Have you ever found yourself daydreaming about how to make money without the daily grind of a 9 to 5? I get it; many of us crave easy ways to make money, especially if it means earning extra cash fast without sacrificing our freedom.
The good news? There are plenty of quick and easy ways to make money that don’t involve sitting in an office or dealing with rush-hour traffic. We're talking about honest, legit ways to boost your bank balance from your own living room or the nearest coffee shop — no need for a suit and tie or the daily commute. Whether you're looking for easy ways to make money online or just a simple way to pad your wallet, you’re in the right place.
This guide is packed with 80 ideas to make money that anyone can try - from turning your passions into profit to using online platforms to boost your income. So, grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s explore how you can start making money fast, without the stress!
Selling unwanted items around your home is one of the easiest and fastest ways to make money. This method is great for anyone looking to declutter their space while earning cash in a short amount of time. Whether it’s electronics, clothes, or even collectables, there’s a market for almost everything!
Got a bookshelf full of novels you've already read or textbooks you no longer need? Still holding onto a collection of CDs, DVDs, or video games that you never use? Selling these items can be a quick and easy way to declutter your home and make some extra cash. Platforms like WeBuyBooks make it super simple. All you need to do is enter the ISBN number of your books, get an instant valuation, and ship them for free. They pay quickly via bank transfer once they receive and check the books.
Who knew that your old LEGO® sets could be worth a lot of money? Selling LEGO® bricks is incredibly easy with WeBuyBricks, where you can sell by weight or as complete sets. They accept all types of LEGO®, so whether it's loose bricks or those long-forgotten kits, it’s a simple way to turn clutter into cash.
Top Tip: Complete sets with original instructions and packaging often fetch higher prices than loose bricks.
That blender you never use or the coffee maker collecting dust in the cupboard? It might surprise you, but second-hand kitchen appliances can sell for good money. Platforms like eBay and Facebook Marketplace are perfect for finding buyers for unused gadgets. Brands like KitchenAid and Breville tend to hold their value well.
Top Tip: Take clear, high-quality photos and be honest about the condition of the items to attract serious buyers.
If you have any vintage or retro home décor items, they could be worth a lot more than you think. Retro furniture, mid-century modern lamps, and vintage wall art are highly sought after by collectors. Websites like Etsy or Vinterior cater specifically to vintage items, and you can often fetch premium prices.
Top Tip: Make sure to clean and stage the items well before taking photos to increase buyer interest.
Well-made furniture, especially solid wood pieces, can sell for a good price on platforms like Gumtree or Shpock. Items like dressers, bookshelves, and coffee tables, especially from well-known brands or unique designs, often find buyers quickly.
Top Tip: Offering delivery or helping arrange transport can make your listing more attractive to potential buyers.
If your wardrobe is bursting with clothes you never wear, why not sell them? Platforms like Depop, Vinted, and eBay make it easy to list clothing and accessories. Branded items, vintage pieces, and trendy clothes tend to sell fastest. Top Tip: Photograph your items well, provide measurements, and write clear, detailed descriptions to boost sales.
Unused electronics such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets hold great resale value. You can sell them on sites like MusicMagpie or Decluttr. Both platforms offer instant quotes and free shipping, making it hassle-free to sell your gadgets.
Top Tip: Erase all personal data and restore factory settings before selling any electronics.
Do you have unopened duvet covers, sheets, or bedding sets lying around? These can easily be sold online through eBay or Facebook Marketplace. People are often looking for affordable options to refresh their bedrooms, and unused bedding fits the bill perfectly.
Top Tip: New and unused bedding tends to sell for higher prices, so ensure you mention if items are still in their original packaging.
Crafters and DIY enthusiasts are always looking for affordable supplies. If you have fabric, yarn, or craft kits that you’re not using, sell them on Etsy or local crafting Facebook groups. Yarn, beads, and scrapbooking supplies tend to sell particularly well.
Top Tip: Bundling similar items together (e.g. a set of scrapbooking supplies) can help attract buyers and sell faster.
