How to make extra money: 21 ways to boost your income on the side

It’s no secret that making ends meet is a tougher ask these days. Prices for essentials like groceries, energy bills, and fuel are rising, while wages aren’t always keeping pace.

With the cost of living going up, many people are exploring how to make money on the side.Whether you want to pay off debt, save for something special, or just create a bit of breathing room in your budget, finding a bit of extra cash can help you reach your goals faster.

But with so many possibilities, it’s sometimes hard to know where to start. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best ideas for second income streams, from quick and easy options to some that are a little more involved. Our goal is to help you find the right fit and make getting started a bit easier.

How to earn extra money

Side hustles come in all shapes and sizes, offering something to suit every lifestyle. This makes it worth reading through this entire guide to explore all the opportunities – who knows what might catch your eye?

But if you're interested in something specific when it comes to side hustle ideas, you can also head straight to those sections:

• Quick money earners

• Home-based opportunities

• Online side hustles

• On-demand tasks

• Driving and deliveries

• Sharing your skills

Quick money earners

While long-term side hustles are great, there are quicker ways to boost your bank balance, and these can be ideal when life throws up unexpected expenses. 

Online marketplaces

Making quick cash often involves offloading items you already have. It’s a classic tip for how to make some extra money because it works.

Take a look around your home – there’s probably plenty of things you could sell. Whether it’s ill-fitting clothes, tech you’ve upgraded, or furniture that’s taking up space, online platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Depop are ideal for selling these items.

Selling second-hand gear online might be pretty common, but you can still add your own spin. For example, you could create themed bundles or add a personal touch with a short story about the item’s history.

To get the best results, you should also focus on presentation and pricing. Good photos help your items stand out, and detailed descriptions build trust with potential buyers. While you probably don’t need to learn how to do a competitor analysis,a quick look at similar items’ prices can help you set an attractive price for your own.

Car boot sales

Popping up across the country, car boot sales are a popular answer to the question of how to make extra money in the UK. While online marketplaces might fetch higher prices, these sales let you sell a large volume in one day, making them efficient for clearing out clutter and giving your bank balance an instant lift.

Just like selling online, you’ll need to be flexible with your pricing strategies.Start with a fair price but adjust based on buyer interest and feedback through the day. A stroll around the sale to see how other carbooters have priced similar items can also help you set competitive prices.

Be aware that experienced buyers might approach you as soon as you arrive, hoping to grab bargains before your items are fully displayed. Landing quick sales can be tempting, but they might resell your items for a higher price. Don’t feel pressured; you might end up making a bit more if you take time to set up properly first.

If you don’t have a car or prefer staying local, yard sales are a great alternative. They let you sell from your driveway or garden and can be a fun way to make extra money. You could even team up with your neighbours to create a yard sale trail.

Just remember to check with your local authority about any rules. A one-off yard sale is usually fine but setting up shop every weekend might not be. Also, if you’re renting, review your tenancy agreement for any restrictions.

Selling apps

Got old books, CDs, DVDs, or video games gathering dust? Apps like Ziffit and WeBuyBooks make it easy to turn them into cash – just scan the barcodes, get an instant valuation, and send them off for payment. 

For tech gadgets like phones or tablets, you can also try MusicMagpie; simply enter your item details for a quote.

These apps aren’t usually a good choice for selling rare or valuable items but are perfect for offloading things that are just taking up space. Watch out for promotions or bonuses, like extra cash for your first trade or for hitting a certain number of items. It’s an easy way to get a bigger payout with little extra effort.

You can also make extra money by recycling items, from used printer cartridgesto empty aluminium cans. Not only does this put some cash in your pocket, but you’re also doing your bit for the environment – a win-win.

Home-based opportunities

Interested in how to make extra money from home? The good news is there’s a whole range of business ideas from home you can explore. Here’s just a couple of ways to work a side hustle without even stepping outside.

