Some Best Side Hustles for Teens in 2024: Make Money While You Study with these 15 choices!

Introduction

Starting a side hustle as a teen in 2024 is one of the best ways to earn extra money while learning valuable life skills. Not only can side hustles help you save up for things you want, but they also build experience that can be helpful in future careers. From learning to manage your time better to developing skills in areas like writing, marketing, or graphic design, side hustles can offer more than just a paycheck—they offer real-world experience.

But where should you start? In this article, we’ll dive into some of the best side hustles for teens in 2024. Whether you’re interested in working online or in your local community, we’ve got ideas for everyone. Let’s explore how you can make money while you study and stay on top of your schoolwork.

Why Teens Should Consider Side Hustles

Teens today have an incredible opportunity to start earning money early while building skills that will serve them for a lifetime. Here’s why side hustles are so valuable for teens:

1. Real-World Experience

• Skill Development: Side hustles expose teens to new skills like customer service, communication, and problem-solving that aren’t typically learned in school.
• Work Ethics and Discipline: By handling responsibilities outside of school, teens learn the value of punctuality, responsibility, and self-motivation.

2. Time Management

• Juggling Multiple Responsibilities: Balancing a job with schoolwork teaches teens how to prioritize tasks and manage their time effectively. This can help them later in life when they have to balance work, personal life, and other commitments.
• Creating Structured Schedules: Teens learn how to set time aside for both work and personal life, fostering healthier work-life balance habits.

3. Financial Independence

• Learning to Budget and Save: Earning their own money allows teens to learn about budgeting, saving, and spending wisely. They gain a sense of financial responsibility and learn the value of money.
• Saving for Big Goals: Whether it’s saving for college, buying a car, or funding personal hobbies, having an income gives teens a sense of control over their goals.

4. Career Exploration

• Testing Interests: Side hustles let teens try different jobs and industries to find what interests them, giving them a clearer idea of what career paths they might want to pursue in the future.
• Building a Resume Early: Experience in any job or side hustle can be valuable on a resume or college application, showing initiative, skills, and real-world experience.

Tips for Balancing Side Hustles with Schoolwork

Balancing school and work can be challenging, but with the right approach, teens can manage both successfully. The following advice will help you maintain equilibrium:

1. Set Priorities

• School Comes First: It’s essential to remember that schoolwork should take priority over any side hustle. This means that if an assignment or test is coming up, teens should be prepared to put extra hours into studying rather than work.
• Goal Setting: Set specific, realistic goals for both academics and side hustles. For example, aim for a certain GPA each semester or to earn a set amount of income each month.

2. Create a Schedule

• Use a Planner or App: Digital tools like Google Calendar or Trello can help keep track of assignments, due dates, and work hours. Scheduling blocks of time for studying and work can make it easier to stick to a routine.
• Allocate Break Times: Having downtime between school and work is vital. Regular breaks prevent burnout, especially during exam periods or busy work times.

3. Learn to Say “No”

• Avoid Overcommitting: It’s tempting to accept every job or assignment, but teens should prioritize quality over quantity. Saying “no” when you’re overbooked can help maintain academic performance and avoid stress.
• Focus on High-Paying or Flexible Jobs: Choose side hustles that offer higher pay or flexible hours so that you’re working fewer hours for the same income.

15 Best Side Hustles for Teens in 2024

Let’s break down some of the best side hustles for teens this year, covering both online and offline options.

1. Freelance Writing

Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork allow teens to earn by writing. If you have a knack for storytelling or knowledge in certain topics, freelance writing can pay well while letting you work on flexible terms and thus finds way to our best side hustles for teens in 2024.

• Platform: Upwork | Fiverr
• Standout Features: On these platforms, you can create a profile showcasing your writing samples, receive client reviews, and choose projects that match your interests.
• Tips: Build a strong portfolio by writing blog posts or articles on topics you’re passionate about. To get good reviews, start with small projects.

2. Social Media Management

With businesses growing their social media presence, teens can help manage accounts. You’ll need skills in creating posts, engaging with followers, and understanding basic marketing. Earnings vary but can be quite good, especially as you gain experience. Because of increasing demand, social media management is one the the best side hustles for teens nowadays.

