How to Make Money as a Teenager

Exploring ways to make money as a teen can leave you feeling stuck with inadequate job options and lack of experience being significant limitations, right? Notwithstanding, there is no better time to start paving the way to financial independence than now. In this ultimate guide, we explore the various side hustles for teens and ways to make money as a teen–both online and offline. With valuable insights and actionable tips, you’ll discover how to turn your passions into skills, thereby creating profitable ventures that unleash opportunities you never saw.

Being a teenager can be a lot of fun, but there’s no denying that extra money can make it even better. Fortunately, there is no shortage of side hustles for teens—from mowing lawns to selling high-income skills, there are tons of ways to make money as a teen. Whether you’re looking for the best jobs for teens online or just some offline part-time jobs for teens to help pay for your hobbies and expenses, there’s something out there for everyone.

Our criteria for the best side hustles for teens:

• Evaluate skill proficiency needed for each hustle.
• Analyze time commitment for each hustle.
• Thoroughly consider the safety and legal aspects of each side hustle.

So, let’s start brainstorming today and see what kind of opportunities you can create for yourself.

How to Make Money Online as a Teen | 12 Unique Opportunities

Are you a teenager looking for ways to make money this year? Whether you want to save money for college or even a new phone, there are plenty of online opportunities that can help you turn a few hours into cash. Let’s explore both quick side hustles for teens and more long-term projects. Here are the 12 best jobs for teens that you can find online!

Below we’ve listed everything you’ll want to know about how to make money online as a teen in the following roles:

• Freelance Writing
• Graphic Design
• Blogging or Vlogging
• Selling Handmade Crafts
• Flipping Items
• Dropshipping
• Print on Demand
• Social Media Management
• Affiliate Marketing
• Online Surveys and Reviews
• Teaching Tech Skills
• Renting out Gaming Equipment.

Freelance Writing

Freelance writing is an excellent way for teens to channel their creativity and language skills into a profitable venture. As a freelance writer, you’ll have the opportunity to create various types of content, such as articles, blog posts, website copy, and social media updates, for clients across different industries.

• Requirements: To succeed in freelance writing, you should have a strong command of grammar, excellent writing skills, and the ability to conduct research on diverse topics. Effective communication and meeting deadlines are also crucial in this field.
• Prospects: Websites like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr are popular platforms where you can find freelance writing gigs. Networking on social media and reaching out to small businesses can also lead to potential clients.
• Potential Earnings: Earnings in freelance writing vary widely depending on factors like project complexity, niche, word count, and your experience. Beginners might start with rates around US$5 to US$20 per article.
• Downsides:
  • Competition in the freelance writing space can be fierce, especially for entry-level writers.
  • Building a consistent client base takes time, and the income can be unpredictable.
  • Lastly, managing your workload alongside school commitments requires strong time management skills.

Graphic Design

For creatively inclined teens, graphic design can be a lucrative side hustle. Creating visual content such as logos, social media graphics, and website banners allows you to showcase your artistic skills and meet the digital design needs of clients.

• Requirements: Proficiency in graphic design software like Adobe Photoshop or Canva is essential. A keen eye for aesthetics, color schemes, and typography is crucial to produce visually appealing designs.
• Prospects: Platforms like DesignHill, Dribble, and 99designs offer opportunities to connect with clients seeking design work. Additionally, social media platforms and local businesses could be potential clients.
• Potential Earnings: Earnings vary based on the complexity of the projects. Simple designs like social media graphics might earn you US$10 to US$30, while more intricate projects like logos or website designs can fetch US$50 to US$200 or more.
• Downsides:
  • Building a reputation as a graphic designer takes time, and competition can be high.
  • Meeting client expectations and revisions can be challenging.
  • Finally, design software proficiency and continuous learning are essential to stay relevant in this rapidly evolving field.

Blogging or Vlogging

Dive into the exciting world of content creation as a teen blogger or vlogger, sharing your unique perspectives, interests, and experiences with fellow teenagers. Blogging involves crafting engaging articles, while vlogging lets you create captivating video content, making these platforms perfect for connecting with your peers.

