Best Side Hustles for Women to Make Extra Money
About Harrison
ExpertiseHarrison Pierce is a writer and a digital nomad, specializing in personal finance with a focus on credit cards. He is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a major in sociology and is currently traveling the world.
Read full bioAt a Glance
Side hustles have become increasingly popular to supplement income and achieve financial goals in recent years. For women, side hustles offer a flexible and empowering way to earn extra money while pursuing their passions or taking care of other responsibilities. Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom, a full-time professional, or simply looking to increase your financial independence, numerous side hustle options are available to suit your skills and interests. Here are some of the best side hustle ideas for women and how to choose the best side hustle for you.
In this article, you’ll learn:
35%
of employed females have a side hustle.
Comparing the best side hustles for women
Side Hustle | Income Potential per month | Best If | Flexibility |
---|---|---|---|
Freelance Writing | $1,560 – $3,068 | Skilled in writing, research, and creativity | High |
Virtual Assistant | $780 – $1,352 | Organized and proficient in administrative tasks | High |
Online Tutoring | $1,196 – $1,768 | Strong knowledge in a specific subject area | High |
Handmade Crafts | $624 – $1,040 | Artistic and creative skills | Moderate to High |
Social Media Management | $728 – $1,820 | Familiar with social media platforms and marketing | High |
Blogging | $780 – $1,196 | Passionate about a specific niche or topic | Moderate to High |
Photography | $1,560 – $3,900 | Skilled in photography and editing | Moderate to High |
Event Planning | $1,352 – $1,664 | Organized and detail-oriented | Moderate to High |
Personal Fitness Trainer | $1,820 – $5,980 | Certified in fitness training | Moderate to High |
Pet Sitting | $780 – $1,560 | Love for animals and responsible care | High |
Please note that the income potential can vary greatly depending on factors like experience, skill level, market demand, and effort put into the side hustle. These numbers assume you spend 13 hours per week working on your side hustle, which is the national average.
Closer look into the best side hustle ideas for women
1. Freelance writing
If you have a way with words, freelance writing can be a lucrative side hustle. It involves creating various types of written content, like articles, blog posts, social media content, copywriting, and more, for clients or publications on a project-by-project basis. To get started, you’ll want to hone your writing abilities, understand different writing styles and formats, and build a portfolio that showcases your expertise.
To find freelance writing jobs, you can utilize websites like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr. Networking within writing communities, reaching out to businesses or websites directly, or even starting your own blog can also help attract potential clients. While prior experience can be advantageous, it’s not always a strict requirement, as some clients may value fresh perspectives and creativity. As you gain more experience and positive feedback, your reputation and clientele can grow, potentially leading to more substantial freelance writing opportunities.
2. Virtual assistant
As more businesses operate online, the demand for virtual assistants (VA) has grown significantly. This job involves offering a range of administrative, creative, or technical services remotely to businesses, entrepreneurs, or individuals. As a virtual assistant, you could be handling tasks like email management, social media scheduling, data entry, customer service, content creation, and more. If you’re interested in becoming a VA, assess your skills and determine the services you can offer. Then, create a professional online presence, including a website or social media profile, to showcase your offerings. Join freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer to find VA jobs, or directly reach out to potential clients through networking and cold emailing.
While formal experience isn’t always mandatory, having skills in areas like communication, time management, organization, and proficiency in relevant software tools (Microsoft Office, project management software, and social media platforms) can greatly enhance your chances of success.
3. Online tutoring
If you have expertise in a particular subject, online tutoring can be a rewarding side hustle. You can tutor students of all ages in subjects like math, languages, or test preparation. Platforms like VIPKid and Chegg Tutors provide opportunities to connect with students worldwide. Online tutoring allows you to set your own rates and schedule, making it a flexible choice for women with teaching skills. To get started, you can create profiles on those tutoring platforms, educational websites, or even freelance marketplaces. While a formal teaching degree can enhance your credibility, it’s not always necessary; a strong grasp of the subject matter, effective communication skills, and the ability to explain concepts clearly are essential qualities for success. As you gain experience and positive reviews, you can attract more students and potentially expand your side hustle into a full-time job.
4. Handmade crafts
If you love crafting, you can sell your handmade goods online. You can do so with a wide range of artistic disciplines, including woodworking, pottery, jewelry making, knitting, and more. To get started, figure out what you want to make and how you can make it better than competitors. Online tutorials, workshops, and community classes can provide invaluable guidance. Join online marketplaces like Etsy, attend local craft fairs, and promote on social media platforms. A passion for creativity, a willingness to learn, attention to detail, and the ability to produce high-quality, aesthetically pleasing items are essential qualities for success in the world of handmade crafts.
5. Social media management
Social media management involves curating, creating, and scheduling content across various social media platforms to enhance an individual’s or a company’s online presence and engagement. It entails developing a strategic approach to content, responding to comments, analyzing performance metrics, and staying updated with the latest trends. To get started in social media management, you can build a portfolio by managing your own social media profiles or volunteering to manage accounts for friends or local businesses. You can also consider taking online courses or attending workshops to gain insights into effective strategies.
To find jobs, platforms like freelance marketplaces, social media groups, and networking sites (e.g., LinkedIn) offer opportunities. While prior experience in social media management is beneficial, a strong grasp of various platforms, good communication skills, creativity, and the ability to analyze data are key attributes. As you gain experience and demonstrate your skills, you can gradually expand your client base and potentially turn social media management into a lucrative side hustle.
