Side hustles are becoming the norm for Gen Z. According to a 2024 Bankrate survey, about 34 percent of Gen Z have a side hustle, more than any other generation. While some people use them to make a little extra spending money, others turn them into steady income streams. Data from Side Hustle Nation in 2024 shows the average side hustle income is $891 per month, with some earning over $1,000 and a median income of $400 per month.

If you are thinking about starting a side hustle, here are the most popular and profitable ones based on recent surveys, income reports, and online business data.

Freelance Digital Services
Freelancing is one of the most common ways to make extra money. Bankrate and Intuit data from 2024 show that around 15 percent of side hustlers work in freelance services like writing, design, marketing, video editing, or programming. Many start with skills they already have and find work on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. While it can take a few months to build up clients, experienced freelancers can earn over $1,000 a month, and top earners make six figures.

Reselling Vintage or Secondhand Goods
Selling thrifted or vintage clothes is especially popular with Gen Z. Whop’s 2025 Online Earnings Report found that 20 percent of young digital earners resell clothing or accessories, making it the top category among Gen Z digital hustles. Platforms like Depop, Poshmark, and eBay make it easy to sell items from your closet or pieces you find secondhand. Some sellers earn several thousand dollars a month, with top sellers making more than $12,000 monthly.

Selling Digital Products or Affiliate Marketing
Creating digital products—like planners, templates, or courses—can be very profitable. Hostinger’s 2025 side hustle statistics report shows that top Etsy digital sellers can make up to $9,500 per month. Affiliate marketing is another related option where you promote products online and earn a commission on sales. These types of side hustles can provide recurring income because you create the product once and sell it multiple times.

Gig Platforms: Delivery, Rideshare, Task Services
Working for apps like DoorDash, Instacart, TaskRabbit, or Rover is a flexible way to earn money without special skills. Moosend’s 2025 Gen Z side hustle report lists gig work as one of the most common ways young people earn extra income. According to Investopedia’s 2025 gig work survey, workers often earn $16 to $23 per hour. Many do it part-time for an extra $300 to $900 per month.

Content Creation and Online Channels
YouTube, TikTok, blogging, and podcasting remain popular, with opportunities to earn through ads, sponsorships, affiliate links, or merchandise. Moosend and Shopify list content creation among the top 2025 side hustles. While it takes time to build an audience, consistent creators can make $1,000 or more per month once their platforms grow.

Which Side Hustle Fits You Best?
If you want fast cash with flexible hours, gig work can be a good fit. If you already have a skill, freelancing can bring higher pay. If you enjoy creating, selling digital products or building an audience might be the way to go.

Tips to Make It Profitable
Start with something that requires little or no upfront cost. Stick with it for at least three to six months, which Intuit’s 2024 report says is the average time for a side hustle to become profitable. Track your income for tax purposes, and consider combining multiple small hustles for stability.

Side hustles are more than just extra income—they can be the first step toward financial independence. The key is choosing one that fits your skills, schedule, and income goals, then committing to growing it over time.