The Top 10 UK Side Hustles 2024
WHat is a side hustle?
As Brits, we're no strangers to rolling up our sleeves and getting stuck in. With prices increasing due to the cost-of-living crisis, more of us are turning to side hustles and side gigs. A side hustle is an entrepreneurial venture or extra business we embark upon alongside our day jobs to earn an extra income. Side hustles are not just about helping to make ends meet; these ventures, often rooted in our skills or hobbies, can also blossom into fully-fledged businesses. It's a growing trend making a difference in our wallets and contributing to the broader UK economy.
Research undertaken by finder.com reveals that in 2023 nearly half (44%) of the UK population are side hustlers and have taken up at least one side hustle. Every week, UK side hustle statistics show Brits earn £206 on average from these ventures, amounting to an additional £10,701 annually. However, it's important to note the survey found that the majority (57%) are making an average side hustle income of less than £100 a week from their UK side hustle endeavours.
This post delves into some of the top UK side hustles that are gaining traction. From matched betting and selling on Etsy to affiliate marketing and renting out a room, there's something for every side hustler.
We'll also explore popular options for side gigs like delivering with Uber Eats, participating in paid surveys or offering garden services. More creative ventures, such as selling your photography online or pet sitting, are also on our list.
Whether you're trying to make ends meet or want to earn extra cash, these top 10 UK side hustles provide opportunities worth considering.
As a Chartered Accountant, I naturally avoid traditional betting and gambling systems to make money. However, one side hustle that piqued our interest is matched betting. Crucially, this isn't your typical gambling. Matched betting is a systematic approach that takes advantage of free bets from bookmakers, ensuring a profit. A fascinating UK side hustle indeed!
Online resources like OddsMonkey and Outplayed have elevated this unique side hustle with comprehensive guides, tools, and supportive communities. They offer in-depth tutorials, advanced odds-matching software, and calculators, making it easier for anyone in the UK to partake in and profit from matched betting.
The typical Process of Matched Betting
- Sign up with a bookmaker offering a 'bet X get Y' deal.
- Place the necessary bets to qualify for the free bet.
- Use your free bet with a betting exchange to guarantee a profit.
Potential Earnings from Matched Betting
Your earnings depend on the time you put in each week. Many part-timers make around £500 per month. Remember, matched betting is legal and tax-free in the UK (according to HMRC guidelines), but make sure you know what you're doing to avoid costly mistakes.
RISKS INVOLVED
No investment is risk-free. The main risk in matched betting is human error - forgetting to place bets or messing up the maths. Luckily, services like OddsMonkey and Outplayed minimise these risks with their automated tools and detailed guides.
2. selling on etsy
Have you got a creative flair? Showcase and sell your handmade or vintage items, as well as unique factory-manufactured products, on Etsy. It's the go-to platform for millions of passionate sellers worldwide to make money.
Type of Products You Can Sell on Etsy
Etsy offers a vast range of products to sell. You'll find everything from handcrafted jewellery and clothing to personalised gifts and digital art prints. The key is uniqueness - stand out and be the next big hit.
Digital Products: A Growing Trend
Not just physical goods but digital products are also gaining popularity on Etsy. Graphic designs, printable artwork, and e-books are instant downloads, saving on shipping costs for sellers.
Tips For Success On Etsy
- Quality Photos: Snap high-quality photos from various angles to attract potential buyers.
- Pricing: Price your items to cover material costs and your precious time.
- Description: Detailed descriptions reduce returns and negative reviews.
KEY TAKEAWAY
Stay updated with Etsy's seller policies to navigate any challenges successfully. Know the platform inside out for a successful side hustle journey.
3. Affiliate Marketing
It's like being a smooth-talking salesperson but without awkward small talk. You promote other companies products on your blog or YouTube channel and earn a commission from any sales made through your referral link.