If your kids have outgrown their toys or games, you can easily sell them online. Toys like action figures, and board games are always in demand, especially if they are still in good condition. Platforms like WeBuyGames, eBay or Gumtree are perfect for listing these items.
Top Tip: Popular brands like LEGO®, Fisher-Price, and Playmobil typically fetch higher prices than unbranded toys.
If you have any antique or vintage items collecting dust, they could be worth a lot of money. Antiques like old jewellery, or collectables can fetch high prices on specialist platforms like Ruby Lane or 1stDibs. You could also take them to a local antique dealer for an appraisal.
Top Tip: Get rare items professionally appraised to ensure you get the best price for them.
With the rise of the internet, there are countless ways to make money from the comfort of your own home. Online opportunities range from completing surveys and testing websites to selling photos and doing freelance work. These options are perfect if you want to work from home and enjoy flexibility in your schedule.
You’ve heard it before, but one of the easiest ways to make money online is by completing surveys. Companies are willing to pay for your opinions on products, services, and marketing campaigns. Websites like Swagbucks, Google Opinion Rewards and Toluna pay users to complete surveys, watch videos, and even play games.
Help companies improve their websites by becoming a tester. Platforms like UserTesting pay users to visit websites, complete tasks, and provide feedback on the site’s usability. This is a flexible side hustle that you can do in your spare time from home.
Transcribing audio files into written text is a job you can easily do from home. Companies like Rev and TranscribeMe pay per project or per minute of audio transcribed, making this a good option for detail-oriented people who want to make money online.
If you have strong grammar skills and an eye for detail, proofreading or editing can be a great online job or side hustle. You can find work editing everything from blog posts to academic papers. Websites like Scribbr or upwork connect freelancers with clients needing these services.
Microtasks are simple, quick jobs that pay small amounts but can add up if you do enough of them. These tasks often involve things like data entry, categorising images, or verifying information. Websites like Amazon Mechanical Turk allow you to complete microtasks for money, and while each task pays a small amount, the work can be done in your spare time.
If you have a stable internet connection and bandwidth to spare, platforms like Honey Gain pay you to share your internet bandwidth with others. It’s a passive way to make money, as the app runs in the background without affecting your internet speed. This is a particularly good idea for those in a flat in close proximitty to others.
Sweetcoin is a unique, free app that converts your daily steps into cryptocurrency, which can be used to buy products, discounts or donate to charity. While it’s not direct cash, it’s an easy way to save money on purchases and motivates you to stay active too.
If you’re shopping online, using cashback websites like TopCashBack or Quidco is an easy way to earn money back on purchases you were going to make anyway.
Extensions like Qmee pay you to search the web and click on advertisements. You won’t get rich, but it’s a quick and effortless way to make a bit of extra cash while browsing the internet.
Competitions are everywhere - especially on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Entering competitions is free, and you can win everything from cash to valuable prizes that you can sell later - if you’ew lucky! Keep an eye on platforms like Loquax for a list of competitions to enter.
If you're fluent in English, you can make money by teaching it to students around the world. Platforms like iTalki and Cambly connect you with students eager to improve their language skills. No formal teaching experience is required, and you can set your own schedule. It’s a flexible way to earn money from home, especially if you enjoy helping others learn.
Freelancing and gig economy jobs are ideal for those with specific skills who want flexibility in their work schedule. Whether you're a writer, designer, or virtual assistant, these opportunities allow you to offer services to clients around the world. Freelancing can be a great way to generate consistent income on your own terms.
Fiverr is one of the largest freelancing platforms where you can offer your services starting at £5. Whether you're good at graphic design, writing, or voice-overs, you can easily list your services, and people will pay you for small gigs. It’s ideal for beginners and those who want to make money fast.
Top Tip: Optimise your Fiverr profile by showcasing your portfolio and requesting client reviews to boost your chances of landing more work.
Upwork is another freelancing website where you can bid on various job listings posted by companies or individuals. Jobs range from content writing and graphic design to web development and marketing. Upwork offers a more structured environment where freelancers can land higher-paying gigs compared to Fiverr.
Top Tip: Write compelling proposals tailored to each job to stand out from the competition.
