Everyone wants to make extra money, right? Whether you need to pay bills, save for a vacation, or have some spending cash, side hustle apps can help.
The good news? You don’t need special skills or a full-time job. Just your phone, some free time, and the right apps.
In this guide, I’ll share the best side hustle apps in 2025 that pay. No scams—just real ways to earn.
Side Hustle Apps to Get Paid for Surveys and Small Tasks
1. Swagbucks
One of the OGs of survey sites, Swagbucks, launched in 2008. Beyond surveys, you can earn by watching video clips, playing games, or even just searching the web. They’ve paid out over half a billion dollars to users! Points (“SB”) convert to gift cards or PayPal cash. It’s not get-rich-quick money, but perfect for killing time productively.
- Earnings: $1–$5 per survey (about $50/month casually)
- Best For: Earning while watching TV
- Why Use It? Multiple ways to earn, trusted brand
- Pro Tip: Their browser extension earns you SB for regular shopping
2. ySense
Originally called ClixSense in 2007, this platform rebranded to ySense in 2018. It’s one of the higher-paying survey sites, with some studies paying $5+ for 20 minutes. Micro tasks include classifying images or testing websites. Payouts are quick via PayPal.
- Earnings: $2–$8/hour for surveys
- Best For: Those wanting better-than-average survey pay
- Why Use It? Higher payouts than most survey apps
- Watch for: Their daily login bonus adds up
3. Cointiply
This fresh-faced app (2016) puts a crypto spin on earning. Besides surveys, you can earn Bitcoin by watching ads, completing offers, or even just leaving the app running. They have a fun “faucet” that drips small amounts of crypto over time. You can cash out to PayPal too if crypto isn’t your thing.
- Earnings: $3–$10/day if you check in regularly
- Best For: Crypto beginners
- Why Use It? Learn about crypto while earning
- Bonus: Higher earnings when you join their loyalty program
Side Hustle Gig Economy Apps (Delivery & Driving)
4. DoorDash
DoorDash started back in 2013 when a few Stanford students noticed how hard it was for small restaurants to handle deliveries. They built an app connecting hungry customers with drivers willing to pick up meals. Today, it’s one of the biggest food delivery platforms in the US. As a “Dasher,” you simply open the app, accept orders near you, grab the food, and drop it off. The cool part? You see exactly how much you’ll earn (including tips) before accepting each delivery.
- Earnings: $15–$25/hour (tips boost your pay)
- Best For: People who like driving and want flexible hours
- Why Use It? Always busy around mealtimes; cash out daily if needed
- Bonus: Get paid extra for delivering during “peak pay” times
5. Uber Eats
Uber launched its food delivery service in 2014 as an extension of its ride-hailing app. It works nearly identically to DoorDash – you get pinged when someone nearby orders food, you pick it up, and drop it off. The app shows you the restaurant’s location, the customer’s address, and the estimated earnings upfront. Many drivers like running both Uber Eats and DoorDash simultaneously to stay busier.
- Earnings: $12–$20/hour (depending on your city)
- Best For: Those who already drive for Uber or want maximum flexibility
- Why Use It? Same familiar Uber app interface, instant cashouts
- Pro Tip: Lunch and dinner rushes pay best
6. Instacart
Born in 2012, Instacart revolutionized grocery delivery by letting shoppers fulfill orders from local stores. You can choose to just deliver (like DoorDash) or do the full shopping experience (picking items yourself). The app guides you through each store’s layout, which is super helpful. During the pandemic, Instacart blew up and remains super popular.
- Earnings: $15–$30/hour (shoppers earn more than delivery-only)
- Best For: People who don’t mind grocery shopping
- Why Use It? Often better tips than food delivery
- Watch for: Heavy items (cases of water) mean bigger tips!
7. Etsy Seller (Sell Handmade or Vintage Goods)
Etsy (2005) is eBay for creatives. Sell handmade jewelry, vintage clothes, or digital printables (like wedding invitations). No inventory is needed for digital items—just upload files once!
- Earnings: $200–$10,000/month (top sellers make six figures)
- Best For: Crafters, artists, thrift flippers
- Why Use It? Low fees: 6.5% per sale (vs. Amazon’s 15%) and a global audience(90 M+ buyers)
- Pro Tip: Use print-on-demand (Printify) to avoid inventory hassles
8. OfferUp (Sell Locally with Zero Fees)
OfferUp (2011) lets you sell used items fast—no shipping required. Snap photos, set prices, and meet buyers nearby. Great for decluttering or flipping thrift finds.
- Earnings: $100–$2,000/month (depending on inventory)
- Best For: Minimalists, resellers, or garage sale lovers
- Why Use It? No listing fees (unlike eBay) and instant cash payments.
