Table of Content
Table of Contents
Introduction
Are you a teenager looking to earn your own money, gain independence, and build valuable skills for your future? You’re not alone! In today’s digital world, teens have more opportunities than ever to start profitable side hustles that fit around school schedules and other commitments.
This comprehensive guide explores the best side hustles for teens in 2025, covering everything from online opportunities to local services and creative ventures. Whether you’re saving for college, wanting to buy the latest tech, or simply building financial independence, there’s a perfect side hustle waiting for you.
Our commitment: This guide provides safe, practical, and well-researched information for both teens and parents. All recommendations prioritize your safety, legal compliance, and educational development.
Quick Summary: Top Side Hustle Categories for Teens
- Online Gigs: Digital opportunities that leverage internet skills
- Local Services: In-person work within your community
- Creative Outlets: Monetizing artistic and creative talents
- Entrepreneurial Ventures: Larger-scale business opportunities for ambitious teens
Why Start a Side Hustle as a Teen? (Benefits Beyond Cash)
Starting a side hustle as a teen offers advantages that go far beyond just making money:
- Skill Development: Learn marketable skills like time management, communication, and problem-solving
- Resume Enhancement: Future employers and colleges value entrepreneurial experience
- Financial Literacy: Gain practical experience with earning, saving, and managing money
- Independence: Build confidence through self-reliance and decision-making
- Career Exploration: Test potential career paths in a low-risk environment
Crucial Considerations Before Starting (Safety & Legality Focus)
Staying Safe: Online & Offline Safety Tips for Teen Hustlers
Safety should always be your top priority when starting any side hustle:
Online Safety:
- Never share personal information like your home address, phone number, or financial details
- Use a parent’s email for business communications when possible
- Create separate business social media accounts that don’t reveal personal details
- Always get parental approval before meeting anyone from the internet
- Use secure payment platforms like PayPal or have payments go through a parent’s account
Offline Safety:
- Always inform parents/guardians about your work schedule and locations
- Consider working with a friend for in-person services
- Trust your instincts—if a situation feels uncomfortable, leave immediately
- For babysitting or house-sitting jobs, ensure parents know the family well
- Have reliable transportation and communication plans
Understanding the Rules: Age Restrictions, Work Permits & Parental Consent
Different side hustles have different legal requirements:
- Age Restrictions: Many online platforms require users to be at least 13, 16, or 18 years old
- Work Permits: In many states, teens under 16 need work permits for formal employment
- Parental Consent: Most teens under 18 need parental permission to start a business or sign contracts
- Tax Obligations: Even teens may need to file taxes if earning above certain thresholds
- Platform Rules: Each online platform has specific terms of service regarding age
Always research the specific requirements for your location and chosen side hustle. When in doubt, have a parent help you navigate the legal aspects.
Balancing Hustles with Schoolwork & Activities
Success as a teen entrepreneur requires balance:
- Start small and gradually increase hours as you learn your capacity
- Use a planner or digital calendar to schedule specific work hours
- Prioritize schoolwork and ensure grades don’t suffer
- Build in downtime to avoid burnout
- Consider seasonal side hustles that align with school breaks
- Set clear boundaries with clients about your availability
Handling Money: Getting Paid & Basic Saving Tips
Smart money management starts with your first dollar earned:
- Open a teen-friendly bank account (many banks offer accounts specifically for minors)
- Consider financial apps designed for teens like Greenlight or Step
- Create a simple budget allocating percentages for saving, spending, and investing
- Track all income and expenses
- Learn about taxes and set aside appropriate amounts if needed
- Consider the 50/30/20 rule: 50% for needs, 30% for wants, 20% for savings
Best Side Hustle Categories for Teens
Online Side Hustles for Tech-Savvy Teens
Online Surveys and Market Research
Description: Share your opinions with companies to help shape products and services.
Average Pay: $1-5 per survey or $10-20 per hour for focus groups
Skills Needed/Learned: Attention to detail, consistent effort, critical thinking
Getting Started: Create accounts on legitimate survey sites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, or PrizeRebel. Set up a separate email address for survey communications to keep your primary inbox clean.
Age Requirements: Most sites require users to be at least 13-16 years old with parental consent.
Freelance Writing and Content Creation
Description: Write articles, blog posts, social media content, or product descriptions for businesses.
Average Pay: $5-30+ per article depending on length and complexity
Skills Needed/Learned: Writing skills, research abilities, time management, SEO knowledge
Getting Started: Build a portfolio of writing samples on Medium or a free blog. Then create an account on Fiverr (where you can offer writing services starting at just $5) or sites like Upwork for beginners.
