How to earn extra money on weekends: 26 side hustles to try

Whether you're saving for a big purchase, paying off debt, or want some extra spending money, the weekend is a great time to boost your income. From gig economy jobs to creative side hustles, here are 26 ways to make extra money on weekends.

1. Deliver food or groceries

If you enjoy driving and prefer working on your own schedule, apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Instacart offer great opportunities. The best way to maximize your earnings is to work during peak meal times when demand—and tips—are higher.

2. Drive for a rideshare service

If you like meeting new people and don’t mind being behind the wheel, Uber and Lyft can be great options. Weekend nights, especially in busy areas, often lead to higher fares due to surge pricing.

3. Offer pet-sitting or dog-walking services

Animal lovers can make extra cash by signing up for Rover or Wag!. Whether it’s a daily walk, an overnight stay, or just some midday playtime, there can be a high demand from busy pet owners.

4. Sell handmade goods on Etsy

Got a creative streak? Whether you make jewelry, home decor, or digital prints, Etsy is a great marketplace to turn your craft into cash. Make sure to optimize your listings with great photos and SEO-friendly descriptions.

5. Rent out a room or property

If you have extra space, such as a free bedroom or second property, consider listing it on Airbnb or Vrbo. Small touches like snacks and a guide to the area can help boost your reviews and attract more guests.

6. Freelance writing or editing

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If you have a way with words, you can find gigs on Upwork, Fiverr, or ProBlogger. Building a portfolio and specializing in a niche, like tech or finance, can help you land higher-paying jobs.

7. Offer photography services

Weekend events like birthdays, parties, and weddings can be a great source of income if you have an eye for composition and a good camera. Create a social media portfolio or a simple website to attract clients.

8. Flip items for profit

Turn bargain hunting into profit by finding deals at thrift stores, garage sales, and clearance sections. Resell them on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Poshmark. Research how well similar items have sold to ensure you can make a reasonable profit.

9. Tutor students online or in person

If you have a strong understanding of a subject like math, science, or a foreign language, tutoring can be a rewarding way to earn extra income. Platforms like Wyzant, VIPKid, and Tutor.com make it easy to connect with students. Consider specializing in test prep tutoring, as it tends to command higher rates.

10. Rent out your car

If your car spends most of the weekend parked, put it to work on Turo and let others rent it while you earn. Keep your vehicle clean and well-maintained to get good reviews and attract more renters.

11. House-sitting

House-sitting can be an easy way to make extra cash if you're responsible and enjoy quiet spaces. TrustedHousesitters connects you with homeowners who need someone to watch their property while away. Some opportunities may even include light pet care.

12. Mystery shopping

If you enjoy shopping and giving feedback, mystery shopping could be a fun way to earn extra cash. Companies like BestMark and Market Force will pay you to evaluate customer service, cleanliness, and other business aspects. Some assignments even reimburse you for purchases.

13. Sell digital products

Create and sell templates, e-books, or printables on Gumroad or Etsy. Digital products offer passive income since you create them once and sell them indefinitely.

14. Become a local tour guide

If you know your city inside and out, offer tours through Airbnb Experiences or create your own themed walking tours for locals and tourists.

15. Teach a fitness or yoga class

If you're a certified instructor, offer group or private fitness sessions in local parks, gyms, or community centers. Social media and word-of-mouth can help attract clients.

16. Babysitting

Parents often need reliable childcare for nights out or weekend errands. Register on Care.com to connect with parents looking for weekend babysitters. Build trust with positive reviews and certifications in CPR or first aid, which can set you apart from other sitters.

17. Event staffing

Many venues hire weekend event staff for weddings, concerts, and sporting events. Apply for part-time event jobs at Shiftgig or local staffing agencies. Positions include security, ushers, and bartenders at concerts and sports events.

18. Rent out tools or equipment

Have tools, camping gear, or camera equipment collecting dust? Use Fat Llama to rent items like cameras, camping gear, or power tools. Offer competitive pricing to attract renters and maximize your earnings.

19. Sell stock photos

If you enjoy photography, upload your pictures to sites like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock to earn passive income each time someone purchases a download. Focus on higher-demand trending topics and business-related images for higher earnings.

20. Host a garage sale

Declutter and make some extra money by selling items you no longer need. Advertise your sale on social media and local buy/sell groups. Post on local Facebook groups and Craigslist to attract more buyers and boost visibility.

21. Participate in paid surveys and focus groups

Sign up with UserTesting or Respondent.io to share your feedback on websites, apps, and consumer products for extra cash.

22. Personal chef or meal prep

Offer weekend meal prep services for busy families or professionals. Promote your services through community boards, local Facebook groups, or a personal website. You can specialize in dietary preferences like keto or vegan for niche demand, making your offerings more appealing to specific clients.

23. Start a YouTube channel or blog

Create content around a passion topic and monetize through ads and sponsorships. Use SEO strategies to increase visibility and subscribers. Share your expertise on a topic you love, from cooking to personal finance, and explore affiliate marketing as an additional revenue stream.

24. Offer car detailing

Provide thorough car cleanings for $50–$150 per job. Advertise locally and use high-quality cleaning supplies for repeat customers. Use before-and-after photos to attract more clients and build trust in your services.

25. Become a notary public

Becoming a notary can be a simple way to make money on the side, especially for real estate or legal document signings. Get certified and offer mobile notary services on weekends. Advertise on local business directories and networking groups to attract clients.

26. Yard work and landscaping

Offer services like lawn mowing and leaf raking to neighbors. Use local Facebook groups or flyers to reach potential clients. Many homeowners prefer hiring someone locally rather than using a large company.

Find the best weekend side hustle for you

Whether you're looking for quick cash or building a long-term side hustle, there's an opportunity for you. Start small, test different options, and stick with what works best. From driving gigs to creative ventures, these ideas can help you boost your income while keeping your weekends productive and profitable.

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