15 Most Profitable Online Side Hustles You Need To Start in 2024
In today’s digital world, the general work landscape has been constantly evolving towards remote work. Many are now seeking online side hustles to keep up.
No thanks to the “big hit” on the world economy by the recent global pandemic.
The concept of a virtual side hustle is simply pursuing a side gig alongside your full-time job with the intention of making extra income in your spare time.
Working virtually is a great online venture because you can offer a wide range of services or sell all kinds of digital products within the comfort of your home.
The benefit of digital side hustles lies mainly in their flexibility and accessibility.
This means, there are numerous jobs you can do online to earn passive income without you being employed under an organization full-time. Also, online side hustles only take a few hours to complete with little to no investments.
Due to the tough economic situation across the world, nearly everyone now needs a side hustle to help pay recurrent bills. Let’s even put that aside, wouldn’t you be happy to make a few extra dollars from virtual side hustles?
The obvious answer is – Yes. This is why I have written this blog post to show you the best online side hustles in 2024 you can explore to make money.
With the increasing demand for online work opportunities, finding yourself the perfect virtual side hustle is a smart move in your bid to increase your income.
Alright, here are the top 15 best online side hustles in 2024:
- Freelance Writing
- Virtual Assistant
- Graphic Design
- Social Media Management
- Online Tutoring
- Affiliate Marketing
- App Development
- Digital Marketing
- Content Creation
- SEO Consulting
- Stock Photography
- eBook Publishing
- Remote Consulting
- Web Design
- Virtual Event Planning
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I will receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link. Please see my disclosure for more details.
The Best Online Side Hustles in 2024
1. Freelance Writer
Freelance writing is a great way of making money online if you’re willing to put in the work. Maybe you love writing articles for blogs? Or enjoy crafting unique copies for e-commerce brands? Maybe you just prefer writing e-books?
Whatever it is you’re good at in the writing niche, you can offer your services as a freelance writer on freelance platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.
You can find numerous writing gigs on these freelance platforms and get paid for your services as they are some of the world’s largest freelance marketplace.
To get started with freelance writing, here are tips to follow:
- Identify your writing niche
- Choose your preferred freelance platform
- Register your account to sell your writing services
- Create writing gigs or bid for writing projects
- Execute the jobs offered and get paid
There are several niches you can explore such as content writing, article writing, copywriting, technical writing, ghostwriting, and so on. Just ensure you give your best in delivering quality and the money you can make from it is endless.
2. Virtual Assistant
If you have basic organizational skills and you’re quite fluent in how you speak, then chances are you could make some money working as a virtual assistant.
You don’t need a degree to offer your services in this virtual side hustle niche.
As a virtual assistant, you can work remotely by assisting people with various administrative tasks. All you need is access to a mobile phone or computer.
It is an important side hustle for anyone looking to work from home.
Some of the skills required to work as a virtual assistant include;
- Writing
- Data Entry
- Designing
- Telemarketing
- Email Management
- Proofreading & Editing
- Social Media Marketing
Once you’ve gathered some experience as a virtual assistant, you can build a successful virtual assistant business. However, to achieve this, you must learn new skills using tools like Google Docs, Microsoft Excel, Canva, Zoom, etc.
3. Graphic Designer
The demand for graphic designers is high because many businesses are moving digital. If you have a knack for designing logos, flyers, business cards, invitation cards, or even brochures, this might be the perfect side hustle for you.
It is no surprise that graphic design services are in high demand in virtually every industry. Graphic designers can create logos for brands, design websites for business owners, and create other forms of graphics for diverse clients.
To get started, you need design tools and resources such as;
- Wix
- Canva
- Sketch
- Figma
- Behance
- Squarespace
- Adobe Photoshop
- Adobe Illustrator
Graphic design is quite competitive and challenging, so you must develop your creative skills with these tools if you want to earn money consistently.
You can market your graphic design skills on design-focused websites and freelance platforms. This will help you meet the right clients.
4. Social Media Manager
A great way to earn passive income virtually is via social media management.
As you already know, spending time on social media has become a crucial part of our daily lives. In that case, why not make money while you’re at it?
Nothing is more satisfying than making money while doing the things you enjoy.
So, you can offer your services online as a social media manager. This involves creating high-quality content that appeals to your target audience and engaging with your followers by interacting with them and responding to their comments.
As a social media manager, exploring social media platforms like TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram is a great way of making money online at this time.
To attract the right clients who are willing to hire you, you should build a large following which will help in promoting your services as an online influencer.
5. Online Tutor
Do you love to teach? Not necessarily in classrooms but sharing your knowledge online. I am happy to inform you that online tutoring is one of the best virtual side hustles you can engage in. This has massively grown in popularity lately.
