13 Summertime Side Hustles to Boost Your Income as an Independent Worker

Summertime is synonymous with fun, relaxation, and for the savvy, opportunities to earn extra income. In fact, according to a survey by Bankrate, nearly half of all working Americans have a side hustle, and summer can be an ideal time to join their ranks.

Here are a few summertime side hustles that can help you make the most of the season:

Digital Side Hustles

• Taking Surveys
  
  Earn money by giving your opinion on various products and services. You can do this from the comfort of your own home or while traveling.
  
  Platforms: Survey Junkie, Swagbucks
  Tips: Sign up for several platforms to increase your chances of qualifying for surveys. Be honest with your responses to ensure you continue receiving opportunities.
  

• Online Tutoring
  
  If you excel in a particular subject, use that knowledge to help students learn and grow over the summer months. It's rewarding and can be done virtually.
  

  Platforms: Wyzant, Varsity Tutors
  Tips: Specialize in a subject you are confident in, and create a compelling profile that showcases your experience and expertise.
  

• Freelance Writing
  
  If you have a way with words, consider offering your services as a freelance writer. This can range from writing articles and blog posts to creating content for social media. Combine your skills and experience with AI writing assistants, and you will be unstoppable.
  

  Platforms: Upwork, Fiverr
  Tips: Create a diverse portfolio to showcase your writing skills and range. Regularly check job postings to grab the best opportunities.
  

• AI-Powered Virtual Assistance/Marketer
  
  With the rise of AI, virtual assistance and digital marketing have evolved exponentially. As a virtual assistant or digital marketer, you can use AI to automate tasks, optimize productivity, and serve more clients efficiently, thereby increasing your potential income.
  

  Platforms: Upwork, Fiverr
  Tips: Familiarize yourself with AI tools relevant to your field. Combining your skills with AI can increase your value proposition to clients.

Hands-On Side Hustles

• House Sitting
  
  Summer vacations mean empty homes. Offer your services to keep homes safe and well-maintained while homeowners are away.
  

  Platforms: HouseSitMatch, TrustedHousesitters
  Tips: Build a good reputation by going the extra mile. Always leave the home cleaner than you found it.
  

• Baby Sitting
  
  With kids out of school, parents may need some extra help. If you love working with children, this could be a great side hustle.
  

  Platforms: Care.com, Sittercity
  Tips: Be dependable and trustworthy. Earning a CPR or first aid certification can make you more attractive to parents.
  

• Pet Sitting/Dog Walking
  
  For pet owners, finding reliable care for their furry friends while they're away can be a challenge. That's where you come in.
  

  Platforms: Rover, PetBacker, Wag!
  Tips: Be genuine and show that you care about the animals you're working with. Trustworthiness is key in this line of work.
  

• Pool Cleaning
  
  Summertime means pool time. Providing pool cleaning services can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors while making some extra money.
  

  Platforms: Thumbtack, TaskRabbit
  Tips: Make sure you know how to handle the chemicals involved in pool cleaning. Prompt and professional service can lead to repeat clients.
  

• Hosting/Renting Out a Room
  
  Do you have a spare room or property? Consider renting it out to travelers seeking a more personal and unique experience than a hotel can offer.
  

  Platform: Airbnb (and similar apps)
  Tips: Make your space inviting and comfortable. Respond quickly to inquiries, and be upfront about any potential drawbacks of your space.
  

• Helping People Move
  
  With many leases starting in the summer, it's a busy time for moving. Offering your services can save people a lot of stress.
  

  Platforms: Bellhops, Dolly
  Tips: Keep a positive attitude even when the work gets tough. Your clients are likely stressed, so being friendly and helpful can make a big difference.
  

• House Cleaning
  
  Many people would rather spend their summer days enjoying the sun than cleaning. That's where your services come in.
  

  Platforms: Handy, Tidy
  Tips: Attention to detail is critical. Don't rush through jobs; instead, ensure each client is satisfied with your work.
  

• Caregiving
  
  Whether it's for the elderly or those with special needs, caregiving can be a rewarding side hustle that makes a real difference in people's lives.
  
  Platforms: Care.co
  Tips: Patience and empathy are key in this line of work. Understanding your client's specific needs can make you a more effective caregiver.
  

• Gardening Services
  
  Summer is prime time for gardening, and many people need help maintaining their outdoor spaces. If you have a green thumb, this could be the side hustle for you.
  
  Platforms: Thumbtack, TaskRabbit
  Tips: Knowledge of plants and gardening techniques can set you apart. Offering personalized garden plans could attract more clients.

With the right approach, a side hustle can be more than just a way to make extra money. It can also be a source of satisfaction and personal growth. Here's to a prosperous summer!

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