Best Side Hustles In High School

Introduction

Making extra money in high school can be a game-changer. It’s not just about having cash for fun stuff like going out with friends or saving for a car; it’s also about learning skills that’ll stick with you for life.

Starting a side hustle in high school helps you explore your interests, build confidence, and even set you up for bigger opportunities down the road.

Plus, earning your own money feels amazing—it gives you independence and lets you spend guilt-free since it’s money you worked hard for.

Let’s explore some of the best side hustles for high school students. These aren’t just random jobs—they’re flexible, practical, and can fit right into your busy schedule.

Best Side Hustles in High School

1. Tutoring

If you’re good at a particular subject, tutoring is a fantastic way to make money. High school students, or even younger kids, often need help in math, science, or languages.

You can charge $15–$30 per hour depending on your expertise and the demand in your area. You can tutor in person or online using platforms like Zoom or Google Meet.

2. Selling Crafts or Art

Got a creative side? Whether it’s making bracelets, painting, or designing custom T-shirts, there’s a market for handmade goods.

Set up a shop on platforms like Etsy or even sell through Instagram. The best part? You can do it on your own time and at your own pace.

3. Lawn Care or Snow Removal

This is a classic side hustle for a reason. People are always looking for help with mowing their lawns, raking leaves, or shovelling snow. It’s physical work, but you can earn $20–$50 per job depending on the size of the task.

4. Freelance Writing or Graphic Design

If you’re good with words or design, freelancing is a great way to start. Sites like Fiverr and Upwork let you offer services like writing blog posts, designing logos, or creating social media graphics. Rates can vary, but beginners often start at $10–$20 per gig.

5. Social Media Management

Spend a lot of time on Instagram or TikTok? Put those skills to work by helping small businesses or influencers manage their accounts.

Tasks might include posting updates, creating content, or responding to messages. You can earn $15–$25 an hour doing this.

6. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking

Animal lovers, this one’s for you. Many pet owners need help walking their dogs or taking care of their pets while they’re away.

Apps like Rover make it easy to find gigs in your area, and you can earn $10–$20 per walk or $25+ for pet-sitting.

7. Reselling

Thrift shopping and reselling clothes or items online can be super fun and profitable. Platforms like Poshmark, Depop, and eBay let you list your finds for resale. Start by hunting for trendy or unique items at thrift stores and mark them up for a profit.

8. Photography

If you’ve got an eye for great pictures and access to a good camera (even a high-quality smartphone works), photography could be your thing. High school events, senior portraits, or even stock photography are all opportunities to earn money.

9. Babysitting

This one’s been around forever, but it’s still a reliable way to make money. If you’re good with kids, parents are often willing to pay $15–$20 per hour for a trustworthy babysitter. Build a reputation, and you’ll have more work than you can handle.

10. Flipping Sneakers

If you know your sneaker brands and trends, flipping shoes can be a goldmine. Use apps like StockX or GOAT to buy limited-edition sneakers and resell them for a higher price. It takes some upfront investment, but the returns can be impressive.

Tips for Success

• Start Small: Don’t try to do everything at once. Pick one hustle that matches your skills and interests.
• Stay Organized: Balancing school, social life, and a side hustle can be tricky. Use a planner or app to keep track of your schedule.
• Promote Yourself: Use social media, word-of-mouth, and local community boards to spread the word about your services.
• Set Goals: Whether you’re saving for college or just want extra spending money, set a clear goal to stay motivated.

FAQs

1. Do I need a lot of money to start a side hustle?

Not at all! Many side hustles, like tutoring or dog walking, require little to no upfront investment. If you’re selling crafts or flipping sneakers, start small and reinvest your profits.

2. How much time should I spend on a side hustle?

It depends on your schedule. Start with a few hours a week and adjust as needed. The key is to find something that fits around your school and other commitments.

3. Can I make enough money to save for college?

Absolutely! While not every side hustle will make you rich, consistent effort can add up. For example, if you tutor for $20 an hour and work 5 hours a week, that’s $400 a month.

Further Resources

• Etsy (etsy.com): For selling handmade goods.
• Fiverr (fiverr.com): To start freelancing in writing, design, or other skills.
• Rover (rover.com): Perfect for pet-sitting gigs.
• Depop (depop.com): Great for reselling clothes.
• StockX (stockx.com): Ideal for flipping sneakers.

Conclusion

Starting a side hustle in high school isn’t just about making money—it’s about discovering what you’re good at, learning responsibility, and gaining real-world experience. No matter what hustle you choose, the skills you build now will stick with you for life.

So, what’s stopping you from taking the first step? Which side hustle are you excited to try? Let me know!