This is due to a vast number of people embracing online learning.
Whether you’re a programmer willing to teach people how to code, or a science enthusiast looking to share their knowledge of scientific principles – the fun part is – there’s an enthusiastic audience of learners eager to learn from you.
Suitable subjects for online tutoring include Mathematics, English, Programming, Science, Fine Arts, and Information Technology. The list is endless.
You can set up virtual tutoring sessions on platforms like;
- Preply
- Code Mentor
- Teach Away
- Chegg Study
These platforms will connect you to students worldwide while offering you payment on an hourly basis. It’s a great way to earn passive income.
6. Affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing is one of the most popular online side hustles in 2024 for earning passive income.
Are you a content creator? Podcaster? Or an Influencer? You can start earning money by incorporating affiliate marketing programs into your art.
The concept of affiliate marketing involves promoting/advertising brands and businesses through affiliate links. So, whenever a website visitor clicks the link and makes a purchase, you earn a commission on the sales.
In order to excel in this niche, you have to leverage SEO techniques and incorporate them into your affiliate marketing programs. The more visible your content becomes, the more potential customers you will attract.
Considering how competitive affiliate marketing is, you must identify your niche of interest and start creating content that will keep up with the emerging trends.
7. Start an Etsy Shop
Starting an Etsy shop is not on the forefront of people’s minds when they hear about online side hustles. But dang, I have to be honest… ya’ll are missing out!
I’ve got some insider tips that could change your financial game in 2024. Are you looking to crush those student loans, save up for a dream wedding, or just want some extra cash in your pocket?
Well, listen up, because starting your very own Etsy shop might just be the answer to making side hustle money in 2024.
As an Etsy owner of several shops, I started a shop last month and already have 50+ sales. Just think for a minute. If you put in the work, let’s say 5 hours each week dedicated to your shop, you could make an extra $100+ per month.
In today’s digital age, people are all about digital products, personalized stuff, and that’s exactly where you can shine. There are so many digital niches out there that you can choose that you don’t have to sell physical products.
And the best part? You can do this on your own terms. Keep that 9-to-5 job and still set up shop on Etsy. You choose when to list your items, set the prices, and manage your inventory – it’s all in your hands.
Etsy can be the side gig that lights up your finances and your life in 2024. It’s not just about making money; it’s about doing what you love and getting paid for it. So, why wait? Start your Etsy shop and let it be the path to your financial freedom and creative journey.
If you’re ready to get started with your Etsy shop, I highly recommend reading this guide which shows you exactly how to start an Etsy shop from scratch.
8. Digital Marketing
With a constant increase in the number of online businesses, there’s always a need for digital marketing services. If you fancy rendering digital marketing services, then there’s no limit to how much you can earn on the side.
The various aspects of digital marketing include:
- Email Marketing
- Online Advertising
- Content Marketing
- Affiliate Marketing
- Social Media Marketing
- Search Engine Optimization
Digital marketing is fast becoming a vital component of a company’s overall marketing strategy. This is because it helps them tailor their marketing promotions directly to people who are likely to be interested in what they offer.
For digital marketing success, you need strong communication skills and a good understanding of basic marketing principles.
You can freelance in the digital marketing field by offering your services on freelance platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and Freelancer.
9. Content Creation
Content creation is growing more people each year due to the emergence of numerous social media platforms. With a quality microphone and digital camera, you can start creating content as a side hustle. Isn’t that interesting?
The beauty of content creation lies in its medium diversity. You can delve into;
- Social media outlets like Tik-Tok or IG reels
- Podcasting
- Vlogging
- Skit Making
Whatever content creation medium you choose to explore, it’s important to build an online presence by creating a social media account and engaging with your audience. You can even jump on the latest trends for more visibility.
As your following grows bigger, you can start offering paid subscriptions.
Overall, you will make a lot of money if you choose content creation as your side hustle. Start by creating content that resonates with your target audience on platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram then get paid through views.
10. SEO Consulting
Who is an SEO Consultant? I believe that is a question you’re willing to ask.
An SEO consultant helps businesses improve their website’s ranking in search engine results. Considering the high demand for search engine optimization of content and websites, this is one of the best virtual side hustles to explore.
The importance of SEO consulting can not be overemphasized as it helps businesses reach potential clients while remaining competitive in their niche.
It increases organic traffic without paid ads and helps businesses generate leads.
Some of the best SEO tools to use are Google Analytics and Google Trends.
You can find clients in need of SEO services on freelance platforms.
11. Drop-shipping
You may have heard of drop-shipping during the pandemic, when it was a huge trend and way of making extra money. Many people may think that drop-shipping has died, but the trend of drop-shipping continues to grow rapidly within the past 5 years.
