25 Simple and Profitable Part-Time Business Ideas to Start in Your Spare Time

Last Updated on August 6, 2024 by Katie

Do you have little time but want to make extra money to help with the finances? If so, these part-time business ideas for beginners are ideal for you to work on at the weekend or when you have a spare moment after work.

Whether you’re looking for an additional source of income or a potential path to full-time self-employment, numerous options can fit your skills and interests.

I have worked on multiple different side hustles over the years. Some of which were successful and some never really took off.

However, the ones that worked, gave me that all-important extra cash when I needed it to use for bills, holidays, and extra purchases.

How does an extra $50- $100 a day extra sound to you?

If it sounds good, take a look at this list of part-time business ideas and choose one that could be your path to financial freedom.

 

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25 Best Part-Time Business Ideas to Start in Your Spare Time

The majority of these part-time business ideas are simple to start for beginners and offer flexible work schedules.

This means you can get the work done from home after work, at the weekends or any time that suits you.

Let’s dive in!

 

1: Transcription

Transcription involves converting audio or video recordings into written text.

This business idea is excellent for those who have excellent listening and typing skills and you can learn how to be a transcriptionist pretty quickly.

With various online platforms available, you can easily find transcription jobs that fit into your spare time.

Earnings typically range from $10 to $30 per hour, depending on the complexity and turnaround time of the transcription task.

This job is suitable for stay-at-home parents, students, and anyone looking to earn extra income.

How to Get Started:

Find reliable transcription platforms (e.g., TranscribeMe, Rev, GoTranscript)
Invest in quality headphones and transcription software
Build a comfortable and quiet workspace
Practice by transcribing short audio clips

Not sure where to start?

Check out Transcription Foundations: a FREE 7-lesson mini course.

 

2: Offer AI Services

AI is fast becoming part of everyday life, which is why offering AI services is one of the best part-time business ideas.

You can develop solutions like chatbots, virtual assistants, or predictive analytics tools.

The demand for AI in business is growing, as it helps companies streamline operations and enhance customer interactions.

Earnings can vary greatly, from $1000 to $5000 per project, depending on complexity and scope.

This opportunity is particularly well-suited for individuals with a background in data science, programming, or a related field.

How to Get Started:

Learn AI and machine learning basics.
Build a portfolio of small AI projects.
Network with potential clients or join freelance platforms.
Offer a free consultation to attract initial clients.

Ideas for AI Services:

Chatbot services: Automate customer interactions.
Data analytics: Help businesses make data-driven decisions.
Machine learning models: Develop predictive models for various industries.
AI-powered marketing tools: Enhance marketing strategies with AI.

Check out these free AI courses and tutorials from the Code Academy.

 

3: Etsy Shop Owner

Starting an Etsy shop is a fantastic part-time business idea. It allows you to turn your creative hobbies into a source of income.

You can sell handmade crafts, vintage items, or digital downloads.

The flexibility of working from home makes it ideal for balancing with other commitments.

An Etsy shop’s income varies widely with some sellers making a few hundred dollars a month, while others earning thousands.

It’s perfect for creative individuals who enjoy crafting or curating unique items.

How to Get Started:

Research your niche
Set up your Etsy account
Create high-quality products
Take appealing photos
Write detailed descriptions

Business Ideas:

Handmade Jewelry
Sell digital stickers
Vintage clothing
Digital artwork
Sell t-shirts using Printify
Personalized gifts
Sell digital planners
Home decor items

Learn more in our guide on how to start an Etsy shop with no money.

 

4: Freelance Writing

Freelance writing offers a flexible way to earn money, making it one of the best part-time business ideas.

You can work from anywhere and choose your own hours. Writers often earn between $100 to $500 per article, depending on complexity and length.

This opportunity suits those who love writing and have a knack for creating engaging content.

How to get started:

Build a writing portfolio
Join freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr
Network with clients through LinkedIn
Set competitive rates

Business ideas:

Blog writing
Copywriting for websites
Writing e-books

Learn more in our guide on how to become a freelance writer with no experience.

 

5: Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing involves promoting products or services and earning a commission for each sale made through your referral link.

This is a great part-time business idea because you can do it from anywhere and at any time.

Your income can range from a few dollars per month to thousands, depending on your efforts and the products you promote.

This business idea is perfect for individuals who have a strong online presence or love creating content.

Content creators, bloggers, and social media influencers often find success in this field.

How to Get Started:

Choose a niche
Join affiliate programs
Create content around the products
Share affiliate links

Business Ideas:

Review products on a blog
Make YouTube videos
Share on social media
Twitter affiliate marketing
Pinterest affiliate marketing

Learn more in our guide on how to start affiliate marketing with no money.

 

6: Graphic Design

Graphic design is a versatile and in-demand skill.

As a part-time business, it allows you to work on various projects like logo design, branding materials, web graphics, and social media visuals.

