20+ ways to make money online in 2024

Making money online is easier than ever – from selling products to offering services, the opportunities are endless. But where do you start?

Figuring this out can be tricky, especially with so many options. And that’s why we’ve sorted the best ones to help you get going.

In this article, you’ll find 20+ practical ways to earn extra cash, no matter your skills or schedule.

Top 26 ways to make money online

Each method of making money is unique and might fit you better than others. So, let’s jump in and explore them in depth.

1. Sell your products online

Selling products online lets you reach a global audience – and it’s hard to do so without an eCommerce site of your own. A website gives you complete control over branding and customer experience. Plus, with the right tools, setting up your store is much easier than you think.

Platforms like Hostinger Website Builder make creating a professional eCommerce site simple, even for complete beginners. You can fully customize your store, showcase your products, and manage your sales, all in one place.

Difficulty level: Easy with user-friendly platforms like Hostinger Website Builder.
Total time: A few hours to set up your eCommerce site and upload products.
When to expect payment: Payments happen right after each sale.

How to start:

• Pick a niche and products to sell.
• Choose a platform like Hostinger Website Builder and sign up.
• Create the eCommerce store and add your products.
• Set up payment options and publish your store.

2. Write and monetize blog posts

Blogging allows you to share your expertise while earning through ads or sponsorships. With consistent traffic and engaging content, blog monetization can be highly profitable.

WordPress hosting is one of the most practical ways to create and monetize a blog. It provides complete control over your site, with customizable themes and plugins to grow your audience.

Difficulty level: Easy with platforms like WordPress.
Total time: Quick to set up, but building traffic takes months.
When to expect payment: Payments occur once traffic increases, generating ad revenue or affiliate sales.

How to start:

• Sign up for WordPress hosting and set up your account.
• Install WordPress to customize your blog.
• Select a niche and create high-quality content.
• Choose your monetization methods, like ad networks or sponsorships.

3. Find freelance work

Freelancing is ideal for those looking for a side income or full-time job. That’s because you can pick projects based on your skills and interests while working flexible hours.

Freelance platforms like Fiverr and Toptal are great places to start. You can also use job search engines like Indeed or FlexJobs to find freelance opportunities.

Difficulty level: Easy if you have marketable skills and experience.
Total time: A few hours to create a profile, but getting steady work takes time.
When to expect payment: Payments typically happen after project completion or milestone approval.

How to start:

• Create a profile on your preferred freelance platforms.
• List your skills and services, and build a portfolio to showcase your work.
• Set competitive rates and start bidding on projects that match your expertise.
• Build your reputation with positive reviews to attract more clients.

4. Sign up for affiliate marketing

Affiliate marketing involves promoting products or services and earning money for each sale made through your unique referral link. It’s a scalable way to make money, since you can promote various product types within the same niche.

To get started, join affiliate networks like ShareASale or Amazon Associates. You can promote products in your niche by creating content, such as blog posts or videos, that include your affiliate link.

Difficulty level: Easy to join, but requires effort to generate traffic.
Total time: A few hours to join an affiliate network, but generating sales takes time.
When to expect payment: Payments usually happen monthly after reaching a minimum threshold.

How to start:

• Sign up for an affiliate network like Amazon Associates or ShareASale.
• Select products or services relevant to your audience or niche.
• Promote affiliate links through your blog, website, or social media.
• Use content marketing, SEO, or email marketing to drive traffic to your links.

5. Sell used items

Selling used items is a quick way to make money while decluttering your space. Platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Poshmark make it easy to sell things you no longer need, such as clothes, electronics, or furniture.

Simply take pictures, write a description, and list your items for sale. With some marketing effort, you can profit from items lying around your home.

Difficulty level: Very easy if you have items to sell.
Total time: A few minutes to list items, but sales depend on demand.
When to expect payment: Payments happen after each sale, typically within a few days.

How to start:

• Choose a platform like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist.
• Take high-quality photos of your items and write clear, honest descriptions.
• Research similar items and price yours competitively.
• Communicate with buyers and handle transactions securely.

