4 Side Gigs Earn Up To $30k Annual Income For Full-Time Workers

Forbes

12-05-2025

Side hustles are no longer optional in today's economy. Many American full-time workers need ... More lucrative side gigs like these to keep up with rising costs.
Gig jobs are not longer optional in today's tight economy. Amid the rise of financial uncertainty and inflation, more people are turning to flexible online work, including freelancing, e-commerce and AI-powered content creation to keep up with skyrocketing costs. One reason side gigs are becoming the new normal is that workers are tired of the stress and uncertainty in a job that could end at any moment. Side gigs give you the autonomy to be the captain of your own ship, instead of a passenger whose fate is determined by big business that might not have your best interests at heart.
Statistics show that 71% of Americans are searching for secondary income sources through side gigs. As prices soar and the new administration continues making cuts, the economy is tightening, and AI advances are causing massive layoffs. Here are five reasons you need a side gig in the 2025 job market: to increase your income, reduce financial stress, gain more opportunities, enjoy more flexibility and save time with job searches.
I spoke with Avery Morgan, CHRO at EduBirdie, and she told me that extra money isn't really extra anymore, that it's a necessity for many of today's workers. 'For many Americans, side hustles aren't optional in today's economy, they help them to keep up with rising costs, uncertainty, and evolving career priorities.'
Morgan cites statistics showing that nearly 39% of employed adults already earn extra income, and another 17% plan to join them soon. she points out that for 41% of workers, that extra cash already goes to make ends meet. 'And with Trump's tariffs projected to cost the average household $1,200 a year, according to the Peterson Institute for International Economics, low- and middle-income Americans could be hit much harder,' she asserts.
A new survey from the global online tutoring platform Superprof reveals a growing shift in how Americans are approaching side gigs. One in three survey respondents said they're willing to dedicate five-to–10 hours a week to online work. Respondents say the top five online money-making activities they're involved in are taking online surveys, online investing, freelancing, selling on e-commerce platforms and testing websites and apps. You can find more high-paying side hustles, requiring no experience here.
Morgan argues that, if you think side hustles aren't worth it, you're wrong. She notes that in 2024, the average gig job brought in $891 per month (that's over $10K per year), with nearly 19% of people earning over $1,000. The best part, she underscores, is that many of the side gigs can fit into your schedule without overwhelming your day job. She lists four lucrative side gigs that can earn top dollar:
'Good writing skills are still in demand, no matter what they say about AI,' Morgan insists. 'The ability to break down complex ideas and make engaging, thoughtful content can easily turn into a lucrative side hustle.' She points out that many coaches, executives or creatives are looking for someone to help them with their writing, such as LinkedIn posts, podcast scripts or online course modules.
She emphasizes that they need this assistance on a regular basis, willing to pay about $500-$2500 per month. 'You don't need many clients to get started,' Morgan notes. 'Just offer your services to people you know, or email someone directly on LinkedIn. If you have strong writing skills, it's a great way to earn extra income remotely. Plus, you'll get to learn from industry pros and build valuable connections.'
Morgan points out that an empty garage, parking space, shed or even your backyard can all be turned into extra income. 'On platforms like Neighbor, Spacer or Peerspace, it's simple: take a couple of photos, list a price and place an ad. A garage or shed can be rented out to store other people's stuff, it can bring $50 to $300 a month. And your backyard can get you $100-$1000 per booking, if you host photo shoots or small events. Another option is to rent out things you have lying around, such as power tools, marquees, barbecues, sports gear or musical instruments. Altogether, it can bring from $500 to $2000 per month.'
'If you like plants, try growing simple succulents or cacti at home. They are unpretentious and do not require much care,' Morgan recommends. 'After one to two months, you will have accumulated mature plants you can use to make sets like 'a gift for a colleague' or 'greenery on the desktop.' She suggests selling them on sites like Etsy, eBay, or Amazon Handmade. 'It takes about $50 for pots, soil, and the first plants to get started," she explains. 'From there, all you need is a little time for plant care and sorting out the delivery. Selling three to five kits a week at $20 to $40, you can make $300 to $1,000 a month doing this in your free time.'
Morgan mentions that you can earn money simply by sharing your opinions on buying goods, services you use or just your experience. 'These sessions are held online, often via video and typically take 30 minutes to an hour,' she explains. 'You can get $50 to $250 per participation.' She recommends that you try sites like User Interviews, Respondent.io and Prolific, which target working professionals, parents or niche audiences. 'To get started, just sign up, fill out your profile and respond to offers,' she advises. 'Even if you only participate in 2-3 surveys a month, that's already $200-300.'
SideHustles.com advises employers and job seekers to prepare for a potential hiring surge starting this month. May is the peak month for people to quit their jobs, with 27% of resignations each year happening during the month of May. If you're tight for income, side gigs can help you get ahead and stay on your feet in this fast-changing, uncertain economy.