21 Side Jobs for Teachers To Make Extra Money

Teaching is a full-time commitment, often extending beyond the traditional school year. While educators pour immense dedication into shaping the future, many also discover opportunities to diversify their skills and experiences. Side hustles for teachers not only provide a chance to earn extra cash but can also become fulfilling second jobs.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best side hustles available for educators. Let’s discover which opportunities can enhance both your professional growth and financial stability.

Why teachers should consider side hustles

Teaching is incredibly rewarding, but sometimes the paycheck may not stretch far enough. This is where a great part-time job or side hustle can make all the difference, offering that much-needed extra income along with variety in intellectual stimulation.

In your free time— weekends, school breaks, or even summer vacations—a side job can be a big help. And it can even be an opportunity to dive into passions outside of your regular teaching job.

Imagine tutoring in a subject you love or crafting and selling educational printables. The options are limitless and can be tailored to your strengths and interests.

‍Just a heads-up for all the educators diving into new platforms: Always remember the hat you wear as a teacher. In today’s viral world, keep your activities in line with what your school would be proud of. Stay passionate, but always be mindful!

Online side hustles for teachers

From freelance writing to selling on Etsy, the internet offers flexible opportunities to earn extra cash while working from home. Check out this list of great online side hustles.

Freelance writer

As a teacher, your knowledge of specific subjects can be invaluable to businesses looking to turn that expertise into content. As a freelance writer, you’ll create various written materials, ranging from articles, blog posts, and web content to copy for advertisements.

You’ll often need to do research to ensure accuracy and adapt your style to fit specific audiences or platforms. Just make sure you have a good grasp of writing, a reliable computer, and a stable internet connection to get going.

Platforms like Upwork allow you to leverage your expertise, especially in academic or subject-based content. By setting your own rates, you could potentially earn $19 to $45 an hour, depending on the complexity of the writing task and your experience.

Online tutor

Consider taking your teaching skills online. As an online tutor, you’ll provide educational support to students through digital platforms like VIPKid and Upwork to deliver individualized lessons, answer questions, and explain complex concepts.

You might be required to have a bachelor’s degree or specific certifications to qualify, so be sure to read the contract details. A conducive teaching environment and a solid internet connection are also key to making this side gig successful.

Your earnings can vary depending on how many students you engage and the hours you dedicate, but the average is $20 to $40 an hour.

Virtual assistant

You might find that becoming a virtual assistant is a great fit, especially with your administrative and organizational skills from teaching.

As a virtual assistant, you might help clients by doing tasks like scheduling appointments, handling email, and maintaining databases. For this gig, having strong organizational skills, proficiency in digital tools, great communication skills, and excellent time management are  musts.

Administrative virtual assistants typically earn $10 to $20 per hour. Check out virtual assistant jobs on Upwork.

English teacher

If you’re an English teacher, you’re in a prime position to offer online English lessons to non-native speakers. English as a second language (ESL) is a sought-after course many people rely on.

You’ll design lesson plans catering to different language backgrounds and learning objectives while emphasizing speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. Make sure you have the right certifications such as TESOL, TEFL, or TESL, and a stable internet connection.

With an average hourly wage of $26 in the U.S., teaching English online can be a great side gig. Check out available opportunities teaching English on Upwork.

Lesson plan or online course creator

Have a standout lesson plan from your high school class or printables and worksheets from your preschool group? Platforms like Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT) and Upwork can be avenues to monetize these unique lesson plans, with earnings hinging on the quality and popularity of your content. Once you’ve created the content and listed it for sale, you can generate passive income and bring in money long after the initial work is done.

You can also use your teaching experience to consider packaging your expertise into online courses. Platforms like Udemy and Coursera allow teachers to reach a wider audience. Just remember, getting started may require some recording equipment and solid course planning skills.

Successful course creators can make anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 per month.

