The American financial landscape has dramatically shifted, with supplemental income becoming a necessity rather than a luxury for millions. A 2025 LendingTree study reveals that close to two-fifths of adults maintain secondary income streams, generating approximately $1,215 monthly on average.
Economic pressures have transformed side hustles from optional activities into financial lifelines. LendingTree research shows more than three-fifths (61%) of those with secondary income sources couldn’t afford their current lifestyle without this additional money.
Here are 24 strategies people are using to boost income, slash expenses, and manage debt in today’s challenging economy, practical approaches that could help strengthen your own financial position.
1. Building emergency savings while paying debt
The dual approach of saving while paying down debt has gained traction as a more sustainable financial strategy. According to LendingTree, this balanced approach is vital for the 44% of side hustlers who say their additional income provides long-term financial security.
High-yield savings accounts offering around 4% interest make this approach more attractive than in previous years when interest rates were minimal. Many financial experts now recommend this balanced approach over putting every available dollar toward debt repayment.
2. Social media influencing
LendingTree data shows that social media monetization has become a significant source of income for side hustlers, with 11% of them leveraging their online followings.
While going viral may be rare, many micro-influencers with loyal niche audiences earn steady income through brand partnerships, affiliate links, and payments from platforms like TikTok and YouTube that reward creators for content performance.
The beauty of this side hustle is its scalability; content creation can start as a minimal time investment and grow alongside audience engagement. Many influencers begin by focusing on topics they’re genuinely passionate about, building authentic connections with followers.
3. Housecleaning services
According to LendingTree, the housecleaning sector is thriving as a side hustle, with 13% of side hustlers offering these services.
As more households find themselves time-poor but relatively cash-rich, outsourcing cleaning has become an ordinary expense even in middle-income homes.
Side hustlers in this space appreciate the predictable income, especially when they secure regular weekly or bi-weekly clients. Many start with referrals from friends and family before expanding their client base through word-of-mouth or local advertising.
4. Negotiating with creditors
Proactive communication with lenders has proven effective for many Americans facing financial challenges. LendingTree reports that 76% of consumers who asked for lower interest rates on their credit cards in the past year received them, yet relatively few make the request.
Beyond rate reductions, many lenders offer hardship programs that can include temporarily reduced payments, fee waivers, or other accommodations.
These programs are designed for short-term difficulties but can provide critical breathing room during financial transitions.
5. Online freelancing
Skilled Americans are turning digital talents into dollars, with LendingTree’s 2025 survey revealing that 15% of side hustlers now earn through online freelancing platforms.
Americans with marketable skills in writing, graphic design, programming, or virtual assistance are finding clients through platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and specialized job boards.
Remote work normalization has expanded this opportunity, with many companies now comfortable hiring freelancers without geographic restrictions. Freelancers appreciate the ability to scale their hours up or down based on their financial needs and primary job demands.
6. Limiting shopping and retail therapy
According to LendingTree data, shopping cutbacks are a key saving strategy for 39% of Americans if their side hustle income vanishes.
Consumers are becoming more intentional about purchases, with the rise of secondhand and thrift shopping moving beyond necessity to become a sustainable lifestyle choice for many budget-conscious households.
“Buy nothing” groups on social media platforms have gained popularity, allowing community members to exchange items rather than purchase new ones. Many shoppers have adopted waiting periods for non-essential purchases, giving themselves time to determine if the item is truly needed.
7. Rideshare driving
LendingTree reports that driving for rideshare companies continues to be a popular flexible option, with 8% of side hustlers operating in this space. Services like Uber and Lyft allow drivers to work whenever they are available, making it an ideal complement to fluctuating primary work schedules.
Many drivers strategically focus on high-demand periods like weekend nights, airport runs, or major events to maximize hourly earnings. This approach helps offset rising vehicle costs and fuel prices that have recently cut into driver profits.
8. Day trading and investing
Financial markets participation as a side hustle has grown, with 7% of side hustlers engaging in day trading activities, according to LendingTree’s survey. Commission-free trading apps and increased financial education resources have democratized access to markets that professionals once dominated.