Age Note: Most platforms require users to be 18+, so you might need a parent to manage your account.
Social Media Management
Description: Help local businesses or online entrepreneurs manage their social media presence.
Average Pay: $15-25 per hour or $100-500 per month per client
Skills Needed/Learned: Content creation, scheduling, analytics, platform knowledge
Getting Started: Start by managing social media for a family business or local organization as a volunteer to build your portfolio. Then reach out to small businesses in your area.
Platform Ideas: Learn to use free tools like Canva for graphics and Later or Buffer for scheduling.
Virtual Assistant Services
Description: Provide administrative support remotely, including email management, data entry, or calendar scheduling.
Average Pay: $10-20 per hour
Skills Needed/Learned: Organization, communication, basic tech skills, reliability
Getting Started: Identify your strongest administrative skills and create service packages. Start with helping family friends or local business owners.
Age Requirements: While most formal VA platforms require users to be 18+, teens can often work directly with clients who know their age.
Online Tutoring
Description: Help peers or younger students with subjects you excel in.
Average Pay: $15-30+ per hour
Skills Needed/Learned: Subject expertise, patience, teaching skills, communication
Getting Started: Start with tutoring friends or family, then expand through word-of-mouth. You can also join platforms like Chegg or create a profile on local community boards.
Subject Ideas: Focus on your strongest subjects, test prep, or special skills like coding or music.
Website Testing
Description: Test websites and apps for usability and provide feedback.
Average Pay: $10-15 per test (usually takes 15-20 minutes)
Skills Needed/Learned: Attention to detail, clear communication, critical thinking
Getting Started: Sign up for platforms like UserTesting, TryMyUI, or TestingTime.
Age Requirements: Many testing platforms have minimum age requirements of 16-18 years.
Offline & Local Service Hustles
Babysitting
Description: Care for children while parents are away.
Average Pay: $12-20 per hour (varies by location and number of children)
Skills Needed/Learned: Responsibility, first aid knowledge, patience, problem-solving
Getting Started: Take a Red Cross babysitting course or CPR certification to stand out. Start with families you know and ask for referrals.
Safety Note: Always have parents’ contact information and emergency numbers. Establish clear expectations about hours, pay, and responsibilities.
Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
Description: Care for pets while owners are away or walk dogs regularly.
Average Pay: $10-15 per walk or $25-50 per day for pet sitting
Skills Needed/Learned: Responsibility, animal care knowledge, reliability, physical activity
Getting Started: Start with neighbors and family friends. Create simple flyers to distribute locally.
Getting Paid: Establish clear payment terms upfront—per visit, walk, or day. Consider weekly or monthly billing for regular clients.
Lawn Care and Gardening
Description: Mow lawns, weed gardens, rake leaves, or shovel snow.
Average Pay: $20-40 per lawn or $15-25 per hour for gardening
Skills Needed/Learned: Physical stamina, reliability, equipment operation, scheduling
Getting Started: Use family equipment to start, or invest in basic tools. Begin with neighbors and expand through referrals.
Seasonal Opportunities: Offer special seasonal services like fall leaf removal or spring garden preparation.
Car Washing and Detailing
Description: Clean cars inside and out, offering various packages.
Average Pay: $15-30 for exterior wash, $40-100 for full detailing
Skills Needed/Learned: Attention to detail, customer service, physical work
Getting Started: Gather basic supplies like buckets, soap, microfiber cloths. Offer services to family friends first to build testimonials.
Marketing Tip: Create before/after photos and offer special deals for first-time customers.
Errand Running for Seniors
Description: Help elderly neighbors with grocery shopping, prescription pickup, or other errands.
Average Pay: $15-25 per hour or per service
Skills Needed/Learned: Responsibility, empathy, organization, driving (if applicable)
Getting Started: Connect with local senior centers or retirement communities to offer your services.
Safety Note: Always keep parents informed about your schedule and client locations.
Creative & Crafty Side Hustles
Selling Crafts Online
Description: Create and sell handmade items like jewelry, art, or clothing.
Average Pay: Varies widely based on items ($10-100+ per sale)
Skills Needed/Learned: Creativity, production skills, basic photography, inventory management
Getting Started: Perfect a few signature items before expanding your line. Open an Etsy shop (with parental help if under 18) or sell through local craft fairs.
Platform Ideas: Etsy, Facebook Marketplace, Instagram Shopping, or local craft fairs
Pro Tip: Want to create your own online store? Shopify offers an easy way to set up a professional-looking online store with all the tools you need to track inventory, process payments, and ship products. Their basic plan starts at $29/month, but the professional appearance and functionality can significantly boost your sales!
