How to Make Extra $1000 a Month: 47 Best Ways to Do It (2024)

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What would an extra $1,000 per month mean to you?

For many people, it could:

  • Cover your rent (or part of it)
  • Allow you to leave a job and stay home with your kids
  • Help you to pay off student loans, credit cards, or other debt
  • Allow you to build up your savings

Making an extra $1,000 per month can have a huge impact in several ways, and it’s more attainable than you might think.

Even if you already have a full-time job, there are many things you can do in your spare time that give you a chance to make that much extra cash each month.

This article shows exactly how to make an extra $1,000 a month. You’ll find more than 40 flexible ideas that offer high enough income potential to reach the goal of $1,000 monthly.

TLDR? Joseph Lucas, a financial expert of almost 20 years, shares his insights on the best ways to make $1,000 per month: 

“Of the ways in this article to make an additional $1k/month my number one recommendation for the easiest way depends on if you want to work from home or are okay working outside of the house. If you want to work outside the home, I recommend cleaning. There is a huge demand for dependable cleaners, there is very little start-up cost, and it can feel almost therapeutic. 

If you want to work from home, my personal favorite is bookkeeping. Bookkeeping is fairly straightforward to learn, there is pretty good demand, and it’s rewarding to help out a small business!”

How to Make an Extra $1,000 per Month

1. Freelance Writing

Man using his laptop

One of the best ways to make extra cash is to offer services as a freelance writer. A service-related side gig gives you the potential to earn an excellent hourly rate for your time, and you can start making money quickly.

As a freelance writer, you can finish your work whenever it fits your schedule. Your work can also be as big or small as you want it to be. If you just want to take an extra job here and there, writing a few hours each week, that’s possible. If you want to scale up and make freelance writing a full-time income, that’s possible, too.

The demand for skilled writers is very high. So much content is published online daily, and most websites and blogs rely on freelancers to create that content. There are even plenty of freelance writing jobs for beginners that are ideal for getting started.

Freelance writing has been a great way for me to earn extra income over the years. I landed my first gig in 2007, and even today, I write for a few different clients.

By taking a specialized approach, you can focus your work on topics you know and enjoy. It feels less like work when you like the topics you’re writing about.

Another perk of freelance writing is that many clients provide ongoing work, especially if you’re writing for websites and blogs. These sites and blogs constantly need new content, so many of your gigs may include regular weekly or monthly assignments. You won’t need to dedicate time to finding new clients when you have recurring clients. As a result, you can spend all your time on work that generates income.

Highlights of freelance writing:

  • Use your existing writing skills to make money
  • Lots of work available
  • Excellent income potential
  • Possibility for ongoing clients

Try our favorite platforms for making extra money:

2. Transcription

Working as a transcriptionist is a great way to make extra cash or even a full-time income if you have typing skills. Many companies and websites hire for transcription jobs, and generally, you can work part-time for a few hours or full-time hours (see the best transcription jobs here).

Man with headphones listening and watching something on his laptop

There’s a lot to like about the possibility of making extra income with transcription:

  1. It’s flexible work that you can do from home whenever it fits your schedule
  2. You can work as much or as little as you want
  3. It’s possible to start making extra income quickly

You’ll need to type fast (generally, at least 60 words per minute) and accurately, but typing skills can be developed or brushed up. There are many online typing tests you can take to see where you’re at now and work on improving.

While some jobs are low-paying, there’s plenty of work available that pays a decent rate. According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary for a full-time (40 hours a week) U.S.-based transcriptionist is more than $59,000. So while you’re looking at part-time jobs for this article, you can see the income potential.

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Learn how to get started as a transcriptionist with this free 7-lesson course from Janet Shaughnessy of Transcribe Anywhere.

Features:
  • Learn the two keys to success as a transcriptionist
  • Use your existing typing skills
  • Work part-time or full-time
  • Work from home or anywhere with an internet connection

To learn how you can start making money, see How to Become a Transcriptionist.

Highlights of transcribing:

  • You must have excellent typing skills (although you can learn)
  • Good hourly income is possible, although not all jobs will pay well
  • Many websites and companies are hiring transcriptionists

3. Investing

Investing in the stock market has become a popular side gig over the past few years, with more and more people trading stocks. Thanks to apps and online brokerages like Public.com, Webull, and Moomoo, it’s easier than ever to buy and sell stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrency.

Of course, investing requires some money to get started. However, Public.com, Webull, and Moomoo allow you to start without much money. You can buy fractional shares with Public and Webull, so you can invest in companies even if you don’t have enough money to purchase an entire share of stock.

While there’s risk involved in investing, there’s also a significant upside. Additionally, learning more about investing and managing your money will be incredibly valuable in pursuing financial independence. It goes without saying that paying close attention to your personal finance is critical here.

If you’re looking to start, we recommend Public.com. It’s a beginner-friendly platform that’s easy to use (read our Public.com review here). You’ll find stocks categorized into different themes, which makes it easier to find the investment opportunities you’re looking for. If you’re looking for great investment apps, Public.com is one.

Most importantly, Public.com also includes extensive social networking features so you can learn from more experienced investors on the platform. You’ll be able to see what others are buying and selling and participate in open discussions with others in the community.

Join Public to get up to $300 of free stock when you make a deposit.*

Top Pick
Get Free Stock from Public.com Get Free Stock from Public.com

Public.com offers fractional shares so anyone can start investing. You'll love the social aspect that makes it possible to connect with other investors. Get a free stock slice worth up to $300 when you open an account through our link.

