustle. Many stores, such as grocery stores, clothing boutiques, and electronics shops, offer part-time positions that are perfect for teens.

Start Your Retail Journey: Tips for Teen Success

  1. Identify stores in your area that hire teenagers for part-time positions
  2. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences
  3. Prepare for interviews by practicing common questions and showcasing your enthusiasm
  4. Be flexible with your schedule to accommodate the store's needs
  5. Embrace opportunities to learn and grow within the company

Earning Potential: How Much Can Teen Retail Workers Make?

Retail jobs typically offer hourly wages, with pay rates varying depending on factors like location, company, and experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for retail sales workers is $13.02. As a teen retail worker, you can earn money while gaining valuable experience that will benefit your future career.

Tips for Teen Side Hustling Success

Identify Your Passions and Skills

Start by identifying your interests and skills to find a side hustle for teens that you'll genuinely enjoy. Consider your hobbies, academic strengths, and natural talents when choosing a new side hustle to start.

Know the Rules

Before diving into your side hustle for teens, be sure to check age requirements and labor laws. Some opportunities may have minimum age restrictions or require parental consent. It's important to ensure you're legally allowed to participate in your chosen side hustle.

Be Professional

Once you've launched your side hustle, treat it like a real job. Be professional, reliable, and deliver high-quality work to your clients or customers. This approach will help you build a positive reputation and potentially lead to more opportunities in the future.

Save for the Future

As you start earning money from your side hustle, consider saving some of your earnings for future financial goals. Whether it's saving for college, a car, or building an emergency fund, developing good financial habits early on can set you up for long-term success.

Balance Your Time

While a side hustle can be exciting and profitable, don't overcommit yourself. Remember to balance your side hustle with school, extracurricular activities, and time for friends and family. Your well-being and education should always come first.

Leverage Your Network

Don't be afraid to tap into your network to promote your services and find new opportunities. Let friends, family, and neighbors know about your side hustle and ask them to spread the word. You never know who might need your services or be able to connect you with potential clients. 

Side Hustles For Teens: Final Thoughts

Side hustles are a game-changer for teenagers looking to make extra money, gain valuable work experience, and develop entrepreneurial skills. Whether you prefer online or in-person opportunities, this guide has showcased the 10 best side hustles for teens in 2024.

These flexible side hustles allow you to earn cash without sacrificing your studies or social life.  By choosing a side hustle that aligns with your skills and interests, you can turn your passion into profits and set yourself up for future success. 

Not only will a side hustle help you make extra money, but it will also provide you with valuable skills and experiences that can benefit your future career.  With hard work, creativity, and dedication, you can unlock your potential and become a teen entrepreneur. 

So, what are you waiting for? Use this guide as a launchpad to find the perfect side hustle for you and start your journey to financial freedom today!

About Author:
Paula is an accomplished content strategist and journalist with over 7 years of experience creating compelling, well-researched materials for business and finance audiences. Drawing on her background in journalism and brand messaging, Paula develops informative content that engages readers across diverse platforms, distilling complex financial topics into accessible, authoritative articles. Her ability to deliver valuable insights helps brands connect with their target audiences and empowers professionals navigating the ever-evolving business landscape.
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