• Platform: Instagram, Facebook
• Standout Features: You can manage posts, create engaging content, and grow followers for small businesses or influencers.
• Tips: Showcase your knowledge of social media trends. Offer initial consultations to local businesses and show them how you can improve their reach.

3. Online Tutoring

If you excel in subjects like math, science, or languages, online tutoring is a great way to make money. Platforms like Chegg and Tutor.com connect students with tutors, and teens can apply to work with younger students. Because of better adaptive feature with teens, it is one of the best side hustles for teens.

• Platform: Chegg, Tutor.com
• Standout Features: These platforms allow teens to tutor younger students in subjects like math, science, and English.
• Tips: Excel in a few subjects you’re comfortable with. Building a good profile and gathering positive reviews will help you attract more students.

4. Graphic Design

Sites like Canva and Adobe Spark make it easy for beginners to start designing. You could help clients create logos, social media posts, and posters. This side hustle is perfect if you’re artistic and love working on visuals.

• Platform: Canva, Adobe Spark
• Standout Features: Canva and Adobe Spark are user-friendly and free to use, making them perfect for beginners.
• Tips: Build a design portfolio with social media graphics, logos, or custom illustrations. You can market your services on social media or freelancing platforms

5. Content Creation on YouTube or TikTok

Creating content on platforms like YouTube and TikTok allows you to earn from ads and sponsorships once you build an audience. If you have a unique perspective or a special talent, content creation can be both fun and profitable. Promoting quality content in a better way can prove that it is one of the best side hustles for teens.

• Platform: YouTube, TikTok
• Standout Features: Both platforms allow you to earn from ads, brand sponsorships, and affiliate links as your audience grows.
• Tips: Find a niche or topic you’re passionate about, like gaming, tutorials, or lifestyle content. Consistency and engaging with your audience will help your channel grow.

6. Reselling Clothes or Accessories

Apps like Depop and eBay allow teens to make money by reselling items. Find trendy clothes or accessories at thrift stores, then sell them online for a profit.

• Platform: Depop, eBay
• Standout Features: Depop is popular among teens for selling trendy, vintage, or branded items. eBay has a broader marketplace.
• Tips: Source unique items from thrift stores, then style and photograph them to appeal to buyers. Good photos and accurate descriptions will attract more sales.

7. Selling Digital Art on Etsy

If you enjoy making digital art, selling it on Etsy could be a great option. Popular items include phone wallpapers, custom illustrations, and printables. It’s a creative way to make money while showcasing your artwork. The best feature is lifetime revenue as long as your product is listed and thus it is one of the best side hustles for teens these days.

• Platform: Etsy
• Standout Features: Etsy is known for handmade and digital products, perfect for selling custom art, printables, and designs.
• Tips: Create art that appeals to Etsy’s audience, like digital prints, motivational posters, or custom illustrations. Good reviews and strong visuals will boost your store.

8. Pet Sitting

Many families need someone reliable to take care of their pets. You can sign up on sites like Rover or advertise locally to offer pet-sitting and dog-walking services.

• Platform: Rover
• Standout Features: Rover connects pet sitters and dog walkers with pet owners, offering a secure way to make money by helping animals.
• Tips: Build a trustworthy profile by sharing past experience with pets. Consider reaching out to neighbors to offer services locally.

9. Babysitting

Babysitting is a classic teen side hustle that’s always in demand. To get started, ask around in your neighborhood or family network, and always make sure to prioritize safety.

• Platform: Care.com
• Standout Features: Care.com provides a platform for babysitters to find local families in need of child care.
• Tips: Get certified in CPR or basic first aid for added trustworthiness. Building a network with family and friends can help spread the word.

10. Survey Taking for Extra Cash

Platforms like Swagbucks and Survey Junkie offer cash for completing surveys. While not high-paying, surveys can be a simple way to make money in your spare time.

• Platform: Swagbucks, Survey Junkie
• Standout Features: Swagbucks and Survey Junkie reward users for participating in surveys, watching videos, and testing products.
• Tips: Use multiple survey sites to maximize earnings. Avoid sites that ask for fees, as reputable ones are free to join.

11. Selling Notes on StudyPool

Selling study notes on platforms like StudyPool is a fantastic side hustle for teens, especially those who are diligent with their studies and excel at organizing information.

• Platform:Studypool
• Standout Features: This platform allows students to monetize their study materials by uploading them for others to purchase.
• Tips: Upload High Quality notes, upload regularly, and focus on high-demand subjects.