If you have a way with words, freelance writing can be a great side hustle. As well as the websites above, platforms like ProBlogger Jobs or Textbroker are great places to start. You can write blog posts, articles, product descriptions, or even edit existing content. Many clients pay per word, making it a lucrative way to earn money quickly. Top Tip: Start by creating a portfolio of writing samples that showcase your expertise across different topics.
Becoming a virtual assistant allows you to help businesses and entrepreneurs manage their day-to-day tasks. Duties can include managing emails, scheduling appointments, social media management and more. Websites like PeoplePerHour and Belay can connect you with clients looking for virtual assistants. Top Tip: Highlight your organisational and communication skills when applying for virtual assistant positions.
Companies pay good money to understand how users interact with their websites. As a website tester, you’ll be asked to visit websites, perform certain tasks, and provide feedback on usability. Sites like UserTesting or Enroll allow you to make quick cash while helping businesses improve their websites.
Top Tip: Ensure you follow the instructions carefully and provide detailed feedback to increase your chances of getting more tests.
If you’re a skilled graphic designer, you can offer services such as logo creation, web design, or social media graphics on platforms like 99Designs or DesignCrowd. Graphic design is in high demand, and businesses are often willing to pay well for high-quality work.
Top Tip: Build a portfolio of your best work to show potential clients what you’re capable of.
Businesses are always looking for help managing their social media accounts. If you know how to grow an audience and create engaging content, becoming a social media manager can be a great way to earn money. You can find jobs on Upwork or through freelancing platforms like PeoplePerHour.
Top Tip: Offer to help businesses with their overall social media strategy to increase your chances of securing long-term clients.
Many companies are now offering remote customer service roles where you can assist customers via phone, email, or live chat. These jobs often provide flexible hours and the ability to work from home. Websites like Indeed or Remote.co can help you find remote customer service jobs.
Looking for something a bit different? Creative and unconventional ways to make money are perfect for those who like to think outside the box. These methods are great for those who enjoy varied tasks, such as renting out belongings, taking part in mystery shopping, or doing odd jobs like assembling furniture. They’re flexible and can often be done in your spare time.
Did you know you can earn money by wrapping your car in advertisements? Companies will pay you to advertise their business while you go about your daily commute. This might not be for everyone, but it requires very little input. Platforms like Carvertise connect drivers with brands that want mobile advertising. You typically need to drive a certain number of miles per month, but it’s a passive way to earn income.
Mystery shopping involves visiting stores, restaurants, or even websites to evaluate customer service and overall experience. Companies use your feedback to improve their services, and you get paid for your time. Sign up with companies like MarketForce or BestMark to start getting gigs.
If you enjoy doing practical jobs like assembling furniture, running errands, or doing small home repairs, TaskRabbit is a great platform to find short-term gigs in your area. You set your own rates, and you only accept the jobs you want, making it a flexible way to earn extra income.
Got a funny or interesting story to tell? You can sell it to newspapers or TV shows for cash. Many papers and viral media outlets pay for compelling stories, especially if they come with photos or videos. For instance, You’ve Been Framed pays up to £250 for funny videos!
Top Tip: Keep an eye out for newsworthy moments in your daily life and pitch them to local papers or viral content platforms like The Sun.
If you’ve got a knack for finding hidden gems in the property market, you can make money by sourcing properties for time-poor investors. You’ll need to find homes below market value and then offer to pass on these deals to property investors for a percentage of the sale.
Top Tip: Network at local property investment events or join LinkedIn groups to make connections with potential buyers.
If you own high-quality equipment like cameras, drones, power tools, or even camping gear, you can rent it out to others who need it for short periods. Websites like Fat Llama allow you to list your items for rent and make some quick money from things you already own but don’t use often.
Did you know that instead of throwing away empty printer cartridges, you recycle them for cash? Printer Cartridge Recycling offers money for old cartridges, especially from major brands like HP, Canon, and Epson. It’s an easy way to make money while being eco-friendly too.
