The internet has made it easier to find side hustles than ever before. For some people, these opportunities can be a way to supplement income and explore flexible work options, depending on availability, effort, and eligibility.
Many side hustles today don’t require specialized training. Options like shopping, food delivery, data entry, or freelance services may be accessible to a wide range of people. While outcomes vary, online platforms can make it simpler to explore ways to earn extra income from home or on your own schedule.
Below are several popular platforms people often consider when looking for a side hustle.
Rover
Rover is a popular option for dog lovers. The platform connects pet owners with individuals who offer services like walking or caring for dogs. To get started, you create a profile outlining your experience and availability.
You can offer services such as:
- Dog walking
- Doggie daycare
- Doggie boarding
You choose your rates, schedule, and the types of dogs you’re comfortable working with. Rover charges a service fee that helps cover platform costs and marketing. Payments are typically processed after services are completed, though timing can vary.
Rover also advertises features such as customer support and certain protections, subject to program terms. To use Rover, you generally must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have availability that fits client needs
- Use the Rover app
- Pass a background check
Earnings vary widely based on location, demand, and time spent. Rover has stated that some part-time dog walkers report earning around $1,000 per month, though results are not guaranteed.
Instacart Shopper
If you enjoy grocery shopping, Instacart offers opportunities to shop for others. Instacart provides two main roles: in-store shopper and full-service shopper.
In-store shoppers pick items at a designated store but do not deliver orders. Full-service shoppers shop and deliver groceries to customers and typically need access to a vehicle.
General requirements to shop with Instacart may include:
- Being at least 18 years old
- Eligibility to work in the U.S.
- Regular access to a smartphone
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
Earnings depend on location, order volume, tips, and time worked. According to Glassdoor, reported earnings often range from about $10 to $17 per hour, though actual pay can be higher or lower.
DoorDash
With DoorDash, you work as an independent contractor delivering food from local restaurants. Dashers generally choose when and where they work, subject to availability and demand.
To get started, you typically need:
- To be at least 18 years old
- A car (or a bike/scooter in some cities)
- A smartphone
- To pass a background check
- To provide required identification
The DoorDash app shows estimated earnings for orders before you accept them, though final pay can vary based on distance, tips, and promotions. On average, dashers may earn a few dollars per delivery plus tips, but results depend on time, location, and activity level.
Airbnb Host
If you have extra space, you may consider renting it out through Airbnb. Hosts can list a room or property, set availability, and manage pricing.
General expectations for hosts include:
- Responding to messages in a timely manner
- Honoring availability shown on the calendar
- Avoiding cancellations
- Maintaining guest satisfaction
Hosts are responsible for managing listings, pricing, and guest communication. Airbnb charges service fees based on booking details and location.
According to Earnest, some hosts report earning an average of $924 per month, though income varies widely based on location, demand, seasonality, and property type.
Fiverr
If you have a skill you can offer online, you may be able to find freelance opportunities on Fiverr. The platform includes hundreds of categories, from creative services to technical and administrative tasks.
On Fiverr, you set your pricing, availability, and service terms. Fiverr charges a service fee—typically 20% of earnings—and manages payments between buyers and sellers. Payout timing depends on order completion and platform policies.
Getting started generally involves:
- Creating a profile
- Listing a service (“gig”)
- Setting pricing and delivery terms
Income on Fiverr varies significantly based on skill demand, pricing, reviews, and time invested. There is no guaranteed earning amount.
Side hustles don’t always require leaving home or committing to fixed hours. While earnings are not guaranteed and fees may apply, platforms like these can offer flexible ways to explore supplemental income opportunities based on your skills, time, and location.
