Summer’s here and you know what that means – beach days, BBQs, road trips, and…a chance to make some extra cash! Whether you’re a student looking to pad your wallet, a teacher with time off, or just someone wanting to boost your income, summer is the perfect time to explore money-making opportunities.
So put down that beach read for a minute and check out these 15 easy ways to make money during the summer:
1. Start a summer business
Have an entrepreneurial spirit? Summer is a great time to start your own small business. Some ideas:
- Sell fresh produce, baked goods, or handmade crafts at a farmers market or online
- Offer car washing and detailing services in your neighborhood
- Launch a dog walking or pet sitting business
- Provide lawn care, gardening, or landscaping services
- Teach music lessons or start a tutoring service
The key is to identify a need in your community and use your skills to fill it. Spread the word to friends and family, post flyers, and promote your business on local Facebook groups or Nextdoor.
2. Get a seasonal job
Many industries hire extra help during the busy summer months. Some common summer job opportunities include:
- Retail sales associate
- Restaurant server or host
- Hotel front desk agent
- Amusement park ride operator
- Lifeguard or swim instructor
- Camp counselor
- Tour guide
Start your search early and be flexible on hours. Seasonal employers often look for candidates who can work nights, weekends, and holidays. Check job boards, company websites, and stop into businesses with “Help Wanted” signs.
3. Become a tutor
Put your academic knowledge to work by tutoring students over the summer. You can tutor in any subject you excel at, from math and science to foreign languages and music. Rates typically range from $15-$40+ per hour depending on subject and experience.
Find clients by:
- Posting on local Facebook groups and Nextdoor
- Contacting schools and learning centers
- Signing up with an online tutoring platform like Wyzant or TutorMe
Virtual tutoring has become increasingly popular, allowing you to work with students anywhere in the world right from home.
4. Freelance your skills
If you have marketable skills like writing, graphic design, web development, or social media management, summer is the ideal time to take on some freelance projects. Many businesses need extra help but don’t want to commit to a permanent employee.
To get started:
- Create an online portfolio showcasing your work
- Set up a profile on freelance marketplaces like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer
- Reach out to small businesses and entrepreneurs in your network
- Join relevant Facebook groups and offer your services
Freelancing not only earns you money, but helps you build your portfolio and potentially turn it into a year-round side hustle.
5. Rent out your space
Have a spare room in your house? A parking spot you don’t use? Rent it out for extra income! Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo make it easy to list your space and start earning. Some tips:
- Take attractive photos that highlight your space’s best features
- Write a detailed description covering amenities, location, rules, etc.
- Be responsive to inquiries and booking requests
- Keep your calendar up to date
- Provide a clean, welcoming space for guests
Just be sure to check your local laws and HOA rules before listing. And if you’re renting, get your landlord’s approval first.
6. Take online surveys
While you won’t get rich, taking online surveys is an easy way to make a few extra bucks in your spare time. Sign up for reputable survey sites like:
- Swagbucks
- Survey Junkie
- Vindale Research
- Opinion Outpost
Most surveys take 10-20 minutes and pay $0.50-$3 each. Stick to sites that don’t charge a sign-up fee and be wary of sharing too much personal info.
7. Sell stuff online
Have clothes you never wear? Furniture you don’t need? Books collecting dust? Sell them online for extra cash! Some popular platforms include:
- Facebook Marketplace (for local sales)
- eBay
- Amazon
- Poshmark (for clothes)
- Decluttr (for electronics)
To maximize sales:
- Take clear, well-lit photos
- Write detailed descriptions noting any flaws
- Price competitively based on the item’s condition and similar listings
- Respond promptly to questions
- Ship items quickly and securely
Not only will you make money, but you’ll declutter your space in the process. Win-win!
8. Participate in focus groups
Companies and organizations often conduct paid focus groups to get consumer opinions on their products or services. These typically pay $50-$150 for a few hours of your time.
Find opportunities on sites like:
- Respondent
- User Interviews
- Fieldwork
You’ll need to fill out a screener survey to see if you qualify. Sessions may be in-person or online via webcam. Just be sure the company is legit before sharing personal info.
9. Deliver food
With the rise of food delivery apps, it’s easier than ever to make money delivering meals to hungry customers. Some popular platforms include:
- DoorDash
- Uber Eats
- Grubhub
- Postmates
Requirements vary, but most require you to:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a reliable vehicle (car, scooter, or bike)
- Pass a background check
- Have a valid driver’s license and insurance (if using a car)
Pay varies but is typically $10-$25/hour including tips. You can choose your own hours and deliver as much or as little as you want.
10. Offer pet sitting services
Love hanging with furry friends? Offer your services as a pet sitter! Many pet owners need someone to watch their pets while they’re at work or on vacation. You can pet sit in your own home or the client’s.
