There are a lot of things you can do for fun that also make money. In fact, many people have turned their hobbies into profitable businesses. If you're looking for some new ideas, or just want to know how others are making money with their hobbies, check out the list below.
From starting a blog to becoming a freelance writer, there are plenty of hobbies that make money. So get started today and see how you can turn your hobby into a profitable venture!
The Best Hobbies That Make Money
There are a number of hobbies that can actually make you money. If you have a passion for something, there's a good chance you can turn it into a lucrative side hustle. Here are a few of the best hobbies that make money:
1. Playing Video Games
Making money from video games may sound like a dream come true, but there are several ways. One option is to stream your gameplay online. Sites like Twitch allow gamers to live-stream their gameplay for others to watch, and viewers can donate money to their favorite streamers.
Another way to make money playing video games is to enter tournaments. Many gaming competitions offer cash prizes to the winners, and even if you don't take first place, you can still earn some money by playing in the tournament.
Finally, you can create and sell gaming content, such as walkthroughs, tips, and tricks. If you're good at gaming and enjoy helping others improve their skills, this could be a great way to make some extra cash.
2. Start A YouTube Channel
YouTube is an amazing platform to learn things and get entertained. When you watch your favorite YouTubers do their thing, you make them money. This encourages them to do what they love.
Many YouTubers are making a living through the platform via ads, affiliate marketing, and sponsorships. Most started their channels to have fun and make a side income, but with time grew them into a full-time job.
If you love creative entertaining or informative videos, you can leverage the platform and become a YouTube superstar. Starting a YouTube channel is free and straightforward. To create a welcoming online environment, wow your viewers with a thoughtful channel name, icon and banner art.
Deliver valuable content consistently and work on building your audience. You’ll have to do some research to make a substantial income, but it’s worth the effort.
3. Graphic Design
Most bloggers use opt-ins that are basically some form of digital products like a planner, a checklist, wall art, a list of tips, a calendar, a cheat sheet, or any other printables to grow their email lists. If they look pretty, these will have a better conversion rate.
Suppose you’re one of those creative people who love creating and sending out posters and invites, you can design logos, posters, flyers, infographics and business cards for businesses to save them valuable time.
Graphic Design is really big on Fiverr, DesignCrowd and 99Designs, and businesses spend huge bucks on getting their printables professionally designed. You can list your service on these platforms for the price you would work for.
And it’s not just bloggers and businesses. There are people out there that don’t know or don’t have the time to make family photo collages. With everything going digital today, you can rest assured that graphic design will be around for quite some time.
4. Pet Sitting
If you love pets, and they love you, pet sitting is a great way to mix business and pleasure. There’s nothing more satisfying than getting paid to take care of them.
A pet may not fit into the busy lifestyle of a working professional. Pet owners find it difficult to find someone reliable to watch their little furballs when they’re out of town on a trip or stuck at the office.
You could turn your love for pets into a profitable hobby. Look for pet sitting opportunities in your neighborhood. Let your friends and acquaintances know that you’re offering pet sitting services.
Sites like Rover enable you to mark your available hours and days to place requests only for times you can work. Pet sitting for a few hours every week could get you some good cash. Other ways to earn an income by loving pets include pet walking and pet grooming.
5. Real Estate
Next up on profitable hobbies that can make money? Real estate. Do you find yourself reclaiming wasteland or renovating your home regularly as a hobby? How about turning it into a business?
You can start with flipping small projects (single-family houses, condos, townhouses) and as you gain more experience, go for bigger projects. It’s possible to invest in housing without buying a home.
If you have strong communication and marketing skills, you can also become a real estate agent and help investors, homeowners, and businesses buy and sell properties. If flipping houses is too big of a challenge, why not start small with a house cleaning business.
6. Freelance Writing
Are you a great writer? Do you spend most of your free time writing articles, resumes, poems, quotes or stories? If you can whip up a 1000-word article in less than an hour, you could be making money doing ghostwriting, copywriting, or freelance writing.
I can attest firsthand that writing as a hobby can turn into extra cash. Take a few seconds and look around you. There’s probably a novel or textbook nearby. That book is a product of a writer.
Blogs require content on a regular basis. If you’re knowledgeable in a certain topic or niche, platforms like Freelancer, TextBroker, and UpWork are looking for freelance writers like you. You get to work from home and choose your own hours.
Write in different creative ways to express compelling thoughts and engage your own critical thinking. Writing will also allow you to learn more about topics that interest you. Try putting effort into gaining a basic understanding of keywords and SEO.
As a beginner, you won’t make much, but as you build your profile, you’ll be able to command a good rate. If you don’t want to write for other people, you can write an eBook focused on a specific topic and sell it on Amazon Kindle.
7. Make Money Blogging
I love blogging and have been able to snag some extra money doing so. If you have a natural flair for writing and are somewhat computer-savvy, starting a blog and making money is easier than you think.