While this side hustle carries higher risk than service-based alternatives, successful traders approach it with discipline and education rather than speculation. Many focus on specific market sectors where they have knowledge advantages or use automated tools to manage their strategies.
9. Taking advantage of recession-resistant side hustles
Financial uncertainty has led many Americans to pursue side hustles that remain stable during economic downturns.
LendingTree’s survey shows that 49% of side hustlers cited the current economy as a primary driver for starting their gigs, making recession resistance a key consideration.
This strategic approach prioritizes income security over potentially higher but less reliable earnings. Many side hustlers diversify across multiple gigs to further reduce risk, creating a portfolio approach to supplemental income rather than relying on a single source.
10. Making and selling handmade items
Creativity is paying off for 13% of side hustlers who make and sell handmade items, LendingTree reports. Online marketplaces like Etsy and local craft fairs provide platforms for these entrepreneurs to market their handcrafted jewelry, home décor, clothing, and other unique items.
The maker movement thrives as consumers increasingly value unique, handmade products over mass-produced alternatives. This side hustle allows creative people to monetize hobbies they enjoy while building a personal brand.
11. Cutting back on dining out
Beyond generating additional income, Americans are finding creative ways to reduce expenses.
Cutting back on restaurant meals tops the list, with 46% of side hustlers saying this would be their first budget cut if additional income disappeared, according to LendingTree.
The average American household spends thousands annually on dining out, making this a significant saving opportunity. Many are replacing restaurant visits with home cooking, meal planning, and strategic use of restaurant deals or happy hours when they do dine out.
12. Part-time seasonal employment
Traditional part-time or seasonal work continues to be a reliable side hustle choice for 14% of side hustlers, per LendingTree data. Retail positions during holiday seasons, summer resort jobs, tax preparation, or weekend event staffing provide predictable income boosts during specific times of the year.
These positions often require minimal training and offer set schedules that can complement primary employment. For many Americans, the predictable nature of these jobs makes financial planning easier compared to gig work with variable earnings.
13. Leveraging skills from primary careers
Strategic side hustling that leverages primary career skills has proven particularly lucrative. This approach is especially valuable considering LendingTree’s finding that 77% of side hustlers report their additional work improves their quality of life.
This approach minimizes the learning curve typically associated with new side hustles while maximizing hourly earnings. Many find these related side gigs enhance their primary career through expanded network connections and complementary experience.
14. Utilizing high-yield savings accounts
Americans increasingly move funds from traditional bank savings accounts to high-yield alternatives offering significantly better returns. For the 44% of side hustlers who report that their additional income provides long-term financial security (per LendingTree), maximizing returns on savings is crucial.
The availability of FDIC-insured online accounts may offer reassurance for many considering this transition, with numerous high-yield accounts potentially providing similar liquidity and protection. However, accounts vary regarding access restrictions and features that consumers should research before making changes.
15. Consolidating debt with balance transfers
Some Americans leverage 0% balance transfer credit cards to tackle high-interest debt. LendingTree notes that 24% of side hustlers need the additional income to pay off debt, making strategic debt management essential for financial health.
The key to success with this approach is having a clear repayment plan that eliminates the transferred balance before the promotional period ends. Many consumers combine balance transfers with side hustle income to accelerate debt payoff during the interest-free period.
16. Delivering food and groceries
Food and grocery delivery has become one of the most popular side hustles in America, with 15% of side hustlers involved in this gig economy opportunity, according to LendingTree.
Companies like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Instacart continue to provide flexible earning opportunities for those looking to leverage their spare time with minimal barriers to entry.
The appeal lies in the flexibility, workers can set their own hours and accept only the deliveries that make financial sense. As dining and grocery delivery habits formed during the pandemic have become permanent for many households, this side hustle remains a reliable income source.
17. Childcare, pet sitting and caretaking
Caregiving services, including babysitting, pet sitting, and elder care, provide side hustle income for 9% of those with secondary gigs, according to LendingTree. These personal services fill critical needs in communities and often command premium rates, especially for specialized care.