Remote professional services

Providing professional services remotely can be a reliable way to make extra money from home. If you’re organised and good at juggling tasks, becoming a virtual assistant (VA) might be a good fit. You’d be helping small business owners with everyday tasks like managing emails and scheduling meetings.

If you’re more of a people person and have solid communication skills, remote customer service is another option. Since these roles often run 24/7, you can usually find shifts that fit around your existing job.

Platforms like Upwork and PeoplePerHour are great places to start when you’re figuring out how to get clients for these types of gigs – but it helps to stand out. Tailoring your profile to highlight your strengths and any relevant experience can give you a competitive edge over other side hustlers.

Renting out space and assets

Renting out what you already own can be a good option for making extra money. For example, Airbnb makes it easy to list a spare room for short-term stays. Rates vary, but you can expect top earnings for bookings in popular areas or near tourist attractions. When it comes to longer-term lets or finding a flatmate, SpareRoom is ideal.

For parking spaces, apps like JustPark and YourParkingSpace let you rent out your spot with minimal effort. And if you have a garage or shed sitting empty, you can turn to platforms like Stashbee – there’s always demand for extra storage space, and it’s a pretty low-effort solution to how to make extra money.

If you’re a fashionista, you could even rent out your clothes on sites like By Rotation or HURR. And on Fat Llama, you can lend things like drones and cameras for profit. Sure, you might need to pop to the post office to send off your items, but it’s a small price to pay for the extra income it could bring in.

Online side hustles

The internet is full of ways to make extra cash. Here are some of the most popular ways to turn online time into income.

Freelancing

If you have skills in writing, coding, or marketing, freelancing is a flexible online option. With just a laptop and an internet connection, you can take on various projects that fit your schedule.

As with VA and customer service roles, platforms like Upwork and PeoplePerHour are great for getting started and building your portfolio. Fiverr is another option. But don’t limit yourself – small business networking and learning how to use social media for business can also open doors.

Copywriting, in particular, is a service that’s always in demand, since well-written content is a key part of an effective marketing strategy for small businesses.So, if you have a way with words, you could create anything from blog posts to website copy. Deliver quality results, and you’ll often get repeat business.

As you gain experience, you can consider learning new skills to expand your earning opportunities by specialising in niche content, like email marketing for small business or SEO writing. 

Print-on-demand

If you have a creative streak or specialised knowledge, creating and selling your own products can be a lucrative side hustle. 

Print-on-demand is an excellent option if you enjoy design and illustration, and want to create physical products without handling stock. With platforms like Redbubble, Printful, and Printify, you can design everything from t-shirts to tote bags. These services take care of printing, packing, and shipping, allowing you to focus on your designs.

If creating greeting cards is more your style, Thortful lets you showcase your creations to a large audience. Whether you focus on quirky designs for pet lovers or motivational quotes for fitness fans, finding a niche can help your creations stand out.

Digital product creation

Creating and selling digital products like eBooks and craft digital artwork to sell on platforms like Gumroad and Etsy is another great way to make extra money.

Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) could also be a good fit. For example, if you’re a HR professional with insights into the benefits of training employees or effective employee retention strategies, you could write an eBook offering tips to entrepreneurs.

KDP also allows you to sell physical copies, with Amazon managing the printing and shipping, in a similar fashion to other print-on-demand services. And of course, you don’t need to be an HR whizz to make money. You could just as easily create an adult colouring book or a veggie cookbook.

The key to success is knowing how to identify your target market and offering something unique that meets their needs. Once your product is created and you’ve done some initial marketing, it can continue to sell without much ongoing effort, making it one of the most appealing passive income ideas.

Online store

Getting into retail doesn’t have to be as complex and daunting as it sounds, because setting up an online store is easier than ever. Whether you’re selling handmade crafts, trading in wholesale home decor, or dropshipping kids’ clothes, an online store lets you reach customers without the overhead and time commitments of a physical shop.

