Looking for some online side hustle ideas? Your first thought might be Amazon. There are 9.5 million Amazon sellers globally, and on average, they make revenue of $26,000 to $810,000 annually with $300 billion in gross sales.
Why it matters
Starting an e-commerce store on Amazon is one of the easiest online side hustle ideas to start, as you can use the platform to research the best product to sell and find that product. Amazon can also store and deliver your products globally without you having to worry about logistics or storage. In essence, you can outsource almost everything without a big capital outlay.
The term for this type of e-commerce business is “Fulfillment by Amazon” (or, to use an acronym, FBA). And over the last ten years, it has become big business.
It is perhaps one of the best online side hustles to start.
In the news
Venture capitalists noticed the rise of the Amazon FBA e-commerce market segment (they always notice a money-making opportunity), and they started raising funds to buy and aggregate Amazon stores.
In 2018, Thrasio launched as an Amazon aggregator in New York and so far has raised over $3.4 billion in funding and has bought over 200 FBA stores. They are now the top Amazon aggregator.
Starting a revenue-producing business that helps pay for your holidays, contributes to the rent, and puts your kids through college is one thing… but the real payoff comes when you sell a business and realize a large capital payback.
So the good news?
It has never been a better time to start an online store, grow it and sell it for millions of dollars. And the aggregators are on the hunt for successful Amazon stores to acquire.
These are some of the numbers for acquisitions by aggregators:
- 47% of deals sell between $2 and $5 million.
- 24% of deals close for under six figures.
- 12% of deals sell for over $5 million.
Best Online Side Hustle Ideas and Opportunities for 2023
E-commerce is just one of many online side hustle ideas you could start. Here is a list of a few more to get you inspired.
1. Affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing is a performance-based side hustle where you earn a commission by promoting and selling products or services of other businesses. This is a suitable opportunity for individuals with a strong online presence, such as bloggers, influencers, or website owners.
As an affiliate marketer, you’ll create content that showcases the benefits of the products or services and includes affiliate links that direct potential customers to the merchant’s site. Building trust and providing valuable content to your audience is essential for success in this field.
There are special platforms such as Collaborator where people who want to monetize a website can meet trusted advertisers from different countries.
2. Blogging
Hugo Molinaro – Founder of SmartLinking
When it comes to side hustle ideas, blogging is another popular choice.
Blogging is a popular side hustle where individuals create and share written content on a specific topic or niche through an online platform. Bloggers can generate income through various means such as advertising, sponsored content, and affiliate marketing.
Platforms like WordPress and Blogger enable easy creation and management of blogs. To succeed, bloggers need strong writing skills, access to online writing tools, expertise in their chosen niche, and a commitment to producing engaging content consistently.
3. Dropshipping
Dropshipping is a popular business model that has been gaining momentum in recent years. It allows entrepreneurs to sell products online without the need to hold inventory. This means that you can run an e-commerce business from anywhere in the world, without the need for a warehouse or storage space.
DSers is a powerful dropshipping tool that simplifies the process of fulfilling orders. It connects your e-commerce store with multiple suppliers, allowing you to quickly process orders and ship them directly to your customers. With DSers, you can easily manage your inventory, track your sales, and monitor your profits in real-time.
4. Youtuber
YouTubers create and share video content on YouTube, covering a wide range of topics from entertainment to education. By attracting subscribers and views, they can earn revenue through YouTube’s Partner Program, which includes advertising, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
If YouTuber is on the top of your list of side hustle ideas, you’ll need creativity, video editing skills, and a consistent upload schedule to engage and grow an audience. Collaborations with other creators can also help expand reach and grow subscribers.
5. Start an online store on Dukaan
Launch an e-commerce store using the eCommerce website builders like Dukaan to sell products or services online. Customize the store’s appearance, manage inventory, and process orders seamlessly.
Success requires marketing efforts, customer service skills, and a clear understanding of your target audience.
5. Design logos for businesses
Create unique and eye-catching logos for businesses as a freelance designer. A strong logo can have a significant impact on a company’s branding and recognition. With millions of businesses worldwide, there’s a vast market for skilled logo designers.
