20 Best Side Hustles for College Students to Make Money

College life comes with numerous expenses, including tuition, books, supplies, housing, and social activities. Side hustles provide a flexible way to earn additional income to cover these costs without the need for traditional part-time jobs that may not fit into a busy academic schedule.

Starting and managing a side hustle can give students a taste of entrepreneurship. This experience can be invaluable for those considering starting their own business in the future, as it teaches important lessons in marketing, budgeting, and customer service.

Over the years, I’ve tried my hand at various gigs, from freelancing and online businesses to more hands-on jobs, and I’ve learned what works best for college students looking to earn extra income without compromising their studies.

In this article, I’ll share my insights and experiences to help you find the perfect side hustle that fits your schedule, leverages your skills, and boosts your bank account.

1. Pet Sitting

Pet sitting involves taking care of pets while their owners are away. This can include feeding, walking, playing with, and sometimes administering medication to pets. It is a flexible and enjoyable side hustle, especially for animal lovers. College students often find pet sitting suitable because it allows them to manage their time effectively around their class schedules and provides a stress-relieving break from academic pressures.

How to Get Started

1. Create a Profile: Sign up on platforms like Rover.com, which helps connect pet sitters with pet owners.
2. Background Check: Complete any required background checks to ensure trustworthiness.
3. Set Your Schedule: Determine your availability and set your working hours.
4. Promote Your Services: Use social media, local community boards, and word-of-mouth to advertise your services.
5. Gain Experience: Start by offering your services to friends and family to build experience and gather references.

Earning Potential

Pet sitters can earn between $15 to $50 per day, depending on the services provided and the location. For example, dog walking typically pays around $15-$20 per walk, while overnight pet sitting can bring in higher rates. Experienced pet sitters with good reviews can command higher prices and attract more clients.

2. Survey Apps

Survey apps allow users to earn money or gift cards by completing surveys. These surveys are usually conducted by market research companies seeking consumer opinions on various products and services. This side hustle is particularly suitable for college students because it requires no special skills, can be done from anywhere, and fits easily into a busy schedule.

How to Get Started

1. Sign Up: Register on popular survey platforms like Swagbucks, InboxDollars, Survey Junkie, and Freecash.
2. Complete Your Profile: Provide detailed information about yourself to increase the chances of receiving more surveys.
3. Download Apps: Install the survey apps on your smartphone or use them on your laptop.
4. Check Regularly: Frequently check the apps for new surveys to maximize your earning potential.
5. Be Honest: Answer questions truthfully to avoid being banned from the platforms.

Earning Potential

While survey apps won’t make you rich, they can provide a steady stream of small earnings. Most surveys pay between $0.25 to $3 each, with some high-paying surveys offering more. By using multiple apps and consistently completing surveys, students can earn enough to cover minor expenses like coffee or snacks, potentially making around $10-$50 per month.

3. Food and Grocery Delivery

Food and grocery delivery involves picking up and delivering orders from restaurants or grocery stores to customers. This side hustle is ideal for college students because it offers flexible hours, allowing them to work around their class schedules. It also provides an opportunity to earn tips, which can significantly boost overall earnings.

How to Get Started

1. Choose a Delivery Service: Sign up with popular delivery platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, Instacart, or Shipt.
2. Meet Requirements: Ensure you meet the basic requirements, such as having a reliable vehicle, a valid driver’s license, and a smartphone. Some services may also require a background check.
3. Download the App: Install the delivery app on your smartphone and complete the registration process.
4. Set Your Availability: Choose your working hours based on your class schedule and other commitments.
5. Start Delivering: Accept delivery requests through the app, pick up orders from restaurants or stores, and deliver them to customers.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for food and grocery delivery varies based on location, demand, and the number of hours worked. On average, delivery drivers can earn between $12 to $20 per hour, including tips. During peak times or in high-demand areas, earnings can be higher. For example, Instacart shoppers can earn additional pay for long-distance or heavy orders, and tips can significantly increase overall income.