6. Blogging
Blogging entails creating and maintaining a personal or niche-focused website where you regularly publish content on topics of your choice. It’s an avenue to share your expertise, insights, and passions while potentially earning extra income. To get started, decide on your niche – something you’re passionate about and knowledgeable in. Then, choose a blogging platform like WordPress, Blogger, or Wix, and set up your website. Create high-quality, engaging content that resonates with your target audience and provides value. Consistency is key; establish a regular posting schedule to keep your readers engaged.
You can incorporate advertisements, participate in affiliate marketing programs, offer sponsored content, or even sell digital products like ebooks or courses to monetize your blog. As it gains traction, you can also reach out to brands and companies for collaboration opportunities. Building a strong online presence through social media and networking can help you connect with potential clients or sponsors. As you gain more experience, you’ll naturally refine your content creation process and better understand your audience’s preferences. It’s important to adapt and learn about SEO techniques to enhance your blog’s visibility on search engines.
7. Photography
If you want to make money on the side through photography, you should Invest in a decent camera and learn the basics of composition, lighting, and editing. As your proficiency grows, you can build a portfolio showcasing your best work, which is crucial for attracting potential clients. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook can serve as excellent avenues to showcase your portfolio and connect with potential clients. Additionally, websites like Upwork, Freelancer, and local job boards can help you find photography gigs, like portrait sessions, event coverage, real estate photography, and more.
8. Event planning
Event planning involves orchestrating and executing various types of events, like parties, weddings, corporate gatherings, and fundraisers. It requires meticulous organization, creativity, and the ability to manage multiple moving parts to ensure a seamless and memorable experience for clients and attendees. Getting started in event planning can begin with honing your organizational skills and gaining an understanding of event logistics, budgeting, and design. You can then create a portfolio showcasing your abilities, which may include mock events or personal projects.
To find jobs, you can leverage social media platforms, local community bulletin boards, and online freelancing platforms that connect event planners with potential clients. While formal education in event planning can be beneficial, practical experience, strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and a knack for problem-solving are equally crucial. As you accumulate successful events and positive client testimonials, your reputation will grow, paving the way for a rewarding and profitable event planning side hustle.
9. Personal fitness trainer
A personal fitness trainer is someone who offers fitness guidance, exercise plans, and motivation to clients on a part-time basis. This role involves helping individuals achieve their fitness goals, whether it’s weight loss, muscle gain, improved endurance, or overall health. To get started as a personal fitness trainer, you should obtain relevant certifications, like those offered by reputable organizations like NASM, ACE, or ISSA, which provide essential knowledge about anatomy, exercise techniques, and client safety. Building a client base can be achieved through various avenues, including social media platforms, local community centers, gyms, or even personal networking. Prior experience in fitness, whether through personal training, sports, or wellness-related activities, can enhance credibility and attract potential clients.
10. Pet sitting
Pet sitting is a popular and rewarding side hustle that involves taking care of pets while their owners are away. As a pet sitter, you may be responsible for tasks like feeding, walking, and providing companionship to pets, ensuring they are well-cared for and content in their familiar surroundings. Getting started in pet sitting is relatively straightforward. Begin by building a strong foundation of knowledge and experience with different types of animals, either through personal pet ownership or volunteering at local animal shelters. Establishing a network of satisfied clients is essential, as word-of-mouth referrals often play a significant role in finding pet sitting gigs. Online platforms and apps dedicated to pet care services, like Rover or Wag, can also connect you with potential clients.
Learn more: Best Pet Sitting Apps and Sites
What makes a side hustle good for women?
When considering a side hustle, certain factors make it particularly suitable for women:
- Flexibility: Many women juggle multiple responsibilities, like caring for children or managing a household. A side hustle that offers flexible hours and remote work options allows women to balance their various commitments effectively.
- Low Start-up Costs: Starting a side hustle with minimal upfront investment is crucial, especially for women with limited financial resources. Side hustles that require minimal equipment or can be launched online often have lower start-up costs.
- Passion and Interest: Women are more likely to succeed in side hustles that align with their passions and interests. Choosing a side hustle that allows you to leverage your skills and hobbies makes the work more enjoyable and increases the chances of long-term success.
How to choose the best side hustle for you?
When selecting a side hustle, consider the following factors:
- Skills and interests: Identify your strengths and passions to find a side hustle that aligns with them. Assess the skills you already possess and determine how they can be monetized.
- Time commitment: Evaluate how much time you can dedicate to your side hustle. Consider your existing commitments and choose a side hustle that fits your schedule.
- Income potential: Research the income potential of different side hustles. Look for opportunities to maximize earnings by leveraging your skills and targeting high-demand markets.
- Market demand: Assess the demand for the side hustle you’re considering. Look for niches or areas with a growing need, as this can increase your chances of success.
FAQs
There are several side hustle options that women can pursue from the comfort of their homes. Examples include freelance writing, virtual assistance, graphic design, social media management, and online tutoring. These side hustles offer flexibility and the ability to work remotely, making them ideal for women seeking home-based income opportunities.
Getting a second job can be a viable option to pay off debt faster. However, it’s important to consider the impact on your overall well-being and work-life balance. A side hustle that allows you to earn extra income without overwhelming your schedule may be a better alternative. Evaluate your financial situation and personal circumstances before deciding whether a second job or a side hustle is right for you.
Girls can explore various side hustle options to make extra money. Some ideas include babysitting, pet sitting, lawn care, tutoring, and selling handmade crafts. It’s important for girls to consider their skills and interests when choosing a side hustle and seek safe and appropriate opportunities for their age.