Seven top paying side hustles of 2026 revealed that can pay a fortune
More people than ever before are leaning on side hustles for extra income, with that number only increasing given the state of well, the world.
The cost of living crisis hasn't gone away, and given the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, it doesn't look like it's happening any time soon.
But if needs must, and many professionals have found that the only way to pay rent and bills while maintaining a lifestyle that they want is by putting work in, away from the day job.
In fact, a survey carried out by MyPerfectResume in January found that 72 percent of workers in the US rely on secondary income.
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Obviously, finding the right side hustle will depend on your skillset, but the goal is likely to make as much money as possible from the time that you put in.
A partner relationship management and marketing platform called Journeybee, has studied which side hustles have the highest earning potential, with some raking in around $7,000 (£5,240) per month.
So, here are the seven most financially rewarding side hustles according to the company.
Making content for businesses is an easy way to pocket some cash (Getty Stock Image)
UGC Creator
While your mind might go to content creation with this role, this doesn't require you needing any followers, subscribers, or a necessity to make videos everyday.
This is all about filming videos for brands to use on their accounts across social media, meaning you'll need a bit of creativity to get by.
As bigger chunks of advertising budgets are being allocated to social media marketing, there's no signs of demand slowing down - X and other social platforms are the places to look for jobs.
Average pay: Around $150 to $600 (£110 to £450) per video
Virtual Bookkeeper
Many small businesses don't have a CFO but while they're making a name for themselves, they'll need someone to keep an eye on the books.
If you have a background in this field with a good knowledge of accounting software, this job could get you some easy money - LinkedIn and Upwork are places to look for opportunities.
Average pay: $75 (£56) per hour
No-Code Developer
This field is growing non-stop, though it does require you to have some patience and technical abilities.
Small and medium-sized businesses will be interested in customised software solutions which won't be anywhere near the five-figure mark.
Hopping on Upwork, you could find a gig that'll pay you a decent amount for your work.
Average pay: $1,500 to $7,000 (£1,120 to £5,240) per project
AI Prompt Consultant
You were obviously going to see AI in here somewhere, and those with a good understanding of how to use it can benefit from a lucrative side hustle.
Making the best prompts for AI tools is the goal, with the technology taking over the working world, bit by bit.
Once again Upwork can be the place to go, or a scan through tech forums, to find work.
Average pay: $80 to $175 (£60 to £130) per hour
Fractional Partner Manager
A fractional executive is a part-time specialist with plenty of experience who builds and manages channel sales for businesses without them paying for a full-time executive.
Mostly popular with startups, highly qualified executives can even hold part-time roles at several companies - though this role does require a lot of experience and work.
You'll also need to make sure you steer clear of your 9-5 though if you do qualify, you can help build a company (likely through LinkedIn) up and earn a handsome amount in the process.
Average pay: $2,500 to $6,000 (£1,870 to £4,490) per month
Furniture Flipping
The ideal side hustle for DIY enthusiasts, you'll need to keep an eye on Facebook marketplace and garage sales for furniture which can be cleaned up, improved, and sold for profit.
You can flip some old furniture and sell it on to homeowners or collectors who like a bit of that antique look, with there being a niche demand.
Average earnings: $100 to $400 (£75 to £300) per piece
Mobile Car Detailing
This may be one of the simpler side-hustles on the list, but it could see you pocketing a decent amount.
You just need supplies and a need for cleanliness - millions own cars and they all need them cleaned one time or another.
Average pay: $125 to $350 (£94 to £260) per piece
Topics: Cost of Living, Money, Lifestyle
Joshua Nair