4. Sell Items Online

Selling items online involves creating or sourcing products and listing them on e-commerce platforms like eBay, Etsy, Amazon, or even your own website. This side hustle is particularly suitable for college students because it offers flexibility, requires minimal initial investment, and can be managed from anywhere with an internet connection. It allows students to leverage their creativity and entrepreneurial skills while balancing their academic commitments.

How to Get Started

1. Identify Products: Decide what you want to sell. This could be handmade crafts, vintage items, digital products, or even dropshipping products.
2. Choose a Platform: Select an e-commerce platform that suits your needs. Popular options include Etsy for handmade items, eBay for a wide range of products, and Amazon for a larger audience.
3. Create Listings: Take high-quality photos of your products and write detailed descriptions. Optimize your listings with relevant keywords to improve visibility.
4. Set Up Payment and Shipping: Ensure you have a reliable payment method set up and understand the shipping process. Platforms like Etsy and eBay offer integrated shipping solutions.
5. Market Your Store: Use social media, SEO, and other marketing strategies to drive traffic to your store. Engaging content on platforms like Instagram and Pinterest can help attract potential buyers.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for selling items online varies widely based on the type of products, pricing strategy, and marketing efforts. Some students make a few hundred dollars a month, while others can scale their business to generate thousands. For instance, handmade items on Etsy can sell for $10-$50 each, while dropshipping products on Amazon can yield higher profits depending on the niche and demand.

5. Editing

Editing involves reviewing and improving written content for clarity, coherence, grammar, and style. This can include academic papers, articles, books, and other written materials. Editing is particularly suitable for college students because it leverages their academic skills, can be done remotely, and offers flexible hours. It is an excellent way for students to enhance their writing and critical thinking abilities while earning extra income.

How to Get Started

1. Develop Skills: Ensure you have strong grammar, punctuation, and writing skills. Consider taking a course in editing or writing to improve your proficiency.
2. Create a Portfolio: Compile samples of your editing work. This can include class assignments, personal projects, or volunteer work.
3. Join Freelance Platforms: Sign up on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer to find editing gigs. Create a detailed profile highlighting your skills and experience.
4. Network: Reach out to professors, classmates, and local businesses to offer your editing services. Join online communities and forums related to writing and editing.
5. Set Your Rates: Determine your pricing based on the complexity of the work and your level of experience. Start with competitive rates to attract initial clients and gradually increase them as you gain more experience.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for editing varies based on the type of content, the client’s budget, and your experience. Freelance editors can earn between $20 to $50 per hour, with more experienced editors charging higher rates. Academic editing or specialized content can command even higher fees. Consistent work and building a strong reputation can lead to a steady stream of clients and increased earnings.

6. Blogging

Blogging involves creating and maintaining a blog where you write about topics of interest. This can range from personal experiences to niche subjects like technology, fashion, travel, or education. Blogging is suitable for college students because it allows them to express their creativity, build a personal brand, and potentially earn money through various monetization strategies. It also offers flexible hours and can be done from anywhere.

How to Get Started

1. Choose a Niche: Select a topic you are passionate about and knowledgeable in. This will help you create engaging and consistent content.
2. Set Up a Blog: Use platforms like WordPress, Blogger, or Medium to create your blog. Choose a domain name and a professional-looking theme.
3. Create Content: Start writing and publishing high-quality, original content regularly. Focus on providing value to your readers and optimizing your posts for search engines (SEO).
4. Promote Your Blog: Use social media, email marketing, and networking to drive traffic to your blog. Engage with your audience through comments and social media interactions.
5. Monetize: Explore monetization options such as affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, advertising, and selling digital products or services.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for blogging varies widely based on traffic, niche, and monetization strategies. New bloggers might earn a few dollars a month, while established bloggers can make thousands. For example, affiliate marketing can generate income through commissions on sales, while sponsored posts can pay anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars per post. Consistent effort and effective monetization can lead to significant earnings over time.