6. Write and publish paid newsletters

Paid newsletters allow you to share specialized content with subscribers in exchange for a monthly fee. Platforms like Substack or Revue let you monetize your knowledge in niches like finance, marketing, or personal development.

Difficulty level: Easy if you enjoy writing and have valuable insights to share.
Total time: A few hours to set up, but building a subscriber base takes time.
When to expect payment: Monthly payments through subscription fees.

How to start:

• Choose a platform like Substack or Revue to host your newsletter.
• Define a niche or topic that provides value to your audience.
• Write compelling content and consistently engage with your subscribers.
• Promote your newsletter through social media, blogging, or email lists.

7. Create online courses

Online courses are a scalable way to share your expertise and earn money. Platforms like Udemy or Teachable let you create and sell courses on various topics, from programming to photography. Once your course is published, you can earn passive income as students enroll.

Research popular topics in your niche and outline your course content. With the right structure and promotion, you can attract students and build a steady income stream.

Difficulty level: Relatively easy to get started if you’re comfortable handling multiple tasks and learning new tools.
Total time: It may take weeks to create, but it’s scalable.
When to expect payment: Payments happen after each enrollment.

How to start:

• Choose a platform like Udemy, Teachable, or Hostinger Website Builder to host your course.
• Plan your course by outlining lessons and structuring them logically.
• Record video lessons, create learning resources like quizzes or worksheets, and upload them.
• Promote and sell your online course through social media, email marketing, or your website.

8. Become a virtual assistant

Working as a virtual assistant is a flexible way to make money online. You can help businesses manage their day-to-day tasks, such as scheduling, email management, or social media. It’s also a great opportunity to work remotely and build long-term client relationships.

Difficulty level: Fairly easy, especially if you’re organized and tech-savvy.
Total time: A few hours to apply for jobs, but securing clients may take time.
When to expect payment: Payments typically happen after completing tasks or weekly.

How to start:

• Create a profile on platforms like Upwork.

• List your skills, such as scheduling, email management, or data entry.
• Start applying for virtual assistant positions, showcasing your organizational abilities.
• Build long-term relationships with clients for steady work.

9. Test websites and apps

Website and app testing is a simple way to earn money online. Companies pay users to test their websites and apps to ensure a smooth user experience. To get started, look for platforms like UserTesting that allow you to sign up, perform tasks, and provide feedback. All you need is to simply sign up and connect your PayPal account.

As a tester, you will navigate websites or apps. Then, share your feedback about their usability.

Difficulty level: Very easy, with no specialized skills needed.
Total time: A few minutes to sign up, tasks usually take 10-20 minutes.
When to expect payment: Weekly payments after completing tasks.

How to start:

• Sign up on testing platforms like UserTesting, TryMyUI, or Userlytics.
• Complete the registration process, including a sample test, to qualify.
• Start accepting tasks and testing websites or apps.
• Provide feedback on usability, design, and user experience.

10. Try flipping domains or websites

Flipping domains or websites involves buying low-cost domains or underperforming websites. Then, you can improve them and sell them for a profit. Domain flipping requires finding valuable domains, while website flipping involves boosting traffic or design.

To succeed, focus on trending niches or industry keywords. Research domain history or website metrics before buying. Improving SEO, design, or user experience can increase the website’s value, making it more appealing to potential buyers.

Difficulty level: Easy to start, but requires careful research.
Total time: A few hours to buy, but finding the right buyer may take time.
When to expect payment: Payments happen after a successful sale.

How to start:

• Purchase domains or websites that show potential for improvement or resale.
• For websites, enhance the design, content, or SEO to boost their value before listing them for sale.
• Register the domain name and estimate its price.
• Choose a platform to sell your domains or websites, like Flippa.

11. Set up a dropshipping store

Dropshipping allows you to sell products without holding inventory. You partner with suppliers who ship products directly to customers. Much like creating an eCommerce site, you can use Hostinger Website Builder to set up your first dropshipping store.