Success requires strong design skills, creativity, and an impressive portfolio showcasing diverse work. Building a reputation for delivering high-quality designs that effectively capture a company’s identity can lead to a steady stream of clients and referrals.
Designing logos for businesses is a popular online side hustle that can be done using various AI logo generators. These tools provide templates and design elements to help create a professional-looking logo for clients.
To make money, one can offer logo design services on freelance marketplaces like Fiverr and Upwork, or reach out to small businesses directly and offer their services. It’s essential to have a strong portfolio to showcase previous work and attract potential clients.
6. Start online coaching
When it comes to side hustle ideas, online coaching is another popular choice. Online coaching provides an opportunity to share your expertise and guide individuals toward achieving their goals. This side hustle is perfect for those with a background in a specific domain, such as fitness, career, or personal development.
As an online coach, you’ll create customized plans, provide feedback, and motivate your clients through various digital platforms. Establishing a strong online presence and showcasing your expertise can help attract clients and grow your coaching business.
7. Online consulting
Online consultants offer specialized advice to clients in fields such as marketing or finance. They analyze client needs, provide tailored solutions, and implement strategies for success.
Building credibility through experience, certifications, and successful projects is crucial for this side hustle.
8. Instagram influencer
Instagram influencers build a following on the Instagram platform by sharing visually appealing and engaging content in a specific niche. They can monetize their audience through sponsored posts, brand partnerships, or affiliate marketing.
If being an Instagram influencer in on the top of your list of side hustle ideas, you’ll need to focus on creating high-quality content, engage with followers, and consistently post to maintain and grow your audience. Authenticity and a clear personal brand are also key factors in gaining and retaining followers.
9. TikTok influencer
TikTok influencers create and share short-form video content on the TikTok app, often featuring music, humor, or relatable content. By gaining followers and engagement, they can monetize their influence through sponsored content, brand collaborations, and affiliate marketing.
To succeed as a TikTok influencer, creating unique and engaging content that resonates with the audience is crucial. Consistency and adaptation to trends (as well as buying TikTok likes) can also help boost visibility and growth.
10. Sell your handmade crafts on Etsy
Selling handmade crafts, vintage items, digital products, or stickers on Etsy allows creators to reach a global audience interested in unique, high-quality items. This side hustle is ideal for artisans, designers, and creators.
To succeed on Etsy, sellers should focus on creating exceptional products, optimizing their listings with relevant keywords, and providing excellent customer service. Social media promotion and building a loyal customer base can also help drive sales.
11. Online tutoring for students
Online tutors provide academic support and guidance to students via digital platforms such as Zoom, and Skype, or specialized tutoring platforms like Wyzant and Tutor.com.
Leveraging their subject-matter expertise, tutors can help students improve their understanding and academic performance. To excel in this side hustle, tutors need excellent communication skills, patience, and the ability to adapt their teaching style to individual students’ needs.
12. Launch an online course
Developing and launching an online course is one of those side hustle ideas that allows experts to share their knowledge and skills with a wide audience. By creating engaging course material, including video lectures, quizzes, and assignments, instructors can generate passive income.
Course platforms like Teachable, Udemy, and Coursera facilitate course creation, hosting, and promotion. Success in this field requires in-depth knowledge, effective teaching methods, and ongoing engagement with students.
13. Podcasting
Podcasters create audio content on various topics, attracting listeners and generating income through sponsorships, advertising, or crowdfunding. Podcast hosting platforms like Anchor, Libsyn, or Podbean offer hosting and distribution services, making it easy for creators to reach a wide audience.
In addition to running your own podcast, it’s a viable strategy to reach out and book appearances on other people’s shows, provided you have an interesting story to tell.
Securing podcast interviews may seem daunting, but Farzad Rashidi of Respona has found a strategy that helps him book an interview every week.
To succeed in podcasting, individuals should focus on producing high-quality, engaging content and promoting their show on social media and podcast directories.
14. Social media manager
When you’re thinking of side hustle ideas, social media management might be a good choice. Social media managers help businesses and individuals maintain their online presence by creating and managing content across various platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
This side hustle can be pursued as a freelancer or by joining a digital marketing agency. Key skills include content creation, analytics, and understanding platform algorithms.
