How to make money from home – 25 Ways

Looking to earn extra cash from the comfort of your couch? In this guide, we’ll explore 25 ways to make money from home using your existing skills, complete with pros, cons, and average earnings. 

So, whether you’re a seasoned freelancer or just starting out, let’s dive in and discover your next side hustle.

25 Ways to make money from home

Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or a full-time job, there are plenty of legitimate ways to make money online from home. Browse our list and find the best way to make money on your own terms.

1. Print on Demand (POD)

Customize and sell white-label products such as apparel, accessories, and home decor through your own online store, with each order fulfilled as it’s placed.

Print on Demand (POD) is one of the real ways to make money from home for free. It requires no inventory or upfront investment, making it an accessible option for beginners looking to start an online business.

• Pros: No inventory, easy setup, low startup costs, over 1000 custom products in Printify’s Catalog.
• Cons: Limited control over quality, longer fulfillment times.
• Requirements: A computer, design software (optional).
• Average rate: $5-$8 per sale.
• Difficulty: Easy. Simply sign up for Printify and start designing.
• First steps: Sign up for a POD platform, choose products, design, and list them online.
• Where to get started: Printify.

2. Online surveys

Participate in market research by taking online surveys and earning cash or rewards in return. Online surveys are easy to start, require no experience, and offer flexible hours, making them a convenient option for earning some extra income on the side. 

By doing thorough research, you can find the most popular survey sites that offer better payouts and reliable opportunities.

• Pros: No experience needed, flexible.
• Cons: Low pay, possible scams.
• Requirements: A computer or smartphone.
• Average rate: A few cents to $50 per survey.
• Difficulty: Very easy.
• First steps: Sign up on popular sites like Survey Junkie and start completing surveys.
• Where to get started: Swagbucks, Branded Surveys, Survey Junkie.

3. Online courses

Teach subjects you’re knowledgeable about through digital platforms, providing an online course, video lessons, or live classes. Teaching online is one of the legitimate ways to earn a steady income while reaching a global audience. 

It allows you to set your own schedule and earn money by sharing your expertise on a wide range of topics.

• Pros: Flexible schedule, global audience. 
• Cons: Time-consuming.
• Requirements: Expertise in a subject, a computer.
• Average rate: $10-$40 per hour; $1,000-2,000 per course.
• Difficulty: Medium.
• First steps: Create lesson plans, sign up on teaching platforms, and start teaching.
• Where to get started: Udemy, Teachable, Skillshare.

4. Product testing

Wondering how to make extra money from home part-time? Test new products or websites and provide feedback to companies in exchange for money or free items. Product testing is a popular remote job that allows you to try out the latest goods before they hit the market. 

It’s a great way of making money online by sharing your opinions and insights.

• Pros: Free products, no investment. 
• Cons: Repetitive, potential scams.
• Requirements: A computer or smartphone.
• Average rate: $10-$40 per hour.
• Difficulty: Easy.
• First steps: Sign up on product testing sites and apply for tests.
• Where to get started: UserTesting, SheSpeaks, BzzAgent, NCP.

5. Blogging

Write articles on different topics and monetize your blog through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing. Blogging allows you to share your passions, build a community, and generate income by creating engaging content that attracts readers and advertisers alike.

• Pros: Creative outlet, minimal investment. 
• Cons: Time-consuming, high competition.
• Requirements: A computer, great writing skills.
• Average rate: $13 per hour, potentially more with sponsorships, advertising revenue, or affiliate programs.
• Difficulty: Medium.
• First steps: Get web hosting and a domain, such as Namecheap, create a blog, publish posts, and implement monetization strategies.
• Where to get started: WordPress, Blogger, Medium.

6. Life coaching

Many people wonder, ‘How can I earn money from home?’ Provide advice and guidance to clients to help enhance their personal and professional lives.

Life coaching involves one-on-one consultations, where you use your skills and experience to inspire and support individuals in achieving their goals and overcoming challenges.

• Pros: Rewarding, flexible. 
• Cons: High competition.
• Requirements: Certification, communication skills.
• Average rate: $31.46 per hour.
• Difficulty: Hard.
• First steps: Obtain certification, set up a website, and market your services.
• Where to get started: BetterUp, Coach.me, Noomii.