What are you passionate about? What enthuses you? Those are the small things that would make a great personal blog.
You can review products, teach people how to prepare delicious dishes, give tips on how to save money or document your travel escapades. By creating content on interesting topics you’re passionate about, you’ll attract like-minded readers and build your tribe.
Not sure where to start? Pick a platform like Blogger or WordPress, choose a memorable domain name and find a web host.
For less than $25 per month, you can secure hosting from Hostgator or Bluehost. Now that you’ve booked your space on the internet, feed your readers valuable content.
Work on creating a following as your income will depend on how many readers you can attract to your blog. To keep readers engaged, try the following: a teaser for your next post and a lively comments section.
While it may need patience and hard work to become an established blogger, a blog allows you to create a passive income stream that will pay you even when you are not working.
Use Google AdSense and Mediavine to set up display ads once your blog starts raking in decent amounts of traffic. You can also try affiliate programs or sell your own products, courses, or services through your site.
8. Music
Music is everyone’s favorite hobby behind closed doors. If your idea of a perfect weekend is to curl up on the sofa with a guitar in hand, why not get paid to teach others how to play musical instruments?
You can make money doing various things in the music field. The music business isn’t that difficult to break into. Rather than keeping your talent to yourself, start teaching music. Or better yet, creating online courses on how to play certain instruments. Music lessons pay well and let you set your own schedule.
Not everyone who loves music loves teaching. Touring musicians are constantly in need of stand-in musicians while on the road. You can also monetize your musical talent by performing as a DJ at local pubs, restaurants and weddings.
Promote your services by networking with music teachers, orchestra instructors and local bands.
9. Cooking
It may sound like a pretty ordinary hobby, but many people will happily pay you to cook delicious food for a special occasion. Cooking takes time – time that not everyone has. But if you’re a freak in the kitchen, you can turn it into a full time business.
You don’t have to be a professional chef or the next Gordon Ramsay to earn money from cooking. And there are many ways to go about this. Many Americans are trying to eat healthily but sometimes lack the time to prep meals. Consider cooking and selling healthy pre-prepared meals to capture this growing demographic.
Once word gets around the neighborhood that you’re a master in the kitchen, the orders will come rolling in. If you enjoy feeding a crowd, offering to cater to community events and friends’ parties can give you some serious cash. Between social media reviews and word of mouth referrals, you could wind up with a booming business in no time.
Many successful restaurants started their businesses in their very own home kitchens. People’s lives are getting busier and busier. Other ways to make money with a cooking hobby include:
- opening a food truck
- starting a meal delivery service for busy office workers
- selling recipes on Etsy
- creating a food blog
10. Ways To Make Money Gardening
If you're passionate about gardening and want to find ways to make some money from your hobby, there are a few options available to you.
One option is to start a garden design business. This could involve creating gardens for private clients or businesses. You could also offer garden consultations, where you advise people on how to care for their own gardens.
Another option is to set up a nursery, where you grow and sell plants. This could be done either online or in person at plant fairs or farmers markets.
Alternatively, you could become a garden instructor, teaching people how to garden and care for plants. There are also opportunities to write about gardening, either as an author or as a blogger.
If you have experience and knowledge in a particular area of gardening, you could also offer gardening services such as landscaping, lawn care, or tree surgery. Whatever option you choose, there are plenty of ways to make money from your love of gardening.
11. Photography
Taking photographs is a great way to capture memories, but did you know that it can also be a great source of income? There are a number of ways to make money with photography, and the best part is that you can often do it from the comfort of your own home.
One way to make money with photography is to sell your photos as stock photography. This involves submitting your photos to a stock photography website, which then makes them available for purchase by businesses and individuals.
Another way to make money with photography is to sell prints of your photos. This can be done through an online gallery or by setting up a booth at local art fairs.
Finally, you can also make money by teaching others how to take better photos. This can be done through online courses or in-person workshops. No matter what approach you choose, there is potential to earn good money with photography.
12. Crafts
Are you a brush and canvas wizard? Or maybe you like knitting cute little pet clothing during your free time. If what you love making is something useful, you can make good money selling your crafts.
People are always hunting for hand made products at craft shows and online. Sites like Etsy and Facebook Marketplace make it easy for you to sell your hand-crafted items online.
If you don’t want to use these platforms, you can create your own website and list them there. This way, you won’t have to split profits, though it may take a while to gain customers.
Other crafting hobbies that make money include soap making, sewing, quilting, jewelry making and leatherworking. The amount you can make selling crafts can vary on skill level and operational costs. You may need to invest some money in craft materials and stall rentals.
13. Brewing Beer
There are several ways to make money from brewing beer. The most obvious way is to sell the beer that you brew. This can be done through setting up a stall at local markets, or by selling it to bars and restaurants.