- Pro Tip: Use keywords like “vintage” or “rare” in listings to attract collectors
Side Hustle Rental Apps (Passive Income)
9. Airbnb (Rent Your Space for Passive Income)
Got a spare room, backyard cottage, or even a quirky treehouse? Airbnb (founded in 2008) lets you monetize it. List your space, set your price/availability, and host travelers. They handle payments and offer $1M liability protection.
- Earnings: $500–$5,000/month (varies by location/space)
- Best For: Homeowners or renters (check your lease!)
- Why Use It? Offer affordable alternatives to traditional hotels
- Pro-Tip: Set rules (e.g., “no parties”)
10. RVshare (Airbnb for RVs)
RVshare (founded in 2013) is the #1 peer-to-peer RV rental platform. Rent out your motorhome, campervan, or travel trailer to vacationers. They handle insurance, payments and even offer 24/7 roadside assistance.
- Earnings: $1000–$15,000/month (peak season)
- Best For: RV owners or those willing to invest in a rental fleet
- Why Use It? Higher earnings than traditional rental companies
- Pro Tip: Include add-ons like BBQ grills or bikes for $25–$50 extra/day
11. Turo
Dubbed the “Airbnb for cars,” Turo launched in 2010. Instead of letting your car sit idle, you list it for rent by the day or week. You set the price, rules (like mileage limits), and choose your renters. Turo handles insurance and payments. Some hosts even build fleets of cars as a full business!
- Earnings: $300–$1,000/month per car
- Best For: Those with an extra vehicle
- Why Use It? Earn money while you sleep
- Pro Tip: Sporty/unique cars rent best
12. HyreCar (Rent Your Car to Rideshare Drivers)
Do you own a car sitting idle? HyreCar (2014) lets Uber/Lyft drivers rent it by the day/week. You set the price ($100/day); they handle insurance and maintenance.
- Earnings: $500–$2,000/month per car
- Best For: Extra cars or SUVs (popular for Uber XL)
- Why Use It? Earn extra income using your idle car
- Pro Tip: Mileage limits (negotiate higher rates for unlimited miles)
13. Outdoorsy (Airbnb for RVs/Campers)
Outdoorsy (2015) rents RVs, trailers, and even rooftop tents. Owners earn $100–$300/night. Includes 24/7 roadside assistance.
- Earnings: $1,500–$10,000/month (peak camping seasons)
- Best For: RV owners or those willing to invest in a camper
- Why Use It: Some owners pay off their RV loan in 6 months by renting it!
- Pro Tip: RV owners to earn income by renting out their vehicles.
Freelancing Apps (Sell Your Skills)
14. Fiverr
Born in 2010, Fiverr started with the idea of $5 gigs (hence the name) but has evolved into a massive marketplace for digital services. You create a “gig”, offering anything from logo design to voiceover work. Clients browse and hire you directly. The cool part? You set your prices and schedule. Many people have gone from side hustles to six-figure businesses here!
- Earnings: $5–$500 per gig (top sellers make $10k+/month)
- Best For: Creatives (designers, writers, video editors)
- Why Use It? Global client base, no bidding wars
- Pro Tip: Offer quick turnarounds to rank higher in search
15. Upwork
Formed in 2015 from the merger of Elance and oDesk, Upwork is the LinkedIn of freelancing. Clients post jobs (like “Build me a website”), and you submit proposals. It’s more formal than Fiverr but great for long-term projects. My first freelance writing job came from Upwork – $50 for a blog post that took me 2 hours!
- Earnings: $15–$100+/hour (varies by skill)
- Best For: Professionals (developers, marketers, accountants)
- Why Use It? High-paying clients, escrow payment protection
- Watch For: They take 20% of your first $500 with a client
16. TaskRabbit
Founded in 2008 (and bought by IKEA in 2017), TaskRabbit connects you with locals who need help with everyday tasks. Think about assembling furniture, moving help, or even waiting in line for concert tickets. You set your hourly rate and availability. Perfect if you’re handy or just willing to hustle.
- Earnings: $20–$50/hour (assembly jobs pay best)
- Best For: Hands-on people in big cities
- Why Use It? Cash same day via instant pay
- Fun Fact: Some “Taskers” make $5k/month during peak moving seasons
17. Rover
Started in 2011 by two dog lovers who couldn’t find good pet sitters, Rover is now the #1 app for pet services. Offer dog walking, boarding, or drop-in visits. I know a college student who pays her rent just by watching Golden Retrievers on weekends!