First off, it’s got a low barrier to entry. You don’t need a massive investment to get started. No need to worry about stocking piles of inventory or renting warehouse space.
Instead, you select and market products from suppliers, and they handle the nitty-gritty like storage and shipping.
Plus, it’s a side hustle that works seamlessly with your schedule. Got a day job or college classes? No problem. You can run your dropshipping business during your free time. It’s all about flexibility and adaptability, which is key for full-time employers or busy college students who are juggling various responsibilities.
And here’s the kicker – e-commerce is booming! With more and more people shopping online, there’s a vast market out there waiting to buy your products.
With some hustle, research, and strategic marketing, you can tap into this demand and create a profitable business. So, if you’re determined to up your income, have a taste of entrepreneurship, and want the freedom to work on your own terms, give dropshipping a shot in 2024.
12. Blogging
If you’re looking for a lucrative side hustle, then blogging is in your ball court. Clearly, studies have shown that blogging as a side hustle will not slow down anytime soon.
Blogging, by all means, is not a quick game. It may take 1-2 years to gain traction and start to see growth. If everyone could make money quickly by blogging, then they would definitely jump into it.
But those who are patient and stick to blogging consistently are the ones who see the most growth and success.
If you start off strong and keep at it, your blogging income could well be in the range of making 3-5 figures a month.
I have another blog that’s 2 years old, and it wasn’t until four months ago, when I got serious about it. That’s when I really saw traffic and income kick in.
I plan to make affiliate marketing/blogging income reports to share my blogging journey with you and show you how you can make money, too!
13. Remote Consulting
Remote consulting is a lucrative virtual side hustle. There are numerous benefits of offering consulting services online that go beyond just earning money.
You can help a business grow its online business and customer base.
With so much on the plate of business owners, they are constantly looking to hire consultants to manage an aspect of their business.
This helps improve efficiency, saves costs, and increases productivity while helping a business gain a competitive edge.
It is important to find your niche in the consulting industry if you want to excel.
Some popular consulting niches you can explore include;
- Financial Consulting
- Strategy Consulting
- Technology Consulting
- Management Consulting
- Human Resource Consulting
If you decide to start remote consulting, you should market your consulting business through referrals, event hosting, advertising, email marketing, and social media marketing. Do this and thank me later
14. Online Coaching
First off, the online coaching game is booming, and it’s not slowing down any time soon.
In a world that’s increasingly turning to the internet for education and guidance, people are hungry for mentors and experts who can help them level up.
Whether you’re a fitness guru, a career expert, or a life coach, there’s an audience out there eager to learn from you.
And the best part? You don’t need a ton of capital to kickstart your coaching journey.
All you really need is your expertise, a computer, and an internet connection. No need to invest in a physical location or expensive equipment. You set your own schedule, too, so it’s super flexible – perfect for us young adults who are often juggling multiple responsibilities.
In 2024, as more individuals seek personal development and growth, online coaching is not just profitable, it’s incredibly fulfilling. You’re not just making money; you’re making a positive impact on people’s lives.
So, if you’ve got a service or skill to share, there’s never been a better time to dive into the world of online coaching. Your financial goals and the chance to inspire and empower others are right at your fingertips. Go for it!
15. Sell Digital Products
The digital products market is exploding, with more people craving digital solutions and content for their needs.
In an age where everyone’s online, there’s a massive market waiting for your products. And the best part? You create it once, and you can sell it again and again. It’s like making money in your sleep!
Moreover, the flexibility is second to none. You can sell your digital products on various platforms, set your prices, and market your items to your potential audience.
It fits into your life, whether you’re working a 9-to-5 job or pursuing other passions.
In 2024, it’s not just a side hustle. It’s a way to build serious extra money in your income. So, if you’re determined to level up your finances and share your expertise, selling digital products is the way to go.
Final thoughts
Virtual side hustles are a great way of making money online while exploring potential business ideas with little investment and no time constraints.
As mentioned in this article, the top 15 side hustles have one thing in common, that is, having the freedom of rendering the services remotely.
Due to the numerous side hustle opportunities available online, there’s a chance you’ll find the perfect one for you. So, make sure you explore these opportunities based on your skills and personal interests.
The potential for earning passive income with virtual side hustles is massive. This is because you can offer most of the services online where you can reach a wide range of audience. The bigger the audience, the better your earning capabilities.
Don’t lose money when you can make money with these online side hustles in 2024.
Kindly share your thoughts in the comment section and keep your ears down for future updates on more side hustle tips. I hope this article will help you greatly.
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This post is all about online side hustles in 2024.