7. Tutoring

Tutoring involves providing academic assistance to students in various subjects. This side hustle is particularly suitable for college students because it allows them to leverage their knowledge and expertise in specific subjects, offers flexible working hours, and can be done remotely. Tutoring can be highly rewarding as it not only helps others succeed academically but also reinforces the tutor’s own understanding of the subject matter.

How to Get Started

1. Identify Your Expertise: Determine which subjects you are proficient in and comfortable teaching. This could be based on your major or courses you have excelled in.
2. Choose a Platform: Sign up on tutoring platforms like Tutor.com, TutorMe, or Wyzant. These platforms connect tutors with students and handle administrative tasks like scheduling and payments.
3. Create a Profile: Build a detailed profile highlighting your qualifications, experience, and areas of expertise. Include any relevant certifications or achievements.
4. Set Your Rates: Research the average tutoring rates in your area or on the platform you choose. Start with competitive rates to attract initial clients and adjust as you gain more experience.
5. Market Your Services: Use social media, university bulletin boards, and word-of-mouth to promote your tutoring services. Networking with professors and classmates can also help you find potential clients.

Earning Potential

Tutors can earn between $20 to $40 per hour, depending on their qualifications, experience, and the subject matter. Specialized subjects or advanced courses can command higher rates. With consistent effort and a growing client base, some tutors can earn a substantial income, potentially making tutoring a full-time job.

8. Rideshare Driver

Being a rideshare driver involves using your own vehicle to transport passengers who request rides through apps like Uber or Lyft. This side hustle is ideal for college students because it offers complete flexibility in terms of working hours, allowing students to drive whenever they have free time. It also provides an opportunity to earn money while exploring the city and meeting new people.

How to Get Started

1. Meet the Requirements: Ensure you meet the basic requirements, such as having a valid driver’s license, a reliable vehicle that meets the platform’s standards, and passing a background check.
2. Sign Up: Register on the Uber or Lyft website and complete the application process. This typically includes providing personal information, vehicle details, and consent for a background check.
3. Download the App: Install the Uber or Lyft driver app on your smartphone. This app will be used to accept ride requests and navigate to passengers.
4. Set Your Schedule: Decide when you want to drive based on your class schedule and other commitments. The flexibility of rideshare driving allows you to work during peak hours to maximize earnings.
5. Start Driving: Once approved, you can start accepting ride requests. Provide excellent service to receive good ratings and tips from passengers.

Earning Potential

Rideshare drivers can earn between $15 to $25 per hour, depending on factors like location, time of day, and demand. Peak hours, such as weekends and holidays, can offer higher earnings. Additionally, drivers can earn tips from passengers, which can significantly boost overall income. While it may not make you rich, rideshare driving can provide a steady stream of supplementary income.

9. Photography

Photography involves capturing images using a camera, which can range from portraits and events to landscapes and product photos. This side hustle is particularly suitable for college students because it allows them to express their creativity, work flexible hours, and potentially turn a hobby into a source of income. With the rise of social media and digital marketing, there is a growing demand for high-quality photos, making photography a viable side hustle.

How to Get Started

1. Invest in Equipment: Start with a good quality camera and essential accessories like lenses, tripods, and lighting equipment. While professional gear can be expensive, entry-level options are available for beginners.
2. Learn the Basics: Take online courses or attend workshops to learn the fundamentals of photography, including composition, lighting, and editing.
3. Build a Portfolio: Create a portfolio showcasing your best work. This can be done by photographing friends, family, or local events for free or at a reduced rate initially.
4. Create an Online Presence: Set up a website or use platforms like Instagram, Flickr, or 500px to display your portfolio. Social media can be a powerful tool for attracting clients.
5. Network and Market: Join local photography groups, attend events, and network with potential clients. Use word-of-mouth, social media, and local advertising to promote your services.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for photography varies widely based on experience, niche, and location. Freelance photographers can charge anywhere from $50 to $300 per hour for events like weddings or portraits. Selling stock photos online can also generate passive income, with each download earning a small fee. As you gain experience and build a reputation, your rates and client base can grow significantly.