Features:
  • Commission-free trades of stocks and ETFs
  • Buy and sell 27 different cryptocurrencies
  • Fractional shares
  • Access to alternative investors
  • High-yield Treasury accounts
  • Easy to use and beginner-friendly
  • Connect with a supportive community of investors
  • "Themes" help you to find investments that interest you
Offer valid for U.S. residents 18+ and subject to account approval. This is not a recommendation. You can lose money with any investment. Open To The Public Investing is a member of FINRA & SIPC. Regulatory and firm fees apply. New customers receive free stock with value $3-300; 0.3% receive the max value. Cryptocurrency trading provided by Apex Crypto LLC (NMLS ID 1828849). Apex Crypto is licensed to engage in virtual currency business activity by the New York State Department of Financial Services. See Public.com/disclosures/

Highlights of investing:

  • Use platforms like Public.com or Robinhood to make commission-free trades
  • It’s possible to get started with as little as $1
  • Risk is involved, but you’ll have the possibility to start building wealth

4. Rent Out Your Items

You may not have considered the opportunity of making extra income by renting out your stuff. You can rent many different things (see Things You Can Rent Out for Extra Money), and the best options depend on what you have at your disposal.

Some of the options include:

House for Rent sign

With most rental options, it’s possible to use these items yourself and make more money renting out the item when you don’t need it. For example, you can keep your car to yourself when you need it and use Turo or Getaround to rent it out when you don’t need it.

If you have a truck, you can rent it out with Fetch. They claim you can make up to $1,800 per month for each vehicle you add to their platform.

Passive Income
Rent Out Your Truck and Make Up to $1,800 a Month Rent Out Your Truck and Make Up to $1,800 a Month
4.5

Rent out your truck and make money passively with Fetch. Fetch's platform automates most of the process for you. They'll promote your rental to people in your local area, handle all customer inquiries, renter verification, and payment. The Fetch smart device even allows renters to unlock your truck with their phone so you don't have to meet them in person.

Features:
  • Great side hustle for busy people
  • Turn your truck into an income-generating asset
  • Excellent income potential
  • Rent out a single truck or build your own fleet
  • Fetch guarantees that you'll make at least $1,500 in the first 90 days

Renting out an RV or camper can generate a lot of money. RVshare allows you to list your RV or camper for rent when you’re not using it.

Renting out storage space is an excellent option for many people. With Neighbor, you can rent out your basement, attic, garage, shed, empty bedroom, warehouse, or just about any other type of space that could be used for storage.

By renting things out, you leverage your possessions to make more money. You’re turning ordinary things into income-producing assets. And since your income depends more on the item you’re renting than your work, it can be a passive income stream.

Top Side Hustle
Rent Out Your RV and Earn Up to $22,000 per Year Rent Out Your RV and Earn Up to $22,000 per Year
4.5

Do you own an RV? If so, you can make a great passive income by renting it out when you're not using it. RVshare is a platform that connects RV owners with renters.

Features:
  • Use the RV when you want, rent it out when you don't need it
  • Turn your RV into an income-generating asset
  • Passive income opportunity
  • You control all the details like pricing
  • Largest RV marketplace

Highlights of rentals:

  • A lot of options, but your best opportunities will depend on what you have
  • Potential for passive income
  • Significant earning potential

Be sure to have a dedicated savings bank account.

5. Work as a Virtual Assistant

Working as a virtual assistant is a great side hustle that could become a full-time business. “Virtual assistant” is a general term, and there are many services you could offer as a VA.

Woman looking at her monitor

Many VAs offer services related to managing websites or blogs. Small business owners may recognize the importance of their online presence, but they usually don’t have the time or experience to handle it independently.

As a virtual assistant, you can manage it for them, make an excellent hourly rate, and give them great results that wouldn’t be possible without your help.

You can put your existing skills to good use by working as a VA. Since you can offer many different services, consider your experience and expertise and develop your services around your strengths.

Working as a virtual assistant is one of the best money-making opportunities. With such a strong demand for quality VAs and more business owners and entrepreneurs looking to outsource work to freelancers, most VAs can find plenty of work.

Like other freelance services, working as a virtual assistant gives you a very flexible schedule that can be done at your convenience as long as you meet deadlines. You could easily make an extra 1000 a month online as a VA with only a few ongoing clients.

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If you're interested in making money from home, be sure to check out this free workshop from Kayla Sloan. She shows how to use the skills you already have to start making money as a VA.

To learn more, find out How to Become a Virtual Assistant.

Highlights of working as a virtual assistant:

  • Many different types of services that you can provide
  • One of the most practical ways to earn some extra income
  • Start making money quickly
  • Some jobs (but not all) will pay very well

6. Start a Blog

About 15 years ago, I started my first blog when I was looking to make some extra money and work from home. That blog did quite well, and I left my full-time job about 1.5 years later. For the past 13+ years, I’ve been self-employed as a full-time blogger.

Woman looking at her notebook while her laptop is in front of her

I recommend blogging as an excellent way to make good money because it changed my life. Blogging is a perfect way to make extra money on the side, and the income potential is unlimited. It takes work, but earning $1,000 a month is very possible.

There are several ways to make money with a blog, including:

Despite all the great things about blogging, there are also a few drawbacks. The most significant thing you need to know is that building a successful, profitable blog takes time. Most bloggers don’t make any money for several months, maybe longer. So if you need money quickly, starting a blog is probably not one of the best ideas for you.

However, if you have a long-term focus and can put in some work for a few months without the need to make money quickly, starting a blog can be a great idea with a big payoff.

See my article on How to Start a Blog.

Highlights of starting a blog:

  • Start a blog on a topic that interests you
  • Very high income potential
  • Usually takes several months (at least) before you start making any significant money
  • Better as a long-term approach than a way to make quick money

7. Start a Niche Website

Niche websites are content-based sites very similar to blogs but with a few key differences, including:

  • Niche websites take a very focused approach; the content covers one specific topic.
  • You don’t need to publish new content consistently to a niche website. There’s more flexibility.
  • Most niche websites are not personally branded like a lot of blogs are. The readers don’t necessarily care who is behind the niche website.
Woman typing on her laptop

Most niche websites generate revenue through display ads and/or affiliate programs (promoting products and services for brands). Typically, the approach involves creating content that targets specific keywords and phrases people are searching for. Niche websites generally get the majority of their traffic from Google searches, but traffic from social media, ads, and email lists also earns niche site owners monthly income.

Like blogging, building a profitable niche website takes time and patience. However, with persistence and consistent effort, it’s possible to make a pretty good income by the end of the first year.