Another way to make money from brewing beer is to offer brewing classes. This can be a great way to share your passion for beer with others, while also earning some extra cash.
Finally, you can also earn money by writing about beer brewing. This can be done through starting a blog, or by contributing articles to magazines and websites. Whatever route you choose, there are plenty of ways to make money from brewing beer.
14. Fly Drones
There are a number of ways to make money flying drones. One option is to become a drone racing pilot. Drone racing is a growing sport in which pilots navigate drones through complex courses at high speeds. There are a number of professional drone racing leagues, and pilots can also compete in casual races for prize money.
Another option is to become a drone photographer or videographer. This involves using drones to capture photos or videos of weddings, events, real estate, and other subject matter. Drone photographers and videographers typically work freelance, and they can charge a premium for their services due to the unique perspective that drones offer.
Finally, some people make money by manufacturing and selling drones. This involves designing and building drones from scratch, and it can be a lucrative business for those with the right skillset.
15. Detailing Cars
If you find yourself making cars sparkle inside out, then it may be the best option for you to earn an income detailing other people’s cars.
If you can get a few supplies, then you are in business! You could pocket good extra income just by working 3-4 hours 4-5 days a week. You can work when you want and set up your prices. To figure out the fair market value in your area, try testing different rates.
16. Sell T-Shirts
There are a number of ways to make money selling t-shirts. One popular method is to design and print your own shirts using an online service such as CafePress or Zazzle. This can be a great way to promote your brand or message, and if you have a strong social media following, you can reach a wide audience with very little effort.
Another option is to sell shirts that are already designed. This can be a great way to make some quick and easy money, as there are many sites that offer a wide variety of designs to choose from.
Finally, you can also sell vintage or used t-shirts. This can be a great option for those who are looking for unique or rare items, and it can also be a great way to make some extra cash. Whatever route you decide to take, there are a number of ways to make money selling t-shirts.
17. Personal Trainer
Being a personal trainer is a great way to earn money while helping others achieve their fitness goals. But what are some other ways to make money as a personal trainer?
One option is to offer specialized services such as sports performance training or injury rehabilitation. Another is to start your own fitness-related business, such as a personal training studio or online fitness program.
Or you could leverage your knowledge of health and fitness to become a freelance writer or consultant. There are many opportunities for personal trainers who are willing to think outside the gym. By diversifying your income streams, you can make more money and have a greater impact on the lives of your clients.
18. Web Development
In this day and age, every business needs an online presence. If you’re a bit of a tech geek with some great web design skills, you may be just the person a local small business is looking for. You don’t have to be an expert to get started. Consider enrolling in a basic web development course online, and bid on simple jobs on freelance sites.
More and more businesses are coming online, causing the demand for web developers to rise. Some businesses know that they need a website but are clueless on how to develop a responsive and user-friendly site that converts. It’s upon you to approach them.
It doesn’t end there. You can also offer website optimization services to entrepreneurs and small business owners with slow loading sites. The best part about web development and optimization is that you don’t need to go to an office every day as you can do it as a part-time or stay at home job.
19. Social Media Manager
Many people are looking for ways to make extra money, and one option is to become a social media manager. As a social media manager, you would be responsible for creating and managing the social media accounts for a business or individual. This could involve tasks such as posting updates, interacting with followers, and monitoring analytics.
While the role of a social media manager can be extremely rewarding, it can also be quite demanding. To be successful, you need to have strong writing and communication skills, as well as a deep understanding of the latest trends in social media. Additionally, it is important to be able to juggle multiple tasks and deadlines.
20. Proofreading
Do you have the irrepressible urge to correct people’s usage of “their,” “there” and “they’re?” If you can spot a misspelled word a mile away, you can get paid to showcase your strong grammar skills.
When people write, they’re often blind to their own mistakes. Vast amounts of writing that other people do need proofreading. Proofreading is an evergreen job. Students want their essays to be flawless, publishers and agents want their manuscripts and synopses screened, and bloggers want perfect content for their blogs. As a proofreader, you can be a second set of eyes on those people’s writing.
21. Comedy
I like to think that I’m funny, but I don’t have half the guts needed to get on stage and do stand-up comedy. Were you the class clown in high school? If you’re a natural comedian and making people laugh is your hobby, this is definitely a sign you can make good money with a stand-up comedy act.
Humor sells!
Amateur and open mic nights are an excellent way to test out the comedy scene in your area. Few things feel as good as making a room full of people laugh. For openings, check with local pubs and perfect your craft in front of a live audience.
You may get paid in discounted drinks and snacks at first. If you’re consistent, you’ll soon land small comedy gigs like a warm-up act for better-known performers. Social media users log in to their accounts every day to watch funny videos, find new memes and exchange them with their friends.