Earning potential varies but you can expect to make anywhere from $20 to $150 per hour, depending on your experience and the complexity of the work.

This business is ideal for creatives with a knack for visual design and proficiency in tools like Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop.

How to Get Started:

Set up a portfolio showcasing your best work.
Join freelance marketplaces like 99designs, Crowdspring, or DesignCrowd.
Network with local businesses and offer your services.
Stay updated with current design trends through resources like Behance or Dribbble.

Business Ideas:

Create custom logos for startups.
Design social media graphics for influencers.
Develop print advertisements for local businesses.
Offer branding packages for small enterprises.
Freelance services on Fiverr or Upwork.

 

7: Social Media Management

Social media management involves creating, scheduling, and analyzing content on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

This business idea leverages your ability to engage audiences and grow followings.

Depending on your experience and clients, you can earn $15 to $75 per hour.

It’s a flexible part-time option because you can manage clients’ accounts from anywhere.

How to Get Started:

Learn about different social media platforms.
Create a portfolio of your work.
Network with potential clients.

Business Ideas:

Offer content creation services.
Run social media ad campaigns.
Manage engagement and customer service.
Specialise in Twitter, Pinterest or YouTube.

 

8: Virtual Assistant

Working as a virtual assistant is one of the top part-time business ideas that can be started at home in your spare time.

You handle tasks like managing emails, scheduling, social media, and customer service and you can often work a flexible schedule that suits you.

Depending on the complexity of tasks, you could earn $10 to $35 per hour.

This role is excellent if you’re organized and have strong communication skills.

How to Get Started:

Identify your skills and services.
Set up a professional email and workspace.
Create profiles on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.
Search for work on Fancy Hands and Zirtual.

Service Ideas:

Social Media Management
Email Management
Calendar Coordination
Customer Service Support
Data Entry and Spreadsheet Management

For more opportunities, check this list of virtual assistant jobs hiring today.

 

9: Online Tutoring

Online tutoring offers flexibility and a significant earning potential.

It’s ideal if you excel in a subject or have teaching experience. You can set your own schedule, making it a perfect part-time endeavor.

Earnings can range from $20 to $60 per hour, with some specialized tutors earning even more.

How to Get Started:

Identify your subject expertise
Obtain necessary certifications if required
Create a professional tutoring profile
Choose a tutoring platform (e.g., Wyzant, Tutor.com)
Check these platforms to teach English with no experience
Market your services using social media and networking

Business Ideas:

Academic tutoring (math, science, languages)
Test preparation (SAT, ACT, GRE)
Skill-based teaching (coding, music)

 

 

10: Dropshipping

Dropshipping allows you to run an online store without holding any inventory.

You sell products directly to customers, and a third-party supplier handles storage and shipping.

This business model is excellent for part-time work because it requires minimal investment and can be managed with flexible hours.

Earnings vary, typically ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars a month.

It’s ideal for those comfortable with e-commerce platforms and learning new skills.

How to Get Started:

Choose a niche
Research suppliers
Set up an online store on platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce
Market your store using social media and SEO

Business Ideas:

Fashion and accessories
Home decor
Fitness equipment
Tech gadgets
Travel gear
Supplements

 

11: Start a YouTube Channel

Starting a YouTube channel is a popular way to use your spare time creatively and potentially generate income.

If you enjoy creating videos and sharing knowledge or entertainment, this is one of the best part-time business ideas for you.

Earnings from a YouTube channel can vary widely, with successful creators earning from hundreds to thousands of dollars monthly through ads, sponsorships, and merchandise sales.

This idea is excellent for people who are passionate about subjects like gaming, tech reviews, cooking, or vlogging.

How to Get Started:

Decide on a niche or topic for your channel.
Invest in basic filming equipment.
Learn video editing skills.
Create and upload content regularly.
Promote your videos on social media.

Ideas for Channel Topics:

Tech reviews
Cooking tutorials
Fitness routines
Travel vlogs
Educational content

Check out the YouTube Creator Academy for more ideas and information.

 

12: Online Dating Consultant

Becoming an online dating consultant can be a profitable part-time side hustle.

You help clients create appealing profiles, choose the best photos, and give tips on communication and date planning.

The earning potential can range from $50 to $200 per session, depending on your experience and client base.

This role suits those who have a knack for social interactions and relationship advice.

How to Get Started:

Research the online dating industry
Create a portfolio of successful dating profiles
Set up a professional website
Offer free initial consultations or discounted first sessions

Ideas for the Business:

Profile optimization services
Date coaching and planning
Communication workshops
Personalized date outfit recommendations

 

13: Write and Sell Niche eBooks

Writing and selling niche eBooks can be a profitable part-time business.

If you have in-depth knowledge about a specific subject, you can create valuable content that appeals to a targeted audience.

