We all know it: earning extra cash has become more important than ever, with inflation squeezing everyone’s wallets. From rising grocery bills to ballooning utility costs, most households are feeling the pinch. The good news is that more people are exploring side gigs to supplement their income, and in 2024, the options for earning money on the side are more diverse than ever.
Why People Are Turning to Side Hustles
With inflation driving up the cost of living, many are looking for new ways to boost their income. According to recent statistics, 34% of Americans already have some form of side income. This trend is growing rapidly, and it’s not just out of necessity. Surprisingly, about 50% of people with side hustles do it for reasons other than financial pressure—they actually want to pursue personal passions and explore other opportunities.
But there’s no denying that inflation is a big part of the equation. Consumer prices have skyrocketed, forcing many families to rely on side gigs just to make ends meet. For some, this extra income is the key to staying afloat in an economic climate where salaries aren’t keeping pace with living expenses.
What’s remarkable is how accessible side hustles have become, even for those with limited time or resources. Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent, a retail worker, or anyone with a smartphone, opportunities are just a click away.
Inflation’s Impact: A Quick Snapshot
| Factor | Effect |
| Rising Consumer Prices | Increases household expenses by up to 8% |
| Inflation Rate | Averaging 4.1% in 2023 |
| Household Income Needs | Estimated 15 to 20 % more required to maintain same living standards |
In a world where nearly everything is going digital, it’s easier than ever for people from all walks of life to jump into the gig economy. Whether you’re interested in starting a blog, selling on Etsy, or investing in real estate, the options are endless.
Turning a Hobby Into a Full-Blown Business
Many people start side hustles based on hobbies, with the hope of scaling them into real businesses. And, yes, that leap is more common than you might think. Some of the most successful businesses today began as side projects.
For example, Yankee Candle, now a multimillion-dollar company, was started by a teenager who simply made a candle for his mother as a gift. Similarly, Slack, the communication tool used worldwide, started out as a side project by a team working on a gaming company.
Studies show that more than 70% of six-figure business owners started their journey with a simple side hustle.
Some experts estimate that those who dedicate around 12 hours per week to a side business make $1000+ per month, which can make a significant difference in covering monthly expenses or even lead to long-term financial independence.
| Notable Side Hustles Turned Big | Initial Format | Outcome |
| Yankee Candle | Homemade gifts | Multimillion-dollar company |
| Slack | Team communication tool for gaming company | One of the world’s top business apps |
| Etsy | Selling handmade items | Global marketplace |
Best Side Hustles to Start in 2024
Blogging and Affiliate Marketing
Starting a blog to make money is probably one of the easiest ways to get started with a side hustle.
With over 600 million blogs globally, blogging is not only a popular way to share expertise but also a lucrative opportunity for those who stick with it. Food, lifestyle, and travel blogs are among the highest earners, with the most successful bloggers making their money through Google AdSense, Mediavine, Adthrive, affiliate marketing, and—most importantly—by selling their own products or services.
The beauty of blogging lies in its flexibility. Whether you dedicate a few hours a week or treat it as a full-time gig, the potential rewards are immense. Those who scale their blogs and gain substantial traffic can leverage affiliate marketing links, sponsored content, and digital products to create passive income streams.
| Popular Blog Niches | Percentage of Blogs |
| Food | 40% |
| Lifestyle | 13% |
| Travel | 10% |
Real Estate Investments
Another side gig gaining traction in 2024 is real estate investment. Despite the initial capital required, more people are discovering that going in real estate—particularly through rental properties or house flipping—can generate a hefty side income. For those who can put in just 6 hours a week, the average annual income is almost $30k.
Real estate is a tried-and-true method for building wealth, and in today’s market, it remains a compelling option for those with the means to invest.
Home Repairs, Landscaping, and Pressure Washing
If you have practical skills, the demand for home repair, landscaping, and pressure washing services is booming. Homeowners are always looking for affordable, reliable contractors, and starting a business in this space can be surprisingly low-cost. The flexibility of this kind of side hustle is ideal for those who enjoy hands-on work and want to earn money on their own schedule.
Substitute Teaching
Lastly, substitute teaching is another excellent side hustle that offers flexibility and decent pay, especially for those who enjoy working with children or young adults. Substitute teachers are in high demand, particularly in urban and suburban areas, and this gig is ideal for anyone with a flexible schedule.
Final Thoughts: Exploring Side Income in 2024
While the reasons for starting a side hustle may vary—whether out of necessity, passion, or curiosity—the benefits are undeniable. Whether you’re earning an extra $100 or $1,000 a month, these side incomes can relieve financial stress, open doors to new opportunities, and potentially blossom into something far greater. With inflation showing no signs of slowing, there’s never been a better time to get creative, start a side gig, and unlock new income streams.
