Easy Side Hustles You Can Start With Less Than $100
Starting a side hustle is one of the best ways to earn extra income, gain new skills, and even explore entrepreneurial opportunities. Contrary to popular belief, launching a profitable side hustle doesn’t require a massive upfront investment. With a small budget—sometimes as little as $100—you can start building something meaningful, whether it’s a part-time gig or the foundation of a larger business.
The key to a successful side hustle lies in leveraging your existing skills, interests, and resources. Whether you’re freelancing, selling products, or offering services, the opportunities are endless. And with determination, strategic planning, and a little creativity, you can grow your side hustle into a consistent income stream. Below are seven side hustle ideas you can start with less than $100, as well as tips for ensuring long-term success.
1. Freelance Writing or Editing
Do you enjoy writing, editing, or working with words? Freelance writing or editing is a fantastic side hustle that requires minimal upfront costs and can be done from the comfort of your home. Businesses, blogs, and content creators are always on the lookout for talented writers to create engaging articles, web copy, product descriptions, and more.
Why It Works
Freelance writing offers flexibility—you can choose your projects, set your rates, and work according to your schedule. Additionally, the demand for high-quality content is ever-growing, making it a sustainable and scalable option.
Startup Costs
- $0–$50: Use free portfolio-building tools or invest in a basic website. Grammar tools like Grammarly or Hemingway can enhance your work and build credibility.
How to Start
- Create a simple portfolio showcasing your writing or editing samples.
- Use freelancing platforms to find clients. Many businesses also hire directly through their websites or LinkedIn.
- Pitch your services to blogs or small businesses. Start with smaller gigs to build a reputation, then scale up as you gain experience.
2. Virtual Assistant Services
Virtual assistants (VAs) are in high demand for their ability to manage administrative tasks, schedule appointments, respond to emails, and handle data entry. This is a great option if you’re organized, detail-oriented, and enjoy helping others streamline their day-to-day activities.
Why It Works
VAs provide services remotely, which means you can work with clients from all over the world. Plus, the flexibility of the job allows you to balance it with other responsibilities.
Startup Costs
- $0–$50: Invest in a project management tool or inexpensive design software like Canva for creating professional templates and documents.
How to Start
- Advertise your services on LinkedIn or niche VA job boards.
- Create a list of the tasks you can handle, such as calendar management, social media scheduling, or customer service.
- Start small by offering services to individuals or startups before expanding to larger companies.
3. Social Media Management
If you’re skilled at creating eye-catching content and engaging with online communities, becoming a social media manager could be a great fit. Small businesses, solopreneurs, and even nonprofits often look for help managing their social media presence to attract and retain customers.
Why It Works
With social media being a cornerstone of modern marketing, businesses recognize its importance but often lack the time or expertise to manage it effectively. Social media managers provide value by growing online audiences and driving engagement.
Startup Costs
- $0–$50: Consider enrolling in a short online course to sharpen your skills or purchasing basic graphic design software.
How to Start
- Reach out to local businesses, friends, or family members who may need help managing their social media accounts.
- Build a small portfolio showcasing your ability to create engaging posts and grow social media followings.
- Use your own social media accounts as a way to demonstrate your expertise.
4. Online Tutoring or Teaching
If you excel in a specific subject or skill, tutoring or teaching online can be a fulfilling and lucrative side hustle. Whether it’s academic subjects, musical instruments, or even cooking classes, online platforms make it easy to connect with students worldwide.
Why It Works
Online learning continues to grow as a convenient way for people to develop new skills or improve their knowledge. With minimal startup costs, you can use your expertise to help others while earning income.
Startup Costs
- $0–$30: Use free platforms like Zoom or Google Meet to conduct lessons.
How to Start
- Promote your services on community forums, social media, or through word-of-mouth.
- Join tutoring platforms or create your own website to showcase your expertise.
- Offer free trial sessions to attract clients and build trust.
5. Reselling Thrifted Items
Reselling thrifted or pre-loved items is a creative and eco-friendly way to earn extra cash. Whether it’s vintage clothing, rare collectibles, or refurbished furniture, this side hustle allows you to turn hidden treasures into profit.
Why It Works
Reselling has become increasingly popular due to the growing demand for unique, sustainable, and affordable products. Platforms like online marketplaces make it easy to connect with buyers.
Startup Costs
- $0–$100: Use your initial budget to purchase inventory from thrift stores, garage sales, or online marketplaces.
How to Start
- Take high-quality photos of your items and write detailed descriptions to attract buyers.
- List items on online platforms or social media groups.
- Reinvest your profits to grow your inventory and scale your business.
6. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
If you’re an animal lover, pet sitting or dog walking can be a rewarding and flexible side hustle. Pet owners are often willing to pay for reliable care when they’re busy or traveling.
Why It Works
With the increasing number of pet owners, there’s a growing demand for trustworthy individuals to look after their furry friends. This side hustle allows you to spend time with animals while earning income.
Startup Costs
- $0–$25: Create flyers or online profiles to promote your services.
How to Start
- Start with friends, family, or neighbors who need pet care services.
- Join platforms where pet owners look for sitters and walkers.
- Build a good reputation by being reliable and professional, and rely on referrals to expand your client base.
7. House Cleaning Services
House cleaning is a straightforward side hustle that requires minimal investment and offers immediate earning potential. Many busy individuals and businesses are willing to pay for help keeping their spaces clean and organized.
Why It Works
Everyone appreciates a clean environment, and many people are happy to outsource this task. By offering quality service, you can quickly build a loyal customer base.
Startup Costs
- $20–$50: Purchase basic cleaning supplies such as multipurpose cleaners, microfiber cloths, and gloves.
How to Start
- Advertise your services on local community boards or through social media.
- Offer a discount for first-time clients to encourage them to try your service.
- Provide excellent customer service to gain repeat business and referrals.
Tips for Side Hustle Success
To make your side hustle successful, focus on planning, networking, and consistency. Here are some actionable tips to help you maximize your efforts:
1. Start Small
Don’t feel pressured to invest heavily upfront. Begin with a manageable workload and minimal costs to test the waters before scaling up.
2. Leverage Free Tools
Many free or low-cost tools are available to help beginners. Use free platforms, apps, and software to save on initial expenses while building your side hustle.
3. Focus on Your Strengths
Choose a side hustle that aligns with your skills or interests. When you’re passionate about what you do, it’s easier to stay motivated and deliver high-quality results.
4. Build a Network
Spread the word about your services through social media, networking events, and word-of-mouth referrals. Engaging with potential clients and like-minded individuals can open up new opportunities.
5. Be Consistent
Treat your side hustle like a business. Deliver high-quality service, meet deadlines, and maintain a professional demeanor to build a good reputation.
6. Scale Over Time
As you gain experience and confidence, look for opportunities to grow your side hustle. This could involve reinvesting profits, expanding your services, or increasing your rates.
Conclusion
Starting a side hustle doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With as little as $100—or even less—you can launch a profitable venture that fits into your schedule and aligns with your interests. From freelancing and virtual assistance to reselling and house cleaning, these side hustles offer flexibility, scalability, and the potential for long-term success.
By taking small, deliberate steps, you can turn your side hustle into a sustainable income stream and achieve your financial goals. Whether you’re looking to supplement your income, save for a big goal, or eventually transition into full-time entrepreneurship, now is the perfect time to get started. The possibilities are endless—start your journey today!