10. Babysitting

Babysitting involves taking care of children while their parents are away. This can include activities like playing with the children, preparing meals, helping with homework, and putting them to bed. Babysitting is suitable for college students because it offers flexible hours, can be done locally, and often requires minimal prior experience. It is also a rewarding job for those who enjoy working with children.

How to Get Started

1. Gain Experience: Start by babysitting for family and friends to gain experience and build references. Consider taking a babysitting course or first aid/CPR certification to enhance your qualifications.
2. Join Platforms: Sign up on babysitting websites like Care.com, Sittercity, or UrbanSitter to connect with families looking for babysitters.
3. Create a Profile: Build a detailed profile highlighting your experience, skills, and availability. Include any certifications or special skills, such as tutoring or cooking.
4. Network Locally: Use community boards, social media, and word-of-mouth to advertise your services. Networking with local parents and attending community events can help you find clients.
5. Set Your Rates: Research the average babysitting rates in your area and set competitive prices. Rates can vary based on the number of children, their ages, and the specific duties required.

Earning Potential

Babysitters typically earn between $10 to $20 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the number of children being cared for. Rates can be higher for babysitting during evenings, weekends, or holidays. Experienced babysitters with specialized skills, such as tutoring or caring for infants, can command higher rates. Consistent work and positive reviews can lead to a steady stream of clients and increased earnings.

11. Donate Plasma

Donating plasma involves giving a portion of your blood’s plasma, which is used for medical treatments and therapies. This side hustle is particularly suitable for college students because it requires minimal time commitment, offers flexible scheduling, and provides a steady source of income. Additionally, it allows students to contribute to life-saving medical treatments while earning money.

How to Get Started

1. Find a Plasma Center: Locate a nearby plasma donation center using online searches or websites like CSL Plasma or BioLife Plasma Services.
2. Schedule an Appointment: Call the center or use their online system to schedule your first appointment. Most centers are open six days a week with flexible hours.
3. Initial Screening: During your first visit, you will undergo a health screening, including a physical exam and blood tests, to ensure you are eligible to donate.
4. Complete Paperwork: Fill out necessary forms and watch safety videos to understand the donation process.
5. Start Donating: Once approved, you can start donating plasma. Each session typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, and you can donate up to twice a week with a 48-hour rest period between donations.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for donating plasma varies by location and frequency of donations. On average, donors can earn between $20 to $50 per donation, with some centers offering bonuses for frequent donations. This can amount to approximately $200 to $400 per month. Some centers also provide prepaid Visa cards for easy access to funds.

12. Become a Lifeguard

Becoming a lifeguard involves supervising swimming areas to ensure the safety of swimmers and responding to emergencies. This side hustle is ideal for college students because it offers flexible hours, can be seasonal (perfect for summer breaks), and provides valuable skills such as first aid and CPR. Lifeguarding also looks impressive on resumes and college applications, showcasing responsibility and leadership.

How to Get Started

1. Meet Basic Requirements: Ensure you meet the age requirement (usually 15 or older) and have strong swimming skills.
2. Get Certified: Enroll in a lifeguard training course through organizations like the American Red Cross. The course includes training in CPR, AED, and first aid, and typically takes about 25-30 hours to complete.
3. Apply for Jobs: Fill out applications for lifeguarding positions at local pools, beaches, or water parks. Platforms like Guard for Life can help you find openings.
4. Attend an Interview: Participate in an interview to discuss your skills, availability, and interest in the position.
5. Start Working: Once hired, you can begin scheduling shifts and start working as a lifeguard. Many employers offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your academic commitments.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for lifeguards varies based on location, experience, and the type of facility. On average, lifeguards earn around $12 to $15 per hour, with experienced lifeguards earning up to $20 per hour. Seasonal bonuses and overtime can increase earnings, making it possible to earn a substantial income during peak seasons like summer.

