Mar 17, 2026

10 Simple Side Gigs That Bring in Serious Cash

Written by Amen Oyiboke-Osifo
|
Edited by Amen Oyiboke-Osifo
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A growing number of Americans are looking to side gigs to manage their finances. Over 31% of Americans currently have a side hustle, according to Omnisend. Side gigs can help you make ends meet or achieve a goal. Not all side jobs are equal, though. Some may not be a good match for your skill set, while others may be too stressful.



Read More: 5 Side Hustles That Can Generate $1,000 With Under 10 Hours of Work per Month

Find Out: Start Growing Your Net Worth With Smarter Tracking

Identifying opportunities that align with your strengths and interests that let you maximize income-earning are best. According to Forbes, having a clear plan for your side gig is vital; otherwise, you risk burning out or not earning enough.

It's also important to use earnings from a part-time job or side hustle wisely. If you're taking on a second job to relieve budgetary pressure, use the funds for necessities. It's also wise to use some of the earnings to create or replenish an emergency fund. Don't overlook setting aside a portion of your earnings to pay taxes, either. Speak with a tax professional to get an idea of what's best for your situation.

Finding a worthwhile side hustle or part-time job can help Americans earn significant cash to meet their needs. In a recent study, Wave Connect identified 10 simple side jobs that bring in serious money, based on annual openings, average weekly wages, stress levels, task repeatability and market opportunity.

Here are the top 10 simple side gigs that bring in serious cash.

  • Annual Job Openings: 330,000

  • Average Weekly Wage: $336

  • Stress Proxy (1-5): 1

  • Task Repeatability Proxy (1-5): 5

  • Market Opportunity Score: 93

  • Low Effort Income Score: 99

  • Required Skill Level: Very basic



  • Annual Job Openings: 56,400

  • Average Weekly Wage: $700

  • Stress Proxy (1-5): 2

  • Task Repeatability Proxy (1-5): 5

  • Market Opportunity Score: 46

  • Low Effort Income Score: 85

  • Required Skill Level: Advanced

  • Annual Job Openings: 1.8 million

  • Average Weekly Wage: $356

  • Stress Proxy (1-5): 2

  • Task Repeatability Proxy (1-5): 5

  • Market Opportunity Score: 95

  • Low Effort Income Score: 84

  • Required Skill Level: Basic-moderate

  • Annual Job Openings: 115,800

  • Average Weekly Wage: $600

  • Stress Proxy (1-5): 2

  • Task Repeatability Proxy (1-5): 5

  • Market Opportunity Score: 55

  • Low Effort Income Score: 83

  • Required Skill Level: Intermediate

  • Annual Job Openings: 542,600

  • Average Weekly Wage: $284

  • Stress Proxy (1-5): 2

  • Task Repeatability Proxy (1-5): 5

  • Market Opportunity Score: 89

  • Low Effort Income Score: 79

  • Required Skill Level: Very basic



  • Annual Job Openings: 40,300

  • Average Weekly Wage: $2,800

  • Stress Proxy (1-5): 5

  • Task Repeatability Proxy (1-5): 1

  • Market Opportunity Score: 12

  • Low Effort Income Score: 73

  • Required Skill Level: Highly specialized

  • Annual Job Openings: 171,400

  • Average Weekly Wage: $384

  • Stress Proxy (1-5): 2

  • Task Repeatability Proxy (1-5): 5

  • Market Opportunity Score: 8

  • Low Effort Income Score: 61

  • Required Skill Level: Very basic

  • Annual Job Openings: 15,500

  • Average Weekly Wage: $760

  • Stress Proxy (1-5): 3

  • Task Repeatability Proxy (1-5): 4

  • Market Opportunity Score: 36

  • Low Effort Income Score: 58

  • Required Skill Level: Intermediate

  • Annual Job Openings: 1.07 million

  • Average Weekly Wage: $1,400

  • Stress Proxy (1-5): 4

  • Task Repeatability Proxy (1-5): 2

  • Market Opportunity Score: 68

  • Low Effort Income Score: 57

  • Required Skill Level: Highly specialized

  • Annual Job Openings: 151,200

  • Average Weekly Wage: $740

  • Stress Proxy (1-5): 3

  • Task Repeatability Proxy (1-5): 4

  • Market Opportunity Score: 32

  • Low Effort Income Score: 56

  • Required Skill Level: Intermediate

"Part-time jobs matter for students, stay-at-home parents, and many others managing multiple responsibilities. These people need roles that help cover bills without draining their energy. Some dismiss those positions as unserious because they're not full-time, but that misses the point. There are 27 million Americans in part-time jobs right now, and they're the ones keeping grocery stores stocked, retail running, and basic services operating," said George El-Hage, Founder & CEO of Wave Connect. Selecting the right side job can create positive cash flow that doesn't waste your time and helps you achieve your financial goals.

This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.

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Amen Oyiboke-Osifo
Written by
Amen Oyiboke-Osifo
Amen Oyiboke-Osifo
Edited by
Amen Oyiboke-Osifo