While everyone’s chasing the latest ways to make money, the old-fashioned methods are still some of the most reliable.
Basic human needs haven’t changed, and there’s less competition in traditional ways of earning money.
These classic ways of making money are straightforward, meet basic needs, and offer less competition.
I used Pinterest to build a real side hustle without spending on ads or blogging for years. I put everything I learned into the Pinterest Side Hustle Course — you can check it out here if you want to start too.
Before we move on to other, more serious jobs to make money from home, I would like to show you some GPT sites you can use to make money online in your spare time.
MakeMoneyOnline: MakeMoneyOnline is a new GPT platform offering 1,000+ high-paying opportunities through games and surveys! Easily find the best deals — earning from $1 to over $100 per offer — with transparent comparison tool. Cash out easily via PayPal, Visa, Amazon, and many other gift cards.
Freecash: Freecash is a new survey site where you can collect points by taking surveys, watching videos, and similar.
Survey Junkie: Survey Junkie is my go-to place to make money online in my spare time. All you have to do is answer surveys to earn cash and gift cards.
Swagbucks: Swagbucks is another massively popular rewards platform. Make money doing surveys, watching videos, and more.
InboxDollars: InboxDollars is a sister site of Swagbucks and lets you earn by uploading receipts, completing shopping offers and watching videos. It also has cash surveys, games, and a $5 sign-up bonus for new members.
Branded Surveys: Branded Surveys is an app like Survey Junkie. Share your opinion to get free gift cards and PayPal money! Share your opinion to get free gift cards and PayPal money!
Scrambly: Looking for other easy ways to earn money online? Try Scrambly and get paid to play new games, shop online, complete surveys, and try different products and services!
Solitaire Cash: Solitaire Cash is an iOS and Samsung game that lets you play Solitaire for money. The app lets you compete in cash tournaments against other players of similar skill levels. Tournament games cost money to enter and pay anywhere from $1 to $55+.
Hair And Nail Salon
People need to do their hair, nails, facials, waxing, and makeup all the time.
The demand for these services is always there, so if you have a creative flair and enjoy helping your community members look their best, a hair and nail salon is among the best small business ideas for women.
There are three main ways to start setting up a shop for this personal care business, depending on how ambitious you are.
If you have the skills but are working with a tight budget, you can convert an unused room in your house into a salon. Just ensure where you live is easily accessible to people in your community. You don’t want to struggle to attract customers.
Alternatively, you can rent out a booth at a larger hair salon and start offering your services. If you go this route, pick a salon that already has loyal customers and a great reputation.
Thirdly, you can open your hair and nail salon and hire hairdressers/stylists as employees. These services may require special licensing or certificate.
Business Concept:
A cozy, full-service hair and nail salon offering affordable haircuts, coloring, styling, manicures, pedicures, and basic beauty treatments. Targeting local women aged 18–55 looking for everyday beauty services with a touch of relaxation.
Location:
Small retail unit in a busy residential or mixed-use area with good foot traffic.
Services Offered:
- Haircuts & Styling
- Hair Coloring
- Manicures & Pedicures
- Gel & Acrylic Nails
- Basic Facials or Waxing (optional)
Target Market:
- Local residents
- Walk-ins and appointments
- Women aged 18–55
- Some men’s grooming services are available
Startup Costs (Estimates in USD):
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent Deposit & First Month | $3,000 |
| Salon Furniture & Equipment | $8,000 |
| Nail Stations & Tools | $3,000 |
| Licensing & Permits | $1,000 |
| Branding & Signage | $1,000 |
| Initial Inventory (products) | $2,500 |
| Insurance | $500 |
| Website & Booking System | $500 |
| Marketing (flyers, online) | $1,000 |
| Miscellaneous | $1,000 |
| Total | $21,500 |
Ongoing Monthly Costs:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent | $1,500–$2,000 |
| Staff Wages (2-3) | $6,000–$8,000 |
| Products/Supplies | $1,000 |
| Utilities | $500 |
| Marketing | $300 |
| Miscellaneous | $200 |
| Total | $9,500–$12,000 |
Revenue Estimate:
With an average of 10–15 clients per day spending $40–$70 per visit, expected monthly revenue is $12,000–$25,000, depending on location and staffing.
