During the teenage years, it can be challenging to find ways to make money. Many businesses are hesitant to hire young people, and in some places, laws even limit employment based on age. Furthermore, if you don’t yet have your driving license or access to a vehicle, transportation can be an additional issue. Despite these hurdles, numerous opportunities exist for teenagers to earn their own income. Here are six fantastic side gigs for teenagers to consider this spring.
1. GARDEN SERVICES
Many adults lack the time or desire to maintain their gardens, making this a great potential income source for teens. Even if your neighborhood doesn’t feature lush green lawns, there are other gardening tasks you can offer. Initially, consider mowing lawns as your primary service. Keep in mind that you may need to borrow a lawnmower initially and cover the fuel expenses. In my area, homeowners typically pay teens $20-$30 every week or two to mow their lawn. Even if lawns aren’t plentiful in your neighborhood, you can offer services like driveway cleaning, raking, pruning hedges and bushes, and weeding. Post your services on the local neighborhood app, Nextdoor, to gain exposure.
2. BABYSITTING
Babysitting has been a go-to gig for teenagers for years. If you’re interested, confiding in your parents is a good starting point, as they can spread the word among their friends with young children. You can also post flyers in your area or announce your availability on the Nextdoor app and Facebook Marketplace. Rates vary by locale, but in my area, the standard rate is roughly $10 per hour per child.
3. PET SITTING
For pet-loving teenagers, pet sitting could be an ideal side job. Get started by sharing your ambitions with your parents and neighbors. Rates can differ dramatically based on location and the type of service you’re comfortable providing. In-home pet care usually commands the highest fees, but drop-in visits might be more feasible for teens without parental support in running a pet sitting business.
4. LIFEGUARD
Training for lifeguard roles typically starts in the spring, ready for the summer pool season. Community pools often provide the necessary training, so check with local pools early. Explore both private and public pools as pay rates can differ. This seasonal job could become a recurring income source if you are invited back each season.
5. ONLINE SURVEYS
Online surveys offer a flexible way to accumulate funds. Payment is usually sent via gift cards or PayPal, making it easy to accumulate savings for future plans. Some top survey sites include Opinion Outpost, Pinecone Surveys, Swagbucks, and Survey Junkie. Since each site offers different rewards and topics, it’s a good idea to diversify your registrations.
6. FOCUS GROUPS
Joining focus groups is another potentially lucrative gig for teens. It’s a bit challenging to qualify as focus groups have specific criteria, but once chosen, you can make a significant amount for a short interview. First in Focus and L&E Research are two reputable sites to start.
In summary, a variety of profitable side gigs are available for teens this spring. They all require different interests and time commitments, but top options for teens in our area so far have been garden services, babysitting, pet sitting, lifeguarding, online surveys, and focus groups. Support your teen in their journey to financial independence through these gigs, and you’re likely to be impressed by the results. So, what successful teen side gigs have you discovered in your area?
