10 Flexible Side Hustles for Home-Based Women
With the rise of flexible work opportunities and online platforms, side hustles are more accessible than ever—especially for women looking to work from home. Whether you’re interested in earning extra income, exploring your passions, or gaining financial independence, there’s a side hustle to match your skills and schedule. Here’s a roundup of practical and popular side gigs that home-based women can start today.
1. Freelance Writing and Editing
If you have a way with words, freelance writing and editing can be a lucrative and flexible gig. Content is in constant demand, and platforms like Upwork and Fiverr make it easy to find writing jobs in various fields—from blog articles and website copy to proofreading. Here are some additional sites for freelance writing and editing opportunities:
- Contena – A premium job board and training platform for freelance writers. Contena curates high-paying writing gigs across various industries and offers resources to improve writing skills.
- ProBlogger Job Board – A popular job board specifically for blogging and content writing jobs. It lists both freelance and full-time positions across a wide range of niches.
- Freelance Writing Jobs (FWJ) – A long-established site that posts daily job listings for freelance writers, editors, and content creators. It’s known for its high-quality listings and resources for freelancers.
- JournalismJobs.com – A job board focused on journalism and editorial jobs. While it mainly features full-time positions, there are also freelance writing opportunities available for news and editorial content.
- Scripted – A platform where businesses hire freelance writers for various content needs, including blog posts, website content, and more. Scripted is known for its vetting process, which ensures that high-quality writers are matched with clients.
- Skyword – A content marketing platform that connects freelance writers with brands looking for high-quality content. Skyword focuses on professional writing projects with well-established clients.
- WriterAccess – A platform for freelance writers, editors, and content creators, offering gigs across different industries. It uses a tiered rating system where more experienced writers can access higher-paying jobs.
- Constant Content – A marketplace where freelance writers can sell pre-written articles or respond to client requests for specific content. It’s ideal for writers who want to sell content on a pay-per-download basis.
- MediaBistro – A job board for media professionals, offering freelance writing and editing jobs in journalism, publishing, and digital media. It’s especially useful for writers looking for industry-specific opportunities.
- Textbroker – A content creation platform where writers complete assignments for clients in various fields. It’s beginner-friendly and offers assignments at multiple pay levels based on writer ratings.
- BloggingPro – A job board for bloggers and content writers, featuring listings from companies seeking freelance and remote writers for blog posts, web content, and more.
- The Writer Finder by Growth Machine – A service that matches freelance writers with clients, particularly for content marketing and blog writing projects.
- Publoft – A platform that matches freelance writers with clients who need blog and content writing services, handling all client relations so that writers can focus on content creation.
These platforms offer a range of opportunities for writers and editors, from beginner to advanced levels, and across multiple content types.
2. Virtual Assistance
Virtual assistants (VAs) support businesses by handling tasks such as scheduling, email management, and social media. Virtual Assistants are especially popular with small businesses and solopreneurs, and this role offers flexibility in hours and workload. Platforms such as Belay, Time Etc., and Fancy Hands connect virtual assistants with clients seeking support. Here are additional sites where virtual assistants can find work:
- Boldly (formerly Worldwide101) – Specializes in matching experienced VAs with premium clients, offering roles in executive assistance, project management, and more. Boldly hires VAs as W2 employees, offering benefits and steady work.
- Zirtual – Provides virtual assistant services primarily to entrepreneurs and small businesses. Zirtual hires U.S.-based VAs and offers roles with a focus on administrative tasks, calendar management, and client support.
- Vasumo – A VA service that connects virtual assistants with clients needing administrative and business support. Vasumo focuses on longer-term roles with more consistency in work hours.
- Freelancer – Similar to Upwork, Freelancer offers a variety of virtual assistant job postings. It’s competitive but has a broad range of tasks available, from general admin support to specialized services.
- Remote.co – A job board specifically for remote positions, including VA roles. It’s helpful for finding flexible, long-term VA positions with reputable companies.
- 99 Dollar Social – Primarily hires social media virtual assistants to manage content creation and posting for clients. This platform is ideal for VAs with experience in social media management.
- Virtual Assistant USA – A service that hires U.S.-based VAs to handle administrative tasks, social media, and customer service for various clients, focusing on personalized support for businesses.
- Virtual Vocations – A remote job board featuring many virtual assistant roles across different industries. It’s a good option for finding part-time, full-time, and project-based VA opportunities.
- TaskRabbit – While it’s known for in-person services, TaskRabbit also offers virtual tasks in administrative support, organization, and customer service, making it a flexible option for VAs.
These platforms cater to different types of virtual assistant work, from one-time tasks to long-term positions, allowing VAs to choose the best fit for their skills and experience level.