• Requirements: Strong communication skills, both written and spoken, are vital. A genuine passion for your chosen subject ensures authentic content that resonates with your teenage audience. Basic video editing skills can enhance your vlogging endeavors.
• Prospects: Establish a blog using platforms like WordPress or Blogger, or kickstart your vlogging journey on YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok. Leverage social media to promote your content and connect with fellow teens.
• Potential Earnings: While income avenues include ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing, it’s essential to note that initial earnings may be modest. However, successful teen bloggers and vloggers can gradually increase their revenue as their audience grows.
• Downsides:
  • Building a dedicated teen audience takes time and consistent effort.
  • Managing content creation alongside school commitments might pose challenges.
  • Patience is key, as it may take time for earnings to accumulate substantially.

Selling Handmade Crafts

Unleash your creativity by selling your handcrafted creations online. Whether it’s unique jewelry, custom artwork, or personalized home decor, this side hustle allows you to turn your artistic talents into profit.

• Requirements: A knack for crafting and a passion for creating unique items are essential. Basic skills in photography for capturing your crafts attractively and appealingly are also helpful.
• Prospects: Utilize platforms like Etsy, eBay, or even social media platforms to showcase and sell your handmade crafts. Building a strong online presence and engaging with potential customers can boost your sales.
• Potential Earnings: Earnings vary based on the type of crafts and market demand. Handmade crafts can sell anywhere from $10 to $100 or more per item, depending on their intricacy and uniqueness.
• Downsides:
  • Balancing the time required for crafting with school commitments can be challenging.
  • Establishing a customer base and gaining visibility in a competitive market might take time.
  • Additionally, managing shipping and customer inquiries can be demanding.

Flipping Items

Engage in the exciting world of item flipping, where you buy items at a lower price and sell them for a profit. This side hustle allows you to explore your entrepreneurial skills and turn a keen eye for valuable finds into earnings.

• Requirements: An understanding of market trends and the ability to spot undervalued items are crucial. Basic negotiation skills for sourcing items at lower prices and presenting them attractively for resale are valuable.
• Prospects: Thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace are great sources for finding items to flip. Additionally, building a network within your community can lead to more opportunities.
• Potential Earnings: Earnings vary greatly based on the items you choose to flip. You could make a profit of $10 to $50 or more per item, depending on your negotiation skills and the demand for the items.
• Downsides: Flipping items successfully requires research and knowledge of different markets. It might take time to build expertise in identifying valuable items. Additionally, storage space and occasional risks of not finding buyers for certain items should be considered.

Dropshipping

Delve into the world of dropshipping, an online retail method that enables you to sell products without holding inventory. This side hustle lets you focus on marketing and customer service while suppliers handle product storage and shipping.

• Requirements: Strong online marketing skills, including social media and e-commerce platforms, are crucial. You’ll need to choose reliable suppliers and create an appealing online store.
• Prospects: Platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce offer easy setups for dropshipping stores. Connect with suppliers through platforms like AliExpress or Spocket.
• Potential Earnings: Earnings depend on the products you sell and your marketing efforts. Profit margins can range from 10% to 50% of the product price.
• Downsides:
  • Competition is fierce in the dropshipping market.
  • Customer service and managing supplier relationships can be challenging.
  • The success of your store relies heavily on effective marketing strategies.

Print on Demand

Explore the print-on-demand (POD) model, where you design custom products that are created and shipped to customers only after they’re ordered. This side hustle allows you to showcase your creativity without the need for upfront inventory.

• Requirements: Strong design skills and creativity are essential for creating eye-catching designs. Familiarity with design software or online tools is valuable.
• Prospects: Platforms like Printful, Printify, and Redbubble offer integration with online stores, making it easy to set up your print-on-demand business. You can also market your products on social media and personal websites.
• Potential Earnings: Earnings depend on the products you create and the markup you set. Depending on the product, you could earn a few dollars to several tens of dollars per sale.
• Downsides: 
  • Navigating design software and creating appealing designs might have a learning curve.
  • Competition in the POD market can be intense, so effective marketing and unique designs are vital.