In addition, once you’ve established your site, it’s possible to outsource the content creation and other tasks associated with running a niche site. You can turn it into a source of passive income or scale up and build multiple income-generating sites.

To learn more, please see my Complete Guide to Building a Profitable Niche Website.

Highlights of building niche websites:

  • Similar to blogging, but with a few key differences
  • It’s a very realistic and practical way to make money online, but it does require some patience to build momentum with the site
  • You can start a site based on a topic that interests you

8. Flip Domains

Buying and selling domain names for profit is domain flipping. Finding valuable domain names with resale value lets you buy them cheaply and sell them for more. Successful domain flipping requires market research, SEO knowledge, and deal-making. 

Flipping domain names may be lucrative for those who can spot digital gems, but it takes patience and dedication. You can make an extra $1000 a month this way.

Highlights of flipping domain names:

  • Buy and sell website addresses for lucrative profits
  • Identify valuable domain names with high resale potential
  • Acquire domains at low costs, sell for premium prices
  • Keen eye for recognizing valuable domain names is crucial

9. Try Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is a versatile and profitable residual income source. Partnering with companies and advertising their products or services through unique affiliate links lets you earn money for every sale or referral. 

Affiliate marketing success depends on niche selection, audience targeting, and content generation. As a blogger, social media influencer, or content producer, strategic alliances and efficient marketing may boost your revenues and sustain your affiliate marketing business. This is a pretty practical way to make an extra $1000 a month. 

Highlights of affiliate marketing:

  • Flexible and lucrative income opportunity
  • Partner with companies as an affiliate promoter
  • Earn commissions on sales/referrals driven through unique links
  • Potential for residual income with minimal overhead

10. Combine a Few Side Hustles to Make an Extra 1,000 a Month

We’ve already looked at several realistic ways to make an extra $1000 a month from home, but one of the easiest and most realistic options is to combine several small side hustles. Many excellent side hustle ideas make it easy to earn extra money, but they do not individually have the highest earning potential.

Woman using smartphone

If you need to make $1,000 a month, why not choose a few smaller side hustles? Combine them, and you’ll have a nice side income.

Here are a few of the best options:

Take Online Surveys

One of the most popular side hustles is taking paid surveys in your spare time. You can easily make a few hundred dollars per month by using a few different survey websites (some pay in gift cards). Best of all, it’s completely flexible and requires no specific skills or experience. Anyone can complete online surveys and earn extra cash.

The best survey sites include:

Charge Electric Scooters

If you live in an urban area, one of the best side hustle opportunities is charging scooters for Bird and Lime. All you need to do is sign up to be a charger, then use the apps to find scooters near you that need charging.

You’ll take them home, plug them in, and return them once fully charged. It’s a great way to make a few hundred dollars per month. See How to Make Money Charging Electric Scooters for more details.

Microtasks

Completing small online tasks offers some of the same perks as taking online surveys. The work is highly flexible, and almost anyone can do it. You can find the best microtasking websites like Amazon’s Mechanical Turk here.

Donate Plasma

Did you know you can make $300 – $400 per month simply by donating plasma? There are centers in just about every city that make it easy to donate and make extra cash. See my article Get Paid to Donate Plasma for all the details about how to get started.

Highlights of combing multiple side hustles:

  • Instead of trying to earn a lot from one side hustle, use several easy approaches to make a few hundred dollars with each method
  • May be easier or more realistic than having one side hustle that brings in an extra $1,000 per month
  • Many different options and ways to earn extra cash
  • The side hustles allow you to make online money very quickly

11. Pick Up Trash

While it’s not the first option that comes to mind when you think about ways to make more money, picking up trash can be a very lucrative side hustle. Brian Winch has been earning six figures picking up trash every year since the 1980s. His business started as a side hustle and quickly surpassed the income from his full-time job. You can read more about Brian’s fascinating story here.

People with gloved hands picking out trash near a swamp

Although Brian still operates his own business, he’s also created Cleanlots, a manual that teaches people who want to learn how to make money with trash cleanup business in their free time. Brian’s business model involves removing litter from parking lots at offices, strip malls, and other buildings that constantly need these services.

There’s a lot to like about the opportunity. First, it’s easy work that almost anyone can do, requiring no particular skills. Second, you can outsource the work to other people if you’d rather function as a business owner and don’t want to do the work yourself. Businesses need this service, so there are plenty of potential clients.

To get started, be sure to check out Cleanlots.

Highlights of picking up trash:

  • Start a litter removal business that services office complexes, strip malls, and other commercial buildings
  • Can be done part-time or full-time
  • Excellent income potential with no experience needed
  • Some business owners are making six-figure incomes

12. Proofreading

Working as a freelance proofreader may be an excellent option if you have fantastic spelling and grammar skills and a keen eye for detail. Proofreaders find and fix errors in books, newspaper and magazine articles, blog posts, marketing copy, and any other type of writing.

Working as a freelance proofreader includes perks like a flexible schedule and location independence (work wherever you want). Of course, if you’re only looking to make an extra $1,000 monthly income, you can work part-time or in your free time as a proofreader, but full-time work is also possible.

You could work as an employee or seek out clients independently as a freelancer. We recommend the freelancing route because it provides flexibility and better income potential.

To get started, we recommend enrolling in Proofread Anywhere, the best training available for anyone who wants to make money online from home with proofreading.

Work from Home!
Free Workshop: How to Start a Freelance Proofreading Business Free Workshop: How to Start a Freelance Proofreading Business

Proofread Anywhere provides the best training for anyone looking to make money (part-time or full-time) as a proofreader. In this free workshop, you'll learn if proofreading is the right fit for you, plus a surprisingly easy way to your ideal clients.

Highlights of proofreading:

  • Use your existing grammar and language skills
  • Freelancing provides plenty of flexibility
  • Can be done part-time or full-time
  • Excellent income potential

13. Manage Social Media

How much time do you spend daily on social platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, and LinkedIn? If you’re good with these platforms and enjoy social media, you might consider offering social media management services.

