Years ago, amidst snack-time spills and naptimes, I dove headfirst into the world of side hustles for women. As a mom who was craving something more than just the everyday routine, I was yearning for a project of my own. I wanted to prove to myself (and my kiddos!) that it was indeed possible to juggle family life and a fulfilling career.
So, I dabbled into the digital realm, kick-starting my very own digital agency right from our family kitchen table. Fast forward to today, and what started as a part-time gig to fuel my creative passions has now grown into a thriving business serving Fortune 500 clients. And guess what? If I can do it, so can you.
This post is a shout-out to all the fabulous moms and women out there who are looking to make some extra cash without stepping out of their homes. Read on to discover some lucrative, flexible, and, most importantly, mom-friendly side hustles you can start today.
The Rise of Remote Work and Side Hustles
Back in the day, the 9-to-5 grind was the norm and the idea of having a side hustle was often seen as something one did when times were tough. Flash forward to today, the concept of work has been dramatically transformed, especially with the booming “gig economy”. Our world is more connected than ever, making earning money online from the comfort of home not just a possibility, but a reality for many.
According to a survey by Bankrate, nearly half of working Americans reported having a side hustle in 2023, a trend that’s been on the rise, particularly among millennials. This paradigm shift towards embracing flexible work hours and remote work culture has fostered the growth of myriad side hustles for women who crave professional fulfilment without sacrificing their personal commitments.
Side Hustles: An Empowering Move for Women and Moms
Now, let’s talk about the exciting part – the benefits of having a side hustle, especially for us moms. First off, side hustles allow women to generate an extra income stream – because who wouldn’t appreciate some extra cash, right?
Whether it’s to pay off student loans, save for your kid’s college fund, or simply splurge on that designer bag you’ve been eyeing – having an additional source of income offers financial freedom and independence.
Explore your passions
Next, side hustles give you the chance to explore your passions and talents beyond your day job or daily routines. Ever fancied yourself as a graphic designer, a virtual assistant, or a corporate commercial photographer? Side hustles offer the perfect platform to dip your toes in new waters and grow your own brand.
Have Flexibility
Perhaps, one of the most rewarding aspects of starting a side hustle is the flexibility it provides. Unlike traditional full time jobs, most side hustles let you set your own schedule, allowing you to work around family commitments, your child’s soccer practices, or even your own self-care routines. That means you can earn extra money while also being there for your family – a win-win, in my books.
Evolve into more
Finally, in the spirit of full disclosure, let’s not forget that side hustles can indeed evolve into successful businesses. Remember how I told you about my digital agency? Well, that started as a side hustle too! So, who knows? Your side hustle could be the launchpad to your next big business venture.
To sum it up, side hustles offer a fantastic opportunity for women and moms to generate extra cash, explore their interests, gain financial independence, and make their mark in the online business world – all on their own terms and their own hours. If you’re ready to jump into this exciting journey of starting a side hustle, read on, as I’ll be sharing some amazing female entrepreneurs’ favorite side hustles in the coming sections. Let’s do this, ladies!
#1 Become a Bookkeeper
Alright, let’s kick things off with a side hustle that’s perfect for the meticulous and detail-oriented ladies out there – becoming a bookkeeper. Yes, it’s one of the lucrative side hustle ideas that could help you rake in some extra cash. At this point, you might be wondering, “What exactly does a bookkeeper do?”
Well, in simple terms, bookkeepers are the financial record-keepers of businesses. They manage and track daily financial transactions, including purchases, receipts, sales, and payments. So, as a bookkeeper, you get to work with numbers, and the best part, you can do all of this while making money online, right from the comfort of your home!
Starting Your Bookkeeping Side Hustle and Potential Earnings
One of the beautiful things about starting your own business as a bookkeeper is that you don’t need a degree in finance to do it. You can learn most of what you need through online courses and some good old practical experience.
Platforms like Coursera and Udemy offer comprehensive courses where you can pick up bookkeeping skills at your own pace. So, if you’re looking to earn extra money without a significant investment, this could be a great option.
Potential earnings
When it comes to potential earnings from this side hustle, the sky is the limit. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for bookkeepers was $41,230 per year in 2020. Of course, as a side hustle, your income would depend on how many clients you take on and the rates you set. Plus, the more experience you gain, the more you can charge! This side gig could turn into a full time income before you know it!
As you start out, consider offering your services to local businesses. It’s a great way to get hands-on experience while serving your local community, and earn a few extra bucks at the same time.