For online business ideas involving a virtual shopfront,it helps to find a market that isn’t oversaturated. For example, if you're thinking of hobbies that make money as a starting point, skilling up in areas like handmade knits or unique art could help you stand out with quirky, one-of-a-kind items. 

Remember, presentation is important for online sales. Investing in professional photography or learning the basics yourself can make a big difference. Since many shoppers browse and buy on their phones, it also pays to ensure your store is optimised for mobile devices.

Blogging for profit

Even if tech isn’t your strong suit, you can still get into the world of blogging, with platforms like WordPress, Blogger and Substack making it easy to set up your stall and learn as you go.

Successful blogs often focus on a specific topic and use evergreen posts to keep attracting readers over time. For instance, a blog about small business finances might offer timeless budgeting tips, while a DIY blog could feature how-to guides for home projects. By creating content that stays relevant, you can keep drawing in new visitors long after posts are published.

Regular updates, SEO optimisation, and engaging with readers will also help to grow your blog’s visibility and attract steady traffic. Once your blog is up and running (and remember, this takes time), you can start monetising it by charging a subscription fee or incorporating affiliate marketing links. 

Programs like Amazon Associates, ShareASale, and Commission Junction let you earn commissions by promoting products that match your content. For the best results, only recommend products you genuinely believe in to build trust and boost conversion rates.

As your blog’s traffic picks up, you might want to look into other ways to earn, like ad networks such as Google AdSense and Mediavine. Mixing up your income sources can give your blogging income a nice boost.

Monetised social media

Social media offers various ways to make extra money, either as a standalone side hustle or to complement other online gigs like blogging or print-on-demand. Each platform has its own vibe, so think about which one fits your style and what you want to achieve.

YouTube is ideal for creating in-depth content such as tutorials or reviews, and allows you to earn through ads, channel memberships, and live stream features. Building an audience and meeting YouTube’s requirements takes a bit of time and effort, but it can provide a steady income once you’re established.

Instagram, on the other hand, is ideal for photos and shorter videos. You can earn through sponsored posts or affiliate marketing, and it’s also an effective way to promote products if you have an online shop or design your own items.

Other platforms offer additional opportunities. For instance, Facebook provides monetisation optionsthrough subscriptions and stars, while TikTok focuses on short, creative videos with options for earning through the Creator Fund and brand partnerships.

And don’t forget Pinterest. Though sometimes overlooked for monetisation, it can be a gem for bloggers, designers, and DIY enthusiasts. You can drive traffic to your blog or shop, earn through affiliate links, or create sponsored pins.

Podcasting

Podcasting is yet another way to turn your creativity into a steady income stream in your spare time. 

While you can get started with just a decent microphone, headphones, basic editing software, and a topic you're excited about, it’s important to also take the time to do your research and really explore what’s already out there. 

An oversubscribed topic isn’t necessarily a no-go – see the insatiable appetite for true crime being catered to by countless podcasters – but adding a unique angle will help you stand out.

Once you’ve got a few episodes under your belt, you can monetise through sponsorships, listener donations, or by promoting your own products. Platforms like Buzzsprout can help distribute your podcast to major directories like Spotify and Amazon Music, making it easier for listeners to find you.

Testing websites

Testing websites is a straightforward solution for how to make extra money online.Companies are always looking for feedback on their sites and apps, and you can sign up for gigs through platforms like UserTesting or TryMyUI. It’s pretty simple; you navigate a site and share your thoughts on how it works, often in a recorded video.

To start, you'll need a computer with a solid internet connection, a microphone, and sometimes a webcam. Most platforms require you to complete a sample test first to ensure you can provide clear and useful feedback.

Once you're approved, you can tackle tasks that often only take 10-20 minutes each. Pay varies depending on the task and platform, but it’s an easy way to earn a bit of extra money. If you’re detail-oriented and comfortable sharing your thoughts out loud, you’ll do well.

On-demand tasks

Many people earn extra cash by offering their skills and time when people need them – much like print-on-demand for the real world.