Social media managers should also stay updated on trends and best practices for each platform. Tools like Hootsuite, Buffer, and Sprout Social can help streamline content scheduling and management.
15. Translator services
Translators provide language services, converting written or spoken content from one language to another. This side hustle is ideal for those proficient in multiple languages. Opportunities can be found on platforms like ProZ and Gengo where clients seek translation services for various industries.
Success as a translator requires linguistic expertise, cultural understanding, and attention to detail. Specializing in a specific industry can help secure higher-paying projects.
16. Online fitness trainer
Online fitness trainers provide personalized workout plans, guidance, and motivation to clients via digital platforms such as Zoom or dedicated fitness apps. They create custom fitness programs and offer remote coaching, helping clients reach their health and fitness goals.
A successful online fitness trainer should have in-depth knowledge of exercise science, proper certifications, and strong communication skills.
Social media presence and client testimonials can help attract new clients and grow the business.
17. Freelancer
Freelancers offer their skills and expertise in various fields, such as writing, graphic design, or programming, on a project-by-project basis. This flexible side hustle allows individuals to work with multiple clients simultaneously.
To succeed as a freelancer, individuals should focus on building a strong portfolio, showcasing their skills, and consistently delivering high-quality work.
18. Sell your services on Fiverr
Selling services on Fiverr involves offering expertise in a specific area, such as graphic design, content creation, or digital marketing. Users create gigs, set pricing, and attract clients by showcasing their skills and previous work.
To excel on Fiverr, sellers should focus on building a strong reputation through positive reviews, timely delivery, and excellent communication. Offering niche services can also help set you apart from the competition.
19. Publish and sell an ebook
Publishing and selling ebooks allow writers to share their knowledge or stories with readers worldwide. Self-publishing platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, Apple Books, or Kobo Writing Life enable authors to earn royalties on their work.
To succeed in ebook publishing, writers should focus on creating high-quality, well-edited content, designing an eye-catching cover, and implementing effective marketing strategies to reach their target audience.
20. Create and sell an online course
Creating and selling an online course involves developing engaging educational material in a specific subject area and hosting it on a platform like EdisonOS, Teachable, Udemy, LearnWorlds, or Skillshare. These platforms allow creators to reach a broad audience and generate passive income from course sales.
To succeed, course creators should have in-depth knowledge of their subject, create high-quality instructional materials, and engage with their students to ensure satisfaction and encourage positive reviews.
21. Start a monthly newsletter
Create and share a monthly newsletter on a specific topic, building a subscriber base. Monetize through sponsorships, affiliate marketing, or premium content.
Platforms like Mailchimp and Substack make it easy to design, distribute, and manage newsletters. Focus on valuable content and audience engagement to succeed.
22. Launch a software as a service business (SaaS)
Launching a SaaS business involves identifying a market need, developing a user-friendly software solution, and offering it through a subscription model. Establish a pricing strategy, set up reliable hosting infrastructure, and create a comprehensive marketing plan.
Provide excellent customer support, continuously iterate your product, and scale your business as it grows. Success in the SaaS industry hinges on delivering value, staying competitive, and adapting to evolving customer needs.
23. Fill in online surveys
Earn extra income by participating in online surveys on platforms like Survey Junkie, Swagbucks, or Pinecone Research.
Complete surveys in exchange for cash, gift cards, or other rewards. This side hustle requires time, patience, and a willingness to provide honest feedback.
24. Freelance writer
Work as a freelance writer, creating content such as articles, blog posts, or copywriting for various clients.
Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Contently connect writers with clients seeking their services. Strong writing skills, a diverse portfolio, and effective time management are crucial for success.
25. Sell on eBay
Sell a variety of items on eBay, including new or used products, collectibles, or antiques. Research product demand set competitive prices, and provide excellent customer service to succeed in this competitive marketplace.
Utilize eBay’s tools for listing optimization and shipping management.
27. Sell stock photos online
Capture and sell high-quality stock photos on platforms like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, or Getty Images. Earn royalties for each download.
Success requires photography skills, an understanding of stock photo requirements, and a diverse, appealing portfolio.