So, if you have a knack for organization and a love for numbers, bookkeeping could be your ticket to creating an extra income stream right from home. And who knows, you might even save enough for that dream vacation or to pay off some loans! Remember, side hustles for women are all about exploring opportunities and finding what works for you. So go on, give it a shot and let the numbers do the talking. It’s time to hustle!
#2 Dive into Graphic Design
Alright, ladies, it’s time to switch gears a bit and tap into our creative side. Have you ever caught yourself admiring a beautifully designed website or an eye-catching social media post? Well, that’s the work of a graphic designer. With businesses moving online more than ever, graphic design has become a crucial part of the digital world, making it one of the lucrative side hustles for women today.
The Power of Graphic Design
Graphic design is everywhere—from websites and logos to social media posts and marketing collateral; it’s what gives a brand its visual identity. It’s through these designs that businesses communicate their brand story and connect with their audience. And that’s why it’s so vital in today’s digital era.
Consider this, the global graphic design market is expected to reach $45 billion by 2025, as reported by Grand View Research. Businesses, both big and small, are on the hunt for skilled graphic designers to help them stand out in the crowded online marketplaces. And the good news? You can take a slice of this pie right from your home and make some extra money.
Getting Started with Graphic Design
While having an artistic flair is a plus, you don’t need to be a Van Gogh to start a side hustle in graphic design. There are plenty of online courses (like those on Udemy or Skillshare) that can help you hone your skills and understand the various design tools. Plus, sites like Canva make it easy to start creating beautiful designs with their user-friendly tools and templates, even if you’re a newbie.
Once you’ve got your skills in place, it’s time to create your own brand. Start by building your own website to showcase your portfolio—this is crucial in attracting potential clients. You can also use social media platforms to share your work and connect with potential clients. Remember to keep your social media accounts professional and aligned with your brand.
Pro Tip: Don’t shy away from doing some free work in the beginning. It could be for a friend’s business or local businesses in your area. This not only helps you build a robust portfolio but also gets your foot in the door and earns you valuable experience.
So, ladies, if you’ve been hunting for side hustle ideas that let you express your creativity, graphic design might just be it. It’s an amazing opportunity to create, learn, and earn, all while making an impact in the online business world. Plus, imagine the pride when you see your designs come to life and win hearts! Go ahead, give it a whirl—after all, the world needs more female creatives.
#3 Build the Web: Web Design and Development
Shifting our focus a bit, let’s talk about a field that’s teeming with opportunities – web design and development. If you’re someone who likes problem-solving and has an eye for aesthetics, then this could be the perfect side hustle for you. With the digital age booming, businesses are constantly looking for skilled web designers and developers to help create their online presence. And guess what? You could be the one they’re looking for!
Why Web Design and Development?
With the increasing number of online businesses, the demand for professional-looking and functional websites is higher than ever. This is where web designers and developers come in. They are the architects and builders of the digital world, crafting websites that are not just visually pleasing but also user-friendly and responsive.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of web developers and digital designers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. So, if you’re looking for side hustle ideas with promising prospects, you’ve hit the jackpot here.
Starting Your Journey in Web Design and Development
So, how do you jump into this lucrative field? Just like with our previous side hustles for women, there are numerous online courses available where you can learn the basics of web design and development. Websites like Codecademy and freeCodeCamp offer free resources to get you started on your journey.
Once you’ve learned the ropes, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get some practical experience. Start by creating your own website. This allows you to learn on the job and also provides a platform to showcase your work to potential clients.
Potential earnings
In terms of earnings, the median annual wage for web developers was $73,760 in May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. As a side gig, your income will depend on the number of projects you take up and the rates you set. But with businesses willing to pay top dollar for a well-designed and efficient website, you could make a full time income.
Pro Tip: Consider specializing in a niche, like e-commerce or blog design. This not only helps you stand out from the crowd but also allows you to charge higher rates.
#4 Start a Virtual Assistant Service
Dipping into the realm of digital services, another promising side hustle for women is establishing your very own virtual assistant service. Virtual assistants are picking up steam thanks to an increasing number of online business owners looking to outsource their administrative tasks. Plus, it’s a role that lets you choose your own hours and work in your own space. For busy moms juggling various responsibilities, this sounds like a dream, doesn’t it?
What’s In a VA’s Day?
As a virtual assistant, your duties could span a wide range. You might be managing a client’s inbox, scheduling their appointments, handling their social media management, or even providing customer service. In essence, you are the digital backbone of a business, allowing the entrepreneur to focus on their core operations while you manage the administrative side of things.