Woman looking at her desktop monitor

Most small business owners and entrepreneurs recognize the need to be active on social media sites but don’t have the time to do it. As a social media manager, you’ll get paid to manage your clients’ social profiles. You’ll be responsible for posting new content regularly, growing their reach and influence, and maintaining their social media presence.

Some social media managers specialize in a specific platform, while others take a general approach. If you have solid experience growing your own profile on a particular platform, you may want to consider specializing.

You could also offer services to manage ad campaigns for your clients on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Social media ads, such as running facebook ads, are extremely popular, but most online business owners don’t know how to set up and manage effective ad campaigns. Your skills in this area can be very lucrative.

Social media management is an excellent opportunity because almost every business could benefit from your services. You can target small business owners in your local area or work for clients worldwide. There’s plenty of work available, and the additional income potential is also outstanding (especially if you’re managing ad campaigns, which is a part of social media marketing).

It’s possible to make an extra $1000 a month from home with a single client. And, of course, you could also scale up and grow this from a part-time job into a profitable full-time business.

Highlights of working as a social media manager:

  • Use your existing social media expertise
  • High demand for the services
  • Being a social media manager is flexible work that can be done part-time or full-time
  • The highest-paying opportunity is to manage ad campaigns for clients

14. Graphic Design

Working as a freelance graphic designer is a fantastic way to make extra money every month if you have some design skills. You could work on projects like logos, marketing materials, product packaging, labels, social media images, page layouts, etc.

Woman drawing on a tablet

There’s plenty of work available, and with some strong samples in your portfolio, landing clients is a realistic goal.

Of course, you’ll have plenty of flexibility if you work as a freelance designer. You can choose your own schedule and work as much or as little as you want.

According to ZipRecruiter, the average graphic designer makes $27 per hour. Not a bad side gig if you want to earn more money!

Freelancing websites like Upwork provide opportunities to find clients. Fiverr is another popular freelancer platform (see our Upwork vs. Fiverr comparison). And, of course, you can also find clients on your own without these platforms taking a cut of your money.

Highlights of graphic design:

  • Put your existing design skills to use
  • Plenty of work available and platforms that can help you to find clients
  • Excellent income potential
  • Do it part-time or grow it into a full-time business

15. Web Design

If you have experience setting up your own website or blog, you may have the necessary skills to offer these services to clients. Most small businesses today don’t need a custom design created by a professional web designer. With platforms like WordPress and Squarespace that allow you to build a professional-looking website with no code, just about anyone can build an effective website.

Two monitors and a keyboard on a table

You may wonder why others would hire you if they can create their own website. While it’s true that many business owners could create their own websites, most don’t have the time or would prefer to hire someone else to do it for them.

Read our interview with Peti, a stay-at-home mom making real money each month on the side setting up WordPress websites for clients with no coding.

Our favorite drag-and-drop builder for WordPress is Divi from Elegant Themes. With hundreds of pre-built page templates and the ability to design your own custom pages and sites, Divi is an outstanding resource if you want to set up websites for clients.

Highlights of web design:

  • Create websites for small
  • Excellent income potential
  • Perfect for side hustles but could also be scaled into a full-time business

16. Web Development

If you have some coding skills and experience, working on the side as a web developer is a perfect opportunity. Even though many websites can be created without coding, some clients still need custom coding for something that can’t be created with a template or drag-and-drop builder.

Web development pays very well for those who have the skills. According to ZipRecruiter, the average rate for a web developer is $36 per hour. So at that rate, you’d only have to work 28 hours per month to earn an extra $1,000.

Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are ideal for developers looking to get started. But, of course, you can also find gigs and clients on your own.

Highlights of web development:

  • Excellent income potential
  • Could be done part-time or full-time
  • Flexible work that fits around your schedule

17. Become a Photographer

Photography is a hobby for millions of people, and it’s also a hobby that makes money. There are several ways to make money with photography, including:

Woman taking a photo outdoors
  • Taking portraits and family photos
  • Selling prints of your photos
  • Licensing your photos through stock photography websites
  • Starting a photography blog
  • Starting a photography YouTube channel
  • Writing photography books or ebooks
  • Selling digital products to photographers (Lightroom presets, photo overlays, etc.)

Using your photography skills is an excellent option if you want to make extra money in your spare time. And making more money as a part-time photographer is a realistic goal.

To learn more about the possibilities, please see How to Make Money with Photography.

Highlights of photography:

  • There are many different ways to earn some extra money with photography
  • Using photography as a side gig is very realistic, but turning it into a full-time income is difficult
  • It’s an excellent way to make money from a hobby

18. Sell Stock Photos

Selling stock photographs online is another way to monetize your photography. Photographers may license their photographs to individuals and businesses worldwide on Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and Getty Images. 

The competition is tough, but if you can find a way to stand out by focusing on popular and interesting subjects, you have a better chance of success. You can earn passive revenue from stock photos by updating your portfolio and refining keywords and descriptions.

Highlights of selling stock photos:

  • Monetize your photography beyond client projects
  • Residual income stream from your stock photography efforts
  • Combines creativity with potential for recurring revenue

19. Be a Videographer or Video Editor

Increasing demand for high-quality video content creates possibilities for professional videographers and editors. If you’re good at shooting or editing, there’s a market for you. 

Businesses and individuals alike choose experts to make their ideas a reality for all occasions, from weddings to corporate events. Success in videography and video editing requires a solid portfolio, professional networking, and constant practice.

Highlights of videography/video editing:

  • Opportunities abound for skilled videographers and editors
  • Businesses and individuals seek professionals to realize visions
  • Competitive edge through creativity and technical mastery

20. Bookkeeping

If you’ve ever done bookkeeping work as part of a job, offering bookkeeping services as a freelancer is an ideal way to make extra money. Many businesses hire outside bookkeepers rather than dedicating a full-time employee to it, so there’s a lot of work available.