When embarking on a journey to sell stock photos online, consider these five essential tips:
- Identify Your Niche and Target Market: Research high-demand image types and the preferences of potential clients to focus on a specific niche.
- Prioritize Image Quality and Technical Standards: Ensure your images have excellent resolution, lighting, and composition, and meet the technical requirements of stock photo agencies.
- Understand Legal Requirements and Obtain Necessary Permissions: Familiarize yourself with copyright laws, and obtain model and property releases when needed.
- Stay Updated on Market Trends and Adapt Accordingly: Keep up with the latest industry trends and preferences by following blogs, attending webinars, and participating in photography forums.
- Promote and Market Your Portfolio: Actively showcase your work on social media, blogs, and forums to engage with potential clients.
28. Teach English online
Teach English to non-native speakers using platforms like VIPKid, iTutorGroup, or Cambly. A TEFL certification or equivalent and strong communication skills are typically required.
Set your schedule and work remotely while making a difference in students’ lives.
29. Become a Beta Reader
Offer your services as a beta reader, providing feedback on unpublished manuscripts for authors. Help identify errors, inconsistencies, or areas for improvement before publication. Strong reading comprehension, attention to detail, and the ability to provide constructive criticism are essential skills.
30. Provide Facebook ads services
Specialize in managing and optimizing Facebook ad campaigns for businesses or individuals.
Requires in-depth knowledge of Facebook Ads Manager, targeting strategies, and ad creatives. Offer your services as a freelancer or join a digital marketing agency to gain clients and grow your side hustle.
31. Buy and sell domains
Invest in purchasing domain names with potential value and reselling them at a profit. Platforms like GoDaddy Auctions or Flippa can help you find and sell domains. Success requires research, foresight, and an understanding of market trends.
32. Sell your expertise as an SEO expert
To sell your expertise as an SEO expert, build a strong online presence by creating a professional website and social media profiles. Share your experience, skills, and results through case studies, blog posts, and social media updates.
Network with potential clients and industry professionals through online communities and events. Offer free consultations and demonstrate your value through audits and reports.
Continuously improves your skills and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in the industry.
33. Website developer
Develop websites for clients as a freelance developer. Use platforms like Freelancer, Upwork, or Toptal to find projects.
Success requires strong coding skills, knowledge of various programming languages, and an impressive portfolio.
34. Customer support
Provide remote customer support services for businesses via phone, email, or chat. Use platforms like TTEC or Liveops to find customer support opportunities. Requires strong communication skills, empathy, and problem-solving abilities.
35. Online nutrition expert
You can offer nutrition advice and guidance as an online nutrition expert. Use platforms like Healthie or Nutrium to connect with clients.
Success requires a strong background in nutrition, relevant certifications, and excellent communication skills.
36. Provide online research
Offer online research services to businesses or individuals, helping clients find information or gather data.
Use platforms like Wonder or Clickworker to find research opportunities. Success requires attention to detail, research skills, and the ability to summarize findings effectively.
37. Write CVs
Assist job seekers by crafting professional and impactful CVs. Use platforms like ResumeEdge or Fiverr to find clients.
Success requires excellent writing skills, knowledge of industry trends, and the ability to showcase clients’ strengths and achievements.
38. Sell your photos
Capture and sell high-quality photographs on stock photo platforms like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, or Getty Images. Earn royalties for each download.
To succeed with this side hustle idea, you’ll need photography skills, an understanding of stock photo requirements, and a diverse, appealing portfolio.
39. Online videographer
Create and edit video content for clients as a freelance videographer. Use platforms like Upwork or Freelancer to find projects. You’ll need video production skills in different software (like After Effects and Premiere Pro), editing expertise, and a strong portfolio showcasing diverse work.
40. Freelance designer
Offer design services as a freelancer, creating visuals for various projects, such as branding, marketing materials, or product designs.
Use platforms like 99designs, Dribbble, or Behance to find clients and showcase your work. Success requires design skills, creativity, and an impressive portfolio.
41. Create a video game
Develop your own video game, leveraging your creativity and technical skills to create an engaging experience for players. With the global video game market expected to reach over $200 billion by 2023, there’s plenty of potential for success.