- Earnings: $15–$50 per walk, $25–$100/night for boarding
- Best For: Animal lovers
- Why Use It? Get paid to play with pets
- Safety Note: They provide insurance and background checks
18. Freelancer.com
One of the oldest (1999!), Freelancer.com works like Upwork but with smaller, quick-turnaround jobs. You bid on projects ranging from data entry to app development. Warning: Lots of competition from overseas freelancers, so specialize in something local (like “real estate photography in Chicago”).
- Earnings: $10–$50/hour (varies widely)
- Best For: Beginners testing the freelance waters
- Why Use It? Low barrier to entry
- Key Tip: Build your profile with small jobs first
Cashback & Reward Apps (Free Money)
19. Rakuten
Formerly Ebates (founded 1999), Rakuten gives you cash back just for shopping through their app/website at stores like Walmart, Amazon, and Nike. They make money from affiliate links and share the commission with you. I’ve earned $432.17 lifetime – not bad for buying stuff I needed anyway!
- Earnings: 1–15% cashback per purchase
- Best For: Online shoppers
- Why Use It? Free money with zero extra work
- Hack: Combine with credit card rewards for double dipping
20. Ibotta
Picture this: You’re buying cereal anyway. Why not get paid for it? Ibotta (founded in 2012) lets you earn cash back on everyday purchases. Before hitting the store, open the app and “unlock” offers (like $1 back on Cheerios). This app works at Walmart, Target, Kroger, CVS – even liquor stores!
- Earnings: $5–$20/week (more if you refer friends)
- Best For: Families who grocery shop weekly
- Why Use It? Works at most major stores (even liquor stores!)
- Pro Move: Stack coupons for maximum savings
21. Fetch Rewards
The new kid on the block (2017), Fetch is simple. You need to scan ANY grocery receipt (no selecting items) and get points. 1,000 points. It also works with pharmacies, gas stations.
- Earnings: $10–$30/month casually
- Best For: People who hate clipping coupons
- Why Use It? Takes 10 seconds per receipt
- Bonus: Extra points for certain brands (e.g., Pepsi products)
22. Shopkick
Founded in 2009, Shopkick rewards you for walking into stores (like Target), scanning items, or making purchases. Earn “kicks” redeemable for gift cards. Great if you’re already mall-walking for exercise!
- Earnings: $5–$25/month
- Best For: Frequent in-store shoppers
- Why Use It? Get rewards just for scanning barcodes (no purchase needed)
- Fun Fact: They once gave kicks for trying on clothes at Macy’s
23. Drop
This Canadian app (2015) automatically gives you cashback when you shop with linked cards (no receipts needed). Connect your debit/credit cards, then earn at places like Starbucks, Uber, and Sephora. Like a passive rewards tracker.
- Earnings: $5–$50/month (depends on spending)
- Best For: Set-it-and-forget-it types
- Why Use It? Works automatically after setup
- Note: Better for urban dwellers (more partner stores)
Tutoring Apps (Earn by Teaching)
24. Wyzant
Wyzant (2005) connects tutors with students in 300+ subjects, from math to music theory. Set your own rates and schedule virtual/in-person sessions.
- Earnings: $20–$100/hour
- Best For: Teachers, grad students, or subject experts
- Why Use It? Keep 100% of earnings after the first session
- Pro Tip: Offer a free 15-minute intro to attract students
25. TutorMe
TutorMe (2013) pays you to answer student questions instantly in subjects like coding, languages, or STEM. Work anytime—no scheduling required.
- Earnings: $16–$20/hour (weekly PayPal payouts)
- Best For: Night owls or those with unpredictable schedules
- Why Use It? No lesson planning (students bring questions) and bonus incentives for top tutors
- Pro Tip: Specialize in high-demand areas like Python or AP Calculus
Side Hustle Apps for Social Media Influencers
26. Instagram
With over 2.4B monthly users, Instagram lets creators earn through branded posts, affiliate marketing, and selling products. Enable “Professional Account” to access monetization tools.
- Earnings: Nano influencers (1K-10K followers): $50−$$500/post, Macro influencers (100K+ followers): $1K−$20K/post
- Best For: Photographers, lifestyle bloggers, eCommerce brands
- Why Use It? Multiple income streams (Reels bonuses, IG Shopping)
- Pro Tip: Use “Paid Partnership” tags to stay FTC-compliant while boosting credibility
27. Facebook
Facebook’s monetization includes in-stream ads, fan subscriptions, and marketplace sales. Groups with 10K+ engaged members qualify for bonuses.
- Earnings: Video ad revenue: $3−$10 per 1K views
- Best For: Educators, hobbyists, local service providers
- Why Use It? Stars tipping system (1 Star = $0.01), marketplace has no selling fees
- Pro Tip: Create a “Guides” post with affiliate links to evergreen content
28. YouTube
You can earn from YouTube through AdSense (requires 1K subs + 4K watch hours), sponsorships, and Super Chats. YouTube Shorts now has its own $100M creator fund.