Person using a calculator and computing data

You don’t need to be an accountant or CPA to work as a bookkeeper. All you need is basic knowledge, and you can offer your services to clients. And best of all, the income potential is outstanding.

Like many other freelance services, you can do bookkeeping part-time while managing your own schedule, or you could turn it into a full-time business. Starting a virtual bookkeeping business is a flexible opportunity with a lot of upside.

To learn more, see How to Become a Bookkeeper.

Highlights of bookkeeping:

  • Only basic bookkeeping experience is required
  • Offer your services as a freelance
  • Lots of work available with excellent income potential

21. Sell on Amazon

The world’s leading ecommerce platform offers incredible potential to make money. There are several different approaches you could take if you wanted to make money selling on Amazon, including:

Amazon package

Like the other options mentioned, selling on Amazon can be done as a side hustle or become a full-time income. You can also create your own e-commerce store on Amazon. 

My wife and I started a side hustle selling private-label products on Amazon in 2015. That online business made a six-figure profit in 2016 (while working part-time), and we sold the business in 2017.

Private labeling has always been my favorite opportunity on Amazon, but you can make money with any approach. Merch by Amazon is very enticing because of its passive nature. See my Merch by Amazon review for more details about how to make money selling t-shirts and other designs.

Highlights of selling on Amazon:

  • Several different business models you can follow
  • High income potential
  • Will require some time and effort before you start making money (especially if you’re creating a private label brand)
  • Very competitive industry
  • Most of the business models (aside from Merch by Amazon) require some form of monetary investment to get started

22. Sell on eBay

Last year, I interviewed Nathan Clarke about making $500 – $1,000 extra cash every month by selling on eBay, on top of a full-time job. At the time, Nathan had been selling on eBay for about a year and had steady income growth. (Read more in How to Sell on eBay for Beginners.)

This approach involves going to yard sales, estate sales, thrift stores, flea markets, or auctions to find low-priced items you can buy and resell. It may sound intimidating at first, but once you get a feel for the types of things that sell for a nice profit, it’s a relatively easy way to make more money.

Flipping items is a perfect side gig because you can hit yard sales and other places on the weekends or whenever you’re off and then list the items in your spare time. Some people can even turn their eBay online store into a full-time income. Check out this free workshop to learn how to start your own profitable flipping business in 14 days or less.

You can also see my list of the easiest things to flip for profit if you want to know what items you should be looking for.

If you want to get started and make some quick cash with no upfront investment, find some things around your house that you can sell.

Highlights of selling on eBay:

  • Find cheap items at yard sales, thrift shops, and flea markets and resell them on eBay for a profit
  • Requires constantly finding items to flip
  • Income potential is not as high as some other things, like selling private label products on Amazon.

23. Sell on Etsy

If selling on Amazon or eBay isn’t for you, Etsy is another massively popular online marketplace with a lot to offer sellers. Of course, Etsy is the top platform for hand-crafted and vintage items, but it’s also an ideal place to sell printables online. Note that you can’t create your own e-commerce store there.

Selling printables is the perfect option for making extra money on the side because you can start small, and it requires little maintenance or upkeep. You won’t need to handle any inventory or deal with packing and shipping physical products.

There are endless possibilities for selling printables, but some popular options include:

  • Planners
  • Organizers
  • Calendars
  • Checklists
  • Trackers

If you have some design skills, you can create your own printables to sell. If you’re not a designer, you can hire a freelancer at online platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to make the products you’re going to sell.

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Access this free workshop and learn how to generate passive income by selling printables on Etsy. You'll learn about the types of products that sell, how to get your Etsy shop set up, and how to make sales and ensure that your shop is a success.


This is the perfect side hustle if you:

  • Want to work from home
  • Don't have much time
  • Like the idea of selling on Etsy
  • Don't have prior experience

Highlights of selling on Etsy:

  • Sell hand-crafted goods, vintage items, or digital products
  • Printables and digital products are ideal because you won’t need to deal with inventory or shipping
  • Excellent opportunity for making extra money on the side

24. Create and Sell Digital Products

Aside from printables, there are many other types of digital products you can sell online, including:

  • E-books
  • Spreadsheet templates
  • Slideshow templates
  • Stock graphics
  • Fonts
  • Patterns
  • Recipes

You can create the product once and sell it unlimited times for years to come. And you won’t have to deal with inventory or shipping. You can sell at marketplaces, daily deal sites, bundle sites, or build your own online store.

Creating your own site to sell digital products is easier than you might think. Platforms like Podia and Squarespace offer everything you need.

Squarespace

There are possibilities for creating digital products in just about any industry or niche. Think about your expertise and your interests to come up with product ideas. And if you don’t want to create the product yourself, you can hire a freelancer to do it for you.

Highlights of selling digital products:

  • Low startup costs if you’re creating the products yourself
  • No need to mess with inventory or shipping physical products
  • Relative easy to set up your own site

25. Create an Online Course

An online course is another type of digital product, but I’m listing it separately because it’s a different business model.

Woman making a content video

There are online courses on almost any topic you can imagine, and the demand for online learning continues to increase. Chances are, you have some knowledge and expertise that could be used to create online courses.

You could sell your course on a platform like Udemy, or create your own website. Creating your own site will give you the highest income potential, and it’s not difficult with a platform like Teachable or Podia.

Many online courses sell for a couple hundred dollars or more. If you were to create a course priced at $100, you’d only need to make 10 sales per month to generate an extra 1,000 dollars in revenue. Basically, you can set your own prices. 

Highlights of creating online courses:

  • Use your existing knowledge and experience
  • High demand for online education products like courses
  • Unlimited income potential

26. Start a Podcast

Creating a podcast is great for sharing your knowledge and growing a following. You may talk about whatever you choose, from interviewing top professionals to specializing in a certain subject. Anyone can podcast with cheap recording gear on Anchor or Libsyn. 

Promotion, consistency, and compelling material are vital to expanding your listener audience and perhaps earning through sponsorships or item sales. Your podcast may be profitable with hard work and innovation, and you can earn an extra $1,000 a month.