Utilize platforms like Steam or itch.io for distribution and consider crowdfunding campaigns to support your project.
42. Design and build apps
Develop mobile apps for clients or your own ideas, using your programming skills and understanding of user experience.
With over 5 million apps available across Apple’s App Store and Google Play, there’s a large market to tap into. Research and identify market needs and trends to create innovative and useful apps that stand out.
43. Provide online legal advice
If you’re a qualified lawyer, you can offer online legal advice to clients, helping them navigate various legal issues such as GDPR compliance. With an increasing number of people seeking legal services online, there’s a growing demand for accessible and convenient legal support.
Leverage your legal expertise, excellent communication, and problem-solving skills to make a difference in people’s lives.
44. Write speeches
Craft speeches for clients such as politicians, business leaders, or event speakers, helping them effectively convey their message and engage their audience.
With strong writing skills and an understanding of rhetoric, you can create speeches that resonate with listeners. Tailor your writing to the speaker’s voice and consider their target audience when crafting the message.
45. Ghostwrite books
Write books on behalf of clients while allowing them to take credit as the author. This side hustle idea is ideal for talented writers who are adaptable and can work collaboratively with clients.
Ghostwriting can be a lucrative endeavor, with some ghostwriters earning six-figure incomes for their work on high-profile projects.
46. Create and sell NFTs
Design and sell digital art or collectibles as non-fungible tokens (NFTs), entering the rapidly growing market for blockchain-based digital assets.
With NFT sales surpassing $2 billion in Q1 2021, there’s significant potential for success.
Creativity, an understanding of blockchain technology, and effective marketing strategies are crucial in this space.
47. Daytrader
Buy and sell stocks, cryptocurrencies, or other financial instruments within a single trading day, aiming for short-term profits.
Day trading can be a high-risk endeavor, with some studies suggesting that over 90% of day traders lose money. Success in this field requires financial knowledge, research skills, risk management, and discipline.
48. Sell voice-over services
Offer voice-over services for various projects, such as commercials, explainer videos, or audiobooks. The global voice-over market is expected to reach $4.4 billion by 2026, indicating significant potential for growth.
A quality recording setup, strong vocal skills, and the ability to adapt to different styles are essential for success in this industry.
49. Edit podcasts
Provide podcast editing services, helping creators produce polished and professional audio content.
As the podcast industry continues to grow, with over 2 million podcasts and 48 million episodes available, the demand for skilled podcast editors is on the rise. Strong audio editing skills and attention to detail are essential for success in this field.
50. Create a membership community in your area of expertise
Establish a membership community around your area of expertise, offering exclusive content, resources, and networking opportunities. This can be an effective way to monetize your knowledge and build a dedicated following.
Success requires providing valuable content, engaging with your audience, and consistently growing your membership base.
51. Remote tech support
Remote tech support is another side hustle idea that offers a way to provide technical assistance for software, hardware, or other electronic devices over the Internet. This side hustle is suitable for individuals with a strong understanding of technology, problem-solving skills, and excellent communication.
As a remote tech support specialist, you’ll assist customers in troubleshooting issues, setting up devices, or resolving connectivity problems. This field is constantly growing as more companies adopt remote work and rely on technology.
52. Virtual Assistant
A virtual assistant (VA) is a remote professional who provides administrative, technical, or creative support to clients from various industries. As a VA, you’ll manage tasks such as scheduling appointments, handling emails, managing social media, and creating reports.
With the increasing demand for remote work, VAs are gaining popularity among entrepreneurs and small businesses. This side hustle is suitable for individuals with strong organizational and communication skills, along with the ability to multitask.
Wrapping it up
The list of side hustle ideas is extensive and the opportunities are endless. But the difference between success and failure?
Action.
Take action now and explore these online side hustle ideas to start earning more today!
Over to you.
This article was recently updated by a guest author: Piyush Shah is an affiliate marketer and SEO wizard who has contributed to major publications like Hubspot and G2 and heading SEO for Dukaan. With over $10M in affiliate sales for Amazon, he’s an e-commerce expert. In his free time, he’s also a talented ghost music producer for Bollywood, bringing his creativity and passion to the entertainment industry. Follow him on Twitter & Linkedin.