12. Affiliate Marketing for Teens

Affiliate marketing is one of the best side hustles for teens as well as adults. With affiliate marketing, you promote products online and earn a commission on sales. Look for youth-friendly niches, like fashion or gaming, and find programs through sites like ShareASale.

• Platform: Amazon Associates, ShareASale
• Standout Features: Promote products on social media or websites and earn a commission on sales.
• Tips: Choose a niche that interests you, like fashion or gadgets, and create content around it. Establishing credibility with your audience is essential for affiliate marketing success.

Want Affiliate Marketing Guides? Here it is!

13. Virtual Assistant Services

Virtual assistants help clients with tasks like scheduling, email management, and research. If you’re organized and detail-oriented, this can be a great online side hustle.With increasing businesses, virtual assistants are always in demand and thus this service finds way to our best side hustles for teens.

• Platform: Zirtual, Belay
• Standout Features: Virtual assistants help clients with scheduling, data entry, and research, often with flexible hours.
• Tips: Promote your organizational skills and build client relationships for repeat business.

14. Online Data Entry

Data entry involves inputting, organizing, and managing data, which makes it a great beginner-friendly side hustle for teens.

• Platform: Clickworker
• Standout Features: Clickworker offers teens a variety of tasks like writing, categorizing data, and proofreading. It’s a great option for teens looking for flexible, low-entry jobs that don’t require specialized skills.
• Tips: To succeed on Clickworker, be diligent with the tasks you take on and aim to finish them promptly and accurately. Higher quality and faster delivery often lead to better ratings, unlocking more job opportunities.

15. Website Testing and Reviews

Why is it one of the best side hustles for teens is because website testing is a straightforward side hustle that allows teens to earn money by providing feedback on websites and apps.

• Platform: UserTesting, Testbirds
• Standout Features: With platforms like UserTesting, teens can get paid to test websites and apps, providing valuable feedback about user experiences. It’s an easy way to earn money just by sharing your thoughts.
• Tips: Focus on giving constructive feedback. Providing detailed, insightful feedback can lead to more testing opportunities and higher pay. Make sure you test various platforms to diversify your income sources.

Tips for Success in Side Hustles

Starting a side hustle can be exciting, but to truly succeed, it requires hard work, strategy, and focus. Here are some tips for maximizing success in your side hustle:

1. Consistency is Crucial: Whether it’s writing articles, managing social media, or freelancing, consistency is key. Regularly produce quality work and stay reliable in meeting deadlines. Over time, this builds your reputation, attracting more clients and work opportunities.
2. Establish Specific Objectives: Set both immediate and long-term objectives. Short-term goals could be things like completing a set number of tasks each week, while long-term goals might include reaching a specific income threshold or gaining new skills in a certain field.

3. Build a Personal Brand: Start creating a personal brand for yourself, even if you’re only doing side hustles part-time. Promote your skills on platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, or even a personal website. A strong personal brand helps you stand out in competitive markets, like freelancing and affiliate marketing.
4. Learn to Network: Networking isn’t just for big businesses—it’s a powerful tool for teens, too. Whether you’re talking to clients, other freelancers, or potential employers, building relationships will give you access to new opportunities.
5. Adapt to Changes: The digital world changes rapidly. Keep up with the latest trends in social media, freelancing platforms, or eCommerce to make sure you’re offering relevant services and using the best tools available. Regularly check online for new job opportunities in your side hustle area.
6. Focus on Customer Service: Great customer service goes a long way, especially for teens offering services like tutoring, babysitting, or pet sitting. Being kind, professional, and reliable helps build long-lasting relationships with clients, leading to repeat business.

How to Manage Both Studies and a Side Hustle

Balancing studies and a side hustle is essential. Here’s how to keep it manageable:

• Set Boundaries: Decide on hours you’ll work and when you’ll study.
• Communicate Availability: Let clients know when you’re available, so they understand your schedule.
• Stay Organized: Use apps like Trello or Google Calendar to keep track of tasks.

Conclusion

In 2024, teens have more options than ever for side hustles that are flexible and lucrative. Whether you’re freelancing, creating content, or selling products online, there’s a side hustle out there for you. Remember to balance your work with your studies and enjoy the journey!