Highlights of creating podcasts:

  • Powerful platform to share your expertise and interests
  • Limitless creative possibilities for content
  • Consistency and engaging storytelling captivate listeners
  • Transform your passion into a lucrative income stream

27. Start a Print-on-Demand Business

If you’re interested in e-commerce but don’t want to deal with inventory or shipping, the print-on-demand business model may appeal to you.

With a print-on-demand business, a supplier will create and ship the products for you as they are sold, and you never need to touch the products. For example, you could have an online t-shirt shop. When a customer makes a purchase, the supplier prints and ships the shirt to the customer.

T-shirts are a popular option, but many other types of products can be sold with print-on-demand, including mugs, calendars, tote bags, mousepads, and much more.

You can sell on a platform like Redbubble, creating your own site with a platform like Shopify will give you the best income potential.

This is a great artistic side hustle, but you don’t need design skills. You can always hire someone to design the products for you.

Highlights of print-on-demand:

  • Use your creative skills, or hire a designer
  • Sell physical products without inventory or shipping
  • Sell on a marketplace like Redbubble or create your own site

28. Flip Furniture

You can find old furniture cheap (or sometimes free), fix it up, and sell it for a profit. It’s not hard to find furniture for free or cheap when you know what to look for. You can even use Craigslist to find some great deals. You’ll want to find solid wood furniture you can paint or furniture that would benefit from re-upholstering.

Woman putting a finish on raw furniture

A while ago, I interviewed Virginia, who partners with her sister to find and flip furniture on the Facebook Marketplace for extra income. In the interview, she shares plenty of tips that will help you get started quickly – Flipping Furniture for Profit.

Flipping furniture is a perfect option as a side gig because you can do all the work in your spare time around your current job or commitments. You might reach $1,000 by simply flipping a few items per month if you’re dealing with larger items that will sell for higher prices.

Highlights of flipping furniture:

  • Find free or very cheap furniture, improve it, and sell it for a nice profit
  • Solid wood furniture can often be significantly improved with a simple paint job
  • There are a lot of YouTube videos that will teach you everything you need to know about painting wood furniture

29. Dog Walking / Pet Sitting

Dog walking and pet sitting can be a lucrative side hustle (just read How to Become a Pet Sitter where I interview Lily, who makes $40,000+ per year). You can start a small doggy daycare in your own house, board pets for overnight stays, walk dogs, or whatever works with your schedule.

Woman walking multiple dogs on leashes

Rover makes it easy to create a profile as a service provider and get exposure to pet owners looking for your services.

According to Indeed, the average rate for a dog walker is $15.34 per hour. So to earn $1,000 at that rate, you would need to work 65 hours per month. However, you could drastically improve the situation by also offering pet sitting or boarding services, which can be more lucrative.

Highlights of dog walking and pet sitting:

  • Excellent income potential
  • Offer both services to make good money
  • Create a profile on Rover to make it easy for pet owners to find you.
  • Perfect opportunity for animal lovers

30. Be a Rideshare Driver

Working as a rideshare driver for Uber or Lyft is another flexible side hustle you can do in your spare time.

The amount you make will depend on factors like when and where you’re driving. For example, if you drive during peak hours, you’ll be able to earn significantly more, thanks to surge pricing. You’ll also make more driving in urban areas as opposed to rural areas.

Although rideshare driving isn’t generally high-paying, earning much more than average is possible if you drive on weekend evenings in an urban area.

Highlights of rideshare driving:

  • Income varies drastically depending on when and where you’re driving
  • Driving in urban areas during peak hours will give you the best chance to make money
  • Don’t forget to calculate the costs of gas and added wear and tear on your car
  • Work as much or as little as you want

31. Delivery Driver

Another option for making money with your car is to work as a delivery driver. You can sign up to deliver packages for Amazon Flex and earn $18 – $25 per hour.

There are also several restaurant delivery options through companies like DoorDash and GrubHub.

Delivering groceries through Instacart is another legit option for a delivery side gig.

If you like making money with your car while working a flexible schedule but don’t want to have strangers in your car, working as a delivery driver can be a great alternative to being a rideshare driver.

Highlights of delivery driving:

  • Several different options
  • Earn up to $20+ per hour
  • Don’t forget to calculate the costs of gas and added wear and tear on your car
  • No need to transport other people in your vehicle (as opposed to rideshare driving)

32. Write an Ebook

If you love to write, self-publishing an ebook is a fantastic way to make money. If you have a website or blog, you could use SendOwl to accept payments and automatically fulfill customer orders.

Woman taking notes as she looks at her laptop screen

Many writers do exceptionally well by selling ebooks on Amazon. One of the best things about this opportunity is that your book can provide monthly passive income. To make an extra $1000 a month in residual income, you would need either one very successful ebook on Amazon or write a few different ebooks.

The only downside to this opportunity is that you won’t start making money immediately. You’ll need to work upfront, but the income potential is high.

Highlights of self-publishing an ebook:

  • Amazon provides access to a huge audience
  • Potential for a full-time income from somewhat passive income
  • You may need to write multiple ebooks to reach $1,000 per month consistently

33. Start a YouTube Channel

Starting a YouTube channel has many of the same pros and cons as starting a blog, but you’ll be creating video content instead of creating text-based content. Also, like blogging, starting a channel allows you to earn unlimited income and multiple income streams.

Like blogging, making money with a YouTube channel will require time and patience. It may take several months or even a year to start making money. It can be a great long-term option, but it’s not ideal if you need to start making money quickly.

Highlights of starting a YouTube channel:

  • Start a channel on a topic that interests you
  • high income potential
  • Usually takes several months (at least) before you start making any significant money
  • Better as a long-term approach than a way to make quick money

34. Be a Babysitter

Babysitting could be a fantastic option if you’re looking for a way to earn extra money. Parents are always in need of someone trustworthy to watch their kids. Once you have a few clients, word-of-mouth usually leads to more opportunities.