Start Your Shopify Store 2025: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Digital Art and Design
Description: Create digital artwork, logos, or designs for clients.
Average Pay: $15-100+ per project
Skills Needed/Learned: Design software proficiency, creativity, client communication
Getting Started: Build a portfolio of your best work and offer initial designs at competitive prices to gain reviews.
Software Recommendations: Start with free tools like Canva or GIMP before investing in professional software.
Photography Services
Description: Offer portrait sessions, event photography, or stock photos.
Average Pay: $50-200+ for portrait sessions, $15-30 per stock photo sold
Skills Needed/Learned: Photography techniques, editing skills, customer service
Getting Started: Practice with friends and family, build a portfolio, and create a simple website or Instagram showcase.
Equipment Note: Start with whatever camera you have (even a smartphone) and upgrade as you earn.
Video Creation Tip: If you’re interested in expanding into video services, check out InVideo, an easy-to-use online video creation platform. Perfect for creating professional-looking videos for clients without needing expensive software. Their free plan lets you create up to 60 videos per month!
Content Creation (YouTube, TikTok, Instagram)
Description: Create and monetize content on social media platforms.
Average Pay: Varies widely—from a few dollars to thousands monthly for established creators
Skills Needed/Learned: Video production, public speaking, consistency, trend awareness
Getting Started: Choose a niche you’re passionate about and focus on consistent, quality content before worrying about monetization.
Monetization Rules: Most platforms require minimum follower counts and view hours before monetization is available. YouTube requires 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours.
Custom Baking or Cooking
Description: Sell homemade baked goods or specialty food items.
Average Pay: $20-100+ per order depending on complexity
Skills Needed/Learned: Culinary skills, food safety, pricing strategy, time management
Getting Started: Perfect a few signature recipes. Check local cottage food laws which vary by state.
Marketing Ideas: Create an Instagram page showcasing your creations and encourage satisfied customers to share photos.
Entrepreneurial Ventures for Ambitious Teens
Small E-commerce Store
Description: Sell products online through your own website or existing marketplaces.
Potential Earnings: $100-1,000+ monthly after establishing your store
Skills Needed/Learned: Product sourcing, inventory management, marketing, customer service
Getting Started Steps:
- Research potential products with good profit margins
- Source products through wholesale or dropshipping
- Set up an online store using user-friendly platforms
- Create compelling product listings with quality photos
- Develop a marketing strategy focusing on social media
Starting Your Own Online Store: Shopify makes it incredibly easy to launch your e-commerce business with professional templates, secure payment processing, and inventory management tools. Their platform is perfect for teens starting their first online business with plans starting at $29/month and a 14-day free trial to test it out!
Reselling (Thrifting and Flipping)
Description: Buy undervalued items and resell them for profit.
Potential Earnings: $50-500+ monthly depending on inventory and turnover
Skills Needed/Learned: Market research, negotiation, photography, item valuation
Getting Started Steps:
- Start with items you know well (clothing, electronics, collectibles)
- Browse thrift stores, garage sales, and clearance sections
- Research comparable prices before purchasing
- Clean and photograph items professionally
- List on platforms like eBay, Poshmark, or Facebook Marketplace
Challenges: Requires initial investment, storage space, and potential for slow-moving inventory.
Custom Merchandise Creation
Description: Design and sell custom t-shirts, mugs, stickers, or other items with print-on-demand services.
Potential Earnings: $100-1,000+ monthly with successful designs
Skills Needed/Learned: Graphic design, trend awareness, marketing, branding
Getting Started Steps:
- Create unique designs that appeal to specific niches
- Set up accounts with print-on-demand services like Printful or Printify
- Connect to selling platforms like Etsy or your own website
- Market your products on social media platforms where your target audience spends time
- Analyze sales data to refine your product offerings
Platform Ideas: Integrate print-on-demand services with Etsy, Shopify, or social media selling.
Website or Blog Development
Description: Create and monetize websites or blogs for yourself or clients.
Potential Earnings: $50-500+ monthly from ad revenue or $200-1,000+ per client website
Skills Needed/Learned: Web design, content creation, SEO, digital marketing
Getting Started Steps:
- Learn basics of web design through free online courses
- Practice by creating your own website on a topic you’re passionate about
- Start with user-friendly platforms like WordPress
- Offer to build simple websites for local businesses or organizations
- Expand services as your skills grow
Web Hosting Recommendation: When you’re ready to launch your blog or client websites, Bluehost offers affordable and reliable hosting perfect for beginners. Their WordPress-optimized hosting starts at just $2.95/month, includes a free domain name for the first year, and features one-click WordPress installation to get you up and running quickly!