Porta Potty Rental Business
My cousin had one of these when I was a kid.
He lived close to the border crossing and was doing everything under the table—$1 per use.
He never told me how much he was making, but I do remember that in the summertime, people were waiting in lines, especially women.
That said, porta-potty rentals are not an entirely alien concept. If you’re looking for a small business that requires low startup capital to set up, open a porta potty rental business. The price of a standard portable restroom starts at $700.
The portable toilet industry is quite profitable. You know, then demand is high and then supply is low.
The average cost to rent a portable toilet for a day is 75-100 dollars. Be ready to go out and sell your services to prospective clients.
There might already be a few porta-potty rentals, but don’t fret. Just check out if they’re covering the necessities of your town or not.
Sample Business Plan:
A solo-operated porta potty rental service targeting small construction projects, private events, and seasonal needs in rural or suburban areas. Focused on low overhead, great service, and building local word-of-mouth.
Target Market:
- Local construction crews (1–5 workers)
- Landscaping and roofing contractors
- Backyard parties & weddings
- Local farmers and seasonal events
Services Offered:
- Rental of 2–5 portable toilets
- Delivery & pickup
- Weekly cleaning
- Optional hand sanitizer dispenser add-on
Lean Startup Costs (Estimates in USD):
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| 2–3 Standard Porta Potties | $3,000–$4,500 |
| Small Utility Trailer | $2,000 |
| Used Pickup Truck | $5,000–$8,000 |
| Manual or Small Vacuum Pump | $1,000 |
| Initial Supplies (chemicals, gloves, etc.) | $300 |
| Local Permits & Licensing | $500 |
| Business Insurance | $750 |
| Branding, Website, Flyers | $500 |
| Total | $13,000–$16,500 |
Monthly Operating Costs:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Fuel & Maintenance | $300–$500 |
| Waste Disposal | $200–$500 |
| Supplies | $100 |
| Insurance | $75 |
| Marketing (flyers, local ads) | $100 |
| Total | $775–$1,275 |
Revenue Estimate:
- Rent each unit at $120–$150/week
- With 3 units = $360–$450/week
- Monthly income: $1,400–$1,800
- Potential profit after expenses: $500–$1,000/month
Babysitting
Babysitting has been a go-to way to earn money for a long time. It involves taking care of kids while their parents are out. This job is perfect if you’re good with children, can keep them safe, and make their time fun.
It’s also pretty flexible, so it works well if you need a job that fits around your other commitments. You can find babysitting gigs by telling people in your neighborhood, posting on social media, or signing up on websites that help families find babysitters.
Business Concept:
Offer safe, dependable babysitting services for children aged 6 months to 12 years. Focus on local families who need part-time, evening, weekend, or emergency childcare.
Target Market:
- Working parents
- Single-parent households
- Families needing occasional or last-minute care
- Parents looking for date-night or weekend help
Services Offered:
- In-home babysitting
- After-school care
- Evening/weekend care
- Homework help & light meal prep
- Toddler play and supervision
Startup Costs (Estimates in USD):
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| CPR/First Aid Certification | $50–$100 |
| Babysitting Insurance (optional) | $200/year |
| Marketing (flyers, local Facebook ads) | $50 |
| Basic supplies (games, books, snacks – optional) | $50 |
| Background check (if required) | $30–$50 |
| Total | $180–$400 |
Monthly Operating Costs:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $15–$20 |
| Marketing | $30–$50 |
| Transportation | Varies |
| Total | $50–$100 |
Revenue Estimate:
- Average hourly rate: $15–$25 (higher for multiple kids or evenings)
- 15–25 hours/week = $900–$2,500/month
Selling Handmade Crafts
Whether it’s knitting, jewelry making, woodworking, or any other craft, there’s a market for unique, handcrafted items.
You can sell your creations at local markets, craft fairs, or online platforms like Etsy. This not only earns you money but also lets you express your creativity and connect with customers who appreciate handcrafted work.