Babysitter playing with her charge

According to ZipRecruiter.com, the average babysitter earns $17 per hour. At that rate, you’d need to work 58 hours per month, or about 14.5 hours per week, to make an extra $1,000.  Of course, rates will vary depending on details like where you live and the number of kids you’re watching. You can always dictate your own rates, too. 

The best way to find babysitting opportunities is through your personal network. Parents usually prefer to hire someone they know or someone who a friend refers. So talk to everyone in your network. See if they need a babysitter or know of anyone who does. You can also create a profile at sites like Care.com that help parents find sitters in their local area.

Highlights of babysitting:

  • Constant demand
  • Good option for teens and college students
  • Can be done around your existing schedule

35. House Cleaning

Another service-related side gig is to offer cleaning services. Many people are either too busy to keep up with their homes or physically unable to do so. Cleaning isn’t a glamorous job, but there’s constant demand, and you can find work in any city or town.

All you need to get started is some basic cleaning supplies and simple things you probably already have, like a vacuum. The startup costs are low, and you could make decent money immediately.

The downside of this opportunity is that the pay usually isn’t that great. According to ZipRecruiter, the average house cleaner makes $16 per hour. At that rate, you’d need to work 62.5 hours per month to make $1,000. However, your rate could be significantly better if you run your own business instead of working for someone else.

Like other local services, your existing network could be the best way to find your first few clients. You might know a few people who need someone to clean for them. And many clients will hire you weekly or monthly.

Highlights of house cleaning:

  • There is constant demand
  • Starting your own business provides the best income opportunity
  • Just about anyone can do the work

36. Yard Work/Landscaping

If you enjoy working outdoors, offering yard work or landscaping services could be ideal. This can include things like:

  • Mowing lawns
  • Trimming trees and plants
  • Leaf cleanup
  • Landscaping
  • Snow removal
  • Power washing
Gardener holding huge garden shears

You don’t need much experience to get started, and many homeowners are willing to pay others to do this work for them. Your income will depend on the specific services you offer, but it’s possible to earn a good hourly rate.

Most jobs will pay a flat rate per job/project (for example, $40 to mow a lawn), but the rate is usually pretty good if you calculate your hourly earnings.

To find jobs, you can talk to people you know, go door-to-door in your neighborhood to offer your services, distribute flyers, post to Craigslist, or advertise on local bulletin boards.

Highlights of yard work:

  • A great option if you enjoy working outdoors
  • Many different services you could offer
  • A decent hourly rate is possible

37. Do Odd Jobs to Make an Extra $1,000

Are you good at fixing things? Working as a handyman (or woman) and offering to do odd jobs could be the perfect way to make some extra money. There’s always a demand for quality handymen.

You might be surprised by the income potential of an independent handyman. It will vary depending on where you live. I live in a small suburban area, and most handymen charge between $20 – $50 per hour.

As a handyman, you could get paid to change light fixtures, paint walls, do light carpentry, fix broken things, and much more.

Please see our article How to Start a Handyman Business to learn more about getting started.

Highlights of odd jobs:

  • Constant demand for these services
  • Excellent option if you’re good at working with your hands and fixing things
  • Outstanding income potential
  • Could be done part-time or full-time

38. Be an Airbnb Host

Turning your space into a money-making Airbnb listing can bring in a reliable source of cash. If you have a spare room or property, Airbnb connects you with tourists searching for unique lodgings. 

Keep your listing clean, provide exceptional service, and make it easy to find to attract customers and obtain favorable ratings. Manage your Airbnb properly and keep visitors pleased to make a lot of money. You can definitely make an extra $1000 a month from this. 

Highlights of being an Airbnb host:

  • Transform vacant spaces into profitable rental accommodations
  • Exceptional hospitality and cleanliness are paramount
  • Positive reviews drive more bookings and higher earnings
  • Proper management ensures guest satisfaction and loyalty

39. Consulting

Depending on your work experience and background, you may be able to use your existing skills and knowledge to make money as a consultant. The experience and expertise you gained through past or current jobs may put you in a position to offer consulting services to businesses.

Woman checking her employee's finished paperwork

Consultants in many industries can earn very high hourly rates, so this could be a lucrative option if you have the right experience. Working as a consultant could be an outstanding part-time job to make extra money, or it could turn into a full-time business.

Highlights of consulting:

  • Use your existing skills and experience
  • Outstanding income potential
  • It could be an excellent option, depending on your skills and experience

40. Become a Bartender

More than just mixing drinks, bartending is a profession and talent with exciting opportunities. Both upscale cocktail lounges and local pubs need bartenders to create memorable experiences for customers. 

Learning how to prepare different cocktails, giving excellent customer service, and keeping up with industry changes are essential for bartending success. Bartending may be exciting and lucrative if you love hospitality. 

You could receive substantial tips and boost your career prospects. There’s a great chance to make an extra $1000 monthly from this. 

Highlights of bartending:

  • Mastery of drink recipes and mixology techniques essential
  • Exceptional customer service skills are a must
  • Potential for generous tips and gratuities
  • Ideal for those passionate about hospitality and nightlife

41. Real Estate Investments 

Real estate investing traditionally delivers long-term financial growth. With smart planning, properties can create residual income through rental payments or capital appreciation upon resale. 

Woman explaining a house design to her clients

Real estate investments in residential, commercial, or holiday homes are stable and increase with time. By doing your due research, diversifying your portfolio, and following changes in the market, you may reduce risks and optimize returns to meet your financial goals. You don’t need to meet a real estate agent to get started. 

You can definitely earn an extra 1000 a month this way when you start investing. 

Highlights of investing in real estate:

  • Real estate investments offer a tangible way to grow your wealth over time
  • Careful planning and strategic acquisitions are crucial
  • Real estate investments can help reach financial goals

42. Join Focus Groups (Market Research)

Focus groups are a great way to make money while conducting market research. Companies use focus groups to obtain different demographic opinions to improve their products, services, and marketing methods. 

Focus groups let you voice your ideas on consumer items and entertainment trends. Online platforms make focus group participation more accessible than ever. Actively participating, giving honest comments, and being trustworthy may make you a sought-after participant and earn a stable income from market research.

