Being a parent takes a lot of time and energy, even though it doesn’t come with a paycheck. If you’re a stay-at-home mom or dad and want to bring in a bit of extra money, picking up a side hustle could be a smart move. The best side hustles for stay-at-home parents ideas.
A side hustle is just a way to earn money outside your main focus, which, for now, is taking care of your kids. It can help you earn, try something new, or even see if an idea you’ve had could turn into something bigger.
For parents at home, jobs you can do from your kitchen table or couch are often the best. They give you more freedom than regular 9-to-5 work and make it easier to be there for your kids while also helping out with the bills.
In this guide, we’ll walk through 30 great side hustle ideas for stay-at-home moms and dads, plus give you a few tips to help you manage work and family without feeling overwhelmed.
Side Hustles For Stay-At-Home Parents That Fit Your Schedule
Parents don’t have a lot of free time. So we’re not about to tell you to pick up something that takes more time than a full-time job. You also don’t need to spend a ton of money to get started. We’re focusing on ideas that actually work for moms and dads who stay at home.
These are well-paying jobs you can do from your house or nearby, using stuff you likely already have—like a solid internet connection, a computer, and maybe a few other simple tools, depending on the type of work.
Let’s get into it. Here are 30 side hustle ideas to help you get started. Hopefully, one of them feels like a good fit for you!
1. Online Tutoring Or Teaching
Are you great at explaining math without turning it into a total meltdown? Can you help teens get ready for big tests like the SAT? Teaching or tutoring from home might be perfect for you.
You can help students with tricky subjects like algebra, writing, or science—right from your kitchen table. The best part? You get to pick your own hours. So if you’re a stay-at-home parent, you can fit work in around naps, school pickups, and snack time.
What you could make: Anywhere from $15 to $100 an hour. The salary will also depend on what you’re teaching and who you’re teaching it to.
2. Freelance Writing or Blogging
Like writing? Got a way with words? You could write for businesses, websites, or even start your own blog. You might write about parenting, helpful tips, or whatever you’re into.
This gig works really well if you need a flexible schedule. Whether you’re already good at writing or just enjoy telling stories, there are plenty of ways to earn money with it.
What you could make: Most beginners earn $20 to $30 an hour. As you get more practice, your rates can go up.
3. Selling Crafts and Handmade Goods
If you’re into making things—like jewelry, drawings, or pottery—you might be sitting on a money‑making hobby. You can sell your stuff through websites like Etsy—get the latest tips on starting a successful Etsy shop in 2025—or Facebook Marketplace, at weekend markets, or even through your own website if you feel like going big.
This is a great option for stay-at-home parents who already enjoy crafting. It lets you be creative and earn extra money from something you love doing.
Expected income: It really depends on what you make, how much time you put into it, and how many people want to buy it.
4. Virtual Assistant Work
If you’re the go-to person for organizing things at home, you might be great at this. As a virtual assistant, you help businesses with tasks like sorting emails, setting up appointments, or keeping track of to-dos—stuff that needs to get done but takes up time.
Some other tasks might include entering info into spreadsheets, helping with newsletters, running social media accounts, or even helping plan events. Websites like Upwork make it easy to find jobs like these , such as the best freelance jobs for beginners in 2025.
This kind of work can be done while the kids nap or play—and it lets you put your multitasking skills to good use.
Expected income: What you earn depends on the kind of work you take on and how much you decide to do.
5. Affiliate Marketing
Ever told a friend about a product you love and thought, “I wish I got something for that”? You actually can do it through something called affiliate marketing. You just share links to products you like on your blog, YouTube, or social pages. When someone buys through your link, you get a piece of the sale.
It’s kind of like being a matchmaker between people and things they need. You get paid for making that connection.
Expected income: How much you make depends on what you’re sharing, how much the company pays per sale, and how many people click your link. Some people make a few hundred a month, while others bring in thousands.
6. Online Resale or Dropshipping
Have baby gear, clothes, or toys just sitting around? You could turn all that into cash by selling them on places like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Mercari. You can also go hunting for bargains at thrift shops, then resell them online for more.
If you’re into selling but don’t want to pack or ship things yourself, there’s something called dropshipping. Here’s how it works: you set up a simple online shop, someone places an order, and the supplier ships the item straight to them. You never touch the product.
There’s a similar idea for services, too. With drop-servicing, you find clients who need help—maybe with design, writing, or website work—and then hire freelancers to do the job. You act as the middle person, handling the communication while someone else does the hands-on work.
Expected income: This depends on what you’re selling, how you price it, and how many people find your listings or store. Some folks make pocket money, others build steady income streams.
7. Graphic Design Services
If you enjoy playing around with colors, fonts, or layouts—and know your way around tools like Photoshop or Canva—you could offer design help to others. Lots of small businesses need help with things like logos, flyers, or eye-catching posts for their social media.