Platforms like TaskRabbit make it easy to connect with locals who could use your help, though learning how to advertise your business in your area can also be highly effective. Using flyers, leaflets, or community board listings can help you find clients and avoid platform fees.

DIY and handyperson services

While qualified tradespeople like electricians and gas specialists will be required for certain jobs around homes and commercial premises, simply being handy with tools can allow you to make extra money carrying out general DIY tasks.

There’s always a demand for painting and decorating, plastering and carpentry experts, and while it can be a competitive space to enter, showing off your past work online and setting clear prices can help attract clients. 

Being well-prepared with the right tools and being upfront about what you’ll do will increase your chances of customers keeping you in mind for ongoing jobs. Good work often equals customer loyalty and word-of-mouth referrals.

Cleaning services

If you have an eye for detail and don’t mind getting dirty, doing cleaning jobs on a part-time basis can be another good way to make extra money.

Investing in quality cleaning supplies, having an eye for detail, and simply showing up on time are among the simple factors that will help you build a good reputation from the start.

You can make yourself available on online marketplaces in a matter of moments, and clearly lay out the kinds of tasks you’re willing to do. For example, you may position yourself as a cleaner for commercial as well as domestic properties. Or, if you have the right equipment, you could distinguish yourself from the competition by offering carpet and upholstery cleaning services.

Driving and deliveries

The rise of driving and delivery apps means that arranging everything from rides to meals is just a few clicks away. This has opened up a range of flexible earning opportunities for anyone with a driving licence and some spare time. 

Ride sharing

Driving for ridesharing apps like Uber is a flexible way to earn extra income on your own schedule. You can set hours that suit you, whether you’re squeezing in a few rides after work or dedicating a full day on the weekend.

As you might expect, there are a few requirements to meet before you can start picking up passengers – but nothing unexpected. You’ll need a private hire licence (from TfL in London or your local council elsewhere), the necessary insurance, and a vehicle that meets Uber’s specs. You’ll also need to be at least 21 years old.

One of the best perks of driving for Uber is the quick access to your earnings. While payments are automatically transferred to your bank account weekly, the Instant Pay feature lets you cash out five times a day – perfect if you need cash on hand quickly.

Food delivery

Delivering food through apps like Deliveroo, Just Eat, and Uber Eats is another popular side hustle. With this option, you can use your car, motorbike, or even a bicycle to start earning.

The hours are super flexible, so you can work during peak times like lunch or dinner or take on longer shifts if you prefer. And any tips you earn are yours to keep.

Another option is to work directly with a specific restaurant. Larger chains often offer longer-term contracts that still allow for flexible hours, and they might even throw in extra perks like transportation, meals, and bonuses.

Parcel delivery

If you'd rather deliver packages than drive people or food around, working with services like Amazon Flex or Evri could be right up your street. 

With Amazon Flex, you can choose delivery blocks that work for you and get paid for each one you complete. It’s a good option if you prefer a set schedule where you can pick your shifts in advance.

Evri offers similar flexibility with its parcel delivery jobs. You can work on an ad-hoc basis, filling in for other couriers when it suits, or set up a regular delivery round that fits your day-to-day life. 

Whichever route you choose, you’ll need a vehicle, the right insurance, and a solid understanding of your local area to make deliveries efficiently.

Courier services

Working as a courier for companies like CitySprit or Stuart is another popular way to make money in the delivery space. These roles often involve delivering important items, like documents or medical suppliers, typically for businesses rather than the general public.

As with other self-employed delivery jobs, you can manage your own schedule while enjoying a steady flow of work. Many services operate nationwide, offering jobs for various vehicle types, from bicycles to vans.

The application process for these platforms is generally straightforward. Once you’ve sorted your vehicle and insurance, you can upload the necessary documents and start taking jobs fairly quickly.