Social Media Management

Dive into the dynamic world of social media management, helping businesses and individuals enhance their online presence. This side hustle involves curating content, engaging with followers, and strategizing to grow social media accounts.

• Requirements: Strong familiarity with various social media platforms and trends is crucial. Excellent communication skills, creativity, and the ability to analyze data to refine strategies are necessary.
• Prospects: Approach local businesses, startups, or individuals in need of social media assistance. You can also use platforms like Upwork and Fiverr to find clients seeking social media managers.
• Potential Earnings: Earnings vary based on the complexity of the work and the number of accounts managed.
• Downsides:
  • Managing multiple accounts can be time-consuming.
  • Keeping up with ever-changing algorithms and trends requires continuous learning.
  • Handling negative comments and maintaining a consistent brand voice can be challenging.

Affiliate Marketing

Explore the world of affiliate marketing, where you promote products or services and earn a commission for every sale made through your referral. This side hustle leverages your online presence and digital marketing skills to generate income.

• Requirements: Proficiency in online platforms and the ability to create compelling content are essential. Strong communication skills for crafting persuasive recommendations and building trust are valuable.
• Prospects: Join affiliate programs of companies in your niche or industry. Amazon Associates is a popular choice. Share your affiliate links through blog posts, social media, and other online channels.
• Potential Earnings: Earnings depend on the products or services you promote and your ability to drive sales. Commissions can range from a few dollars to a substantial percentage of the product’s price.
• Downsides:
  • Building a dedicated audience and gaining their trust takes time.
  • Balancing promotional content with genuine value for your audience is crucial.
  • Success in affiliate marketing requires consistent effort and strategic content creation.

Online Surveys and Reviews

Engage in online surveys and reviews to provide valuable feedback on products and services. This side hustle allows you to share your opinions while earning rewards or cash for your participation.

• Requirements: A computer or smartphone with internet access is necessary to participate. Attention to detail and the ability to provide thoughtful feedback are important for accurate survey responses and reviews.
• Prospects: Websites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and Vindale Research offer opportunities to take surveys and write reviews in exchange for rewards, gift cards, or cash.
• Potential Earnings: Earnings vary based on the length and complexity of surveys or reviews.
• Downsides: 
  • Earnings might accumulate slowly, especially for shorter surveys.
  • Not all survey opportunities are well-paying or relevant to your interests.
  • It’s essential to be cautious of potential survey scams and only participate in legitimate platforms.

Teaching Tech Skills

Share your technological expertise by teaching others essential tech skills. This side hustle allows you to empower individuals with knowledge while honing your teaching abilities.

• Requirements: Proficiency in specific tech skills, whether coding, graphic design, or software use, is essential. Strong communication and patience for teaching are crucial to effectively convey concepts to learners.
• Prospects: Offer your services as a tutor or instructor to classmates, friends, or family members. You can also create online tutorials or courses on platforms like Udemy or Teachable.
• Potential Earnings: Earnings vary based on your skill level and the demand for your expertise. Rates can range from $15 to $30 or more per hour for one-on-one sessions. In addition, course sales can provide passive income.
• Downsides:
  • Adapting your teaching style to different learning levels can be challenging.
  • Managing your schedule alongside school commitments is crucial.
  • Explaining complex tech concepts in an understandable manner requires effective communication skills.

Renting out Gaming Equipment

Transform your gaming passion into a profitable side hustle by renting out gaming equipment. This venture allows you to share your resources while generating income.

• Requirements: Ownership of gaming consoles and accessories, and a willingness to maintain and ensure their proper functioning are essential. Basic record-keeping skills to manage rentals and returns are beneficial.
• Prospects: Advertise your rental services through social media platforms, online classifieds, and community bulletin boards. Connect with fellow gamers who might be interested in temporary equipment use.
• Potential Earnings: Earnings depend on the popularity of the gaming equipment and the duration of rentals. Rates could range from a daily fee to a weekly or monthly charge, varying based on the type of equipment. For instance, you can rent a Sony PlayStation 5 starting at $29.90 monthly.
• Downsides: 
  • Ensuring the proper maintenance and functionality of your equipment is crucial to avoid negative feedback.
  • Handling rentals and keeping track of equipment can be time-consuming.
  • Risks of damage or loss should be considered.