3. Online Tutoring or Teaching
If you have expertise in a particular subject or enjoy teaching, online tutoring is a rewarding way to earn money. You can sign up to teach English on sites like VIPKid, or tutor in subjects like math, science, or languages on platforms such as Wyzant and Chegg. Here are some additional platforms for online tutoring and teaching that cater to various subjects and age groups:
- Outschool – A platform focused on classes for K-12 students, covering a wide range of topics from academics to creative skills. Tutors create their own classes, and it’s ideal for those comfortable teaching younger learners.
- Preply – Great for language tutors, Preply connects students and tutors for one-on-one lessons in languages, academic subjects, and more. Tutors can set their rates and availability.
- Superprof – A tutoring marketplace that covers everything from academic subjects to sports coaching and arts. Tutors create profiles to showcase their expertise, and students reach out for lessons.
- Skooli – An online tutoring platform focusing primarily on K-12 and college subjects like math, science, and English. It’s known for offering flexible, on-demand tutoring sessions.
- Tutorme – Connects tutors with students for various academic and standardized test prep subjects. Tutors can set their own schedules, and sessions are often brief and focused.
- MyTutor – A UK-based tutoring platform popular with high school and university students, offering help in academic subjects. It’s open to international tutors and has a strong reputation in the education sector.
- Lessonface – Focused on music and performing arts, Lessonface allows musicians and artists to teach students through online classes. It’s perfect for those with a passion for creative subjects.
- Cambly – A platform for English tutoring, especially popular with those looking to teach conversational English. Cambly is known for its flexibility, allowing tutors to work whenever they’re available.
- BuddySchool – A tutoring marketplace where you can teach a wide range of subjects, from languages to academic subjects to hobbies. It allows tutors to set their own rates and create custom profiles.
- LearnPick – Available in several countries, LearnPick lets tutors offer lessons in various subjects, including academics, music, sports, and languages. It’s popular for both online and local tutoring.
- TakeLessons – A platform for teaching both academic subjects and skills like music, dance, and languages. It allows teachers to offer one-on-one and group classes, making it versatile for various expertise.
These platforms each have unique features that cater to different subjects, age groups, and formats, so you can find the best fit based on your area of expertise and teaching preferences.
4. Crafting and Handmade Products
For those who enjoy creating, crafting and selling handmade goods can be both fulfilling and profitable. Platforms like Etsy and Shopify allow you to sell jewelry, artwork, home decor, or customized items right from home. Using social media platforms (such as Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and TikTok) can help increase visibility for your handmade products. By posting photos, videos, or stories about your creations, you can highlight your work to a larger audience, attract interest, and build a community around your brand. Social media also allows for direct interactions with potential buyers through comments, messages, and sharing, which can lead to increased engagement, brand loyalty, and even direct sales. Here are several excellent sites where you can sell crafting and handmade products beyond Etsy and Shopify:
- Amazon Handmade – Amazon’s platform for artisans, offering access to a vast audience. It’s ideal if you’re ready for larger-scale sales and want the visibility Amazon provides.
- eBay – Great for selling unique and vintage items, as well as craft supplies. It’s also a good option for reaching an international audience.
- Bonanza – A smaller marketplace where you can list handmade products. It’s known for lower fees and an easy setup, making it ideal for small sellers.
- ArtFire – A community-focused marketplace for handmade items, craft supplies, and vintage goods. It’s a smaller platform, but ideal for connecting with a creative audience.
- Big Cartel – A user-friendly platform specifically designed for independent artists and makers. It’s great for beginners, and you can set up a small online shop for free.
- Zibbet – A multi-channel platform that lets you manage listings across sites like Etsy, eBay, and your own website. It’s ideal if you’re looking to expand to multiple channels.
- Facebook Marketplace and Facebook Shops – These options allow you to reach a local or online community directly through Facebook. Shops can be linked to your Instagram account for added visibility.
- Depop – A popular platform for unique, creative, and handmade items, especially popular among younger audiences interested in fashion, accessories, and DIY items.
- Storenvy – Combines a marketplace and a customizable online store option. It’s ideal if you’re building a small brand with unique items.
- Cratejoy – If you’re interested in creating a subscription box (like monthly crafting kits or supplies), Cratejoy is a platform specifically designed for subscription-based products.
Each of these platforms has its own style and audience, so it’s worth considering which best aligns with your products and goals.
5. Freelance Graphic Design
Skilled with design tools? Freelance graphic design allows you to create logos, social media graphics, and marketing materials for clients. Websites like 99designs, Upwork, and Fiverr are great places to connect with customers. Even small projects can add up. Here are a few more platforms specifically geared towards freelance graphic designers:
- Dribbble Jobs – Dribbble offers a job board where companies post freelance and full-time design roles. It’s a well-known community for designers, so having a portfolio here can help attract clients.