7. Hosting a podcast

Create and distribute content on various topics on podcast platforms, monetizing through ads and sponsorships. Hosting a podcast allows you to engage with a dedicated audience, share your insights, and build a personal brand while earning income.

• Pros: Engaged audience, flexible schedule. 
• Cons: Challenging to find an audience, time-consuming.
• Requirements: Microphone, recording software.
• Average rate: $30-$45 per hour.
• Difficulty: Medium.
• First steps: Choose a topic, record episodes, and upload them to podcast platforms.
• Where to get started: Buzzsprout, Anchor, Podbean, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts.

8. Streaming games

Broadcasting yourself playing video games live while interacting with an online audience is one of the easiest and most fun ways how to make more money from home, especially if you enjoy gaming. It has the potential to build a following and monetize content through ads, donations, and sponsorships.

• Pros: Flexible, real-time engagement.
• Cons: Challenging to attract viewers.
• Requirements: Gaming setup, streaming software.
• Average rate: $3.50 per 1,000 views, up to $3,000-$5,000 monthly for top streamers.
• Difficulty: Medium to hard.
• First steps: Create accounts on streaming platforms and start streaming games.
• Where to get started: Twitch, YouTube Gaming, Facebook Gaming.

9. Social media manager

Manage social media accounts for businesses to increase engagement, followers, and brand awareness. As a social media manager, you’ll handle tasks such as creating and scheduling posts, running ad campaigns, and interacting with customers to build a company’s online presence. 

This role is a key component of digital marketing, helping businesses connect with their audience.

• Pros: Creative freedom, in-demand. 
• Cons: High-stress, ever-changing platforms.
• Requirements: Knowledge of social media, a computer.
• Average rate: $14-$35 per hour.
• Difficulty: Medium.
• First steps: Build a portfolio and market your services to businesses.
• Where to get started: Hootsuite, Buffer, Sprout Social.

10. Selling photos online

Sell digital copies of your images through stock photography websites – an excellent way how to make money on the side from home. If you have a talent for photography, turn your hobby into a source of income by licensing your images for use in advertisements, blogs, and other media, all while setting your own hours and maintaining a work-life balance.

• Pros: Easy passive income, international reach. 
• Cons: Low starting prices and strict quality standards.
• Requirements: Camera, photo editing software (optional).
• Average rate: $0.30 to $100 per photo.
• Difficulty: Easy.
• First steps: Create a portfolio and upload it to stock photography sites.
• Where to get started: Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, Getty Images, iStockPhoto.

11. Making and selling music

Create and sell music tracks, beats, or lyrics online to artists, producers, and content creators. If you have musical talent, earn income by licensing your music for use in various projects, including advertisements, films, and online videos. This flexible job offers a great way of making money from home while pursuing your passion for music.

• Pros: Creative outlet, growth opportunities. 
• Cons: Time-consuming, requires heavy promotion.
• Requirements: Music production software.
• Average rate: $10-$50 per beat.
• Difficulty: Medium.
• First steps: Create beats and list them on music marketplaces.
• Where to get started: BeatStars, Airbit, SoundCloud.

12. Remote tech support

Provide technical assistance and troubleshooting remotely for businesses or individuals. Remote tech support involves resolving software, hardware, and network setup issues from your home, using communication tools to guide clients through solutions.

• Pros: Privacy, high demand.
• Cons: Possibly rude customers.
• Requirements: A computer, IT skills.
• Average rate: $10-$30 per hour.
• Difficulty: Medium.
• First steps: Apply for remote tech support jobs and market your services.
• Where to get started: SimplyHired, FlexJobs, Remote.co.

13. Virtual assistant

Virtual assistants provide valuable freelance services that help businesses and entrepreneurs stay organized and efficient, offering support services remotely with flexible hours.

Assist with administrative tasks such as scheduling, email management, data entry, and even selling products online from home.