24 Ingenious Offline Part-time Jobs for Teens

Your early years are prime time for exploring ways to make money as a teen. You’re in luck because part-time gigs are the best jobs for teens and they have always been a hot topic. From babysitting and lawn mowing to pet grooming services, there’s no shortage of side hustles for teens with a bit of creativity and determination. So, what are the best jobs for teens looking to make some extra cash offline? We did some digging and compiled a list of 24 ingenious ideas to spark your inspiration!

Below we’ve listed everything you’ll want to know about offline side hustles for teens and how to make money as a teenager in the following roles:

• Babysitting
• Pet Sitting/Dog Walking
• Lawn Care
• Tutoring
• Car Washing
• Photography
• House Cleaning or Organizing
• Running Errands
• Cashier at a local store
• Camp counselor
• Library assistant
• Fast-food or restaurant worker
• Grocery store bagger or stocker
• Movie theater attendant
• Farm or agricultural work
• Newspaper delivery
• Ice cream parlor attendant
• Theme park or amusement park worker
• Bakery assistant
• Landscaping or gardening assistant
• Dishwasher
• Bussing tables in a restaurant
• Valet parking attendant
• Warehouse assistant or packer.

Child and Pet Care

Engage in the rewarding role of ensuring the well-being and companionship of children and pets, which is one of the best jobs for teens. From babysitting to pet sitting and dog walking, these roles require responsibility, patience, and a genuine love for nurturing others.

Babysitting

• Requirements: Responsibility, patience, understanding of child needs.
• Prospects: Neighbors, local community groups, online platforms.
• Potential Earnings: Varies based on location and responsibilities.
• Downsides: Handling unexpected situations, challenging behaviors.

Pet Sitting/Dog Walking

• Requirements: Love for animals, reliability, understanding of pet needs.
• Prospects: Advertise locally, through social media, or platforms like Rover.
• Potential Earnings: Varies based on services offered, often $10 to $20 per visit or walk.
• Downsides: Handling pets with different temperaments, potential allergies or accidents.

Outdoor Services

Immerse yourself in the outdoors by offering services like lawn care, car washing, gardening, and landscaping. These roles demand physical fitness and an eye for detail as you transform outdoor spaces and vehicles into beautifully maintained and aesthetically pleasing entities.

Lawn Care

• Requirements: Knowledge of gardening tools, physical fitness.
• Prospects: Offer services to neighbors, family, or advertise online.
• Potential Earnings: $20 to $50 per job, depending on the size of the area.
• Downsides: Weather-dependent, physical labor.

Car Washing

• Requirements: Attention to detail, knowledge of cleaning products, physical stamina.
• Prospects: Advertise your services locally, through social media, or on community bulletin boards.
• Potential Earnings: Earnings vary based on the range of services offered, typically ranging from $20 to $50 or more per car.
• Downsides: Work is weather-dependent, physical labor can be demanding, and you might need to invest in cleaning supplies and equipment.

Landscaping or Gardening Assistant

• Requirements: Strong design sense, horticulture knowledge, physical stamina, plant care expertise, communication skills.
• Prospects: Landscaping firms, garden centers, nurseries, government agencies, online job boards, networking.
• Potential Earnings: Varies by location, tasks performed. Approx. $10 – $20 per hour.
• Downsides: Physical demands, weather conditions, building a client base, income fluctuations.

Education and Assistance

Lend your expertise to education by providing tutoring and academic support. Become a library assistant, aiding in organization and helping patrons find resources.

Tutoring

• Requirements: Strong knowledge of specific subjects, communication skills.
• Prospects: Offer services to peers, younger students, or online tutoring platforms.
• Potential Earnings: $15 to $30 or more per hour, depending on subject and level.
• Downsides: Need for patience, adapting teaching methods.