Research suppliers thoroughly and focus on finding quality products in high-demand niches. A strong marketing strategy is essential for driving traffic to your store. Use social media ads, influencer partnerships, or email marketing to boost sales.

How easy to start: Fairly easy with Shopify and Oberlo, but requires consistent marketing.
Total time: A few minutes to set up, but building sales takes time.
When to expect payment: After each sale when the customer pays.

How to start:

• Choose an eCommerce platform.
• Connect with suppliers through platforms like Oberlo.
• Promote your store through social media and paid ads.

12. Build a membership website

A membership website is a great way to build a steady online business. By offering exclusive content, products, or services, you can create a reliable income stream. Whether it’s premium articles, online courses, or useful tools, members pay a monthly fee for ongoing access.

You don’t need advanced technical skills to launch a membership site. Instead, focus on providing valuable content that keeps members engaged. Inspiration from websites like Your Soulcialmate can help you plan your content.

How easy to start: Easy with the right tools, but content creation takes effort.
Total time: A few hours to set up, but needs a long-term commitment to succeed.
When to expect payment: Monthly recurring payments from members.

How to start:

• Choose a niche or topic for your membership website.
• Set up your site with a membership plugin on your preferred website platform.
• Offer exclusive content or benefits to attract paying members.
• Promote your membership through your website and social media.

13. Get advertising revenue from your YouTube channel

YouTube allows creators to earn money through ads once their channel meets monetization requirements. Creating engaging videos can attract a large audience and monetize your content through ad placements.

Difficulty level: Medium. Easy to start, but building a large audience and meeting YouTube’s monetization criteria takes time and effort.
Total time: A few hours to create your channel, but it may take months to reach monetization.
When to expect payment: Payments happen monthly once you meet the minimum monetization threshold, which is 500 subscribers and 3,000 watch hours.

How to start:

• Create a YouTube channel and choose a niche for your videos.
• Consistently upload high-quality, engaging content that resonates with viewers.
• Apply for the YouTube Partner Program once you meet the subscriber and watch hour requirements.

14. Become a dog walker with Rover or Wag

Dog walking is a flexible way to make extra money while spending time with pets. Platforms like Rover or Wag connect you with local pet owners who need someone to walk their dogs or pet sit.

Difficulty level: Easy. Perfect for animal lovers with flexible schedules.
Total time: A few minutes to sign up, but building a client base may take time.
When to expect payment: Payments happen after completing each walk or service.

How to start:

• Sign up on Rover or Wag and create a profile showcasing your experience with animals.
• Set your availability and start accepting dog walking or pet sitting requests.
• Provide excellent service to build a positive reputation and attract repeat clients.

15. Provide digital marketing services

Digital marketing services are in high demand, and if you have experience in SEO, PPC, or social media marketing, you can offer your skills to businesses. Many companies look for freelancers to manage their online presence and drive traffic.

Start by offering your services through platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. Building a portfolio with proven results will help you gain more clients and command higher rates. Digital marketing offers flexibility and scalability.

How easy to start: Easy with prior experience, but requires building a portfolio.
Total time: A few hours to set up, but finding clients may take longer.
When to expect payment: Payments typically happen after project completion or on a monthly retainer.

How to start:

• Create a profile on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, showcasing your marketing skills.

• Build a portfolio of successful marketing campaigns or case studies.
• Offer services like SEO optimization, social media management, or paid ad campaigns.
• Attract clients by highlighting your expertise and delivering results.

16. Sell unused gift cards

If you have gift cards you aren’t using, you can sell them online for cash. Many platforms, like CardCash or GCX, allow you to sell gift cards from popular retailers and turn them into extra income.

Difficulty level: Easy. Perfect for anyone with unused gift cards to offload.
Total time: A few minutes to list your gift cards, with sales depending on demand.
When to expect payment: Payments happen after you sell the card.