This business idea is ideal for individuals with strong writing skills and a passion for sharing their expertise.

Depending on your sales and marketing efforts, you can earn anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

Getting Started:

Identify a niche topic.
Conduct thorough research.
Write and edit your eBook.
Design a captivating cover.
Publish on platforms like Amazon Kindle or your website.
Promote through social media and blogs.

Ideas for niche eBooks:

Specialized diet plans
Investment strategies
DIY home projects
Pet care guides
Hobby tutorials

Learn more in our guide on writing eBooks for passive income.

 

14: Start a Blog

Starting a blog offers the opportunity to share your knowledge and passions with a global audience.

This part-time business is flexible and can be done from home with minimal investment.

The earning potential depends on your niche, audience size, and monetization strategies, but many bloggers make from $500 to several thousand dollars monthly.

This option is ideal for people who enjoy writing, have specialized knowledge, or want to build an online presence.

How to Get Started:

Choose a niche
Set up a blogging platform
Create quality content regularly
Promote your blog on social media
Monetize through ads, affiliate marketing, or sponsored posts

Ideas for Your Blog:

Travel experiences
Culinary adventures
Health and wellness tips
Personal finance advice
Technology reviews
Make money online

 

15: Language Translation Services

Language translation services can be one of the most lucrative part-time business opportunities.

With more businesses going global, there’s increasing demand for translating documents, websites, and marketing materials.

Earnings vary but can range from $20 to $50 per hour based on language and expertise.

This is ideal for those who are bilingual or multilingual and have a passion for communication.

How to Get Started:

Identify your language pairs.
Acquire necessary certification or training.
Join translation job websites like ProZ.
Create a professional portfolio.

Business ideas:

Document translation.
Website localization.
Certified translation services.
Translation for apps and games.

Learn more in our guide on how to become a freelance translator from home.

 

16: Online Fitness Coaching

Online fitness coaching is an excellent part-time side hustle idea.

You can work from anywhere and create your own schedule, making it convenient for those with busy lives.

Potential earnings vary but can typically range from $20 to $100 per hour depending on your experience and clientele.

Ideal candidates for this business are fitness enthusiasts, personal trainers, or health coaches looking to expand their reach.

To Get Started:

Obtain a fitness certification.
Define your niche.
Create a website.
Develop a business plan.
Set up online tools (Trainerize or MyPT).

Business ideas:

One-on-one coaching sessions.
Group fitness classes.
Personalized workout plans.
Fitness accountability coaching.

Learn more with these fitness side hustle ideas and apps that pay you to exercise.

 

17: Podcast Production

Podcast production is a great part-time business idea for those with an ear for audio and a knack for storytelling.

The demand for high-quality podcasts is ever-increasing, making it a viable opportunity.

Earnings can range from $25 to $150 per episode, depending on your skills and the scope of the project.

This business suits creative individuals who enjoy working with audio equipment and editing software.

How to Get Started:

Invest in good quality audio equipment.
Learn audio editing software like Audacity or Adobe Audition.
Build a portfolio by creating sample episodes.
Network with potential clients in podcasting communities.

Ideas for the Business:

Edit podcast episodes for clients.
Offer consulting services on podcast setup and launch.
Create intro and outro music or jingles.
Provide transcription services for podcast episodes.

 

18: Complete Microtasks

Microtasks involve small, simple tasks that can be completed quickly, often from a computer or smartphone.

This work is perfect for those looking to utilize their spare time effectively without committing to large projects.

It’s a great part-time side hustle because it requires minimal training and flexibility in scheduling.

Earnings can vary, generally ranging from a few cents to a few dollars per task.

It suits detail-oriented individuals who enjoy quick wins and have a consistent internet connection.

How to Get Started:

Sign up on microtask platforms like Amazon Mechanical Turk, Clickworker, or Microworkers.
Create a reliable profile and undergo any required training or testing.
Start completing available tasks and build up your reputation for higher-quality jobs.

Common Microtasks:

Data entry
Image labeling
Content moderation
Transcription

 

19: Print On Demand

Print On Demand (POD) offers a great opportunity to combine creativity with technology, catering to niche markets.

This business idea is suitable for designers, artists, and entrepreneurs who want a low-risk way to enter the e-commerce space.

You handle the creative side while a third party manages inventory and shipping.

Earnings can vary widely, from a few hundred to several thousand dollars monthly, depending on the scale and success of your market efforts.

How to Get Started:

Choose a niche and design products
Create an online store using platforms like Shopify or Etsy
Connect with a POD service like Printify or Printful
Market your products through social media and SEO

Business Ideas:

Custom T-shirts and hoodies
Illustrated phone cases
Personalized mugs
Art prints and posters
Branded tote bags

Explore more at Printify and Printful.

 

20: Voiceover Services

Voiceover services can be one of the top part-time business ideas for you if you have a smooth or unique voice.