If you have a spare room, you could consider listing it on Airbnb. Short-term rentals can be highly profitable, especially if you live in a touristy area! You control the price, availability, and the types of guests you host, offering complete flexibility. Many people make a significant income from just renting out their space for a few days or weeks each month.
Got unused gift cards lying around? Sell them for cash on platforms like Cardpool or Raise. While you may not get full value, it’s better than letting them expire or go unused.
If you’re a bubbly, outgoing person who doesn’t mind rejection, charity fundraising could be a rewarding side hustle. Fundraisers typically earn commission for every person they sign up to support a cause, with some making around £20 per sign-up. It’s an ideal job for extroverts who are passionate about helping others.
Top Tip: Look for fundraising roles with organisations like Wesser that specialise in charity fundraising.
Banks often offer cash incentives, sometimes up to £200, to switch to their accounts. Be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully to make sure the deal works for you, and take advantage of offers by banks like HSBC and First Direct.
If you’re ready for a change and have long, healthy hair, you can sell it to wig makers or hair extension companies. Websites like Hair Harvest or Bloomsbury Wigs offer guidelines for selling your hair.
Ever dreamed of being in a film or TV show? As an extra, you can make between £60-80 per day, and all you need to do is show up and follow directions. Signing up with casting agencies can make this dream a reality. Before you agree to any jobs, always check what percentage the agency will take from your earnings.
Top Tip: Check out casting websites like Casting Collective for opportunities and advice.
Did you know TV and film producers are always on the lookout for unique homes to film in? Renting out your house as a filming location can be an exciting way to make money. Whether it’s for a TV show or a commercial, you could earn a decent amount just by letting your home be used for a day or two. Start by listing your property with Film Locations to see if your home might catch a producer’s eye.
If you’re comfortable with your body, life modelling for art classes can be a unique way to earn money. You’ll be paid to pose while artists capture your figure in detail. It’s a well-paid job that often doesn’t require any experience, although it does require some confidence! For more information on becoming a life model, check out RAM.
While this option involves some risk, taking part in paid clinical trials can earn you significant money. Drug companies often need volunteers to test new medications or treatments. Make sure you thoroughly understand the risks involved and only participate in trials you feel comfortable with.
Top Tip: Always go through trusted medical research organisations to ensure the trials are safe and ethical.
Love listening to new music? You can get paid to review tracks from up-and-coming artists. Websites like Slicethepie allow you to review unsigned bands and provide feedback. You get paid per review, and while it’s not a massive earner, it’s a fun way to make some extra cash.
Clickworker is a platform where businesses post small tasks like data entry, web research, and form filling. These tasks are scalable, meaning you can do as much or as little as you want. It’s an easy way to make money fast from home by doing simple, repetitive tasks that require little skill.
Matched betting is a clever way to take advantage of free bet offers from betting sites, without any risk. By betting both for and against an outcome, you eliminate the risk and can cash in on the free bets. It’s a completely legal, tax-free way to make hundreds of pounds from the comfort of your home.
Top Tip: Follow a detailed guide like OddsMonkey to ensure you understand the process and maximise your profits.
Passive income streams are perfect if you want to make money with minimal ongoing effort. While these methods may require some initial time or financial investment, they can continue to generate revenue without much day-to-day management, which is the ultimate dream right? Perfect for those looking to build long-term financial security or who want to earn money while they sleep.
If you enjoy writing and have a topic you’re passionate about - whether it’s travel, cooking, or fitness - starting a blog can be a great way to make money. Once you build an audience, you can monetise your blog through ads, affiliate marketing, or sponsored content. Platforms like WordPress make it easy to set up a blog and start publishing.
Affiliate marketing is an excellent way to earn passive income by promoting products or services on your website, blog, or social media, if you have these things. When someone makes a purchase through your unique affiliate link, you earn a commission. Sign up with affiliate networks like Amazon Associates or Awin to get started.
This isn’t always a way to make money fast, but if you’re patient, Investing in the stock market or index funds is a proven way to grow your wealth over time. By purchasing shares in companies or funds that track the market, you can earn money through dividends or capital gains. While it does require an initial investment, platforms like Vanguard and Hargreaves Lansdown offer low-cost ways to start investing.