Library Assistant

• Requirements: Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, familiarity with library systems.
• Prospects: Inquire at local libraries for part-time assistant positions or volunteer opportunities.
• Potential Earnings: Typically paid positions with hourly rates, usually ranging from minimum wage to higher depending on the location.
• Downsides: Work may include repetitive tasks, dealing with difficult patrons, and adherence to library policies.

Retail and Customer Service

Step into the world of customer service with positions like cashiering, bagging, and fast-food or restaurant work. These roles necessitate excellent interpersonal skills and adaptability in dynamic, fast-paced environments.

Cashier at a Local Store

• Requirements: Customer service skills, basic math, ability to handle cash registers.
• Prospects: Apply to local retail stores, supermarkets, or convenience stores.
• Potential Earnings: Typically minimum wage or higher, often with opportunities for tips.
• Downsides: Repetitive tasks, standing for long periods, dealing with irate customers.

Grocery Store Bagger or Stocker

• Requirements: Attention to detail, physical fitness for stocking roles.
• Prospects: Apply to local grocery stores and supermarkets.
• Potential Earnings: Hourly rates, often minimum wage or slightly higher.
• Downsides: Physically demanding, repetitive tasks, busy hours during peak times.

Fast-Food or Restaurant Worker

• Requirements: Customer service skills, ability to handle fast-paced environments.
• Prospects: Apply to local eateries or chain restaurants.
• Potential Earnings: Varies based on position and location, often with opportunities for tips.
• Downsides: Fast-paced environment, irregular hours, handling food during busy shifts.

Movie Theater Attendant

• Requirements: Customer service skills, ability to handle cash registers and concessions.
• Prospects: Apply to local movie theaters or multiplexes.
• Potential Earnings: Typically hourly rates, often with opportunities for free or discounted movie tickets.
• Downsides: Irregular hours, working weekends and evenings, dealing with difficult patrons.

Ice Cream Parlor Attendant

• Requirements: Customer service skills, ability to handle ice cream machines.
• Prospects: Apply to local ice cream shops or parlors.
• Potential Earnings: Hourly rates, often minimum wage or slightly higher.
• Downsides: Handling messy food items, standing for long periods, working in a fast-paced environment.

Bakery Assistant

• Requirements: Attention to detail, ability to handle baking equipment.
• Prospects: Inquire at local bakeries or patisseries.
• Potential Earnings: Typically hourly rates, often minimum wage or slightly higher.
• Downsides: Early morning shifts, physically demanding, exposure to hot ovens.

Event and Entertainment

Immerse yourself in the excitement of events as a camp counselor or theme park worker.

Camp Counselor

• Requirements: Leadership skills, enthusiasm, ability to manage groups.
• Prospects: Camps, local youth organizations.
• Potential Earnings: Varies based on role and duration, often includes meals and accommodations.
• Downsides: Seasonal work, long hours, responsibility for campers’ well-being.

Theme Park or Amusement Park Worker:

• Requirements: Customer service skills, ability to stand for long periods, friendly demeanor.
• Prospects: Apply to local theme parks or amusement parks.
• Potential Earnings: Hourly rates, often includes free or discounted park admission.
• Downsides: Physically demanding, dealing with large crowds, working outdoors.

General Assistance

Contribute to daily life by assisting with house cleaning, organizing, errand running, and various tasks that help individuals manage their responsibilities. Attention to detail and adaptability are key in these roles.

House Cleaning or Organizing

• Requirements: Attention to detail, organizational skills.
• Prospects: Advertise locally, offer services to friends or family.
• Potential Earnings: Rates vary based on the scope of the job, typically starting around $15 to $30 per hour.
• Downsides: Physical labor, exposure to cleaning products.

Running Errands

• Requirements: Reliability, willingness to handle various tasks.
• Prospects: Offer services locally or through community bulletin boards.
• Potential Earnings: Rates vary based on task complexity, often starting around $10 to $20 per hour.
• Downsides: Time-sensitive tasks, need for efficient time management.

Dishwasher

• Requirements: Ability to work efficiently, handle high-volume washing.
• Prospects: Apply to restaurants, catering companies, or food service establishments.
• Potential Earnings: Typically hourly rates, often starting at minimum wage.
• Downsides: Repetitive tasks, busy shifts.