Sharing your skills

If your skills are more about what’s in your head than what’s in your toolbox, teaching and tutoring could be a good side hustle option. It’s a great way to make extra money while sharing your expertise with others. 

Tutoring services

Private tutoring is a popular option, especially for core school subjects like maths, science, and languages. The good news is that formal qualifications aren’t typically a prerequisite for tutoring, lowering the barrier to entry.

You can connect with students online through platforms like Tutorful or MyTutor, where you get to set your own rates and schedule. Just keep in mind that these platforms take a cut of your earnings.

To keep more of your money, you could try to find clients locally by posting ads in local shops or papers. This can help you avoid those fees and could let you charge more, especially if you have specialised skills or offer exam prep.

Teaching and coaching

Beyond traditional tutoring, there's a big market for coaching in areas such as music, fitness, or leadership skills. This subsector comes with a major perk, which is that you create courses in advance. This allows you to generate money in a passive way, while focusing on your main career. 

Platforms like Udemy or Teachable allow you to create and sell courses on a wide range of subjects, from art, design and music to investing, web development and coding. Your courses can be as in-depth as you like, complete with videos and supporting materials which can spur people to pay for your expertise.

If you do have the extra time to invest, you could also offer one-on-one coaching sessions via video calls, providing personalised instruction and support.

How to start making extra money

Now that we've looked at how to make extra money on the side, let’s dive into some quick tips for getting going. When it comes to how to start a side hustle,getting the basics right from the beginning can set you up for long-term success.

Set goals and expectations

Before jumping into a side hustle, set clear and realistic goals to keep yourself focused and motivated. Here are three important questions to ask yourself:

How much extra money do you need or want to make?

First, figure out your financial target. Are you looking to make a little extra each month to cover a few bills, or do you have a bigger goal in mind, like paying off a credit card debt or saving for something major? 

Knowing your goal will help you narrow down the best side hustle options and business opportunities.

How much time can you spare?

Next, be honest about your availability. Do you have just a couple of hours each week, or are your evenings and weekends pretty open? Picking something that fits your schedule can help you make a side hustle work without feeling overloaded.

What are your skills and interests?

Finally, think about what you’re good at and what you genuinely enjoy doing. Learning something new is always an option but it’s often easier and faster to make money from skills you already have, like writing, driving, or crafting. Choosing something you’re passionate about makes a side hustle more enjoyable too.

Be clear on the formalities

Deciding how to earn extra money is one thing, but there are also a few practical matters you should be clear on before commencing work on the side.

Taxes and legal considerations

If you’re setting up a side hustle, it's important to do a bit of research to make sure you understand the tax implications and legal requirements for starting a small business.

For instance, you can only make up to £1,000 from side gigs before needing to register as self-employed. Earn anything over that limit, and you’ll need to keep track of your income and expenses for HMRC and start stashing some cash for taxes.

Besides small business tax,different ventures often have their own legal requirements. For instance, if you’re starting a home-based food and drink business, you’ll need to inform the Food Standards Agency (FSA) at least 28 days before opening.

Similarly, if you’re offering services like tutoring or childcare, you might need specific certifications or background checks.

Insurance needs

Depending on your work type, you might need specific insurance to cover potential risks. For example, if you’re getting into the hospitality industry with a bed and breakfast or a catering service, you’ll likely need insurance for things like food safety issues or guest accidents.

Thinking carefully about any small business risk management involved in your side hustle can help you choose the right insurance to protect both you and your customers.

Business planning

Even if it’s just a side hustle, having a basic business plan can keep you on track and help you set clear goals. It doesn’t need to be complicated – just sketch out what you want to achieve, who your target market is, and how you plan to reach them. 

If you’re not sure where to start, our guide on how to write a business plan will help.

Financial management

It’s always advisable to separate business and personal finances, as this will make it a lot easier to track how much you’re spending and making through your side hustle.

As your venture grows, investing in specialised accounting tools for small businesses can keep things streamlined and make bookkeeping much more straightforward.