Starting a Blog
Getting a blog going is straightforward. Head over to Wordpress.com, or Wix.com and set up a simple website for your blog, and choose a topic that tickles your fancy - whether it's cooking up a storm or geeking out over tech gadgets. Once you've whipped up some engaging content, sign up with Amazon's Affiliate Program. They'll give you up to 10% in advertising fees.
youtube
YouTube is another fantastic platform for affiliate marketing to make money. Get your creative juices flowing and make captivating videos in your chosen niche. Remember to include those product links in the video description. For example, if your channel is all about beauty tips, join an affiliate program like Amazon. You'll be earning while you're contouring.
Aside from Amazon, plenty of other affiliate networks are available in the UK at Awin. These platforms connect advertisers with publishers (like you) who want to monetise their blogs or channels.
The secret to successful affiliate marketing is providing valuable content that attracts viewers. Include product recommendations in your blogs or videos without sounding like a pushy salesperson.
NOTE
All earnings from affiliate marketing must be declared as income under HMRC rules. Check out their guidance on how to declare that extra income here.
4. start an onlyfans
Are you an adult with unique content to share and a fanbase eager to engage? OnlyFans might be your next successful side hustle. It's a rapidly growing platform for creators looking to monetise their content and interact with their fanbase directly. Just to let you know, this platform often hosts adult content, so it's not suitable for under 18s.
TYPE OF CONTENT YOU CAN SHARE ON ONLYFANS
The types of content you can monetise on OnlyFans are vast and varied, from workout tips, music lessons, cooking recipes, fashion advice, and even adult content. The key is exclusivity - make your fanbase feel they are getting something unique and valuable.
DIGITAL INTERACTION: A GAME CHANGER
The real draw with OnlyFans isn't just content; it's the direct interaction and engagement. Live streams, direct messages, and personal shout-outs create a unique and intimate experience, making your followers more willing to pay.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS ON ONLYFANS
Personalised Interaction: Engage with your fans through direct messages or shout-outs to make them feel special.
Exclusive Content: Regularly update unique content your fans can't access anywhere else.
Promotion: Leverage other social media platforms to drive traffic to your OnlyFans page.
Age Appropriateness: Ensure your content is age-appropriate for your audience and respects OnlyFans' policies.
key takeaway
Stay informed about OnlyFans' content policies to avoid any setbacks. Understanding the platform thoroughly can make your OnlyFans journey a successful one. Please ensure your content is appropriate and appealing to your intended audience.
5. Renting out a Room
Are you seeking a way to bring in additional funds? Rent a room in your home and turn that space into a money-making machine.
In the UK, the government's Rent a Room Scheme lets you earn up to £7,500 tax-free.
Tax Advice for Renting Out A Room
If your rental income exceeds £7,500 (for the tax year 2023/24), you may have to pay tax. Don't get caught off guard. Get the lowdown from a Chartered Accountant (you can find one at https://www.icaew.com/about-icaew/find-a-chartered-accountant) or check out HMRC's official website.
Finding Tenants
Now that you're legal and tax-savvy, it's time to find some roomies. You can check out platforms like SpareRoom.co.uk to connect with potential tenants. Just remember, do your homework and screen them properly. You don't want any weirdos in your living space.
6. UBER EATS
If you want to earn extra cash on your schedule, delivering food with Uber Eats is a great option. Work when it suits you best - lunchtime rush or late-night cravings.
But wait, there's more. You can also explore services like Just Eat and Deliveroo for UK-based food delivery. More options, more money.
The Process
Obtain a means of transport (car, motorbike, bike or scooter), your smartphone and some spare hours. Sign up online, get approved, and start making money. Accept orders from local restaurants, and deliver to customers' doors - easy peasy.
Earnings & Tips
Your earnings depend on how many deliveries you complete per hour. And remember, tips from happy customers can increase your earnings. With surge pricing during peak times, you could be rolling in the dough (cash, not the food).
Tax Considerations
Just a friendly reminder: being your own boss means paying taxes. Check out HMRC's guidance on
self-assessment tax returns
to stay on the right side of the law.
7. PAID SURVEYS
If you're after some extra cash, why not give paid surveys a go? Firms are keen to get your opinion and are prepared to remunerate you. Check out Swagbucks and Branded Surveys for some survey fun.
