The gig economy has been booming for years, offering people the chance to pick up a few extra bucks (or in some cases make a full-time living) doing side gigs that are flexible and fun.
Here are some of the best side gigs for 2024
1. Rideshare Driver:
If you like to drive, and don't mind sharing your car with strangers, then becoming a rideshare driver could be the perfect side gig for you. The pay is good and it's relatively easy to get started with little-to-no experience required.
The requirements are pretty basic: You'll need to be 21 years old or older (and have proof), pass a background check, have access to an eligible vehicle that meets certain criteria (including having four doors and being less than 10 years old), provide proof of insurance coverage in case of an accident during your shift, pass some tests about local regulations and driving laws--and most importantly--have access to Waze or Google Maps while on duty! During peak times, drivers may earn more than $30 an hour; however, during other times, earnings may be lower. Peak hours, like the evening rush between 5 and 8 pm, would provide more revenue, but throughout the day, would provide less. The great part about ridesharing is that all you have to be able to do is have a car and be able to drive. Around 90% of households in America own a car, so ridesharing is easy for many people to do.
2. Personal Trainer:
Personal training is a growing industry, and it can be a great side gig for those who love working with people. Personal trainers help clients improve their fitness by setting goals and providing guidance on how to achieve them. You'll need certification to become a personal trainer, which can take between two weeks and several months, depending on where you get your education from. You also need to be able to motivate clients so that they stick with their workouts!
3. Freelance Writer:
Freelance writing jobs are available, and it's a great way to earn money while doing something you love. You can work from home or anywhere in the world. The pay is good, too: The average annual salary for freelance writers is $47K. Freelance writing can include writing and creating content for blogs, websites, and social media platforms. The drawback to freelance writing is that it is inherently more difficult compared to other side gig jobs. It requires creativity, expertise in a subject, and mastery of grammar and vocabulary.
4. Delivery Driver:
Delivery drivers are needed to deliver packages and food. Gig jobs can be done from home or while you are on the go, so they're very flexible and convenient. The pay is very similar to ridesharing, where demand for deliveries can cause pay to go up.
5. Online Marketer:
If you have a knack for writing and marketing, then becoming an online marketer is a great gig. You'll be responsible for creating content and managing social media posts for brands. You'll also need to analyze the performance of your campaigns and make adjustments as needed, such as adjusting the messaging or targeting based on audience response. Online marketers typically earn between $25-$35 per hour depending on their experience level, so it's not uncommon for them to make six figures annually if they're working full time (40 hours/week).
6. Pet-sitting and Dog Walking:
If you love pets, but don't want to get stuck in a 9-to-5 job, pet-sitting and dog walking could be a great gig for you. You can set your own schedule and work from home as much or as little as you like. Depending on the company, some pet sitters get paid per visit while others get paid by the hour or week. The most work you have to do is care for a pet’s waste or feed them. Those tasks are very simple to learn, and anyone can do them.
7. Tutoring:
Tutoring is a great gig job for those who want to work from home, as well as those who enjoy working with kids. The demand for tutors is growing rapidly, so if you're looking for something that pays well and allows you to work on your own schedule, this might be the gig for you! Working as a tutor can be incredibly rewarding--it's not just about teaching someone how to read or do math; it's about helping them develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives. You'll see yourself as more than just an educator: You're also shaping young minds into critical thinkers who will one day lead our society forward. Tutors really have to have expert knowledge in the subject as tutors are there to provide the extra help that teachers can’t, so it may be more difficult than some other gig jobs, but that makes it even more worth it!
8. Substitute Teaching:
Substitute teaching is a great side gig job for 2024. With the growing need for qualified teachers, there will always be an abundance of opportunities for substitutes. And with the average daily rate going up to $200 per day, it's easy to see why this gig is so popular among graduates who want to earn some extra cash while they search for full-time employment. The best part? You don't have to be an expert in any one subject--substitute teachers are needed across all disciplines and grades (K through 12). If you're interested in working as a substitute teacher or tutor online, take a look at HelloSubs, which facilitates the process of becoming a substitute teacher and can get you in a classroom quickly!
There are many great side gigs available today. Whether you're looking to supplement your income, create a flexible work schedule, or explore new opportunities, there is a side gig job that's right for you. Consider trying one of the above jobs, like substitute teaching with HelloSubs or exploring other options to find the one that's the best fit for your skills and interests. Ultimately, the best gig job for you will depend on your skills, interests, and availability. It's important to do your research and find a gig job that fits your needs and lifestyle.