If you’re more into tech stuff, you can even design websites. Places like Upwork are full of projects where people are looking for creative folks just like you.
What you can make: Around $25 to $50 per hour, depending on what you’re making and who you’re working with.
8. Coaching or Consulting in a Niche Area
Got life experience or skills others ask you about all the time? You could start helping people one-on-one in areas like parenting, fitness, job hunting, or or browse our list of the best freelance jobs for beginners in 2025 for more ideas.
You don’t need a fancy office—you can chat with people over video calls or the phone. Websites that match people with helpers (like Upwork or similar) make it easier to get started.
What you can make: These jobs can pay really well, depending on how many clients you have and what you’re helping with.
9. Creating and Selling Online Courses
Got something you’re really good at? Turn it into a course people can learn from—like cooking, coding, or even organizing a busy household. There are websites where you can upload your lessons, and people can buy them anytime.
The best part? You only need to make the course once, and it can keep bringing in money over time, whether you’re working or not.
What you could earn: Some folks make steady money from this. Courses can sell for $10 or even a few hundred dollars, depending on what you’re teaching.
10. Transcription or Data Entry Services
If you’re quick on the keyboard, typing jobs can be a quiet way to earn money from home. Great for when the house is calm, like during nap time.
Transcription means listening to things like interviews or voice notes and typing them out clearly. You’ll want to be good at spelling, punctuation, and typing fast.
What you could earn: Around $20 an hour is common once you get the hang of it.
11. E-book writing and publishing
Got a story in your head or something you’re great at? Turn it into an e-book. You can write stories, how-to guides, or tips on things you know well—anything from cooking tricks to parenting help.
You don’t need a fancy setup—just a quiet moment (like when the kids are asleep) and your laptop. Once it’s written and uploaded to a site like Amazon, it can start bringing in money every time someone buys it— it’s one of the 10 side hustles you can start with no money.
What you might earn: A popular e-book could bring in $1,000 or more each month.
12. Podcasting on a Niche Topic
If you like talking and have a topic you’re into—whether that’s parenting tips, fun facts, or something a little silly like cat yoga—you might enjoy podcasting. It’s like your own radio show from home.
You’ll need a mic, a quiet space, and some basic editing tools (lots of free ones out there). As you get better and your group of listeners grows, companies may want to sponsor your show or place ads for it.
What you might earn: Income depends on how many people listen and whether you get sponsors. Some podcasters do very well once they grow their audience.
13. Personal Shopping or Styling
If you have a knack for fashion, this one’s for you. Help people pick out clothes that suit them, whether it’s for a new job, a special event, or just a fresh look. You can even do it from home—helping clients over video or putting together style ideas while your kids play.
How much you can make: Around $25 to $125 per hour, depending on your experience and who you’re working with.
14. Voice-over Work For Commercials or Animations
Got a voice that stands out? Use it! Try reading scripts for ads, videos, or cartoon characters. All you need is a quiet space and a microphone (even a small one works to start). You could even record bedtime stories and turn those into something people want to buy.
How much you can make: Pay depends on what you’re doing—smaller projects might pay around $35, while bigger ones could go up to $5000.
15. Social Media Management For Small Businesses
Lots of small shops and services need help keeping up with Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and other platforms. If you enjoy posting, writing captions, or planning fun ideas for social media, this might be a great fit.
You’d be making posts, replying to comments, coming up with ideas, and keeping things active. You can work during nap time, after bedtime, or whenever things are quiet.
This is one of those side jobs that can grow over time, and the more clients you have, the more you earn.
What you could make: Around $14–$35 an hour.
16. Personal Fitness or Yoga Instruction
If staying active is your thing, why not turn that into a way to make money? You can train people one-on-one or host small group classes in person or through video calls.
Some parents even mix this with family time by working with their kids or running parent-and-child sessions.
You don’t need fancy equipment to get started. Just your own space and some time during the day to guide others.
What you could make: A nice bit of income while you move and stretch—win-win!
17. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Are you a huge fan of pets? Embrace your love for furry friends by offering pet sitting or dog walking services. Use apps like Rover, Wag!, PetBacker, or Care.com to connect with pet parents in need of a sitter or dog walker.
You could even turn your backyard into a pet paradise. Expect wagging tails and a decent income without having to leave the house.
You might also consider driving for rideshare platforms like Uber or Lyft—review the pros and cons of driving for Uber or Lyft to see if it fits your schedule and vehicle costs.
Expected income: Dog walkers and sitters can make between $15 and $30 per hour.
18. Gardening or Plant Consultancy
Transform your plant enthusiasm into a side hustle. Offer gardening or plant consultancy services for those plant parents struggling to keep their flora thriving.
As a horticultural hero, you could turn your backyard into a plant haven, sell your plants, and make a flourishing income—literally cultivate a side gig with roots in success.
Expected income: Varies based on your offering.