13. Use Your Car to Advertise

Using your car to advertise involves wrapping your vehicle with advertising materials or installing digital displays on your car to promote brands and products. This side hustle is suitable for college students because it requires minimal effort beyond driving as usual, offers flexible scheduling, and provides an opportunity to earn passive income. In addition, it allows students to monetize their daily commutes or trips around campus.

How to Get Started

1. Research Companies: Look for companies like Carvertise, Halo, or Firefly that offer car advertising opportunities in your area.
2. Meet Requirements: Ensure your vehicle meets the company’s requirements, such as age, condition, and paint quality.
3. Apply and Interview: Complete the application process, which may include a background check and an in-person interview to assess your personality and fit.
4. Get Your Car Wrapped/Installed: If approved, the company will wrap your car with advertising materials or install digital displays at no cost to you.
5. Drive as Usual: Once your car is ready, simply drive as you normally would, and the company will track your mileage or location to determine your earnings.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for using your car to advertise varies depending on the company, the advertising campaign, and the amount of driving you do. On average, drivers can earn between $100 to $400 per month by displaying advertisements on their vehicles. Some companies pay a flat rate per campaign, while others pay based on the number of hours or miles driven with the advertisements displayed.

14. Website and App Testing

Website and app testing involves providing feedback on the usability, functionality, and user experience of websites or mobile applications before they are launched. This side hustle is suitable for college students because it requires no specific technical skills, offers flexibility in scheduling, and can be done remotely from anywhere.

How to Get Started

1. Sign Up on Testing Platforms: Create accounts on popular testing platforms like UserTesting, TryMyUI, or Test IO.
2. Complete Your Profile: Provide detailed information about your demographics, devices, and interests to increase your chances of receiving test opportunities.
3. Qualify for Tests: Many platforms have qualification requirements, such as being a native speaker or having specific devices, so ensure you meet the criteria.
4. Claim Tests Quickly: When test opportunities become available, claim them promptly, as they are often limited and can be taken by other testers.
5. Provide Feedback: Follow the instructions for each test, which may involve navigating a website or app, completing tasks, and providing verbal or written feedback.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for website and app testing varies depending on the platform, the complexity of the test, and the number of tests you complete. On average, testers can earn between $10 to $15 per test, with some tests paying up to $50 for more complex or specialized tasks. Experienced testers who consistently provide high-quality feedback can earn higher rates and secure more test opportunities.

15. Haul Junk

Hauling junk involves removing unwanted items from homes, yards, or businesses and disposing of them properly. This side hustle is suitable for college students because it offers flexible hours, can be done on weekends or during breaks, and requires minimal initial investment. It also provides a good workout and the opportunity to earn money while helping people declutter their spaces.

How to Get Started

1. Get the Necessary Equipment: Start with a reliable vehicle, such as a truck or SUV with a trailer. You will also need basic tools like gloves, a hand truck, and ratchet straps.
2. Create a Business Plan: Outline your services, pricing strategy, and target market. Consider whether you want to offer additional services like recycling or donation drop-offs.
3. Register Your Business: Depending on your location, you may need to register your business and obtain any necessary permits or licenses.
4. Market Your Services: Use social media, local community boards, and online platforms like Craigslist to advertise your junk hauling services. Networking with realtors, property managers, and contractors can also help you find clients.
5. Start Small: Begin with small jobs to build experience and gather customer reviews. As you gain confidence and resources, you can take on larger projects.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for hauling junk varies based on location, the size of the jobs, and the number of clients. On average, you can charge between $100 to $300 per load, with some jobs paying more depending on the volume and type of junk. With consistent work, it’s possible to earn $1,000 to $2,000 per month or more. Some successful junk hauling businesses can even scale to six-figure incomes with the right strategy and marketing.

16. Virtual Assistant

A virtual assistant (VA) provides administrative, technical, or creative support to clients remotely. This side hustle is ideal for college students because it offers flexible hours, can be done from anywhere with an internet connection, and allows students to utilize their existing skills. VAs can handle tasks such as email management, social media, data entry, and customer service.