• Pros: Flexible, variety of tasks. 
• Cons: Finding potential clients, high competition.
• Requirements: A computer, organizational skills.
• Average Rate: $10-$75 per hour.
• Difficulty: Medium.
• First steps: Create a profile on freelancing platforms and market your services.
• Where to get started: Upwork, Fiverr, Indeed.

14. Selling digital art

Turn physical artwork into digital products to sell online or print on merchandise. Artists can digitize their creations and list them on online platforms, offering items such as prints, apparel, and home decor featuring their designs. 

This approach allows artists to work remotely and even start a graphic design business, showcasing their talents to a global audience.

• Pros: Cost-effective, creative freedom.
• Cons: Requires technical skills, high competition.
• Requirements: A scanner or camera, computer.
• Average rate: Varies by artwork and sales.
• Difficulty: Easy to medium.
• First steps: Create digital versions and upload them to online marketplaces.
• Where to get started: Etsy, DeviantArt, ArtStation.

15. Website management

Manage and maintain websites and earn money online by ensuring they run smoothly and securely for businesses. Website managers handle updates, backups, and troubleshooting, making sure the sites, including an eCommerce site – are user-friendly and optimized for search engines. 

This role can provide a steady stream of income by offering essential services to keep online businesses running efficiently.

• Pros: High income, flexible schedule.
• Cons: Physically demanding, repetitive work.
• Requirements: Knowledge of web management, a computer.
• Average rate: $60 per hour.
• Difficulty: Hard.
• First steps: Market services to businesses and sign up for freelance platforms.
• Where to get started: Wix, WordPress, Squarespace.

16. Virtual bookkeeper

Keep track of all the money and manage accounts for businesses remotely. Virtual bookkeeping involves maintaining accurate records of income and expenses, helping small business owners stay organized and compliant with financial regulations. 

Bookkeeping can be a profitable profession and a great way to apply personal finance skills. It’s also one of the best ways to make money from home.

• Pros: High demand, flexible schedule. 
• Cons: Potential liability, client management.
• Requirements: Bookkeeping software and skills, a computer.
• Average rate: $60-$100 per hour.
• Difficulty: Hard.
• First steps: Create a profile on bookkeeping sites and market your services.
• Where to get started: QuickBooks, Xero, Bench.

17. Freelance copywriter

Write marketing content, articles, or product descriptions for various clients. Freelance writing allows copywriters to work on projects like blog posts, email campaigns, and website content. 

If you enjoy writing, use your skills to help businesses communicate effectively and elevate their online presence.

• Pros: Flexible, diverse projects. 
• Cons: Inconsistent income, stressful deadlines.
• Requirements: Good writing skills, a computer.
• Average rate: $0.02-$1 per word.
• Difficulty: Medium.
• First steps: Create a portfolio, sign up on freelancing sites, and market your services.
• Where to get started: Upwork, ProBlogger, Freelancer.

18. Online tasks

Online task sites offer opportunities to earn extra income by performing simple, quick assignments that help businesses with market research or product testing. Complete small online tasks like data entry, surveys, shopping, or watching videos for companies. 

These assignments can be a great part-time job option for those looking to make some extra cash from home.

• Pros: Easy and flexible.
• Cons: Inconsistent income, repetitive.
• Requirements: A computer or smartphone.
• Average rate: $17-$80 per hour.
• Difficulty: Very easy.
• First steps: Sign up on task sites.
• Where to get started: TaskRabbit, Swagbucks, Upwork.

19. Remote consultant

Provide expert advice to small businesses and individuals on specialized topics. Remote consultants use their experience and skills to help clients improve processes, strategies, or personal development, typically working over the phone or via video calls. 

This career path allows you to make a significant impact while working from the comfort of your home.

• Pros: Diverse client base, no start-up costs. 
• Cons: Stressful, market saturation.
• Requirements: Expertise in a field, a computer.
• Average rate: $44 per hour.
• Difficulty: Hard.
• First steps: Sign up on consulting platforms and market your services.
• Where to get started: Clarity, Consultport, Catalant.

20. Translation services

Translate documents, videos, or other content from one language to another. Translation services are a popular remote job in high demand globally. 

Translators can work on a variety of projects, from legal documents to website localization, all from the comfort of their homes, allowing them to earn more money while enjoying flexibility.