How to start:

• Sign up on platforms like CardCash or GCX.
• List your unused gift cards and the remaining balance with the retailer.
• Sell the cards at a slight discount to attract buyers and earn cash.

17. Take on customer service jobs

Online customer service jobs can be a great opportunity for those who enjoy helping others. Many companies hire remote workers to handle customer inquiries through email, chat, or phone support. This is a flexible option that provides consistent income.

Difficulty level: Easy if you have good communication skills and patience.
Total time: A few hours to apply, but finding a position may take time.
When to expect payment: Payments typically happen bi-weekly or monthly.

How to start:

• Search for remote customer service positions on platforms like Indeed or FlexJobs.
• Prepare for interviews by highlighting your communication and problem-solving skills.
• Set up a home office with a reliable computer and internet connection.

18. Tutor people online

If you have expertise in a subject, online tutoring can be a rewarding way to make money. Platforms like Tutor and Preply connect tutors with students who need help with various subjects. You can tutor students in everything from language learning to math or science.

With flexible hours and the ability to teach from home, online tutoring is ideal for those looking for part-time work. The more subjects or grades you can tutor, the more opportunities you’ll have.

Difficulty level: Medium. Requires subject knowledge and the ability to teach clearly.
Total time: A few hours to create a profile and get approved, but finding students may take time.
When to expect payment: Payments typically happen weekly or monthly, depending on the platform.

How to start:

• Sign up on your preferred tutoring platform.
• Highlight your expertise and qualifications in specific subjects.
• Set your availability and start accepting tutoring sessions.

19. Start a podcast

Podcasting is a creative way to share your ideas and earn money through sponsorships or ads. Starting a podcast can help build a loyal audience while monetizing your content if you’re passionate about a topic.

As your listener base grows, you can attract sponsors or accept donations on platforms like Patreon. Creating a podcast also allows you to work from anywhere while engaging with topics you enjoy.

Difficulty level: Starting is easy, but building an audience takes effort.
Total time: A few hours to record and upload, but long-term success depends on consistency.
When to expect payment: Payments happen through sponsorships, ads, or listener donations.

How to start:

• Choose a podcasting platform like Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Alternatively, you can create your own website, like Sephra’s Green and Greener Show. This option is better for long-term branding.

• Record and edit episodes using podcasting software or a simple recording setup.
• Promote your podcast on social media and build an engaged audience.

20. Become an Instagram influencer

Becoming an Instagram influencer allows you to earn money by partnering with brands and promoting products to your followers. By posting regular, engaging content, you can build a following in a niche and attract sponsorships or affiliate deals.

With patience and effort, growing your audience can lead to multiple revenue streams. Many influencers focus on a specific interest or passion and gradually build partnerships as their followers grow.

Difficulty level: Medium. Easy to start, but building a large and engaged following takes time.
Total time: A few hours to set up your profile, but growing your audience may take months.
When to expect payment: Payments happen after securing sponsorships or affiliate deals.

How to start:

• Set up a niche Instagram account and create consistent, engaging content.
• Interact with your audience regularly to build a loyal following.
• Reach out to brands for partnerships or sign up for influencer marketing platforms.

21. Monetize your Twitch channel

If you enjoy live-streaming video games or other content, Twitch offers multiple ways to monetize your channel. You can earn through subscriptions, ad revenue, and viewer donations. With a growing community of viewers, you can turn your passion into a source of income.

Building a successful Twitch channel requires consistency and interaction with your viewers. As your audience grows, you can unlock more earning opportunities through partnerships and sponsorships.

Difficulty level: Medium. Easy to start, but growing an audience takes time and dedication.
Total time: A few minutes to set up, but building a following takes time.
When to expect payment: Payments happen after reaching a minimum payout threshold.

How to start:

• Create a Twitch account and start streaming regularly.
• Interact with your viewers to build a loyal community.
• Apply for the Twitch Affiliate Program once you meet the requirements.

22. Become a mystery shopper

Mystery shopping is a flexible gig that lets you earn extra money while performing simple tasks like shopping, dining, or visiting websites. As a shopper, you evaluate customer service and store experiences by visiting businesses and providing feedback.

