Side hustles aren’t the sure bet they once were. Higher costs, crowded markets, and less demand are making some gigs harder to profit from. If you’re trying to earn extra cash this year, a few of these side hustles may not be worth the effort.
Rideshare Driving
Between rising gas prices and lower per-ride earnings, many drivers are finding it harder to make a profit. Longer wait times for passengers and increased competition are cutting into income. What used to be a flexible, high-earning gig now feels like a lot of miles for minimal return.
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Food Delivery Apps
The demand is still there, but the payouts often aren’t worth the time. With apps taking bigger fees and customers tipping less, drivers are walking away with less than expected. Add in car wear and tear, and the numbers stop making sense.
Dropshipping
Once hailed as a low-risk way to start an online store, dropshipping has hit major roadblocks. Oversaturation and long shipping times have turned off many customers. Without a strong brand or unique products, it’s almost impossible to stand out now.
Print-on-Demand Merchandise
Custom T-shirts, mugs, and tote bags used to be a fun way to earn passive income. Now, the market is flooded with similar designs, making it harder to grab attention. Unless you have a niche audience ready to buy, profits can be thin.
Social Media Influencing
Brands are cutting influencer budgets as they shift focus to micro-creators and user-generated content. The competition is fierce, and platforms keep changing algorithms, making it harder to maintain reach. Without a large, loyal audience, it’s tough to land big deals.
Reselling Thrifted Clothing
The thrift flip trend isn’t as hot as it used to be. Higher prices at thrift stores and changing fashion preferences are squeezing profits. Plus, online marketplaces have higher fees, making each sale less rewarding.
House Sitting
While still a nice gig for travelers, house sitting is less profitable than it seems. Many opportunities are unpaid, offering only free accommodation instead of income. For those seeking cash, it’s often not worth the time.
Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
Apps have made it easier to connect with clients, but they also take a big cut. Competition from other sitters drives prices down, and rising insurance costs eat into profits. For many, it’s becoming more of a side favor than a reliable moneymaker.
Tutoring
Online tutoring boomed during remote learning, but demand is leveling off. Competition from low-cost international tutors is making it harder to charge premium rates. Unless you have specialized skills, it’s difficult to stand out.
Freelance Writing
Content mills and AI tools are flooding the market with low-priced work. Clients are paying less, and competition for higher-paying gigs is fierce. It’s harder than ever to build a steady income without a niche or strong portfolio.
Airbnb Hosting
The short-term rental market is oversaturated in many cities. Increased regulations and higher cleaning costs are eating into profits. For some hosts, it’s no longer worth the hassle compared to long-term renting.
Online Surveys
They’ve never been a big money-maker, but now payouts are even smaller. Many platforms require hours of work for just a few dollars. For most people, the time investment isn’t worth it.
Handmade Crafts on Marketplaces
Etsy and similar platforms are filled with mass-produced competition. Fees are higher, and marketing costs can quickly eat into your earnings. Without a strong brand, it’s hard to build consistent sales.
Mystery Shopping
Once a fun way to get free meals or products, mystery shopping now offers lower rewards. Many gigs don’t even cover your expenses. It’s becoming more of a hobby than a profitable hustle.
Affiliate Marketing
Changes in commission rates and stricter rules are making it harder to earn. Without a large audience or niche website, it’s tough to see meaningful returns. The golden days of easy affiliate income are fading fast.
Fading Side Hustles
The side hustle world isn’t what it was a few years ago. Markets change, costs rise, and what was once a reliable way to earn extra cash can quickly lose steam. Staying ahead means knowing when to pivot—and where to focus your energy next.
10 Lucrative Side Hustles That Will Pay You for Your Passions
Have you ever thought about turning your hobbies into a moneymaker? With the recent popularity of side hustles, countless people are cashing in on their passions and talents without giving up their full-time jobs. There’s a whole world of opportunities out there waiting for you to discover them. Exploring side hustles can be the key to making extra income while doing what you love can be both rewarding and financially fulfilling. 10 Lucrative Side Hustles That Will Pay You for Your Passions