Ready to make 2024 the year your side hustle finally pays for your coffee addiction—and maybe even your rent? This year’s side hustle scene is wilder than ever, with opportunities that range from glamping (think camping, but with Wi-Fi and way fewer bugs) to the mystical land of blockchain (where even your cat can become an NFT). Whether you’re a tech wizard, a freelance ninja, or just someone who really likes the idea of getting paid to hang out in the woods, we’ve got the inside scoop. We’ve gathered the experts who know their stuff—and they’re here to help you turn your spare time into spare cash, with a side of laughs. So grab your best brainstorming hat and get ready to dive into the quirkiest, most profitable side hustles of 2024!
Crypto Currency as a side Hustle
“One of the most promising side hustles in 2024 is creating and selling digital products, like online courses or downloadable templates. With the e-learning industry projected to grow to $374.3 billion by 2026, there’s a huge market for valuable, niche content. Another emerging trend is blockchain-related gigs, such as becoming a decentralized finance (DeFi) consultant or creating NFTs. The demand for expertise in these areas is rising as more businesses explore blockchain technology.”
–Burak Özdemir Founder of Character Calculator
Making Extra Money in 2024/ Gig Economy
“Many people are leveraging ride sharing apps like Uber and Lyft and freelancing apps such as Fiverr and Upwork to source jobs in their spare time. While this isn’t strictly passive income, it does allow workers to pick up extra income during otherwise idle time. For example, many rideshare driver’s pickup rides during their own commute to the office, allowing them to earn income during otherwise idle time. Other professionals, like graphic artists and accountants, may moonlight on nights and weekends using freelancing sites to earn extra cash, while holding down a steady 9-5 job.”
-Josh Jones, Kapitus COO
Online collectables and virtual assets
“So in 2024, I have noted that online collectables and virtual properties are becoming some of the best side hustles to get into. With the growth of the metaverse, the opportunities available to purchase or sell virtual land or other digital commodities are enormous. I have seen potential in this market by buying different kinds of collectables and participating on websites such as OpenSea and Decentraland. This niche is the same in that one has to be vigilant about the current developments in the digital world and tap into the lucrative market of virtual commodities, which can be digital art or other collections.”
-David Li
Freelance Writers
“Popular choices like freelance writing and ride-sharing remain strong, but emerging trends such as AI-driven content creation and blockchain consulting are rapidly growing. Starting out often requires minimal investment, but mastering skills like coding, marketing, or blockchain analysis will elevate your potential earnings.
Success stories abound—one freelancer turned AI task manager saw a 50% income boost within a year. Yet, challenges like market saturation and time management can’t be ignored. For instance, gig workers may face financial instability, so diversification is key. The real secret? Take risks early, but always have a fallback plan for security.”
-Renante Altar Project Manager at creloaded.org/
Virtual Assistant
“First off, virtual assistance is a hot gig right now. With more people working remotely, businesses are looking for help with email management, calendar organization, and data entry. And the best part? You can do it all from the comfort of your own home! Or, if social media is your thing, why not offer social media management services to small businesses? You can help them shine online and get paid for it!
And if you’re a total brainiac, online tutoring is a great way to share your knowledge and get paid for it. Plus, it’s super flexible, so you can do it on your own schedule.”
AI Side Hustles: Is this the new gig economy?
“As the founder of an AI startup, I can offer some intriguing insights into the evolving landscape of side hustles in 2024. The gig economy is an ever-expanding ecosystem. Traditional side hustles like freelance writing or ride-sharing continue to thrive, but we’re also witnessing a surge in technology-driven gigs, like AI development and blockchain consultancy, that are reshaping this space.
To get started, the key is to match your current skills with market demand. For tech-savvy individuals, AI-based tasks such as developing machine learning models or creating chatbots is great. These roles not only require technical skills but also a curiosity-driven mindset to stay ahead of technological advancements. For those exploring emerging fields, a minimal investment in online courses can significantly boost your expertise and confidence.”