Proofreader

If you have a keen eye for detail and an in-depth understanding of grammar, becoming an online proofreader could be a good fit. A proofreader meticulously reviews text to correct grammatical, punctuation, spelling, and formatting errors. This side gig is about precision, so you need a solid grasp of style conventions and a meticulous approach to guarantee error-free content.

Earnings depend on the complexity and length of the documents you handle, but the median is $18 to $35 per hour. Upwork has proofreading jobs available now.

Bookkeeper

Bookkeeping services involve recording and organizing a business’s financial transactions to ensure accurate financial reporting. Many businesses are on the lookout for reliable bookkeeping services, and platforms like Upwork are a good starting point.

On average, bookkeepers can earn $11 to $25 an hour. While no formal certification is required, having this credential can boost your appeal to potential clients. Familiarity with financial software and a systematic approach are also essential to thrive in this side hustle.

Self-publisher

Have you ever dreamed of writing a book? With platforms like Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing, it’s never been easier for teachers to channel their expertise into a manuscript and become published authors.

Potential earnings in self-publishing can vary, but with strong writing skills and a compelling topic, there’s room for profit. Self-publishing on Amazon can earn anywhere from $150 to over $20,000 per month.

Affiliate marketer

Teachers can make extra money with affiliate marketing by promoting products they love. Share your favorite items on a blog or social media, and earn a commission when someone buys through your link.

As for how much you can make, it’s hard to say. Some people try doing affiliate marketing and don’t make anything, while “super affiliates” can make more than $100,000 a month. It depends heavily on your audience, the products they buy, and the commission structure or contract amounts.

Start by picking a platform and joining affiliate programs that fit your interests. Check out Upwork for current affiliate marketing opportunities. You can also explore being an Upwork affiliate—just share Upwork with your audience and start earning when a client funds a project.

Podcaster

Considering your teaching background, starting a podcast can be a natural next step to share your insights or passions. However, like affiliate marketing, how much you can make varies widely.

Many people start podcasts and don’t end up making money, while others—who can monetize their podcast through joining a network or gaining sponsorships—can make $500 to $900 an episode. While you could potentially earn from sponsorships, there’s also a world of related job opportunities in podcasting.

Platforms like Upwork list various roles, from podcast production to audio or video editing. They also have openings for voice-over artists, podcast managers, and podcast producers. With the right equipment and skills, the podcasting realm has multiple avenues for you to explore and profit from.

Etsy seller

If you’re crafty, Etsy is a great place to start selling unique treasures like handmade mugs, wood carvings, knit clothing, artwork, custom shirts, jewelry, and other handcrafted items.

Earnings vary widely, often depending on the popularity and pricing of your items. A successful seller on Etsy earns between $43,000 and $46,000 per year.

To get started, sign up on Etsy, curate your collection, and remember that creativity and originality are key. Engage in Facebook groups tailored for Etsy sellers for tips and networking. You can even get materials from thrift stores or stuff your neighbor leaves at the curb to help you cut costs while offering a unique touch.

In-person side hustles

You don’t have to look far for side gigs. Your nearby community may offer many rewarding opportunities. Check out these in-person side hustle ideas.

Tour guide

If you’re a teacher passionate about local history, why not share your knowledge and enthusiasm as a tour guide? You can harness your storytelling abilities, meet new people, and possibly collect tips. For a people person, this is a wonderful opportunity to connect, share stories, and introduce visitors to your community.

You might also find opportunities to accompany organized groups to foreign locations and provide in-depth information on art, architecture, and culture as you travel together.

The average starting pay for a tour guide is around $8 to $25 per hour, with the possibility of additional gratuity.

Summer school teacher

Teaching summer school can be a rewarding way to earn additional income during the break. The pay typically depends on the school district, but beyond the financial benefits, it provides a unique opportunity to engage with students in a laid-back, less formal setting. Check with your school or nearby community centers to see what opportunities are available in the summer.

The pay is usually around $25 an hour.