Launching Your Virtual Assistant Service
First up, take inventory of your skillset. Are you highly organized? Have a knack for social media? Once you have a clear idea of your strengths, look for clients who require these services. Platforms like Upwork are great to start offering your services online.
And the financials? The average annual income for a Virtual Assistant in the United States, as of May 2023, is $61,115, according to ZipRecruiter. By building a strong clientele and gaining experience, you can easily earn money, potentially even a full-time income, from this side hustle.
#5 Be a Corporate Commercial Photographer for Local Businesses
Switching gears, let’s look at a side hustle that marries creativity with a profitable income – corporate commercial photography. Businesses consistently seek high-quality, professional images for their websites, social media accounts, and marketing collaterals, and that’s where your lens comes in.
Why Step into Corporate Photography?
Corporate photography is a lucrative side hustle because businesses are willing to invest in high-quality, professional images. Compared to consumer photography, corporate clients have larger marketing budgets, which include a line item for photography.
Capturing Your Photography Business
To kickstart your corporate photography gig, you’ll need a good camera and some photography skills. Online courses and plenty of practice can hone your techniques. Once you’re confident in your skills, it’s time to build your portfolio. Consider offering free or reduced-rate shoots for local businesses to create a solid portfolio.
#6 Sell Custom Cookies and Treats for Corporate Clients
Shifting our attention to the culinary realm, the demand for custom-made treats, especially from corporate clients, is a sweet opportunity to make extra cash.
Sweetening the Deal
Custom cookies and treats are not just about the taste—they’re a unique way for businesses to show appreciation or celebrate milestones. This growing demand provides an excellent avenue to leverage your baking skills and earn extra money.
Kneading Your Baking Business into Shape
If you’re a baking enthusiast, you’re already halfway there. Next, decide on your specialty. Maybe it’s custom cookies, or perhaps your cake pops are irresistible. Once you’ve decided, create some samples and take high-quality photos to showcase your treats. Sell online through social media or reach out directly to local businesses.
With these side hustles, you’re not just pocketing extra income; you’re also doing something you love while adding value to others.
#7 Start a Laundry Service
Let’s dive into a side hustle idea for women and moms that’s all about lightening the load – literally. Busy corporate folks often struggle to juggle demanding careers and day-to-day chores. That’s where you step in. Launching a laundry service from your own home can be a fabulous way to make extra cash and potentially transition into a full-time income stream down the line.
Kick-Starting Your Laundry Business
Starting your own business in laundry services isn’t as intimidating as it might sound. The basics you’ll need are a washer, dryer, and some reliable cleaning supplies. Set your rates and decide on the specifics of your services – will you offer pick-up and delivery? That could be a unique selling point.
Market your services online and locally – a simple flyer, a post in a local Facebook group, or word of mouth can quickly generate interest. Before you know it, you’ll be making extra money from home while helping to reduce stress in someone else’s busy life. This is the beauty of side hustles for women – creating a win-win situation!
#8 Furry Friendship: Pet Caretaking
Now, how about a side hustle that’s as rewarding as it is profitable? Pet caretaking is an excellent way to earn money and spend quality time with adorable animals. It’s a side hustle that could easily become a lucrative side hustle if marketed well.
Caring for Our Furry Friends
As a pet caretaker, your responsibilities could include a range of services – from dog walking to pet sitting to pet waste removal. The demand for dog walkers and pet caretaking has never been higher. According to IBISWorld, Americans spent over $1 billion on dog walking services alone last year.
Making Your Pet Care Service Known
How to start this side hustle? Start with your immediate network and branch out. Local markets and online marketplaces like Rover, which connect pet owners with caretakers, are great platforms to offer your services. One of the best parts of this side hustle is its flexibility – you can set your own hours, rates, and services. It’s all about working on your own schedule.
#9 Start a Cleaning Service
Next up is another practical, profitable side hustle idea – starting a cleaning service. With the rise of dual-income households and the gig economy, the demand for cleaning services is at an all-time high. This is your chance to turn a common problem into a successful business.
Building Your Cleaning Service
It’s surprisingly simple to start your own cleaning service. Like the laundry service, you’ll need some basic cleaning supplies, a little bit of spare time, and a schedule that works for you. You can start small with a few residential jobs and, as you build a reputation, tap into the corporate cleaning services market for more money.
