Empire State Review Team 
The Emergence of Side Hustles in 2025: A Financial Necessity
Photo by Robert Alexander/Getty Images
As economic uncertainties linger, many individuals are turning to side hustles to supplement their primary income. According to recent statistics, nearly 40% of Americans engage in a side job, with a significant portion indicating that these extra earnings are crucial for managing daily expenses and building savings.
A survey conducted by LendingTree found that over 60% of side hustlers feel their financial obligations would be unmanageable without their additional income. This necessity underscores the growing trend of incorporating part-time work into one’s routine.
Top Side Hustles for 2025
Based on research from GoBankingRates, here is a list of the most lucrative side hustles available today, along with their average hourly rates:
- Lawn Care Professional: $55/hour
- TaskRabbit Tasker: Variable (set your own salary)
- Frequent Flyer Specialist: $80 to $150 per project
- Bookkeeper: $24/hour
- Online Instructor: $42/hour
- Sign Language Interpreter: $32/hour
- Curriculum Writer: $33/hour
- Education Training Specialist: $30/hour
- Executive Assistant: $28/hour
- Consultant: $100/hour
- Project Manager: $49/hour
- Social Media Marketing Specialist: $26/hour
- Software Developer: $54/hour
- WordPress Developer: $45/hour
- Online Reseller: $40/hour
Popularity of Side Hustles
According to LendingTree, about 38% of Americans currently hold a side job. The most common roles reported include:
- Food or Grocery Delivery: 15%
- Online Freelancing: 15%
- Part-Time or Seasonal Work: 14%
On average, side hustlers earn approximately $1,215 monthly, enhancing their financial security. Notably, 61% of respondents indicate that their quality of life has improved due to the extra income.
Driving Forces Behind Side Hustles
The rising cost of living has prompted many individuals to seek additional income. Key findings from the survey reveal that:
- 33% of side hustlers cite cost-of-living as their primary motivator.
- 29% need the extra funds to cover bills.
- 28% use these earnings for discretionary spending.
Furthermore, 49% of participants stated the current economic landscape as a reason for pursuing side gigs, with inflation and repercussions of the pandemic also being significant factors.