With the rise of digital media, there’s a high demand for voiceover talent in various sectors.

Voiceover work can be done from home with minimal equipment and offers the potential to make $25-$300 per hour, depending on experience and the project’s complexity.

This business is perfect for individuals with a good speaking voice and a flair for articulation.

How to Get Started:

Read our guide on how to start a voice over career
Invest in a quality microphone and soundproof your recording space
Create sample recordings to showcase your voice range
Register on voiceover platforms like Voices.com or Voice123
Network with potential clients through social media and online forums
Consider taking a voiceover course to improve your skills

Business Ideas:

Commercials
Audiobooks
E-learning content
Video game characters
Podcast intros

Enroll in the Intro to Voice Over FREE mini Course for more information.

 

21: Online Event Planning

Online event planning involves organizing and managing virtual events such as webinars, conferences, and social gatherings.

It is a great part-time business idea due to the increasing demand for virtual interactions.

Earning potential ranges from $1,000 to $5,000 per event, depending on scale and complexity.

This business suits individuals who are detail-oriented, organized and have strong communication skills.

To get started:

Research virtual event platforms.
Develop a business plan.
Market your services on social media.
Build a portfolio with initial projects.

Ideas for online event planning:

Virtual Conferences
Webinars
Online Workshops
Virtual Networking Events

Read our guide on how to start an event planning business from home.

 

22: Virtual Music Lessons

Teaching music lessons online offers flexibility and can be highly profitable.

If you have musical skills, you can connect with students from around the world.

This part-time venture allows you to work from home and tailor your schedule to fit your lifestyle.

Earnings can range from $20 to $100 per hour, depending on your expertise and student demand.

This business suits experienced musicians, music teachers, or advanced students with strong technical skills.

How to get started:

Ensure stable internet and good-quality audio/video equipment
Set up a professional teaching space
Create a website or profile on tutoring platforms
Advertise your lessons on social media and music forums
Develop a curriculum and gather necessary teaching materials

Business ideas:

Offer individual or group lessons
Create and sell music courses
Host virtual concerts or recitals for your students

 

23: Sell Used Socks Online

Selling used socks is probably one of the most unique part-time business ideas, but if done right, it can bring in a healthy profit.

It’s great for those who want to earn extra income with minimal effort. With a variety of online platforms available, it’s easier than ever to find buyers.

You can earn between $10 to $30 per pair, depending on the specific market demand and condition of the socks.

This opportunity suits individuals comfortable engaging in niche markets and able to maintain clear, professional communication.

How to Get Started:

Research popular platforms (e.g., Reddit, Sniffr, and AllThingsWorn)
Create accounts and profiles
Take clear, high-quality photos
Write honest and detailed descriptions
Set competitive prices

Ideas for the Business:

Offer combo deals (e.g., socks with other used items or a video)
Provide personalized notes
Bundle multiple pairs
Leverage social media for promotion

 

24: Flip Thrift Store Items

Flipping thrift store items is a profitable and flexible part-time business idea.

You can find discounted items at thrift stores and resell them online or at local markets.

You can earn anywhere from $50 to $5000 a month, depending on the effort and time you invest.

This business is suitable for people who enjoy shopping and have an eye for valuable items.

How to Get Started:

Visit local thrift stores regularly.
Research popular items that sell well.
Take quality photos and write detailed descriptions.
List items on eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace.
Monitor sales and adjust pricing as needed.

Ideas for Thrift Store Items to Flip:

Designer clothing and handbags
Vintage area rugs and quilts
Baby items like playpens and baby monitors
Sports and exercise equipment like treadmills and weights

 

25: Sell Stock Photography

Selling stock photography can be a lucrative part-time side hustle if you have an eye for taking a great shot.

It involves taking high-quality photos and uploading them to stock photography websites where businesses, publishers, and individuals can purchase licenses to use them.

It’s perfect for hobbyist photographers with a good eye for commercial quality and earnings depend on the quality and demand for your photos.

Some photographers make hundreds per month, while top contributors can make thousands.

How to Get Started:

Invest in a quality camera and editing software.
Research current stock photography trends.
Create and curate a diverse portfolio.
Sign up with reputable stock photography websites like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock.

Ideas for Stock Photography that Sells Well:

Nature and landscapes
Cityscapes and urban scenes
Business and office environments
People in everyday scenarios
Close-ups of food and beverages

 

Final Thoughts on the Best Part-Time Business Ideas

Now you have a ton of ideas for part-time business ideas to start in your spare time!

Choose one that aligns with your passions and skills and start taking action on your new business idea, whenever you have a free few minutes.

Even spending 30 minutes a day on your part-time business or a few hours at the weekend will make a difference, and with time, you will start to see results.

Just remember – don’t give up too early as every seed of an idea needs time to grow and thrive!

Want money more quickly?

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