- Earnings: Ad revenue: $3−$$5 per 1K views; sponsorships: $500−$50K per integration
- Best For: Videographers, educators, entertainers
- Why Use It? 55% of creators say it’s their top-earning platform, longest content lifespan (videos keep earning for years)
- Pro Tip: Add “Pinned Links” to your videos directing to affiliate products
👉 Join the YouTube Partner Program
29. TikTok
Monetize through Creator Fund (10K+ followers), LIVE gifts, and the TikTok Shop affiliate program. Brands pay premium for viral potential.
- Earnings: Creator Fund: $0.02−$0.04 per 1K views
- Best For: Trend-savvy creators, dancers, and comedians
- Why Use It? Highest virality potential (algorithm favors new creators), TikTok Shop commissions up to 25%
- Pro Tip: Use trending sounds with your own twist to ride viral waves
30. X/Twitter (The Conversational Cashflow)
X’s monetization includes Ad Revenue Sharing (requires Premium+ subscription), Super Follows $3−$99/month), and Tip Jar.
- Earnings: Ad revenue: $1−$3 per 1K impressions
- Best For: Journalists, thought leaders, meme creators
- Why Use It? Lowest barrier to virality (no algorithm jail)
- Pro Tip: Post threaded content (7+ tweets) to maximize impressions
What is a Side Hustle?
Many of us need some extra income apart from the primary income from a job or business. A side hustle refers to any form of employment or small task that individuals engage in alongside their primary source of income or main job. It is typically an additional means of earning money outside of one’s regular job and is often pursued part-time or on a flexible schedule.
Side hustles can take various forms, such as freelancing, gig work, online businesses, or part-time jobs. They provide individuals with the opportunity to explore their passions, monetize their skills or hobbies, and increase their income. Side hustles can be a way to supplement finances, pay off debt, save for specific goals, or even transition into a new career.
What are Side Hustle Apps?
Side hustle apps are mobile applications that connect individuals with on-demand work opportunities. They allow you to earn money outside of your regular job. These apps provide a platform for freelancers, gig workers, and those seeking part-time work to find gigs, tasks, or services they can complete based on their skills and availability.
Side hustle apps are of various kinds. Some are related to skills like selling, marketing, writing, etc. While some apps are service-related, like babysitting, pet sitting, etc. You can choose according to your preference and expertise.
Benefits of Side Hustle Apps
Side hustle apps offer several advantages for individuals looking to make extra money or explore new avenues. The three major benefits of using these side hustle apps are listed below:
a) Flexibility and Convenience
One of the primary benefits of side hustle apps is the flexibility they provide. These apps allow you to work on your terms, choosing when and where you want to work. Whether you prefer working during weekends, evenings, or odd hours, side hustle apps enable you to fit work around your existing schedule.
b) Skill Development
Engaging with side hustle apps not only provides financial benefits but also offers a chance for personal and professional growth. Many side hustle apps offer opportunities to develop and enhance your skills. Whether it is through freelance projects, online courses, or participation in specialized tasks, these apps allow you to expand your knowledge and improve your expertise in various fields.
c) Additional Income Opportunities
Side hustle apps open up a world of additional income opportunities. They allow you to leverage your skills and hobbies to generate extra cash. Whether you are a graphic designer, a writer, a driver, or someone with a specific talent, these apps connect you with potential clients and customers who are actively seeking the services you offer.
Read: Ways to Make Money Online from Home for Free
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use multiple side hustle apps simultaneously?
Absolutely! Using multiple side hustle apps can expand your income opportunities and allow you to diversify your sources of earnings.
How much can I earn through side hustle apps?
Earnings vary depending on factors such as the type of work, time invested, and skills. The more you engage and develop your expertise, the higher your earning potential.
Are side hustle apps available globally?
Many side hustle apps operate internationally, but availability may vary depending on your location. Check the app’s availability in your country before getting started.
Do side hustle apps require any specific skills?
Side hustle apps cater to a wide range of skills and interests. Whether you’re a writer, designer, driver, or have other talents, there are apps tailored to your abilities.
Are side hustle apps safe and secure?
The market is flooded with fake and legitimate apps. However, reputable side hustle apps prioritize user safety and implement measures such as secure payment systems and user verification processes. However, it’s important to exercise caution and read reviews before engaging with any app.
Editorial Team at 99BusinessIdeas is a team of experts led by Rupak Chakrabarty with over 25 years of experience in starting and running small businesses. Started in 2010, 99BusinessIdeas is now one of the largest free small business resources in the industry.