Check out: 17 Things to Sell on Etsy to Make Money
Business Plan:
Create and sell handmade crafts such as candles, jewelry, home decor, crochet items, or seasonal gifts. Sell through Etsy, local markets, and social media.
Target Market:
- Gift shoppers (birthdays, holidays)
- Home decor lovers
- People who value handmade and unique items
- Locals at craft fairs and farmers markets
Products Offered (Examples):
- Handmade candles or soaps
- Beaded jewelry
- Crocheted/knitted items
- Seasonal wreaths or ornaments
- Custom signs or home decor
Startup Costs (Estimates in USD):
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Initial Materials & Supplies | $200–$500 |
| Packaging (boxes, labels) | $50–$100 |
| Etsy Shop Setup (listings, branding) | $50 |
| Website (optional) | $100–$200 |
| Craft Fair Booth Setup | $100–$300 |
| Business License (if needed) | $50–$100 |
| Total | $450–$1,250 |
Monthly Operating Costs:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Materials/Supplies Refill | $100–$300 |
| Etsy Fees or Market Fees | $25–$100 |
| Marketing (ads, promo) | $50 |
| Shipping Supplies | $30 |
| Total | $200–$480 |
Revenue Estimate:
- Price per item: $10–$50
- Sell 50–100 items/month = $500–$5,000/month
- Profits depend on materials cost and pricing
Lawn Mowing
Mowing lawns is a classic way to earn money under the table, especially in neighborhoods with lots of gardens. It’s perfect for those who don’t mind a bit of physical work and enjoy being outdoors.
You can start with just a mower and basic tools, and as you get more clients, you might even expand into a full lawn care service.
To find work, start by offering your services to neighbors or local community groups, and as word spreads, your client base can grow.
Simple Business Plan:
Offer affordable, reliable lawn mowing and basic yard maintenance to homeowners and small commercial properties. Perfect for a solo operator looking for flexible, repeat work with low overhead.
Target Market:
- Homeowners
- Landlords & property managers
- Small offices or shops
- Elderly residents needing help
Services Offered:
- Lawn mowing
- Edging & trimming
- Leaf blowing
- Optional add-ons: weed removal, hedge trimming
Startup Costs (USD Estimate):
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Used Lawn Mower | $300–$500 |
| Weed Trimmer | $100–$150 |
| Leaf Blower | $100–$150 |
| Gas Can & Fuel | $50 |
| Small Trailer (used) | $500–$1,000 |
| Basic Branding (flyers, t-shirt) | $100 |
| Local Licensing | $100 |
| Total | $1,250–$2,000 |
Monthly Operating Costs:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Fuel | $100–$200 |
| Maintenance | $50 |
| Insurance (optional) | $50–$75 |
| Marketing | $50 |
| Total | $250–$375 |
Revenue Estimate:
- Average charge per yard: $30–$60
- 3–5 yards/day, 5 days/week = $450–$1,500/week
- Monthly income: $1,800–$6,000+
Tutoring
Tutoring is a timeless way to earn money by sharing your knowledge in subjects like math, science, languages, or music. It’s perfect for those who excel in a particular area and enjoy teaching others.
Whether it’s helping students with their homework, preparing for exams, or learning a new skill, tutoring can be done in person or online, offering flexibility and the chance to make a real difference in someone’s education.
Business Concept
Provide personalized academic tutoring for students in K–12 or college. Focus on subjects like math, reading, science, or test prep. Sessions can be done in person (at student’s home or local library) or online via Zoom.
Target Market:
- Parents of school-age children
- High school students needing exam prep
- College students needing help with specific subjects
- Adult learners (e.g., ESL, GED prep)
Services Offered:
- One-on-one tutoring (online or in-person)
- Group sessions or homework help
- SAT/ACT/Test Prep
- Essay writing and editing
- ESL and adult education (optional)
Startup Costs (Estimates in USD):
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Website & Booking Tool | $200 |
| Marketing (flyers, ads) | $100 |
| Zoom setup | Free–$20/mo |
| Basic Supplies (whiteboard, printer ink) | $100 |
| Business License (if needed) | $100 |
| Laptop (if needed) | $500–$1,000 |
| Total | $400–$1,500 |
Monthly Operating Costs:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Internet/Zoom | $20–$50 |
| Marketing/Ads | $50–$100 |
| Misc. supplies | $20 |
| Total | $90–$170 |
Revenue Estimate:
- Hourly rate: $25–$60
- 10–20 hours/week = $1,000–$4,800/month
House Cleaning
House cleaning has been a reliable business since old times, even in ancient Rome. Today, nothing much has changed. People always need help keeping their homes clean and tidy.