Delivery driver

Becoming a delivery driver for apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Instacart offers teachers a flexible way to earn outside the classroom. Earnings can vary based on tips, delivery distance, and peak times, but signing up is generally straightforward. Just make sure you have a reliable vehicle and  valid license and meet any other eligibility criteria for the delivery service.

Delivery drivers average about $19 an hour and have the potential to earn tips.

Pet sitter or dog walker

As a teacher, your nurturing nature can extend beyond the classroom and into the world of pet care. With platforms like Rover, you can channel your love of animals into a rewarding side gig as a pet sitter or dog walker.

Pet sitting and dog walking earnings can vary based on the number of pets you’re looking after and the hours you commit. On average, dog walkers make $15 an hour. Just make sure you have a genuine affection for pets and a safe space for their care.

Babysitter

Teachers are already likely attuned to the needs and behaviors of children, making babysitting a natural side hustle option. By offering babysitting services, you can leverage your caregiving skills and experience. Platforms like Care.com or Sittercity provide an avenue to connect with families looking for caregivers.

With your experience as a teacher, you’re also familiar with background checks and may have great references to show potential families. Having experience as a teacher can give you an edge.

Pay depends on the number of children, their ages, and the rate in your area. However, on average, babysitters charge around $15 per hour.

Rideshare driver

If you’re a teacher with free hours on weeknights or weekends, consider rideshare driving with platforms like Lyft or Uber. This side hustle lets you earn based on factors such as trip distance, location, and peak hours.

You’ll need a valid driver’s license, a reliable vehicle, and a spotless driving record. Register on the desired platform and you’re all set to turn your available hours into a source of additional income.

The average rideshare driver makes about $19 an hour and may earn more via tips for exceptional service.

Real estate owner

Real estate presents a promising opportunity for teachers looking to expand their income avenues. By stepping into the role of an agent or renting out extra space, teachers can tap into this market’s potential.

Platforms like Airbnb offer easy entry for newcomers wanting to rent their home or a space within it. You can use this calculator to see how much you can make for your available rooms.

Success in this field often draws on strong communication and negotiation skills—attributes many educators naturally possess. With the right approach and dedication, real estate can evolve from a side hustle into a significant income stream. The average real estate agent in the U.S. makes about $43 per hour.

To become a real estate agent or Realtor, you’ll typically need to obtain a license in your state. This usually involves taking a prelicensing course, which covers essential real estate principles and laws. After completing the course, you’ll be required to pass a state exam. Once licensed, joining a local real estate association or brokerage can provide valuable mentorship and resources as you embark on this new journey.

After-school program director

If you’re a teacher looking to extend your impact beyond regular school hours, leading an after-school program could be a fantastic opportunity for you. By taking on the role of an after-school program director, you can continue to engage with students in a more relaxed setting, all while earning additional income. To get started, coordinate with your school district or check out local community centers that offer such programs.

After-school program directors typically earn around $24 an hour.

Summer camp counselor

Your summer break offers the perfect opportunity to dive into a new role as a summer camp counselor. A summer camp counselor guides and supervises children in activities during camp hours. This role provides additional income and allows you to engage with students in a fun, informal setting.

The average hourly pay for a summer camp counselor is $28. Start by researching local camps and applying based on your interests or expertise. You might have a blast leading activities, music, crafts, swimming, or s’mores!

House sitter

House sitting is a simple, practical side hustle. Plus, your role as an educator often positions you as a trusted figure, making platforms like Care.com ideal for finding house-sitting gigs.

You earn extra income watching people’s homes while they’re away. Yes, it’s a big responsibility, but you’re already used to that as a teacher. The going rate for a house sitter is about $16 an hour.

Explore the best teacher side hustles

From leveraging your organizational skills as a virtual assistant to exploring real estate selling or keeping homes safe as a house sitter, the opportunities for teachers to earn outside the classroom are vast and varied.

If you harness your unique skills and passions, you’ll find a side hustle that’s not just about income but also about personal fulfillment.

Ready to kick-start your freelance journey? Explore Upwork today and discover gigs tailored to your expertise.