Highlights of participating in focus groups:

  • Contribute insights while earning supplemental income
  • Companies value feedback across diverse consumer segments
  • Convenient online participation platforms
  • Engage proactively, and provide candid feedback

43. Do Clinical Research Trials

Participating in clinical research studies can give cash rewards and the opportunity to contribute to scientific progress. Pharmaceutical corporations, research organizations, and hospitals routinely recruit volunteers for drug, therapy, and technology studies. 

Participation involves medical examinations and follow-up sessions but also allows you to improve healthcare while earning a living. You can safely explore clinical research study options by carefully analyzing risks and advantages, consulting with healthcare specialists, and following trial guidelines.

Highlights of participating in clinical research trials:

  • Earn financial remuneration while impacting scientific progress
  • Chance to aid development of novel medicines, therapies, and medical devices
  • Sought-after volunteers by pharma giants, research bodies, and healthcare facilities
  • Rigorous screening and follow-up processes involved

44. Start an E-Commerce Store

Creating an e-commerce store opens several entrepreneurial avenues. With shopping online, unique items and offers are in demand. Clothes, electronics, household items, or handcrafted crafts may be sold worldwide via an e-commerce store. 

You can increase sales by choosing the correct e-commerce platform, optimizing your store for search engines, and using smart marketing methods. Building a successful e-commerce business and reaching your financial goals takes focus, tenacity, and a customer-centric strategy. 

You can definitely earn an extra $1,000 a month from here with dedication. 

Highlights of opening an E-Commerce store:

  • Take advantage of the growing online shopping market
  • Sell unique or niche products not found easily elsewhere
  • Choose the right e-commerce website platform
  • Opportunity to achieve your financial goals as an entrepreneur

45. Play Games

Many gamers are making money from their passion. YouTube Gaming, Twitch, and competitive gaming leagues allow you to showcase your skills and make money from ads, sponsorships, and donations. 

Man using his computer at night

Players can compete for cash awards in various games on skill-based gaming platforms and eSports events. Playing games can be profitable if you put in the time, effort, and luck. You can make an extra $1000 a month when you get really good.

Highlights of playing games for cash:

  • Turn your gaming hobby into a lucrative income stream
  • Skill-based gaming platforms offer cash prize competitions
  • Dedication, practice, and strategy are essential for success
  • Combine your love for gaming with entrepreneurial spirit

46. Monetize Your Skills

Using your skills to make money has never been easier in the gig economy. Graphic designers, writers, web developers, and marketing strategists are needed in numerous industries. Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer let you exhibit your skills and get global clients. 

Use your unique talents, offer excellent outcomes, and keep learning to turn your passion into a profitable career or side job.

Highlights of monetizing your skills:

  • Endless opportunities regardless of your expertise
  • Connect with clients globally and showcase your talents
  • Deliver exceptional results to build a stellar reputation
  • Embrace the flexibility and freedom of freelancing

47. Try Dropshipping

Dropshipping is a low-risk option to establish an e-commerce business without inventory or financing. You may concentrate on marketing and sales by outsourcing product storage, packing, and delivery. 

Shopify and WooCommerce make dropshipping stores and supplier integration straightforward. E-commerce entrepreneurs may consider dropshipping due to its high profit margins and scalability. However, dropshipping demands careful product selection, efficient marketing, and great customer service. You can easily make an extra $1000 a month with this. 

Highlights of Dropshipping:

  • Start an online business with minimal upfront investment
  • No need for inventory or storage space
  • Potential for high-profit margins and scalability
  • Flexibility to test and pivot business ideas

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Make $500 Extra a Month?

There are several ways to earn $500 more per month. If you’re good at writing, graphic design, or programming, you might want to consider freelancing on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. Selling handcrafted goods on Etsy, renting a room, or taking online surveys can also make you money. Two more options are driving for a rideshare company or delivering meals.

How Can I Make an Extra $1,500 a Month?

Combining income streams may help you earn an extra $1,500 monthly. Start a side business in your field, such as consulting, tutoring, house cleaning, or dog walking. Consider Airbnb rentals, dividend-paying equities, or real estate. You can also reach this goal by working in the gig economy or running errands.

How to Make $2,000 Extra Each Month?

It takes hard work to earn $2,000 extra per month. Consider working part-time or freelancing along with your regular employment. Starting an e-commerce business or selling online courses or e-books is another option. Renting or investing in dividend stocks might create extra cash without any effort. For long-term growth, you need to diversify your revenue.

Final Thoughts on Ways to Make 1000 Dollars a Month

Now that we’ve looked at several side hustles and money-making ideas that can help you make an extra $1,000 a month, it’s time to take action.

“My biggest advice for someone looking to earn passive income is to try to select something that is interesting to you and feels sustainable,” shares Lucas. “If you enjoy meeting people, maybe Uber is a good fit. If you like writing, maybe it’s a blog about something you are interested in. The biggest key to not quickly getting burned out is to pick something you somewhat enjoy!”

Find one that is the best fit for you, and take the first step towards making it happen. Before you know it, you’ll be making extra money and changing your financial situation.

READ NEXT: How to Start a Side Hustle

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Features:
  • Commission-free trades of stocks and ETFs
  • Buy and sell 25+ different cryptocurrencies
  • Fractional shares
  • Access alternative investments
  • High-yield treasuries accounts
  • Social community of investors
  • User-friendly interface
Features:
  • Commission-free trades of stocks, ETFs, options, and ADRs
  • Powerful screening and charting tools
  • Free real-time level 2 data
  • User-friendly mobile app
  • AI monitoring
  • AI-powered price forecasts
  • Free investing courses
Features:
  • Commission-free trades of stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrency
  • Buy fractional shares for any amount
  • Extended trading hours
  • Advanced reporting tools
  • Schedule recurring investments
  • IRAs now available
  • 24/7 customer service

Disclosure: Information presented on Vital Dollar and through related email marketing is intended for informational purposes only and is not meant to be taken as financial advice. Please see our Disclosure for further information.