How to Start a Blog and Turn It into a Profitable Business in 2025
App Development and Coding Projects
Description: Create mobile apps or offer coding services for specific projects.
Potential Earnings: $100-5,000+ depending on project complexity
Skills Needed/Learned: Programming languages, problem-solving, project management
Getting Started Steps:
- Learn coding through free platforms like Codecademy, freeCodeCamp, or YouTube tutorials
- Build simple projects to develop your portfolio
- Participate in coding communities and forums
- Start with small projects on freelance platforms
- Network with local businesses that might need technical solutions
Tip: Focus on solving specific problems rather than building complex apps initially.
How to Choose the Right Side Hustle For You (Decision Framework)
Finding the perfect side hustle requires matching opportunities with your unique situation:
1. Assess Your Interests and Passions
- What activities do you genuinely enjoy?
- Which subjects or skills come naturally to you?
- What could you see yourself doing consistently?
2. Evaluate Your Available Time
- How many hours weekly can you realistically commit?
- Is your schedule consistent or variable?
- Do you need flexible work or can you commit to regular hours?
3. Consider Your Skills and Strengths
- What are you already good at?
- What skills do you want to develop?
- Do you prefer working with people or independently?
4. Analyze Startup Costs
- How much can you invest initially?
- Do you have necessary equipment already?
- Are there free alternatives to paid tools you can use to start?
5. Evaluate Market Demand
- Is there a need for this service in your community?
- How competitive is the market?
- Can you offer something unique?
| Side Hustle Type | Best For Teens Who… | Time Commitment | Startup Costs | Income Potential |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online Surveys | Want easy, flexible work | Low (1-5 hrs/week) | $0 | Low ($20-100/month) |
| Freelance Writing | Enjoy writing, research | Medium (5-15 hrs/week) | $0 | Medium ($50-500/month) |
| Social Media Management | Are tech-savvy, creative | Medium-High (10-20 hrs/week) | $0-50 | Medium-High ($100-1,000/month) |
| Babysitting | Like children, are responsible | Variable (5-20 hrs/week) | $0-100 (for certifications) | Medium ($100-500/month) |
| Lawn Care | Enjoy outdoor work | Medium (5-15 hrs/week) | $0-300 (equipment) | Medium-High ($100-1,000/month) |
| Craft Selling | Are creative, detail-oriented | High (10-20+ hrs/week) | $50-300 (supplies) | Low-High ($50-1,000+/month) |
| E-commerce | Are entrepreneurial, organized | High (15-30+ hrs/week) | $100-1,000 | Low-Very High ($0-5,000+/month) |
Tools & Resources for Teen Hustlers
The right tools can dramatically increase your productivity and professionalism:
Essential Business Tools
- Design Tools: Canva (free version available) for creating graphics, flyers, and social media posts
- Writing Tools: Grammarly (free version available) for checking grammar and improving writing
- Website Builders: WordPress or Wix for creating professional websites
For Serious Website Builders: When you’re ready to take your website to the next level, Bluehost provides reliable hosting with 24/7 support and one-click WordPress installation. Their basic plan at $2.95/month is perfect for teens starting their first professional website!
Financial Management
- Banking Apps: Greenlight, Step, or Chase First Banking (designed specifically for teens)
- Payment Processing: PayPal, Venmo, or Cash App (with parental supervision if under 18)
- Invoicing Tools: Wave (free) or PayPal Invoicing for maintaining professional payment records
Productivity and Organization
- Task Management: Trello or Todoist for tracking projects and deadlines
- Time Tracking: Toggl (free version available) for monitoring work hours
- Calendar Apps: Google Calendar for scheduling appointments and managing time
Marketing and Portfolio Building
- Social Media Scheduling: Later or Buffer (free versions available)
- Portfolio Platforms: Behance (design), GitHub (coding), or Medium (writing)
- Email Marketing: MailChimp (free for basic needs) to stay connected with clients
For Video Creation: If your side hustle involves creating videos, InVideo offers an intuitive platform with templates, stock footage, and music to create professional videos without specialized skills. Their free plan allows you to create up to 60 videos per month!
The Ultimate Guide to Making Money with AI Videos in 2025
Learning Resources
- Skill Development: Skillshare, YouTube tutorials, or Coursera (many free courses)
- Business Guidance: Teen Entrepreneur or Young Entrepreneur Council
- Financial Education: Banzai or Next Gen Personal Finance (free resources)
Freelance Marketplaces
- Fiverr: Ideal platform for offering specific services starting at just $5
- Upwork: For more professional service offerings (18+ requirement but parent-managed accounts possible)
- TaskRabbit: Local service marketplace (18+ requirement)
Freelance Success Tip: Fiverr is one of the best platforms for teens to start offering services like graphic design, writing, or virtual assistance. You can set up gigs starting at just $5 and gradually increase your prices as you build a reputation. Parents can help manage accounts for teens under 18!