How to Get Started

1. Identify Your Skills: Determine what services you can offer based on your skills and interests. Common tasks include scheduling, email management, social media management, and data entry.
2. Create a Profile: Sign up on freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer. Create a detailed profile highlighting your skills, experience, and the services you offer.
3. Build a Portfolio: If possible, gather examples of your work or create sample projects to showcase your abilities. This can help attract potential clients.
4. Set Your Rates: Research the average rates for virtual assistants in your niche and set competitive prices. You can start with lower rates to build your client base and increase them as you gain experience.
5. Market Your Services: Use social media, networking, and online job boards to promote your services. Joining VA-specific platforms like Fancy Hands or Belay can also help you find clients.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for virtual assistants varies widely based on experience, specialization, and the number of clients. Beginners can expect to earn between $10 to $20 per hour, while more experienced VAs can charge $30 to $50 per hour or more. Specialized services, such as social media management or bookkeeping, can command higher rates. With consistent work and a growing client base, it’s possible to earn a substantial income, potentially reaching $1,000 to $3,000 per month or more.

17. Housecleaning

Housecleaning involves providing cleaning services for residential homes or small commercial spaces. This side hustle is suitable for college students because it offers flexible scheduling, allowing them to work around their class schedules. It requires minimal startup costs and can be done independently or through established cleaning companies. Housecleaning provides an opportunity to earn extra income while gaining valuable skills in time management, customer service, and attention to detail.

How to Get Started

1. Acquire Supplies: Invest in basic cleaning supplies such as vacuum cleaners, mops, buckets, and cleaning products. Start with essential items and gradually expand your equipment as your business grows.
2. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Insurance: Check with your local authorities to determine if any licenses or permits are required for operating a cleaning business. Consider obtaining liability insurance to protect yourself and your clients.
3. Market Your Services: Create a simple website or use online platforms like Craigslist, Nextdoor, or social media to advertise your services. Distribute flyers in your local community, and ask friends and family for referrals.
4. Set Competitive Rates: Research the going rates for housecleaning services in your area and set competitive prices. Consider offering discounts or package deals to attract new clients.
5. Build a Client Base: Start by offering your services to friends, family, or neighbors. Provide excellent service and ask for referrals to expand your client base gradually.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for housecleaning can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the number of clients. On average, housecleaners can earn between $10 to $25 per hour, with experienced professionals charging higher rates. As a college student, you can expect to earn $100 to $300 per week, depending on the number of hours worked and the size of your client base. With consistent effort and excellent service, it’s possible to turn housecleaning into a full-time business after graduation.

18. Gardening and Lawn Maintenance

Gardening and lawn maintenance involve providing services such as mowing, trimming, weeding, planting, and general yard upkeep. This side hustle is suitable for college students because it allows them to work outdoors, offers flexible scheduling, and requires minimal initial investment. It can be a physically demanding job, but it also provides an opportunity to earn extra income while staying active.

How to Get Started

1. Acquire Equipment: Invest in essential equipment such as lawnmowers, trimmers, rakes, shovels, and gardening tools. Consider purchasing used equipment initially to keep costs low.
2. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Insurance: Check with your local authorities to determine if any licenses or permits are required for operating a lawn care or gardening business. Consider obtaining liability insurance to protect yourself and your clients.
3. Market Your Services: Create a simple website or use online platforms like Craigslist, Nextdoor, or social media to advertise your services. Distribute flyers in your local community, and ask friends and family for referrals.
4. Set Competitive Rates: Research the going rates for lawn care and gardening services in your area and set competitive prices. Consider offering package deals or discounts for regular maintenance contracts.
5. Build a Client Base: Start by offering your services to friends, family, or neighbors. Provide excellent service and ask for referrals to expand your client base gradually.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for gardening and lawn maintenance can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the size of the properties you service. On average, lawn care professionals can earn between $15 to $35 per hour, with experienced professionals charging higher rates. As a college student, you can expect to earn $100 to $500 per week, depending on the number of clients and the services offered. 