To get started:
- Decide what types of pets you’re comfortable watching
- Set your rates based on your experience, services, and local market
- Get the word out to friends, family, and local Facebook groups
- Consider creating a profile on Rover or Wag to reach more clients
Be sure to discuss details like the pet’s routine, medications, and emergency contact info before sitting. And always supervise pets, especially in a new environment.
11. Work at a summer camp
Love the great outdoors and working with kids? Consider a job at a summer camp! Roles may include:
- Camp counselor
- Activity specialist (e.g. arts & crafts, sports, swimming)
- Lifeguard
- Nurse or medical staff
- Food service worker
Most camps run from late May through August. Some are day camps while others are overnight. Pay varies but typically includes room and board for overnight camps.
To find openings, check:
- Local camp websites
- Job boards like Indeed and Glassdoor
- American Camp Association website
Working at a camp is a great way to spend your summer in nature, make new friends, and positively impact children’s lives.
12. Become a brand ambassador
Companies often hire brand ambassadors to promote their products or services at events and online. Duties may include:
- Handing out samples or swag
- Demonstrating product features
- Answering questions
- Posting about the brand on social media
Pay ranges from $15-$30/hour. You typically need to be outgoing, professional, and comfortable talking to strangers.
Find gigs on sites like:
- Street Team Promotion
- Across the Nation Promo
- Attack! Marketing
Just be sure the company and product align with your values before promoting them.
13. Flip items for profit
Have a knack for finding deals? Use your thrifting skills to flip items for profit! Some flippable items include:
- Furniture
- Clothing and accessories
- Electronics
- Collectibles
- Textbooks
Source low-cost goods at thrift stores, yard sales, estate sales, and online marketplaces. Then resell them at a markup on platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist.
To maximize profits:
- Look for high-demand, name-brand items
- Inspect items carefully for damage or missing pieces
- Research prices to ensure you can resell for a profit
- Take attractive photos and write detailed descriptions
- Price competitively
Flipping takes some upfront cash and time sourcing goods. But with a good eye and some market research, it can be a lucrative side hustle.
14. Rent out your stuff
In addition to space, you can also rent out your belongings for extra cash. Some rentable items include:
- Tools and equipment (e.g. power washer, lawn mower)
- Outdoor gear (e.g. camping equipment, kayaks)
- Party supplies (e.g. tables, chairs, tents)
- Clothing and accessories (e.g. formal wear, costumes)
List your items on local Facebook groups or platforms like:
- FriendWithA
- Loanables
- Rentah
Be sure to set clear terms around rental period, payment, and any damage policies. And always meet in a safe, public place for exchanges.
15. Teach a skill
Have a talent or hobby you can teach others? Share your knowledge and make money! Some teachable skills include:
- Music lessons
- Language lessons
- Cooking or baking classes
- Fitness or yoga instruction
- Arts and crafts workshops
You can teach individuals or small groups, in-person or online. Promote your services on local Facebook groups, Nextdoor, and Craigslist. Or create a profile on platforms like:
- TakeLessons
- Lessonface
- Skillshare
Rates vary based on your experience and local market. But teaching a skill you love is a fulfilling way to make extra income and impact others.
The Bottom Line
Making extra money over the summer doesn’t have to mean a boring temp job. With a little creativity and hustle, you can find opportunities that fit your skills and schedule – and even have some fun in the process!
Whether you start your own business, freelance your talents, or take on a seasonal side gig, you have the power to boost your bank account and gain valuable experience along the way.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start making this summer your most profitable one yet!
ALSO READ: How to Turn Your Love for Photography into a Profitable Side Hustle
FAQs
The best ways to make money over the summer depend on your skills, interests, and availability. Some top options include starting a summer business, getting a seasonal job, freelancing your skills, tutoring students, and renting out your space or stuff.
The amount you can make varies widely depending on the type of work and hours you put in. With a full-time seasonal job, you could potentially earn a few thousand dollars over the summer. More entrepreneurial pursuits like starting a business have even higher earning potential. Aim to set an income goal and make a plan to reach it.
Yes, there are many ways to make money online during the summer, such as freelancing, taking surveys, selling items, participating in focus groups, and teaching skills via video chat. Look for legit opportunities and be wary of scams asking for payment or too much personal info upfront.
No problem! There are plenty of flexible options that let you make money on your own schedule, like delivering food, pet sitting, renting out belongings, or selling items online. Even a few hours a week can add up to decent extra cash.
To make your summer income last, be intentional about budgeting and saving. Consider using some of the money to build your emergency fund, pay off debt, or invest for the future. And look for ways to turn your summer side hustle into a year-round income stream!