- Behance – Known as a showcase platform for creative portfolios, Behance also has a job board that includes freelance design opportunities. Building a portfolio here can help attract direct client inquiries as well.
- DesignCrowd – A crowdsourcing platform where designers can participate in design contests and also find freelance opportunities. It’s ideal for building experience and a client base.
- PeoplePerHour – A platform with a variety of design projects, often freelance and remote, with a strong European user base. It includes job listings for logos, branding, and other design work.
- Coroflot – A job board focused on the design industry. You’ll find listings for freelance, contract, and full-time roles in graphic design, illustration, and UX/UI.
- Crowdspring – A design marketplace where clients post projects and designers submit their work, competing for selection. It’s popular for logo and branding work.
- Working Not Working – This exclusive platform connects top creative talent with companies seeking freelance and full-time designers. It’s curated, so you need to apply for membership.
- Krop – A creative job board where companies list freelance design gigs, with a portfolio option to highlight your work directly to potential clients.
Each of these platforms can help freelance graphic designers find a steady flow of projects and grow their client base.
06. Social Media Management
If you’re social media savvy, businesses may pay you to manage their accounts, create posts, and engage with their audience. This can be especially suitable if you enjoy content creation and community engagement. You can find social media gigs on platforms like LinkedIn, Upwork, and social media job boards. Check out these additional popular social media job boards where you can find roles related to social media management, content creation, and digital marketing:
- LinkedIn Jobs – A great resource for finding social media roles, including freelance, part-time, and remote opportunities. Search specifically for “social media manager,” “content creator,” or “digital marketing.
- Indeed – This job board offers a wide range of social media jobs, often with filters for remote and flexible work.
- FlexJobs – Known for its focus on remote and flexible positions, FlexJobs offers a wide selection of social media and digital marketing roles. It’s an excellent resource if you’re seeking remote or part-time work.
- AngelList – Focused on startups, AngelList is an excellent place to find social media and marketing roles with emerging companies and smaller businesses.
- We Work Remotely – This site focuses on remote jobs and includes a section for social media and marketing roles.
- Content Writing Jobs – Though primarily for writing, it often includes social media content creation and strategy roles.
- Social Media Jobs on Facebook Groups – Many groups on Facebook, like “Social Media Managers” and “Freelance Social Media Jobs,” post job opportunities for social media work.
These boards offer a variety of opportunities across skill levels, perfect for finding gigs in social media management or related fields.
7. Create and Sell Online Courses or Digital Downloads
If you have skills or expertise in areas like crafting, budgeting, fitness, or cooking, consider developing online courses or digital downloads. Platforms like Teachable, Udemy, or Etsy make it easy to share your knowledge by offering e-books, guides, templates, or how-to videos. Digital products are a fantastic way to earn a passive income, as they can be sold repeatedly to a wide audience. This side hustle allows you to work at your own pace and from the comfort of home, helping others learn and grow while you earn. Here are some additional platforms for creating and selling online courses or digital downloads:
- Gumroad – Great for selling digital products like e-books, guides, and templates. It’s user-friendly, with tools to build an audience and sell directly.
- Skillshare – A platform for short, project-based courses, popular with creatives and learners interested in practical skills. It’s ideal if you want to reach a large, engaged community.
- Thinkific – A course creation platform that lets you build and sell online courses with a customizable look and feel. It’s popular with educators and entrepreneurs alike.
- Podia – A platform that combines online courses, digital downloads, and memberships in one place, with easy setup for selling e-books, webinars, and more.
- Kajabi – Known for its all-in-one marketing tools, Kajabi is perfect for those looking to create and sell courses while managing email campaigns and membership communities.
- Creative Market – Ideal for digital products like design assets, fonts, and templates, especially if you’re targeting other creatives.
- Payhip – A straightforward platform for selling digital downloads, e-books, and memberships. It offers simple e-commerce features and allows creators to get up and run quickly.
- Sellfy – This platform enables you to sell digital products, physical products, and subscriptions. It’s easy to use and great for those who want an all-in-one store setup.
These platforms offer various tools to help you design, market, and sell your courses or digital products, making it easy to find the right fit based on your audience and content type.
8. Freelance Photography
If you have a good eye for photography, consider selling your images to stock photo sites like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock. You could also offer local photography services for families or businesses and highlight your work on social media to attract clients. Here are some options beyond Shutterstock and Adobe Stock:
- Etsy – Ideal for selling photo prints or digital downloads. You can sell your photos like wall art, customized prints, or digital files for customers to print themselves.