If you own a property or even just a spare room, you can generate consistent passive income by renting it out. Obviously this is only an option if you have alternative living arrangements, but whether it’s a long-term rental or a short-term Airbnb listing as mentioned above, property rentals are one of the most reliable ways to make money without much ongoing effort. In cities or tourist hotspots, this can become a significant income stream!
Creating digital products like e-books, printables, or design templates is a great way to earn passive income. Once created, these products can be sold over and over again without needing to worry about inventory or shipping. Platforms like Etsy and Gumroad make it easy to list your digital creations and start selling.
If you’re an expert in a particular field, whether it’s graphic design, coding, or fitness, why not create an online course? Platforms like Udemy or Teachable allow you to create and sell courses on any topic, and once your course is live, it can become a source of passive income as students sign up.
Speaking of being an expert in a particular field, if you’ve got a talent or a special skill, there are plenty of ways to turn it into income. Whether you’re a photographer, a musician, or a fitness instructor, using your skills to earn money can be both fulfilling and lucrative. These opportunities allow you to share your expertise while earning extra cash in the process.
If you’re skilled with a camera, offering photography services for events like weddings, corporate functions, or family portraits can be a profitable venture. Start by building a portfolio of your best work and advertising locally or on social media. You can also sell your photos online through stock photography websites like Shutterstock and Adobe Stock, which allow you to upload photos in categories like travel, business, or lifestyle.
If your friends and family rave about your cooking, why not turn it into a money-making venture? You could sell baked goods at local markets, offer meal prep services, or even cater small events. Starting locally and using social media to advertise can help you build a customer base.
If you’re passionate about fitness, becoming a personal trainer or fitness coach is a great way to share your knowledge and help others achieve their health goals. You can offer one-on-one sessions, group classes, or even easier, virtual coaching. Platforms like Trainerize allow you to manage clients and offer training programmes online.
If you’re a musician, offering private music lessons can be a fulfilling way to make money. Whether it’s piano, guitar, or violin, there’s always demand for skilled music teachers. You can offer lessons locally or even online through platforms like TakeLessons.
If you have a knack for organisation and creativity, event planning can be a great side hustle. Whether it’s birthday parties, weddings, or corporate functions, many people are willing to pay for help with planning and organising their events. Start by helping friends and family, and expand through word-of-mouth or social media.
If you love animals, pet sitting and dog walking can be a fun and flexible way to make money. Websites like Rover connect pet owners with trusted sitters and walkers in their area. You can choose when and where you work, making it ideal if you want flexibility in your side hustle.
Babysitting is a classic way to make extra money, and it’s always in demand. If you’re good with kids, you can sign up with platforms like Care.com to find babysitting or nanny jobs in your area. It’s a flexible way to earn money, especially in the evenings or weekends when parents are often looking for help.
With more companies investing in online visibility, SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) is a highly sought-after skill. If you’re familiar with SEO strategies, you can offer services like keyword research, link building, and content optimisation to help businesses rank higher on search engines. Freelancing platforms like PeoplePerHour or Upwork are great places to find clients.
If you’re an artist or potter, you can sell your handmade creations online or at local craft fairs. People are willing to pay for unique, custom pieces, and platforms like Etsy allow you to reach a global audience.
Again, if you're artistic or skilled with graphic design software, creating customised digital avatars or illustrations is a great way to make money. With the rise of personalised profiles on social media and gaming platforms, people love having unique, custom-made artwork. You can offer your services on platforms like Fiverr or Etsy, where clients can commission you to create personalised images for their social media, websites, or avatars.
If you own a car, van, or bike, there are plenty of ways to put it to work and earn extra cash. From ride-sharing to deliveries, these options are perfect for people who want to use their vehicle to make money. Most of these opportunities offer flexible hours, so you can work whenever it suits you.
Driving for ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft is one of the most popular ways to earn money with your car. Both platforms allow you to choose your working hours, making it perfect for part-time drivers who want flexibility. The more you drive, the more you can earn, and peak hours can be particularly lucrative!