Set up the best payment method for your work

Getting paid is definitely one of the more enjoyable parts of side hustling. If you’re working through an online marketplace platform, they’ll usually handle the payments for you.

However, if you’re dealing with customers directly, be it through social media or at weekend markets, you’ll usually need to go beyond cash to find the right small business payment options for your side hustle.

Let’s consider some handy methods for streamlining how you get paid.

Payment links

Sending payment links via email, text or social media is a fuss-free option for remote transactions. Customers simply click the link to pay online, without having to set up any new online accounts themselves. The low friction nature of this method makes it as straightforward for them as it is for you.

QR codes

QR codes are becoming increasingly popular for contactless payments. All you have to do is generate the codes and put them on display, for example at your market stall. Customers can then scan it with their smartphones to pay in a fast, seamless way.

Virtual terminal

For taking card payments over the phone – like bookings for people to stay in your property, for example – you’ll need a virtual terminal. It provides access to a secure online form, allowing you to process transactions safely without needing a physical card machine.

Card readers

Mobile card readers are great for in-person transactions, especially if you’re selling products at markets or offering services on the go. Given that fewer people now carry cash, being able to take card payments may well be vital to the success of your hustle.

Growing your extra income

You might be perfectly happy bringing in a little extra income consistently. However, if you're aiming for something bigger, there are smart ways to grow. Here’s a couple of business growth strategies that could help take your side hustle to the next level.

Add more income streams

Relying on just one income source can be risky, so it’s smart to mix things up and diversify the ways you’re making extra money.

For instance, if you’re selling homemade jams and sauces at farmers’ markets, you could reach more people and boost your sales by starting an online store or a social media page.

If you’re feeling adventurous, hosting cooking classes or workshops could bring in even more cash while helping to build your brand. Each of these options can complement the others, making your business stronger and more resilient.

Consider saving or investing

As side hustles start to bring in more income, it’s important to think carefully about what to do with the extra cash. Setting aside a portion of your earnings for savings can provide a cushion for slow periods, while reinvesting could help your hustle become bigger and better.

For instance, for product-based side hustles, reinvesting profits into inventory, equipment upgrades, or new product lines can help you scale. And for service-based hustles, investing in professional development or certifications can improve your skill set and allow you to charge higher rates.

You might find the 50/30/20 rule useful for managing your small business budget. This strategy suggests allocating 50% of your income to essentials, 30% for discretionary spending, and 20% for savings or debt repayment.

While it’s a bit more common as a personal budgeting approach, it can also be applied to manage small business finances effectively, helping you balance your financial needs as you grow your side hustle.

When you’re handling your finances, learning the difference between an accountant vs. financial advisor – and when each one can help – is a good idea. An accountant assists with taxes and bookkeeping in the present, while a financial advisor can guide you on long-term investments and financial planning.

Benefits of making extra money

Before we wrap up, let’s take a moment to appreciate some of the key reasons why it can be so worthwhile to consider how to make extra money.

Helps you pay off debt faster

Extra money can accelerate debt repayment. By tackling balances sooner, you spend less on interest and free up more money for other priorities.

Helps you save for big purchases

Whether you’re eyeing a big holiday or a home improvement project, additional income makes it easier to save up and achieve those goals without stretching your regular budget.

Improves your financial security

Having an extra income stream means you can deal with unexpected personal expenses, like sudden car repairs or unplanned bills. This buffer helps you avoid relying on credit and keeps your finances in better shape.

Speeds up retirement plans

If retiring a bit earlier sounds appealing, extra income can boost your retirement savings. Thanks to compound interest,even small contributions can grow significantly over time, potentially letting you step away from work sooner.

Funds other business opportunities

Extra cash can also serve as seed money for your other small business ideas.If you’ve been thinking about how to start a business,those funds can help get you off the ground. You might consider using your side hustle to build skills and experience in your area of interest before taking the plunge into a fully-fledged business.