Rachel Cruze: Make $1,000 a Month With These 7 Creative Side Hustles
Written by
Ashley Donohoe
Edited by
Rebekah Evans
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
According to a Self Financial survey, 45% of Americans worked side gigs and about 19% earned over $1,000 monthly. A TurboTax survey also found that a need to supplement traditional income was the main driver for 72% of side hustlers.
While side hustles are popular and potentially profitable, motivating yourself to do the extra work can be hard. But if you look beyond traditional options and involve your creativity or hobbies, you’ll more likely stick to the gig and maximize your earnings.
Financial expert Rachel Cruze polled readers on Facebook about their side hustles. In a Youtube video, Cruze discussed these seven creative side hustle ideas that could get you $1,000 a month.
Officiating Volleyball
If you’re a former player or anybody who enjoys the sport, officiating volleyball could be a fun hustle. Cruze said one reader made $800 to $1,000 per month by refereeing just a few games per week.
To qualify, you must thoroughly understand volleyball rules and be confident with leading teams. Some pros include flexible scheduling and opportunities for seasonal and year-round gigs at outdoor and indoor volleyball courts.
Being a Part-Time Professor
Cruze talked about a reader who was earning nearly $18,000 per year ($1,500 per month) working as a part-time professor for a prison education program. If you’re passionate about education, teaching virtually or in person at any higher education facility can be meaningful.
However, this side hustle has a higher barrier to entry since you’ll usually need at least a master’s degree, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. You might see the most success if you have work experience or a certification in the area you’re teaching.
Working at a Grocery Store
Grocery stores hire for various part-time positions — such as cashier, stocker and deli worker — and often don’t require special experience. This makes them a good place to look for a side job with reliable weekly or biweekly paychecks.
“This person works evening and weekend shifts, around four-hour shifts and they make anywhere from $8,000 to $12,000 a year, so that’s right about $1,000 a month,” Cruze explained.
On top of extra income, you might get an employee discount that saves you on groceries.
Selling Propagated Plants
If you’re a gardener, you could sell starter plant stems to other people who want a quicker and more convenient alternative to growing plants from seeds. Cruze said this side gig might yield around $200 per week.
Before starting, you should research the steps and costs involved with growing and preparing the seedlings for sale and consider the timing. Once you’re ready to host a sale, consider options like local nurseries, farmers’ markets and neighborhood group pages.
Cleaning People’s Pools
According to Cruze, you could earn $150 to $250 for each pool you clean. This seasonal gig may be most practical if you’re already used to maintaining your home’s pool.
While you usually won’t need a degree, check your state’s requirements for any pool technician permits, certifications or licenses required. According to Superior Pool Service, the gig requires knowing about cleaning and maintenance techniques, safety practices and water chemistry.
Detailing Cars
“You can clean three to five cars — you know, on a weekend morning — and you can make around $250 per week plus tips,” Cruze said.
A car detailing side gig may be right if you’re a car enthusiast and like having the chance to make extra from satisfied customers. However, Cruze advised preparing to pay upfront for a vacuum and other equipment to get started. You can shop around on car care sites for deals.
Selling at Craft Shows
While using online platforms like Etsy is popular, selling at craft shows cuts the need to ship your crafts and exposes your items to many people who can give you instant cash. Whether you paint, sew, crochet or make earrings, this gig lets you use your creativity and have fun.
While your earnings will vary, Cruze mentioned that a reader made $500 at each craft show. You could attend a few each month and easily pass the $1,000 goal. When setting your prices, don’t forget to account for your time and the materials you buy for each item.
More From GOBankingRates