Promote your services through word of mouth, but don’t forget to harness the power of social media platforms for a wider reach. A well-placed ad on Facebook or a catchy sign at a local market can bring in those first few, crucial clients.
In each of these side hustles for women, you’ll notice a common thread – solving a problem in a practical, helpful way. Whether you’re easing the burden of laundry, providing pet parents with peace of mind, or making homes shine, you’re filling a need – and making money while you’re at it! But we’re not stopping here. Stay tuned as we delve into more side hustle ideas.
#10 Start a Blog, YouTube Channel, or Podcast
Got a knack for writing, a flair for on-camera presence, or a soothing voice made for audio? Whether it’s blogging about your mompreneur journey, sharing cooking tips on YouTube, or discussing the latest self-help books on a podcast, digital content creation holds immense potential to generate a full time income. Plus, these platforms are excellent to sell online courses or services in the future!
The Power of Content
Starting your own website or YouTube channel might sound intimidating, but with so many free resources and online courses available out there, it’s more accessible than ever. All you need is consistency, a dash of creativity, and the willingness to learn.
Monetizing Your Content
Once you’ve built up a solid online following, there are several ways to monetize your blog, YouTube channel, or podcast. These include ad revenue, sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and even offering your own products or services online. It’s an excellent way to earn money online!
#11 Educate & Empower: Sell an Online Course
Next up is a side hustle idea that not only allows you to share your wealth of knowledge with the world but also has massive earning potential – selling online courses.
The Boom of E-Learning
With the rise of e-learning, there’s a growing market for online courses. Whether you’re teaching English online or offering a course on resume writing or digital marketing, if you have expertise in a subject, there are likely people willing to pay for it. Plus, selling online courses can turn into a significant income stream.
Creating & Selling Your Course
Creating your own online course might seem like a significant investment of time and energy, but with platforms like Udemy or Teachable, it’s easier than ever. Plus, selling an online course can be a lucrative side hustle for women with specialized knowledge or skills.
#12 Sell Printables
Moving to a less-known but potentially lucrative side hustle – selling printables. These can be anything from organizational templates to decorative art – the sky’s the limit!
The Printable Market
There’s a surprising demand for printables – especially amongst busy moms and corporate folks. Whether it’s a beautiful calendar, a meal planner, or a decorative quote, printables add a touch of personality and convenience.
Creating & Selling Printables
Creating printables requires basic graphic design skills, which can be learned from online courses or YouTube tutorials. Once you’ve created your printables, you can sell them on online marketplaces like Etsy or on your own website.
With digital content creation side hustles, the earning potential is massive. Whether you’re blogging, selling online courses, or creating printables, you’re creating an additional income stream that could potentially replace your day job.
#13 Unleash a Dog Walking Side Hustle
We all adore our fluffy companions, but with full-time jobs and the daily hustle and bustle, it can be challenging for many pet owners to find time for their furry friend’s daily walks. That’s where you swoop in, transforming “dog walking” into an incredible side hustle for women, especially moms looking to earn some extra money online.
The Market Demand for Dog Walkers
Dog walkers are in high demand, especially in densely populated urban areas where green spaces can be a rarity. Numerous pet owners are willing to shell out for someone trustworthy and reliable to ensure their beloved pet gets the exercise and care they need during their busy schedule.
Kick-starting a Dog Walking Business
Initiating a dog walking business doesn’t demand a significant investment. All you need is a love for dogs, some dog-handling skills, and the physical endurance to manage walks. Begin by spreading the word in your local market or through your local Facebook group. You can even list your services online on pet sitting platforms like Rover or Wag!
#14 Help Others and Earn Money through Errand Running
Running errands might not appear like the most glamorous side gig, but with a sprinkle of creativity and the right clientele, it could morph into a lucrative side hustle for women, generating a full-time income.
Setting Up an Errand-Running Service
You could kickstart by offering services like grocery shopping, prescription pick-up, dry cleaning runs, etc. Once you’ve built a reliable service, word of mouth and online reviews on social media platforms will fuel your growth, and before you know it, you’ll be earning more money.
#15 Become an Airbnb Superhost
If you have an extra room or an entire property lying vacant, renting it out on Airbnb can become a profitable income stream. As an Airbnb host, you’re essentially managing your own mini bed and breakfast, which can be an extraordinarily rewarding experience.
Pros and Cons of Airbnb Hosting
Embracing the role of an Airbnb host has its pros and cons. The pros encompass meeting amazing people from different walks of life and earning passive income. However, the cons might include dealing with difficult guests or property damage. It’s essential to consider all aspects before diving into this side hustle.