- 500px – A platform where photographers can license their work to brands and agencies through their global distribution partners.
- SmugMug – Offers tools to create a customizable online portfolio and sell prints, downloads, or other photo products directly to clients. It’s great for photographers to build a personal brand.
- Fine Art America – Specializes in selling art prints, including photography, as wall art, home decor, and other products. Great for fine art photographers looking to monetize their work.
- Foap – A platform where photographers upload images for brands to license for commercial use. Foap also has “missions” where brands request specific photos, and users compete to get chosen.
- EyeEm – Similar to Foap, EyeEm partners with companies to license images for commercial use. It also offers exposure to professional photographers through EyeEm’s marketplace.
- Picfair – Allows photographers to set their own prices and sell their images as downloads or prints. Picfair manages all printing and fulfillment.
- Alamy – A popular stock site with a high commission rate (up to 50% for contributors). Alamy accepts diverse, unique images, and is used by media, brands, and educational institutions.
- Redbubble – A platform that turns your photography into a variety of products like prints, stickers, and apparel. It’s popular for photographers with a unique style who want to create a range of items.
- Zenfolio – A portfolio site that also includes e-commerce tools, allowing photographers to sell prints, downloads, and photo packages. Ideal for events and portrait photographers.
- Society6 – Great for photographers who want to sell their work on products like wall art, phone cases, and home decor. Society6 takes care of printing, shipping, and customer service.
- Can Stock Photo – A micro stock site where you can earn money from downloads of your images. It’s simpler than some larger platforms and can be a good place to start.
Each of these platforms has its own audience and product focus, so you can choose based on the type of photography you do and how you’d like to sell your work.
9. Online Surveys and Market Research
Taking online surveys or participating in market research won’t make you rich, but it’s an easy way to earn a bit of extra cash in your free time. Websites like Survey Junkie, Swagbucks, and Pinecone Research pay users to share their opinions.
10. Transcription Services
If you’re a fast typist, transcription work could be a good fit. Transcriptionists listen to audio recordings and type out what they hear. Websites like Rev and TranscribeMe offer consistent transcription opportunities, allowing you to work at your own pace. Here are additional platforms for transcription services:
- GoTranscript – Offers transcription, translation, and captioning services. GoTranscript is known for flexibility and pays per audio minute, making it suitable for beginners.
- Speechpad – Provides transcription, captioning, and translation services. Known for its user-friendly interface, Speechpad is open to beginners and offers competitive pay for specialized tasks.
- CrowdSurf – Specializes in short transcription and captioning tasks, often aimed at making content accessible for the deaf and hard of hearing. Ideal for those who prefer brief audio files.
- CastingWords – A transcription site that offers flexible work and a range of audio difficulty levels. CastingWords pays by the word, with opportunities to work on general or specialty topics.
- Scribie – Known for shorter audio files, Scribie offers a straightforward transcription process and pays per audio minute. It’s beginner-friendly and allows for flexible scheduling.
- Quicktate – Focuses on shorter audio files like voicemails, legal notes, and memos, which makes it manageable for those new to transcription.
- Tigerfish – An established transcription company that hires experienced transcriptionists. While they have higher standards, they offer competitive pay and consistent work.
- Verbal Ink – Offers transcription, editing, and proofreading work, with a preference for experienced transcriptionists. Known for quality, Verbal Ink pays well for accuracy.
- 3Play Media – Specializes in transcription, captioning, and audio description. 3Play Media often requires transcriptionists to pass a skills test but offers higher pay rates for specialized work.
- Daily Transcription – Provides transcription services in various fields, including entertainment, legal, and corporate. It offers a range of work and prefers applicants with prior experience.
- Allegis Transcription – Focuses on transcription for insurance and legal industries, which can be higher-paying. They require transcription experience but offer steady, specialized work.
- Dictate Express – Specializes in transcription for the legal and medical fields. They prefer transcriptionists with experience, offering a consistent workflow for specialized transcripts.
These platforms provide a range of transcription opportunities, from general to specialized fields, catering to various levels of experience and preferences.
Choosing the right Side Hustle
Each of these side hustles offers something different, so consider your skills, interests, and available time. Starting a side hustle is an empowering step toward financial independence, and it can be incredibly fulfilling to see your talents turn into income from the comfort of home.
Disclaimer: The platforms and websites listed in this article are intended for informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this information, we recommend that you conduct your own research and exercise caution when signing up for any site or service. The inclusion of these platforms does not imply endorsement, and we do not guarantee any specific results or earnings. Always verify the legitimacy of any opportunity, read terms and conditions carefully, and protect your personal information when engaging with third-party sites.