7 Low Cost Side Hustles You Can Start Today

Starting a side hustle is one of the best ways to build extra income, and it’s more accessible than ever. With technology at our fingertips and minimal startup costs, you can begin earning without needing a huge investment upfront.

Whether you’re looking to boost your income for retirement, save for a special purchase, or explore entrepreneurship, these seven side hustles are perfect for getting started with little to no money.

Here are some side hustle ideas worth exploring:

1. Freelance Writing

If you enjoy writing, freelance writing is a flexible side hustle that requires little more than a computer and internet access. Businesses and blogs are always on the lookout for talented writers to create content, whether it’s articles, social media posts, or product descriptions. Start by pitching your services on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or directly reaching out to potential clients.

Startup cost: Low

Skills needed: Writing, research, and a knack for storytelling

Income potential: $20-$100+ per hour depending on expertise

2. Virtual Assistant

With the rise of remote work, many business owners are outsourcing administrative tasks to virtual assistants (VAs). As a VA, you can manage email, schedule appointments, handle customer service, or assist with social media. This job requires strong organizational skills and reliability but has very low upfront costs.

Startup cost: Low

Skills needed: Organization, communication, and time management

Income potential: $15-$50+ per hour depending on tasks

3. Social Media Management

If you’re a social media pro and know how to engage audiences on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok, this side hustle could be perfect. Small businesses and entrepreneurs often don’t have the time to manage their social media accounts and are willing to pay someone to do it. You can create content, schedule posts, and respond to comments for clients.

Startup cost: Low

Skills needed: Social media know-how, creativity, and strategy

Income potential: $20-$75+ per hour

4. Online Tutoring

Do you have expertise in a subject like math, science, or a foreign language? Online tutoring platforms allow you to teach students virtually. No need for a teaching degree, just solid knowledge in your area of expertise.

Startup cost: Low

Skills needed: Subject matter expertise and teaching ability

Income potential: $15-$40+ per hour depending on subject

5. Sell Digital Products

If you have graphic design skills or are great at creating templates, e-books, or printables, selling digital products on platforms like Etsy can be a profitable side hustle. The best part about selling digital products is that once you create them, they can generate passive income with minimal ongoing effort.

Startup cost: Low

Skills needed: Creativity, design, and product creation

Income potential: Varies based on product and demand, but passive income is possible

6. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking

If you’re an animal lover, you can turn your passion into profit by offering pet-sitting or dog-walking services. Apps like Rover or Wag allow you to sign up and start offering services right away. It’s a great way to make money if you enjoy being around pets, and it’s flexible enough to fit into any schedule.

Startup cost: None

Skills needed: Love for animals and reliability

Income potential: $15-$30+ per walk or pet-sitting session

7. Dropshipping

If you want to start an e-commerce business without holding inventory, dropshipping might be for you. With dropshipping, you set up an online store (using platforms like Shopify or Etsy) and sell products from suppliers who handle the inventory and shipping. Your job is to market the products, and you earn a margin on every sale. It requires little initial investment since you don’t need to buy products in advance.

Startup cost: Low

Skills needed: Marketing and e-commerce setup

Income potential: Varies based on niche and marketing efforts

The bottom line is that each of these side hustles offers flexibility, low startup costs, and the potential to grow into something bigger if you choose. The key is to pick something that aligns with your skills and interests. The best part is that none of these side hustles require a large upfront investment, allowing you to start today with little to no financial risk.