Trust is the primary currency in this side hustle category, with many providers building long-term client relationships.
Apps and platforms have modernized how these services are marketed and scheduled, making connecting providers with those needing care easier.
18. Embracing minimalism
The minimalist movement continues to influence Americans’ relationship with consumption and possessions. For the 28% of side hustlers who use their additional income for discretionary spending (per LendingTree), minimalism offers a way to maximize the impact of those funds.
Many adherents report quality-of-life improvements alongside financial benefits, finding that intentional ownership reduces maintenance costs, cleaning time, and decision fatigue. The “one in, one out” rule has become popular for maintaining minimalist gains over time.
19. E-commerce reselling
The reselling boom continues with 12% of side hustlers buying products at a discount and reselling them for profit, according to LendingTree’s 2025 survey.
This includes flipping items from thrift stores, liquidation sales, or retail arbitrage, where products are purchased on clearance and resold at market value online.
Platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Poshmark make it easier than ever to find buyers. Successful resellers develop an eye for undervalued items and understand market demand, turning weekend sourcing into substantial side income.
20. Tutoring and teaching
Educational services provide side income for 6% of side hustlers who leverage their academic knowledge or professional expertise, LendingTree data reveals. Online platforms have expanded these opportunities beyond local markets, allowing experts to connect with students worldwide.
Subject matter experts in high-demand fields like mathematics, science, test preparation, and language learning can command premium rates. The flexibility to schedule sessions around primary employment makes this an attractive option for educators and professionals.
21. Perform a new financial balancing act
The financial landscape of 2025 reveals a fundamental shift in how Americans approach income and expenses. LendingTree’s survey data shows that 61% of side hustlers consider their additional income essential for affordability, not just a luxury for extra spending.
For many, particularly millennials and parents of young children, side hustles have become integral to financial stability rather than optional enhancements.
This normalization of multiple income streams represents a significant evolution in the American financial mindset—one that balances necessity with the pursuit of greater security in an uncertain economic environment.
22. Track spending meticulously
Digital tools have revolutionized personal finance management, with budgeting apps providing unprecedented visibility into spending patterns. This practice helps support the 33% of side hustlers who, according to LendingTree, need their additional income for cost-of-living expenses.
Categorized spending reports help identify surprising budget leaks that might otherwise go unnoticed, like subscription services or frequent small purchases that accumulate significantly over time. This awareness often triggers behavioral changes without requiring strict budgeting rules.
23. Reduce entertainment expenses
Entertainment budget cuts represent another major saving strategy, with 39% identifying these discretionary expenses as cuttable if their side hustle income disappeared, LendingTree reports.
Streaming service consolidation has become common, with households rotating between services rather than maintaining multiple subscriptions simultaneously.
Free entertainment alternatives, including library resources, community events, and outdoor activities, have gained popularity. Many consumers now strategically wait for content to become available on services they already subscribe to rather than paying for premiere access.
24. Shopping for personal loans
Low-interest personal loans have become a popular debt management tool, particularly for those who don’t qualify for 0% balance transfers. According to LendingTree, this approach can be especially valuable for the 24% of side hustlers using their additional income for debt reduction.
Consolidating multiple high-interest debts into a single, lower-interest loan simplifies finances while reducing total interest paid. Many borrowers report psychological benefits from having a clear payoff date rather than the revolving nature of credit card debt.
The economic resilience revolution
Today’s side hustle economy represents more than just extra cash, it’s a fundamental shift in how Americans build financial security. According to LendingTree, 65% of side hustlers would prefer having one main source of income if given the opportunity, yet the financial reality makes multiple income streams necessary.
The most successful side hustlers don’t just work more hours, they maximize the return on their investment through skill leveraging and market awareness.
As this approach becomes normalized, we’re witnessing the emergence of a more adaptable, multi-skilled workforce prepared to navigate an increasingly unpredictable economic landscape with confidence and creativity.
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