• Pros: Variety, freedom.
• Cons: Low income, stressful deadlines.
• Requirements: Language skills, a computer.
• Average rate: $0.15 per word.
• Difficulty: Medium.
• First steps: Sign up on translation platforms and offer your services.
• Where to get started: TransPerfect, Rev, Lionbridge.

21. Video editor

Edit videos for clients such as content creators, businesses, or filmmakers. Video editing involves piecing together raw footage, adding effects, and creating engaging final products that meet the client’s needs, making it a valuable skill in today’s digital world. 

Offering video editing alongside graphic design services can turn your freelance work into a full-fledged business that caters to a wide range of multimedia needs.

• Pros: Creative, high demand. 
• Cons: Time-consuming, software required.
• Requirements: Video editing software, computer.
• Average rate: $20-$50 per hour.
• Difficulty: Medium.
• First steps: Build a portfolio and sign up on freelancing platforms.
• Where to get started: Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer.

22. Start a YouTube channel

Create and share YouTube videos, monetizing through ad revenue, sponsorships, an affiliate link, and merchandise. 

Starting a YouTube channel allows you to express creativity, share knowledge, or entertain viewers, potentially earning a substantial income as your subscriber base grows.

• Pros: Creative freedom, potential high income.
• Cons: High competition, negative feedback.
• Requirements: Camera, video editing software.
• Average rate: Varies, typically $1-$5 per 1,000 views.
• Difficulty: Hard.
• First steps: Create a YouTube account and upload videos regularly.
• Where to get started: YouTube, VidIQ, TubeBuddy.

23. Transcribe

Convert audio recordings into written text for businesses or individuals. Transcription work is needed for meetings, interviews, and podcasts, allowing you to work from home at your own pace, earning money by accurately typing out spoken words.

• Pros: Flexible, easy to start. 
• Cons: Low pay, repetitive.
• Requirements: A computer, typing skills.
• Average rate: $15-$25 per hour.
• Difficulty: Easy.
• First steps: Sign up on transcription platforms and start taking assignments.
• Where to get started: Rev, TranscribeMe, Scribie.

24. Test websites and apps

How to make easy money from home? Provide feedback on usability, design, and functionality by testing websites and apps. Usability testing helps companies improve their digital products, and testers can earn money by sharing their experiences and opinions on new or beta versions.

• Pros: No experience needed, flexible.
• Cons: Inconsistent work, low pay.
• Requirements: A computer or smartphone.
• Average rate: $10-$20 per test.
• Difficulty: Easy.
• First steps: Sign up on testing platforms and start testing.
• Where to get started: UserTesting, TryMyUI, Testbirds.

25. Become a tutor

Teach and guide students in various subjects through one-on-one online tutoring sessions. Becoming an online tutor allows you to share your knowledge, help others learn, and earn money, offering educational support to students of all ages. 

Offer online tutoring through established platforms or create your own website to reach a broader audience.

• Pros: Rewarding, flexible hours. 
• Cons: Preparation time, varying student needs.
• Requirements: Subject knowledge, a computer.
• Average rate: $15-$40 per hour.
• Difficulty: Medium.
• First steps: Sign up on tutoring platforms and list subjects offered.
• Where to get started: Tutor.com, Chegg Tutors, Wyzant.

Honorable mentions

If you’re looking for more creative ways to make money from home, these honorable mentions offer a variety of opportunities to suit different interests and skills. 

• Pet sitting or dog walking – Help pet owners in your area.
• Sell stuff you don’t use anymore on an online marketplace like Etsy or eBay.
• Buy and sell domain names. 
• Childcare – Offer babysitting or daycare services.
• Sell fonts – Create and sell custom fonts for designers.
• Online fitness trainer – Offer virtual fitness classes or coaching.

FAQ – How to make money working from home?

Conclusion

With a little bit of creativity, experience, and in most cases, a computer, there are plenty of ways to cultivate income from home, whether by starting a blog or YouTube channel or by selling stuff online. 

From part-time jobs and side hustles to a full-fledged career, there are countless opportunities. Get inspired and strive for a better future from the comfort of your own home.