If you prefer delivering food over passengers, you can work as a delivery driver for services like Uber Eats or Deliveroo. You can work in your spare time, and the more deliveries you complete, the more you earn. This is ideal if you enjoy being out on the road or cycling around town.
Not using your car all the time? Rent it out through services like Turo or Getaround. These platforms allow you to rent out your vehicle when you’re not using it, earning passive income without much effort. It’s particularly useful if you own a high-demand vehicle like an SUV or luxury car.
If you have a van or large vehicle, offering a local moving service is a great way to make extra money. Many people are looking for help with small moves, furniture deliveries, or even transporting large items from stores. Advertise your services on local community boards or platforms like Gumtree.
Living near a city centre or event venue? Rent out your parking space or driveway through services like JustPark. It’s a simple way to earn money passively, especially in areas with limited parking.
Starting your own business gives you complete control over your work and income. Whether it’s an online shop, service-based business, or side project, owning your business can be incredibly rewarding. This section is perfect for those with an entrepreneurial spirit looking to create something of their own.
Dropshipping allows you to sell products without needing to hold inventory. When a customer places an order, the product is shipped directly from the supplier to the customer. Platforms like Shopify make it easy to set up an online store and start selling. It’s a low-risk way to run an e-commerce business.
If you create your own products, whether it’s handmade crafts, clothing, or art, you can open an online store to sell directly to customers. Platforms like Etsy or Shopify make it easy to set up shop and reach a global audience. This is a great option for creative entrepreneurs looking to turn their hobby into a business.
If you’re comfortable in front of the camera, starting a YouTube channel can be a fun and potentially lucrative side hustle. You can monetise your videos through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing once you build a following. Choose a niche you’re passionate about, such as tech reviews, fitness tips, or travel vlogs, and start creating content!
Perhaps you have expertise in a specific area, such as business, health, or personal development, offering coaching services can be a rewarding way to help others while earning money. Whether it’s one-on-one sessions or group workshops, coaching is a flexible business you can run online or in person. Websites like Coach.me can help you get started.
In-person jobs are perfect for those who prefer face-to-face interactions or hands-on work as a side hustle. These options range from part-time retail jobs to event work, and they offer flexibility for those looking to earn money outside of traditional working hours. They’re ideal if you enjoy physical work or social interactions.
If you prefer face-to-face selling, consider hosting a table at a local car boot sale or flea market. It’s an effective way to offload items like clothing, home decor, and electronics. You can clear out your home while making fast cash. Websites like Carboot Junction list events in your area if you don’t already know of one.
Retail and hospitality jobs, like working in a shop or café, are perfect for picking up shifts in the evenings or weekends. Many retailers and restaurants offer flexible part-time roles, making it easy to fit around your main job or studies. Jobs like these are often available at peak times (e.g. during holidays or sales seasons), providing an easy way to make quick cash.
If you enjoy working in a lively atmosphere, bartending or waitressing can be a fun and flexible way to earn money. Most bars and restaurants offer evening and weekend shifts, making it great for those who need work outside regular hours. Plus, tips can add a nice boost to your income!
Offering gardening or yard maintenance services is another great way to make extra money, especially in the spring and summer months. Many homeowners don’t have the time or skills to maintain their gardens, so there’s always demand for mowing lawns, trimming hedges, and planting. Advertise locally or on platforms like TaskRabbit.
House cleaning services are always in demand, whether it’s a regular cleaning gig or one-off deep cleans. If you’re one of those people that loves the satisfaction of cleaning, this is perfect for you! You can set your own rates and take on as many clients as your schedule allows. Websites like Care.com or Helpling can help you find clients in your area.
People will actually pay you to wait in line for events or product launches! Use platforms like TaskRabbit to offer line-standing services - perfect for things like concert tickets or the release of the latest iPhone.
These 80 quick and easy ways to make money should give you plenty of ideas to boost your income! From the conventional to the not-so-conventional, there’s something here for everyone. And remember, if you’re looking to make some extra cash, you can always sell your old books to us at WeBuyBooks.
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