19. YouTube Channel

Starting a YouTube channel involves creating and sharing video content on the YouTube platform. This side hustle is particularly suitable for college students because it allows them to express their creativity, share their knowledge or hobbies, and potentially earn money through various monetization strategies. It offers flexible hours and can be done from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easy to fit around a busy academic schedule.

How to Get Started

1. Find Your Passion: Choose a topic you are passionate about, whether it’s photography, gaming, fashion, cooking, or any other interest. This will make the content creation process more enjoyable and sustainable.
2. Create a Channel: Sign in with your Google account, click on your profile picture, and select “Your Channel.” Customize your channel name, description, and upload a profile picture and banner.
3. Plan Your Content: Brainstorm ideas for your videos. Consider creating tutorials, reviews, vlogs, or any other format that suits your niche. Consistency is key, so plan a content schedule.
4. Equip Yourself: Start with basic equipment like a smartphone with a good camera. As you grow, you can invest in better gear. Focus on creating quality content rather than having the best equipment initially.
5. Learn Video Editing: Use free resources and tutorials to learn video editing. Software like iMovie (for Mac) or Shotcut (for PC) are great for beginners.
6. Engage with Your Audience: Reply to comments, ask for feedback, and build a community around your channel. Engaging with viewers helps grow your channel and improve your content.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for a YouTube channel varies widely based on views, engagement, and monetization strategies. On average, YouTubers earn around $0.018 per view, which amounts to $18 for every 1,000 views. Successful YouTubers can earn money through ad revenue, sponsorships, merchandise sales, and fan funding. While it may take time to build a substantial income, consistent effort and quality content can lead to significant earnings. For example, moderately successful channels can earn a comfortable living, and top YouTubers can make tens of millions of dollars annually.

Learn more: How to Make Money on YouTube

20. Thrift Flipping

Thrift flipping involves buying secondhand items from thrift stores, garage sales, or online marketplaces and reselling them for a profit. This side hustle is suitable for college students because it requires minimal initial investment, offers flexible hours, and can be done alongside academic commitments. It also provides an opportunity to develop skills in negotiation, marketing, and entrepreneurship.

How to Get Started

1. Research and Learn: Understand the market and identify profitable niches. Learn how to spot valuable items and study prices to know what a good deal looks like.
2. Source Items: Visit thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces like eBay or Facebook Marketplace to find items to flip. Focus on items that are in good condition and have resale value.
3. Create Listings: Take high-quality photos of the items and write detailed descriptions. Use platforms like eBay, Depop, or Poshmark to list your items for sale.
4. Market Your Items: Use social media and online communities to promote your listings. Good marketing can significantly increase the chances of selling your items quickly.
5. Manage Sales and Shipping: Handle transactions and ensure timely shipping. Proper packaging is essential to avoid issues during transit.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for thrift flipping depends on the items you flip, your ability to spot good deals, and your marketing skills. On average, flippers can earn anywhere from $500 to $3,000 per month with consistent effort. Some experienced flippers can make six-figure incomes annually by scaling their operations and focusing on high-value items. The key to success in thrift flipping is to develop an eye for profitable deals and effectively market your items.

Final Words

Many side hustles offer the flexibility to work around a student’s class schedule. This allows students to balance their academic responsibilities with their work commitments more effectively.

You can also develop valuable skills that are beneficial for their future careers. For example, freelance writing can improve writing and communication skills, while tutoring can enhance teaching and interpersonal skills.

Some side hustles may even provide you with opportunities to build a professional network. As you interact with clients, peers, and professionals in various fields, you can open doors to future job opportunities and collaborations.

Anthony Smith

Anthony Smith is an internet entrepreneur. He created the Side Hustle Ideas Database to help people find side hustles for making extra money, with the potential of turning into a full-time income.

After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania with a business degree, he gained business experience at a consulting firm. At the same time, he tried various side hustles including freelance writing, blogging, and eCommerce. He managed to turn his side hustles into a full-time business, earning over $3 million. Now, he enjoys financial freedom and travels around the world as a digital nomad.