Best Side Gigs for Gen Z To Earn Money During College

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College tuition at public four-year schools has increased a staggering 141% over the last 20 years, according to the Education Data Initiative — an uptick of 7% per year. The average cost nowadays to attend a university is $38,270 a year, which includes living expenses, supplies and books. Going to college is the American dream for many, but the sticker shock is causing Gen Zers to explore ways to make money and offset the hefty price tag. 

Balancing college and work is not easy. Classes, assignments and a social life are time-consuming — you need to have some fun! But with the right mindset and a flexible job, it can be done. Here are some of the best side gigs for Gen Z to pick up during college to put more money in their wallets. 

Tutoring

Whether your talent is music, teaching a language or helping someone else get ahead with studying, tutoring is a great side gig. You can set your own hours and help someone learn a subject or skill you already know. You can work as little or as much as needed and earn about $24 an hour. Meet with local students in person, or apply for tutoring gigs at sites like Wyzant, Preply and Chegg, which hire tutors to work online.

Social Media Management

With 67% of the global population online, which equates to 5.45 billion internet users, it should come as no surprise that businesses are pouring money into social media. Global online advertising is projected to reach $190.5 billion by the end of this year, according to Statista. 

If you know how to build an audience on platforms like TikTok, Instagram and Facebook, consider getting paid to take a brand to the next level as its social media manager. Responsibilities include creating content, staying on top of social media trends, engaging with followers and creating social media strategies. 

The pay can range from $500 to $10K a month, depending on your experience and the scope of your gigs. To get started, reach out to local businesses that don’t have much of an online presence and offer assistance, or find jobs online at Upwork and Guru.

Web Development

The software industry is a booming field that continues to expand and will reach an estimated global market volume of more than $896 billion by 2029. If you’re tech-savvy, like coding and know languages like Python, JavaScript and HTML, use that skillset to land side gigs in web development. The job entails writing and reviewing code, designing website layouts, keeping websites updated and maintaining them. The average hourly rate is $45, but you can earn as much as $72 an hour, depending on experience. 

Graphic Design

If you have an appreciation for graphics, the gift to create innovative visuals and expertise with design software like Illustrator, InDesign and Photoshop, graphic design can be a lucrative side gig that fits your busy college life schedule. From websites to packaging and advertising, graphic designers have a wide range of projects to work on and showcase their work. 

The average hourly rate is roughly $23 an hour, and you can connect with clients on platforms such as Freelancer and Upwork.

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