Millennials — people born between 1981 and 1996 — have become the global workforce’s main generation in the last few years. They have an average income of $71,566, which is more than a livable wage. However, given the current economic climate and high cost of living, many millennials require multiple income sources.
Here are 13 lucrative side hustles millennials can pursue that won’t interfere with their full-time jobs.
1. E-Commerce
Selling items online is the most tried-and-true way to make extra money. Millennials practically invented e-commerce with sites like eBay and Craigslist in the early 2000s. These online marketplaces are still viable and have been joined by other big names like Amazon and Etsy. There are also online forums for different niches, like auto parts and electronics.
Here are some other common items people sell online:
- Toys
- Books
- Clothes
- Collectibles
- Old jewelry
- Artwork
- Power tools
- Cooking or cleaning utensils
E-commerce is an attractive side hustle because it requires little to no labor. Nowadays, the dropshipping method, is one of the most popular ways to sell online, where sellers just have to post their products on their websites, wait for a buyer to make an offer, and let their dropshipping supplier ship the product in the mail without having to manage any kind of inventory. Anyone can do it, and the earning potential depends entirely on the vendor.
2. Food Deliveries
Food delivery services have been one of the hottest side hustles of the last few years. DoorDash and Grubhub are the two main competitors in this emerging market. This job has many perks. Workers can choose their hours and deliveries and use their own vehicles instead of delivery trucks.
The demand for food deliveries isn’t slowing down any time soon. Since COVID-19 began, more people have been ordering in instead of going to restaurants. DoorDash and Grubhub drivers have an abundance of deliveries, and their earning potential will only continue to grow.
3. Ridesharing Services
Another part-time job millennials have dominated is the classic ridesharing service. It’s often the first side hustle people think of. According to a survey from Zapier, 40% of Americans have a side hustle and 36% are looking to start one. Driving for Uber or Lyft is a safe start for many reasons.
Drivers choose their hours and use their own vehicles, just like with food delivery services. Anyone with a clean driving record can apply and start making money the next day. Every customer is unique, and the job often takes drivers to interesting places. Some people aren’t too keen on letting strangers into their cars, but they can get ridesharing insurance for extra protection.
4. Blogging
Even though video content has taken over the internet, blogging still remains relevant. Millennials can build an online presence and make money through advertising by starting a personal blog. The subject matter can be anything the writer wants, such as lifestyle, fitness, housekeeping or technology. There’s an audience for every niche.
5. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is another great way for online influencers to make extra money. Once bloggers and other content creators develop their authority, they can become sponsors for other businesses and make partial revenue from the sales. The key is to add unique links to the site so the creator gets credit for anyone who buys a product through them.
6. Freelancing
Millennials who enjoy writing or photography should consider freelancing. They can make money proofreading and editing essays for students worldwide. Photographers have even more income opportunities. They can sell photos to stock image websites, artists, party planners and other businesses.
7. Podcasting
Podcasting is one of the hottest forms of content on the internet today. For whatever reason, people like hearing other people talk about random stuff. Anyone with a computer and decent microphone can start a podcast about whatever topic they want. Building an audience is difficult because the podcasting scene has so many big personalities, but the sky’s the limit once the subscriptions start rolling in.
8. Livestreaming
Livestreaming is another increasingly popular form of online content. People will watch gamers and other celebrities play video games on YouTube and Twitch for hours. Millennials with a decent PC gaming setup should strongly consider streaming. Users can also make some money by moderating live group chats. The streamer and moderator must agree on a pay rate to keep things fair.
9. Online Surveys
Millennials who work from home can make an easy extra buck by taking online surveys. Simply create an account on sites like Nielsen and Swagbucks for companies to send surveys to you. The income per survey is admittedly small, but there’s no limit on how many a user can take. Just make sure to step away from the computer screen every now and again.
10. Online Tutoring
People with a knack for teaching can be excellent online tutors in their spare time. Virtual education is more relevant than ever. Unofficial math, science and language experts can help students work on their weaknesses with services like CheggStudy, LearnToBe and PrepNow Tutoring.
11. Virtual Assistant
A virtual assistant is another teaching-related side hustle. There’s a huge demand for techies who know how to design websites, use social media and do other miscellaneous tasks as more people launch their online businesses. Millennials have more tech experience than any other generation, so they should seize the opportunity.
12. Rentals
Renting out a basement, extra bedroom or storage space is a classic side hustle. Homeowners can see the rental rates for similar houses in the area and charge their tenants accordingly. Millennials with multiple properties could also start their own Airbnb. There is some risk involved in this type of side hustle, but the earning potential is so significant that it could quickly become the primary source of income.
13. House, Pet or Babysitting
Although these side hustles are traditionally reserved for younger people, there’s no shame in helping a neighbor. Millennials can harken back to their teenage years by babysitting, pet sitting or simply watching the neighbor’s house while they’re on vacation. The work is straightforward and the clients are always family friends, making the job safe and secure.
Any Side Hustle Will Do
Any side hustle is good as long as it doesn’t interfere with other responsibilities. Money is tighter than usual these days, so millennial workers must do a little extra to save enough for retirement. These 13 jobs are some of the most popular and lucrative options available. The income might not replicate a full-time job, but every dollar helps to put food on the table.
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