Difficulty level: Easy. Tasks are simple and don’t require special skills.
Total time: A few minutes to sign up, but assignments depend on availability.
When to expect payment: Payments happen after completing each assignment.

How to start:

• Sign up for mystery shopping platforms like Market Force or BestMark.
• Complete your profile and select assignments that fit your schedule.
• Submit your reviews after completing each task to receive payment.

23. Offer professional voice-over services

Voice-over work is a great way to make money online if you have a clear, engaging voice. Demands come from brands and businesses looking to connect to the audience through voice-over. This makes it a profitable service you can offer to make money online.

With this gig, you can work from home on your own schedule. As you gain experience and receive positive feedback from clients, you can increase your rates and attract more high-paying jobs.

Difficulty level: Medium. Requires a good voice and quality recording equipment.
Total time: A few hours to create a demo reel, but finding clients may take longer.
When to expect payment: Payments happen after completing each project.

How to start:

• Practice voice acting and improve your vocal range, tone, and delivery.
• Create a demo reel showcasing your voice-over skills.
• Sign up on platforms like Voices.com to find clients.

• Invest in quality recording equipment to ensure professional audio.

24. Take surveys for money

Online surveys are a simple way to earn extra cash in your spare time. Survey platforms like Swagbucks or Ipsos iSay pay users to share their opinions on products and services. Just be sure to avoid survey scams and sign up only on trusted platforms.

Making money online through surveys works by signing up on a survey platform and completing surveys for points or cash. The more surveys you complete, the more money you can make.

Difficulty level: Very easy. No experience needed, just spare time to complete surveys.
Total time: A few minutes to sign up, and surveys typically take 10-30 minutes.
When to expect payment: Payments are usually made after completing several surveys or reaching a minimum payout threshold.

How to start:

• Sign up for survey platforms.
• Complete your profile to match with relevant surveys.
• Start taking surveys in your free time to earn points or cash rewards.

25. Write and release eBooks

If you enjoy writing, self-publishing eBooks is a great way to share your knowledge or stories while earning passive income. Platforms like Kindle Direct Publishing allow you to publish your work and reach readers worldwide.

Once your eBook is live, you can earn royalties every time someone purchases your book. Writing multiple eBooks increases your earning potential over time.

Difficulty level: Medium. Writing the book takes effort, but the publishing process is simple.
Total time: A few hours to upload, but writing the eBook may take weeks or months.
When to expect payment: Royalties are paid monthly after reaching the minimum payout threshold.

How to start:

• Write your eBook and design a professional cover.
• Sign up for Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle Store, or a similar platform.
• Upload your eBook and start promoting it through social media or your website.

26. Sell your wares on Etsy

If you create handmade or vintage items, Etsy is an ideal platform to sell them. Whether you make jewelry, artwork, or crafts, Etsy’s marketplace connects you with customers who appreciate unique, handcrafted items.

Selling on Etsy is simple, and you can start earning money once you list your products. It’s perfect for creative entrepreneurs looking to turn their hobby into a business.

Difficulty level: Easy if you have products ready to sell.
Total time: A few hours to set up your shop and list your products.
When to expect payment: Payments happen after each sale, depending on Etsy’s payout schedule.

How to start:

• Sign up on Etsy and create a shop for your handmade or vintage items.
• List your products with clear photos and descriptions.
• Promote your shop through social media and word of mouth to drive sales.

Conclusion

There are many flexible ways to make money online, each suited to different skills and time commitments. Some methods, like selling items or testing websites, offer faster returns. Others, like blogging or affiliate marketing, take longer but can provide more sustainable income.

It’s essential to set realistic expectations. While some methods take time to build, consistency can lead to steady earnings. Focus on what aligns with your skills and try different approaches to find what works best.

Take the first step today by choosing the method that excites you most. The sooner you start, the closer you reach your financial goals. Good luck!

How to make money online FAQ