Bussing Tables in a Restaurant

• Requirements: Ability to work quickly, team player.
• Prospects: Apply to local restaurants, especially those with high customer turnover.
• Potential Earnings: Typically hourly rates, often includes tips.
• Downsides: Physically demanding, handling dirty dishes.

Valet Parking Attendant

• Requirements: Valid driver’s license, ability to drive various types of vehicles.
• Prospects: Apply to hotels, restaurants, or event venues with valet services.
• Potential Earnings: Typically hourly rates, often includes tips.
• Downsides: Long periods of standing, exposure to varying weather conditions.

Warehouse Assistant or Packer

• Requirements: Attention to detail, ability to follow packing instructions.
• Prospects: Apply to local warehouses or logistics companies.
• Potential Earnings: Typically hourly rates, often minimum wage or slightly higher.
• Downsides: Repetitive tasks, physically demanding, potentially noisy environments.

Photography and Creative Services

Capture moments and showcase creativity through photography and creative services. These roles require a keen eye for visual aesthetics and the ability to bring artistic visions to life.

• Requirements: Develop strong photography skills and embrace creativity for success.
• Prospects: Explore events and online platforms as potential avenues.
• Potential Earnings: Income varies based on event type and services offered.
• Downsides: Consider equipment costs and artistic hurdles.

Farm or Agricultural Work

Embark on hands-on agricultural tasks, including planting, harvesting, and taking care of crops and animals. Embrace the outdoors and play a vital role in the food production process.

• Requirements: Physical fitness, willingness to work outdoors, follow instructions.
• Prospects: Local farms, agricultural organizations.
• Potential Earnings: Hourly rates, often based on the type of work and farm size.
• Downsides: Physically demanding, exposure to weather conditions, varying tasks.

Newspaper Delivery

Ensure the timely distribution of news by delivering newspapers to subscribers’ homes or designated locations.

• Requirements: Reliable transportation, early mornings, punctuality.
• Prospects: Inquire with local newspapers for delivery routes.
• Potential Earnings: Typically paid per delivery.
• Downsides: Early mornings, working outdoors, potential for missing subscriptions.

Side hustles for teens have become popular over the years as a way to earn extra cash while still going to school. As with any endeavor, there are key considerations and challenges to be aware of.

Labor Laws and Age Restrictions

As a young worker, it’s important to be aware of labor laws and age restrictions in your region. Different areas have regulations that determine the types of work, hours, and conditions that are suitable for individuals under a certain age. Understanding these laws ensures you’re taking on roles that are safe and legal for your age group.

Understanding Your Rights as a Young Worker

Knowing your rights as a young worker is essential. You have the right to fair wages, safe working conditions, and protection against discrimination or exploitation. Familiarize yourself with your rights to ensure you’re being treated fairly and respectfully in your side hustles.

Balancing Work with School and Other Commitments

Managing work alongside school and other commitments can be a juggling act. It’s crucial to prioritize effective time management and create a schedule that accommodates all your responsibilities. Striking a balance ensures you can excel in both your studies and your side hustle.

Dealing with Difficult Employers or Clients

In any work environment, you may encounter difficult employers or clients. Developing strong communication skills is key to handling these situations. Maintain professionalism, express your concerns, and find constructive solutions to address any challenges that arise.

The teenage years offer a unique opportunity to gain valuable work experience that goes beyond the classroom. In addition to traditional part-time jobs, knowing how to make money online as a teen can help you discover some of the best jobs for teens. Engaging in any of the side hustles for teens we listed can provide insights into various industries and build essential skills for the future.

Furthermore, you can discover what truly ignites your passion and interests. These early experiences not only bolster your resume but also contribute to your personal growth and development. Embracing side hustles empowers you to step into the world of work with confidence, curiosity, and a strong foundation for your future endeavors. So, seize the chance to learn, grow, and explore the exciting world of side hustles during your teenage years.

Continue reading:

• How to Become a Cashier
• Top 11 Restaurant Interview Questions and Answers
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