12 Best Side Hustles With Low Startup Cost
One of the most common misconceptions about starting a new side hustle is that you need to spend money to make money. However, this is far from the truth. Many popular side gigs and business ideas require zero or very low startup costs. As someone who has been testing different side hustles for over five years, I can confidently say that you can start earning extra income without significant financial investment. Here are some of the best side hustles to start with no money.
1. Blogging
Blogging is one of the most accessible side hustles to start with minimal costs. You only need to pay for a domain name (around £10/year), hosting (£5-£20/month), and potentially a WordPress theme (£30-£100 one-time). The income potential from blogging through affiliate marketing, ads, sponsored content, and other monetization methods is significant if you can build an audience.
Pros: Low startup costs, passive income potential, creative freedom
Cons: Takes time to build an audience, constant content creation required
Considerations: Choosing a profitable niche, SEO and marketing strategies
2. Renting Out Assets
You can rent out assets like extra storage space, parking spaces, or even your car. This is a perfect example of a side hustle that requires no money to start. Even if you make just £50 to £200 a month, this is largely passive income that takes minimal effort. Platforms like Stashbee (for storage), YourParkingSpace, and Turo (for cars) make it easy to list your assets.
Pros: Passive income, utilising existing resources
Cons: Potential for property damage, need to comply with regulations
Considerations: Insurance, vetting renters, local laws
3. Online Surveys
Answering surveys for money is another simple side hustle that doesn’t cost anything to start. Websites like Branded Surveys, Swagbucks, and InboxDollars allow you to earn some extra cash by sharing your opinions on products, services, and more. While the pay per survey is relatively low (£1-£5 on average), the income can add up over time.
Pros: No investment required, flexible schedule
Cons: Low pay rates, limited earning potential
Considerations: Joining multiple survey sites, qualifying for surveys
4. Freelancing
Online freelancing is a popular side hustle that requires no initial investment. Whether you offer writing, graphic design, web development, virtual assistance, or other services, freelancing platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer make it easy to find clients and get paid for your skills. Experienced freelancers can earn £20-£100+ per hour.
Pros: Flexible schedule, high earning potential, work from anywhere
Cons: Inconsistent income, need to constantly find new clients
Considerations: Building a portfolio, setting competitive rates, managing clients
5. Rideshare Driving
Driving for rideshare companies like Uber or Bolt can be a flexible way to earn extra income. While you do need a car, the startup costs are relatively low compared to other business ideas. Drivers can earn £10-£20 per hour on average, depending on location and demand.
Pros: Flexible schedule, no specific skills required
Cons: Vehicle maintenance costs, dealing with passengers
Considerations: Insurance, vehicle requirements, safety concerns
6. Food Delivery
Delivering food for companies like Deliveroo or Uber Eats is another side hustle that requires minimal investment. You can start earning money quickly, and the job offers flexible hours. Delivery drivers can earn £8-£15 per hour on average, plus tips.
Pros: Flexible schedule, low startup costs
Cons: Vehicle maintenance costs, dealing with traffic and parking
Considerations: Insurance, vehicle requirements, food safety regulations
7. Tutoring
If you have expertise in a particular subject, online tutoring can be a lucrative side hustle. Platforms like Tutor.com and Chegg Tutors allow you to connect with students and offer your tutoring services. Experienced tutors can earn £15-£40 per hour or more, depending on the subject and level.
Pros: Flexible schedule, high earning potential
Cons: Need for subject expertise, dealing with students/parents
Considerations: Teaching qualifications, marketing your services
8. Pet Sitting
Taking care of pets while their owners are away is a side hustle that requires no money to start. Websites like Rover and PetSitter.com can help you find clients in need of pet care services. Pet sitters can earn £10-£25 per visit or £30-£60 per night for overnight stays.
Pros: Low startup costs, flexible schedule
Cons: Dealing with pets, potential liability concerns
Considerations: Pet care experience, insurance, background checks
9. Selling Used Items Online
Cleaning out your closet and selling items you no longer need on platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Poshmark is a great way to make extra money without any upfront costs. While the income potential varies based on the items you sell, it’s a simple way to declutter and earn some extra cash.
Pros: No investment required, decluttering benefits
Cons: Time-consuming process, limited earning potential
Considerations: Pricing strategies, shipping costs, product photography
10. Social Media Management
If you have a knack for social media, you can offer your services to businesses looking to improve their online presence. This side hustle requires no initial investment and can be done from anywhere. Social media managers can earn £15-£30 per hour or more, depending on their experience and client workload.
Pros: Flexible schedule, high earning potential
Cons: Need for social media expertise, managing client expectations
Considerations: Building a portfolio, marketing your services
11. Virtual Assistant
Becoming a virtual assistant involves providing administrative support to businesses or entrepreneurs. This can include tasks like email management, scheduling, data entry, and more. Websites like Upwork and Zirtual can help you find clients. Virtual assistants can earn £10-£25 per hour on average.
Pros: Flexible schedule, variety of tasks
Cons: Inconsistent workload, managing multiple clients
Considerations: Administrative skills, time management, communication
12. Content Creation
Creating content for platforms like YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram can be a fun and profitable side hustle. While it may take time to build an audience, the potential for income through ads, sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and brand deals is significant. Top content creators can earn thousands or even millions of pounds per year.
Pros: Creative outlet, passive income potential
Cons: Highly competitive, need for consistent content
Considerations: Niche selection, content strategy, audience engagement
Starting a side hustle doesn’t have to be expensive. Many opportunities require little to no initial investment, allowing you to start earning extra income without financial risk. Whether you choose to blog, freelance, tutor, or rent out assets, there are plenty of ways to diversify your income and achieve financial stability. However, it’s important to carefully consider the pros and cons, as well as any specific requirements or considerations for each side hustle before getting started.