You can probably think of several social media accounts that amassed a huge following simply by curating memes and viral videos. Create your own social media following to help your business start gaining traction. You can also write funny eBooks or create a podcast. Comedy clubs are constantly searching for new talent.
22. Woodworking
Woodworking is one of the best hobbies that make money and give you peace of mind and cut you out from whatever is happening in the world. Many people love to DIY their own wardrobe, tables, shelf, etc. Such people love the aesthetic and feel of hand-crafted wooden products.
If you’re a skilled woodworker, have access to the right tools and people always praise your work, then your finely crafted items need to be in someone’s living room. The competition is not as stiff as it once was, so there is definitely a demand for quality woodwork.
You can start with your neighbors and they could recommend you to their friends when they like your work. Next, target art and craft shows and online classified ads such as Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist.
23. Modeling
Many people think that modeling is all about being tall and skinny with perfect skin. However, there is a wide range of modeling opportunities available for people of all shapes, sizes, and ages. If you’re interested in making money by modeling, here are a few ideas to get you started.
One way to make money modeling is to work for stock photographers. These photographers provide images for businesses to use in their marketing materials, and they are always on the lookout for new models. Stock photography is a great way to get started in the modeling industry because it doesn’t require any prior experience or special skills.
Another way to make money modeling is to model for art or drawing classes. These classes are typically offered at community colleges or adult education centers, and they provide an opportunity to earn some extra cash while showing off your creative side.
Finally, if you have good pictures of your feet, you can also sell these online.
24. DIY Hobbies That Make Money
Taskrabbit is an app that allows you to make money by doing odd jobs and tasks for people in your area. This can be anything from assembling furniture to changing a lightbulb. If you have a particular skill or trade that you're good at, you can list it on the app and people in your area will be able to hire you for jobs.
Taskrabbit is a great way to make money if you're a DIYer, as it allows you to use your skills to earn money. There are many other ways to make money as a DIYer. You can start your own blog and monetize it with advertising, or start a YouTube channel and monetize it.
4 Steps To Picking Profitable Hobbies That Make Money
If you didn't find a profitable hobby from the list above, then I want to help you find a hobby that's right for you. I’ve broken it down into four major steps that you’ll go through in picking profitable hobbies that you can build a business on.
1. Think About What You Are Truly Passionate About
One of the keys to success in any business is passion. If you are not passionate about your hobby, it will be difficult to sustain the motivation needed to build a successful business. Choose a hobby that you are truly interested in and excited about pursuing.
2. Do Your Research
Not all hobbies are equally profitable. Some may have high start-up costs, while others may be time-consuming without providing a significant return on investment. Before choosing a hobby, take the time to research the potential costs and earnings to ensure that it is a good fit for your budget and goals.
3. Utilize Your Skillset
When starting a business, it is important to leverage your existing skills and knowledge. Consider what you already know how to do well and see if there is a way to turn that into a profit-making venture.
4. Have A Plan
Turning your hobby into a business can be a great way to earn some extra income, but it's important to have a plan. First, you need to decide what product or service you're going to offer. This will require some research into the market and your competition.
Once you have a good understanding of your niche, you can start to put together a business plan. This should include an overview of your business, your marketing strategy, and your financial projections. Having a well-defined plan will increase your chances of success and help you to avoid any costly mistakes. With a little planning and effort, you can turn your hobby into a thriving business.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most profitable hobby?
While many hobbies can be profitable, it depends on the individual's interests and skill set as to which one will be the most profitable. For example, someone who enjoys working with their hands might find a hobby in woodworking, while someone who enjoys baking could start a small home-based business selling homemade goods.
In general, hobbies that involve making or selling products are more likely to be profitable than hobbies that don't, but they vary from person to person. The best way to determine if a hobby can be profitable is to research the market and see if there is a demand for the products or services that would be provided. With a little effort, almost any hobby can be turned into a profitable venture.
What is a good side hobby?
Hobbies that make money are a great way to earn some extra cash. While there are many hobbies that can be turned into a money-making venture, not all of them are created equal. For example, hobbies that require expensive equipment or extensive training may not be the best choice if you're looking to make a quick profit.
Instead, focus on hobbies that can be easily learned and don't require a major financial investment. Popular choices include photography, web design, and gardening. Once you've decided on a hobby, research ways to monetize it; for instance, you could start a blog about your hobby and sell advertising space or set up an online shop to sell related products. You can soon turn your passion into a lucrative side business with a little effort.
Conclusion
There you have it, over 20 profitable hobbies that make money. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but hobbies are in serious demand and have the potential to earn you a profit in the years to come.
If you’re anything like me, you easily have a handful of hobbies on this list that you enjoy. I suggest you start with the one you enjoy most.
Regardless of which hobby you choose to monetize, make sure you have fun doing it! Keep in mind that we all need downtime, so if your pastime starts to feel like a chore, it might be time to switch things up and try something new!
Good luck!