As the world continues to embrace digital solutions and remote work, online side hustles have evolved with the times, giving rise to exciting new ways to earn money. Whether you’re looking to supplement your income, save for a specific goal, or gain new skills, there are online side hustles to fit nearly every interest and schedule. Here’s a look at some of the most promising online side hustles:
1. AI Prompt Engineer
AI technologies like ChatGPT have created a unique niche called “AI Prompt Engineering.” People who can craft precise, effective prompts are in demand to help businesses generate better content, research insights, and data analysis through AI models. This role often requires creativity, an understanding of AI functionality, and knowledge of the target field. Some platforms offer dedicated courses to get you started, and experienced prompt engineers can earn between £20 and £100 per hour.
2. Digital Notary Services
As digital documents become the norm, online notarization has become an essential service. With a small upfront investment to become a certified online notary (requirements vary by location), you can notarize documents remotely through secure platforms. Online notaries often charge £15–£25 per document, and this side hustle can be particularly profitable during peak seasons, like tax time or real estate sales surges.
3. Subscription-Based Content on Social Media
Platforms like Instagram and TikTok now support subscription-based content, allowing creators to share exclusive posts, live sessions, and more for a monthly fee. This approach allows people with niche expertise – such as fitness, cooking, or personal finance – to earn directly from their audience. Creators have the flexibility to set their subscription prices, creating a potentially sustainable income stream.
4. Virtual Styling and Personal Shopping
With AI-driven shopping tools, styling apps, and the rise of e-commerce, the demand for virtual styling and personal shopping services is booming. Platforms like Stitch Fix and Nordstrom offer virtual styling gigs, or you can operate independently, offering services on freelance sites like Upwork or Fiverr. Virtual stylists can earn £50–£100 per hour, depending on experience, and those who specialise in particular styles or niches (like sustainable fashion) are especially sought after.
5. Online Course Reviews
As online education grows, students and professionals are eager to know which courses provide the best ROI. Enter online course reviews, where freelance writers or video creators share in-depth reviews of courses from popular sites like Udemy, Coursera, or LinkedIn Learning. Many course review sites pay contributors, and freelance platforms like Medium’s Partner Program also allow writers to earn based on article reads and engagements.
6. Voice Acting for Audiobooks and Digital Content
With the growth of audiobooks and digital content like YouTube narration, voice acting has opened up as an appealing online side hustle. If you have a good speaking voice, recording setup, and a bit of training, you can get started on platforms like ACX (Audiobook Creation Exchange) or Voices.com. Rates vary, but entry-level voice actors can earn £50–£150 per hour, while experienced voice artists can make even more.
7. Virtual Event Hosting and Emceeing
As virtual conferences, online meetups, and webinars remain popular, so has the need for virtual event hosts and emcees. Companies and organisations are increasingly looking for engaging personalities who can host events, moderate panels, or conduct interviews in a virtual setting. Virtual hosts can earn anywhere from £50 to £200 per hour, depending on the complexity and duration of the event.
8. Digital Product Sales (E-books, Templates, and Kits)
Creating digital products, such as e-books, planners, templates, or starter kits, can be a lucrative side hustle for those with specific expertise. Platforms like Gumroad, Etsy, and Creative Market allow creators to sell digital products directly to consumers. Once you create a product, it requires minimal maintenance, making it a great source of passive income. People with skills in design, writing, or business planning can especially benefit from this trend.
9. Online Tutoring and Mentoring with a Focus on AI and Tech Skills
With the increasing demand for AI, data science, coding, and other tech skills, online tutoring has evolved to include mentoring in these areas. Professionals with experience in coding, AI, machine learning, or data analytics can find high-paying tutoring gigs on sites like Superprof, Wyzant, and TutorMe. Rates for specialised tutoring can range from £40 to £200 per hour, depending on expertise and subject matter.
10. Remote Mystery Shopping
Mystery shopping has gone digital, and now, companies pay remote shoppers to evaluate online services and experiences. Remote mystery shoppers may be asked to test an e-commerce site, customer service chat, or a digital platform, then provide feedback on user experience, speed, and overall satisfaction. Websites like IntelliShop and Confero connect mystery shoppers with brands, and pay rates vary by task but typically range from £10 to £30 per evaluation.
The landscape of online side hustles continues to evolve, with new opportunities for those willing to think creatively and adapt. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a creative, or someone who loves helping others, there’s a side hustle out there for you in 2024.