Affiliate Marketing
“Affiliate marketing will be among the top side gigs in 2024 for earning additional cash. I got into it since it can be quite profitable and is really easy to get started. In essence, you market goods or services online and get paid a commission when a customer makes a purchase using your unique link. It’s great that you can share products you enjoy rather than having to make your own.
For instance, I get compensated when people join up using my link to promote software applications that I find useful. It is also inexpensive and flexible enough to be done in addition to your day job. Plus, affiliate marketing will continue to expand as more people purchase online.”
-Ashwin Ramesh of synuphq.com
Freelance Design
“Freelance design is going to be the finest side gigs in 2024 for earning additional cash. I started doing it because it’s a fun way to get additional money and I love being creative. You may make logos, websites, social media graphics, and even unique artwork for customers as a freelance designer.
The ability to work from any location and select your own assignments is fantastic. Because every business requires eye-catching images to stand out online, there is a growing need for designers. Through social networking or websites like Fiverr or Upwork, you may locate clients. Additionally, as you get more experience, you’ll be able to charge more and compile a portfolio that highlights your abilities. Using freelance design, you may make your ideas a reality.”
-Rasa Urbonaite of breezitteam.com
Online Teaching
“Online teaching is a profitable side gig in 2024. I went into it because I like teaching others and it’s a terrific opportunity to work from home and make money. You may educate students all around the world in disciplines you’re skilled at, like math, physics, or even languages, by using online tutoring.
It’s quite flexible; you may work as much or as little as you like and set your own hours. Tutors are in high demand because so many students want extra assistance, particularly as online learning gains popularity. You only need a computer and a reliable internet connection; you don’t need any more sophisticated gear. It’s a fulfilling method to impart your expertise and earn additional money at the same time.”
-Ashley Connell of lease-extensions.team
User Generated Content (USG)
“UGC creation is gaining momentum as brands seek more authentic and relatable content to connect with their audiences. It’s a flexible and scalable side hustle that allowed me to leverage my passion and skills in video production, storytelling and social media management.
Getting Started: I created short (30-60 seconds) dynamic videos to promote products I already had at home and loved, or apps I used the most, and once my UGC portfolio with a few examples was up, I literally started pitching brands from my personal Instagram profile. I only started dedicated social accounts after 5 months. You obviously will need to be comfortable talking to the camera, and have a good understanding of content trends, basic video editing skills, but no expensive equipment. I just film with my iphone and try to have the best natural light.”
-Ludovica Mascaretti of https://ugcwithludo.com/
Glamping as a side hustle
“Freelance consulting on eco-friendly glamping and hospitality is a growing opportunity. With over a decade of experience designing luxury tents and modular accommodations, I can help companies implement sustainable practices and improve the guest experience. The time commitment is 10-15 hours/week, and earnings potential is $3,000-5,000/month. For example, I helped an trip resort in Mexico integrate solar power and repurposed materials, cutting costs 20% while boosting occupancy 30%.”
-Shawn Shi of Glamping Hotel
Tech as a Side Hustle
“For 2024, typical side hustles like freelance writing and ride-sharing are still strong choices. Yet, the real buzz is around tech-driven opportunities. Blockchain gigs, especially in smart contract development, offer lucrative prospects with a bit of tech know-how.
Similarly, AI-based tasks such as dataset cleaning or creating training models are hot, tapping into the AI surge without needing deep expertise. Starting these requires minimal investment—mostly your time and willingness to learn new technologies. For traditional hustles, basic skills and a vehicle or laptop are enough. Both routes promise flexibility, but the tech-oriented hustles carry a future-proof appeal.”
-Hanzel Talorete
As 2024 unfolds, it’s clear that the side hustle game is stronger (and funnier) than ever. Whether you’re setting up luxury tents in the woods, navigating the blockchain like a digital Indiana Jones, coding your way to tech stardom, or freelancing from your couch in pajamas, the opportunities are endless—and, let’s be honest, pretty entertaining. The experts have spoken, and now it’s your turn to take their advice and run with it. Who knows? By this time next year, you might be the one dishing out the advice in our next expert roundup. So go ahead, dive into your chosen side hustle, have some fun, and watch as your bank account grows right alongside your sense of adventure!