19. Event or Party Planning
Love throwing a fun birthday or holiday party? Turn that talent into extra cash. As a stay-at-home parent, you’re probably already used to planning family get-togethers, so helping others plan events could be a great way to earn on the side. You can start small with kids’ parties or baby showers and grow from there.
Pay: Depends on what you offer and how many parties you take on.
20. Photography and Photo Editing Services
Got an eye for pictures? Take photos for families, pets, weddings, or anyone looking for great memories. You don’t need a fancy studio—just a camera and a few people who want nice photos.
You can also earn by editing photos for others or selling pictures as stock photos. It’s a fun way to use your skills and make money at the same time.
Pay: Photo editors often charge by the hour or per picture. You could earn $40 to $100+ an hour, depending on how experienced you are.
21. Web or App Development
If you know how to code, building websites or apps can be a great way to earn during naptime or after bedtime. There’s always someone out there needing a site or a new feature for their app—and you can do it all from your computer. Sites like Upwork are full of projects like these.
Pay: Starts around $30 an hour and goes up with experience.
22. Travel Planning
Love planning trips? Help others plan theirs! From weekend getaways to dream vacations, people often need help finding the best deals, spots to visit, or even booking everything. You can do it all from your living room.
Pay: Some planners make over $50,000 a year.
23. Editing and Proofreading
If you’re the kind of person who spots a misspelled word from across the room, this one’s for you. Writers, bloggers, and students always need a second set of eyes. You can check their writing for spelling, punctuation, and sentence flow between storytime and snacks.
Pay: $20–$30 per hour, more if you gain regular clients.
24. Virtual Bookkeeping
Good with numbers? Help small businesses track income and expenses. Tasks might include organizing receipts, sending invoices, or putting together simple reports. If spreadsheets make you happy, this one’s a solid choice.
Pay: Usually $11–$25 per hour.
25. Selling Printables or Digital Designs
If you like to design planners, wall art, worksheets, or calendars, you can sell them as downloadable files. Once you make them, they can sell over and over without extra work.
Pay: Could be a few hundred to a few thousand dollars each month, depending on how well they sell.
26. Custom T-Shirt or Product Design
If you love drawing or coming up with funny sayings, you can put them on shirts, mugs, or tote bags. With print-on-demand services, you don’t have to deal with shipping—just upload your design, and the rest is handled for you.
Pay: It depends on how many items you sell, but there’s no limit.
27. Resume Help and Job Advice
If you know how to write strong resumes or give helpful job tips, you can help others improve theirs. You might help with job applications, interview prep, or simple changes to make their skills stand out.
Pay: Around $25–$65 per hour, depending on what you offer.
28. Social Media and Marketing Help
If you know how to write fun posts or run ads, small businesses could use your help. Many need someone to handle their Instagram, Facebook, or email promotions. You can schedule posts or answer comments between school runs.
Pay: Around $33 an hour on average, sometimes more with experience.
29. Language Translation
If you speak more than one language, help others by translating documents, emails, or websites. It’s a great way to use your skills to make some money during quiet time.
Pay: New translators might earn around $0.10 per word, while experienced ones can ask for more.
30. Custom Illustrations
If you love drawing, turn it into a side gig! People are always looking for unique portraits, characters, or covers. You can sell your drawings on your own site or on platforms like Etsy.
Pay: Freelance illustrators make about $21 per hour on average, but if you build up your name, it can go much higher.
Easy Tips to Juggle Parenting and a Side Gig
Starting something new takes time and effort, but you’re doing great. Here are some simple tips to help you get things done without missing out on time with your kids.
1. Keep Work and Family Time Separate
To make the most of your time, it’s helpful to set some ground rules. Let your family know when you’ll be working and when you won’t be. If it’s family time, try not to sneak in work. And when it’s work time, try to focus just on that. Keeping things separate helps you avoid feeling like you’re always “on.”
2. Use Nap Time or School Hours
If you’ve got little ones, nap time is golden—use it to get your biggest tasks done. Suppose your kids are in school; those hours are a great window to focus without distractions.
3. Ask for Help When You Need It
If you’re finding it hard to get anything done with the kids around, it might help to have someone else step in. This could mean daycare, a babysitter, or even asking a grandparent or friend to watch the kids for a few hours. In short, a little help can make a big difference.
4. Make a Simple Plan and Stick to It
Having a basic plan can make your day feel less all over the place. Try writing out what you want to do the night before or first thing in the morning. A to-do list, a calendar, or even a sticky note can allow you to stay on track.
5. Find What Works for You
No one’s schedule looks the same, and that’s okay. Try different routines until you find one that fits your day. If mornings are quiet, that might be your best work time. If evenings are calmer, save your tasks for then. Do whatever fits your home life best.
Michael Adams is a professional finance writer with a focus on tax education, budgeting, and personal finance. His goal is to make income tax topics clear and practical for individuals and entrepreneurs.