The cleaning service requires minimal overhead.
You don’t need to rent out office spaces or other facilities. To start this business, you just need cleaning supplies, a car to move around, and a website to advertise your services.
To have a thriving business, you just need to take pride in your work and have a passion for success.
With time, you can charge enough to hire an assistant or employee.
Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Many pet owners need someone reliable to look after their pets while they’re at work or on vacation. This could involve feeding, walking, and playing with pets. It’s a fun way to earn, especially if you form bonds with the pets you care for.
Check out these Dog Walking Jobs Near You And How Much Can You Make Dog Sitting.
Running Errands or Doing Odd Jobs
Back in the Middle Ages, running errands was often a task for the servants of the aristocracy. Today, it’s a practical way for anyone to earn extra cash.
This can include grocery shopping, picking up prescriptions, or any small tasks that people are too busy to do themselves.
Paper Route
While not as common as it once was, delivering newspapers in the neighborhood early in the morning teaches responsibility and time management. It’s a straightforward job but requires a commitment to a daily routine.
Garage Sales or Flea Markets
As we’ve mentioned before, selling items is as old as humanity itself. Garage sales or flea markets are perfect for this. They’re a great way to turn unwanted items into cash.
No matter whether you’re decluttering your home or enjoy finding items to resell, these markets offer a direct way to connect with buyers and make sales.
Baking or Cooking
Selling your homemade treats or meals can be an easy way to make extra money. Whether you’re baking cakes for special occasions or preparing family-style meals, there’s always demand for home-cooked goodness.
You can start with easy foods to make and sell to friends, family, or through local online groups.
Another obvious idea is the bakery business.
The smell of freshly baked cookies in the morning will wake up even the laziest person on earth. People are just as passionate about their bread and pastries as they are about their morning cup of coffee.
Fruit and Vegetable Gardening
With a green thumb and some garden space, growing fruits and vegetables can be quite profitable. People love fresh, locally-grown produce, especially if it’s organic.
You can sell your harvest at local farmers’ markets, to neighbors, or through community-supported agriculture programs.
Handyman Services
Many homeowners need help with fixing things around the house but don’t have the skills or time to do it themselves but…
In recent times, it appears that handymen are hard to come by.
The available ones are not enough to service the whole community. Homeowners are forced to hire professionals well outside of their area.
So if you’re in the market for a home improvement business to start, you know what services to offer.
You need tools and equipment for the jobs, but considering how easily you can set up a shop in your basement or garage, other overhead costs could be low.
Teaching Music Lessons
If you’re talented at a musical instrument, teaching music lessons can be both enjoyable and profitable.
You can offer lessons to people of all ages, helping them learn or improve their skills. It’s rewarding to see your students grow and develop their musical talents.
Photography
With a good eye and a quality camera, photography can turn into a lucrative business. You can specialize in areas like portrait, event, or landscape photography.
Offering your services for weddings, family photoshoots, or corporate events can be a great way to use your creative skills to earn money.
Car Wash and Detailing Services
If you like working with your hands and have an eye for making things shine, consider starting a car wash and detailing business. It’s a service many car owners are happy to pay for, getting their vehicles cleaned inside and out.
You can begin with basic washing supplies and, over time, expand into more specialized detailing to increase your earnings.
Don’t miss: 7 Businesses You Can Start With $5,000 or Less
David Bakke is a personal finance expert and the published author of the book ‘Don’t Be A Mule.’ Specializing in money management, investing, retirement, income generation, and entrepreneurship, he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from the University of South Florida. David started his own blog, YourFinances101, in 2009. His writing has been featured in Investopedia, Business Insider, US News, and Money Crashers.
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