TL;DR: Side Hustles for Teens
Teens have lots of options for side hustles, from tutoring and selling crafts online to pet sitting and social media managing. With a bit of creativity, teens can find ways to make extra money while still balancing school and other activities. Here’s a look at the best side hustles for teens.
Why Start a Side Hustle as a Teen?
Starting a side hustle as a teenager is a great way to earn money, learn new skills, and gain independence. Many side hustles are flexible and don’t require much experience, making them ideal for teens. Whether you’re saving up for something special or just want extra spending money, here are some ideas to get started.
1. Tutoring Other Students
If you excel in a particular subject, tutoring can be a great way to earn money. You can tutor younger students or even peers who need help with math, science, language arts, or any subject you’re comfortable with.
- How to Start: Offer your services to family friends or local schools, or sign up on platforms like Tutorful.
- Potential Earnings: £10–£20 per hour, depending on the subject and level.
2. Selling Crafts or Art Online
If you’re creative, consider selling crafts, jewelry, or artwork online. You can sell items on platforms like Etsy or at local craft fairs. Handmade items like bracelets, prints, or stickers are especially popular.
- How to Start: Create a small inventory of items and set up an Etsy shop or use Instagram to promote your products.
- Potential Earnings: Varies widely, but many teens make £50–£200 a month or more.
3. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
Pet sitting and dog walking are fun ways to earn money if you love animals. Many pet owners are looking for reliable people to take care of their pets, especially on weekends or during vacations.
- How to Start: Offer your services to neighbors, friends, or family, or join a pet-sitting platform like Rover (if age restrictions allow).
- Potential Earnings: £10–£15 per walk or £20–£50 per day for pet sitting.
4. Babysitting
Babysitting is a classic side hustle for teens and is often well-paid. Many parents need babysitters in the evenings or on weekends, making it easy to fit around your schedule.
- How to Start: Ask family friends or neighbors if they need babysitters, or consider getting certified through a babysitting course.
- Potential Earnings: £10–£15 per hour, depending on experience and location.
5. Social Media Management
If you’re good with social media, some small businesses might hire you to help manage their accounts. Teens are often more familiar with trends on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter, making this a great side hustle.
- How to Start: Reach out to local businesses or promote your services online.
- Potential Earnings: £10–£25 per hour or project-based rates.
6. Yard Work or Gardening
Helping with yard work or gardening can be a great way to earn money, especially during spring and summer. Many homeowners are happy to pay for assistance with tasks like mowing the lawn, weeding, or planting flowers.
- How to Start: Offer your services to neighbors or post on community boards.
- Potential Earnings: £10–£20 per hour or per task.
7. Completing Online Surveys or Market Research
While it won’t make you rich, taking online surveys is an easy way to earn some cash. Many companies pay teens to participate in surveys or test websites, and it’s something you can do from home in your free time.
- How to Start: Sign up for survey sites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, or Prolific (check age requirements first).
- Potential Earnings: £5–£10 per hour.
8. Selling Secondhand Items
Selling secondhand clothes, books, or electronics can be a profitable side hustle, especially if you have items you no longer need. You can sell online or host a local garage sale.
- How to Start: Use apps like Depop or Vinted to sell clothes, or Facebook Marketplace for other items.
- Potential Earnings: Earnings vary widely based on the items you sell.
Tips for Teens Starting a Side Hustle
- Manage Your Time: Make sure you balance your side hustle with school, family, and other responsibilities. Set aside specific times for work so it doesn’t interfere with homework or extracurriculars.
- Start Small: Begin with one or two clients or a small amount of stock if you’re selling items. This will help you learn and grow without feeling overwhelmed.
- Use Parental Permission: For any side hustle that involves online work, parental permission is essential. Some platforms have age restrictions or need an adult’s approval.
- Keep Track of Your Earnings: Keeping a simple record of your earnings and expenses will help you see how much you’re making and let you know if your side hustle is worth the time and effort.
Final Thoughts: Side Hustles for Teens
Side hustles are a fantastic way for teens to make extra money, gain real-world experience, and build new skills. From tutoring and pet sitting to selling art or secondhand items, there are plenty of options that don’t require tons of experience or startup money. Choose something you enjoy, stay organized, and have fun while you earn!