Steps to Start Hosting on Airbnb
Getting onboard with Airbnb is straightforward. You’ll need to list your space on the platform, incorporate detailed descriptions and high-quality photos, and determine a competitive nightly rate.
#16 Venture into Real Estate
Investing in real estate can be a high-reward venture, providing a significant passive income stream if done right. Whether you’re purchasing properties to rent or flipping homes for profit, real estate investment can be a profitable side hustle.
Dipping Your Toes in Real Estate
To start in real estate, you’ll need a comprehensive understanding of the local market and some start-up capital for investment. Consider attending real estate investment seminars or hiring a mentor to guide you through the early stages. Remember, it’s not devoid of risk, but with intelligent moves and persistence, you can build a successful business.
#17 Explore Online Tutoring
With the advent of e-learning, online tutoring has emerged as an excellent side hustle for those with expertise in a subject. You have the opportunity to help students excel while earning extra cash – a win-win situation!
Launching Online Tutoring
To teach online, you’ll need a reliable internet connection, a quiet space, and proficiency in a subject. You can either join an online tutoring platform or start your own website to offer tutoring services. Online courses could also be a fantastic addition to your offering.
#18 Upwork: Make Money Online with Freelancing
Upwork truly provides a world of opportunities, connecting skilled professionals with clients needing their expertise. It’s not just a platform for short-term gigs; many entrepreneurs and businesses rely on Upwork to find the right talent for long-term projects.
For women seeking to balance their career with motherhood, this platform can be a gateway to a whole new world of remote work and flexible working hours.
Potential of Upwork
The earning potential on Upwork is as vast as the array of services you can offer. From content writing and SEO services to website development and virtual assistance, there’s room for nearly every skill set on this platform.
The beauty of Upwork is that you can work as much or as little as your schedule allows. Plus, the more projects you successfully complete, the more you can raise your rates. It’s all about building a strong profile and stellar reviews.
Tips to Start Selling Services on Upwork
Starting on Upwork is as simple as creating a profile, but there’s an art to standing out in this global marketplace. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Create a Powerful Profile: Your profile is your portfolio on Upwork. Ensure it’s detailed and showcases your expertise, skills, and previous work. The more specific you are about your abilities, the better.
2. Write Winning Proposals: When applying for jobs, your proposal is your first impression. Tailor each proposal to the specific job, addressing the client’s needs and explaining how you can deliver the desired results.
3. Start Small and Build Your Reputation: It’s okay to take on smaller projects in the beginning. What matters most is accumulating positive reviews and building your reputation on the platform. This strategy will lead to higher-paying jobs in the future.
Remember, consistency and quality are key to thriving on Upwork. Now, with your side-hustle spirit in high gear, you’re ready to start your entrepreneurial journey and transform your passion into profit. So, ladies, let’s start hustling!
Unleashing Your Own Business: Embracing Side Hustles for Women
Wow, haven’t we gone on quite the journey, fellow mompreneurs and aspiring side hustlers? Today, we’ve delved into the expansive realm of side hustles for women. From bookkeeping to graphic design, from creating a popular online course to dabbling in the exciting world of real estate, there’s no shortage of opportunities awaiting us.
It’s time to take that bold leap, transforming your talents and passions into lucrative side hustles for women that bring in that extra cash. And with the digital world at your fingertips, making money online has become an incredibly achievable goal.
Recap and Final Thoughts
Let’s take a moment to reflect on all the side hustles for women we’ve explored today. Remember, each one of these hustles offers a path to start your own business without giving up your full-time job or compromising on family time. Every side hustle for women we’ve discussed comes with the flexibility of setting your own schedule, creating that extra income stream, and moving a step closer to financial independence.
Don’t forget, whether it’s selling adorable printables, opening a trendy online store, or getting those steps in as a professional dog walker, your side hustle’s success is all about your dedication and hard work.
Creating a thriving side hustle for women is a journey rather than a destination. And each side hustle idea we’ve discussed holds the potential to evolve into a full-time income, given the right commitment and time investment. Imagine that—your side hustle could very well become your full-time passion!
Side hustles for women offer a golden opportunity to carve out your unique brand in the business world. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in and remember, as a fellow mompreneur who started her journey with a side hustle and now serves Fortune 500 clients, if I can do it, so can you. So, let’s get out there, embrace the side hustles for women, and seize those opportunities. Your side hustle journey starts now!
Leave a Reply