YouGov covers everything from politics to products, and you earn points for each survey you complete. Cash or vouchers, take your pick.
Swagbucks are another great option. They reward you for sharing your opinions on advertising, brands, etc. You can get cash or gift cards.
Maximising Your Survey Game
- Create a dedicated email account: Keep your inbox clean and tidy from survey spam.
- Beware of scams: Legit survey sites won't ask you to pay anything upfront. They should be paying you, not the other way around.
- Diversify: Join multiple platforms to increase your chances of qualifying for more surveys.
You only need an internet link and some free time to begin. Remember, it won't make you a millionaire overnight, but every little helps to achieve financial independence.
8. GARDEN SERVICES
If you have a green thumb and enjoy spending time outdoors, offering garden services could be an ideal side hustle for you to earn an extra income. This can include tasks such as lawn mowing, weeding, pruning shrubs and trees, planting flowers or vegetables, or even designing entire landscapes.
Starting your own gardening business requires little upfront investment - all you need are basic gardening tools to get started. However, gaining some knowledge about different plants and their care requirements is essential.
You can offer your services on local community boards or online platforms like Facebook or Nextdoor. It's also worth considering creating a website showcasing your work to attract more clients.
- Lawn Mowing: Many homeowners lack the time or energy to maintain their lawns. Offering regular lawn mowing services is a simple way of earning extra income with minimal effort.
- Weeding: Weeds can quickly take over gardens if not controlled regularly. Providing weeding services will help keep gardens neat and tidy while providing steady work throughout the year.
- Garden Design: If you're creative and knowledgeable about plants' needs in different environments, consider offering garden design services. You'll be able to charge higher rates for this specialised service.
The great thing about this side hustle is that it allows flexibility regarding hours worked - perfect for fitting around other commitments. Plus, there's always demand from people who either don't have the time or physical ability to tend their gardens.
REMEMBER
Please always check if any specific licenses or insurance are needed before you start your gardening business.
9. Sell your photography online
Turn your passion for photography into a money-making machine. Sell your stunning shots online and watch the cash roll in. Cha-ching.
Ready to get started? Check out Alamy, Getty Images, and Shutterstock - they're the big guns in the photography-selling game. Millions of potential buyers are just a click away.
Create an account, upload your top-notch photos, and set your prices. Easy peasy. Just make sure you follow their guidelines and do your research to find out what sells like hotcakes on each platform.
Not into stock photography? No worries. You can also offer your photo editing skills on sites like Upwork or Fiverr. Make extra money to make those pics pop.
Remember, don't get caught up in any copyright drama. Ensure you have consent from people in your photos and avoid snapping pics of protected locations. Keep the law in mind when taking photos.
Check out the Intellectual Property Office's guide for more info on UK copyright law for photographs. They know their stuff.
10. pet sitting
Are you looking for one of the more popular options to earn extra cash in the UK? Try pet sitting. Look after animals when their owners are away.
If you're a cat lover, start your pet-sitting journey with Cat in a Flat. Connect with cat owners across the UK, set your rates, and choose jobs that fit your schedule.
Benefits of Pet Sitting
- Flexible hours: Work when you want because who needs a rigid schedule?
- Earn extra income: Make some moolah by taking pet-sitting side gigs. Cha-ching.
- Satisfaction: Help care for someone's furry friend and feel warm and fuzzy.
Becoming a Successful Pet Sitter
To be a successful pet sitter, build trust with pets and their owners. Provide excellent service, get positive reviews, and attract more customers. Gain relevant qualifications like animal first aid to boost your credibility.
If cats aren't your thing, check out Pawshake. They offer dog walking services and care for other types of pets too.
Remember: Always check local regulations before starting your pet-sitting business. Safety first is critical.
FAQs in Relation to UK Side Hustles
FINAL THOUGHTS
A SIDE HUSTLE IS Where Extra Income Meets Entrepreneurial Spirit.
From matched betting to selling on Etsy and affiliate marketing to renting out a room, there's a side hustle for everyone in the UK.
Whether you're a working professional seeking flexibility or a student needing extra cash, these side hustles can boost your bank account.
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