FAQ Section: Common Questions About Teen Side Hustles
What side hustle pays the most for teens?
While earnings vary based on skills, effort, and location, some of the highest-paying side hustles for teens include:
- Specialized Tutoring: Teaching advanced subjects or test prep can earn $25-50+ per hour
- Programming/App Development: Coding projects can pay $20-100+ per hour depending on complexity
- Content Creation: Established YouTubers or social media influencers can earn substantial income through sponsorships and ad revenue
- E-commerce: Running your own online store has unlimited potential but requires more time and initial investment
- Specialized Services: Offering in-demand skills like video editing or social media management can command $15-30+ per hour
The key to maximizing earnings is developing specialized skills that are in high demand but low supply.
What are the easiest side hustles for a 14-year-old?
For 14-year-olds, the following side hustles offer a good balance of accessibility and earning potential:
- Babysitting: Start with family friends who already know and trust you
- Lawn Mowing/Snow Shoveling: Neighborhood services with minimal equipment needed
- Pet Sitting: Care for neighbors’ pets while they’re away
- Online Surveys: Simple but lower-paying option with minimal barriers to entry
- Selling Crafts: If you’re creative, make items to sell locally or at school events
- Tutoring Younger Students: Help with homework in subjects you excel in
These require minimal startup costs and can work around school schedules.
Can a 13-year-old have a side hustle?
Yes, 13-year-olds can definitely have side hustles, though with some limitations:
Suitable options include:
- Babysitting (for family friends and relatives)
- Yard work and gardening
- Pet care services
- Making and selling crafts locally
- Car washing
- Helping seniors with technology
- Simple online work with parental supervision
Important considerations:
- Most online platforms require users to be at least 13 (with parent permission) or older
- A parent may need to help manage payments and accounts
- Work permits may be required in some states, even for informal work
- Time commitments should be limited to ensure schoolwork remains the priority
- Parents should be involved in all business decisions and client interactions
Are online side hustles safe for teens?
Online side hustles can be safe for teens with proper precautions:
Safety measures include:
- Parental oversight of all online activities and communications
- Using parents’ email addresses or accounts for business communications
- Never sharing personal information (home address, phone number, school)
- Avoiding video calls or in-person meetings with online clients
- Using secure payment platforms rather than direct bank transfers
- Creating separate business social media accounts that don’t reveal personal details
- Understanding and following platform guidelines and terms of service
The safest online options include content creation on established platforms, selling digital products, or working through reputable freelance sites with parental guidance.
How do teens get paid for side hustles?
Payment options for teens include:
With parental help:
- Parent-managed PayPal or Venmo accounts
- Direct deposit to a custodial bank account
- Check payments deposited by parents
- Cash payments (for local services)
Teen-specific options:
- Teen banking apps like Greenlight, Step, or GoHenry
- Prepaid debit cards designed for teens
- Payment to a parent’s account who then transfers to the teen
For teens under 18, most payment platforms require parental involvement. Discuss with your parents which option works best for your situation and establish clear agreements about accessing your earnings.
Conclusion: Your Teen Side Hustle Journey
Starting a side hustle as a teen is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. Not only will you earn money for your goals, but you’ll develop crucial skills that will benefit you throughout life—from time management and communication to financial literacy and entrepreneurial thinking.
Remember these key points as you begin:
- Start small and grow gradually as you learn what works
- Prioritize safety in all business dealings
- Keep schoolwork as your primary focus
- Be patient with the learning process
- Track your income and expenses from day one
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help from parents and mentors
Most importantly, choose a side hustle that aligns with your interests and goals. The most successful teen entrepreneurs are those who find joy in their work while building valuable skills for the future.
Call to Action
- Share Your Experience: Have you tried any of these side hustles? Comment below with your success stories or questions!
- Get Support: Join our teen entrepreneur community by subscribing to our newsletter for more tips and resources.
- Take Action Today: Choose one side hustle from this guide and take the first step this week—whether that’s creating an account, making your first product, or offering your services to a neighbor.
- Check Out Related Guides: Looking for more specific guidance? See our detailed guides on [Teen Financial Literacy], [Building a Portfolio Without Experience], and [Balancing School and Work].
Remember: The perfect time to start building your future is now!
