You’re in your teens and need some extra cash. Maybe you’re saving for a car or that college education. Regardless, you need a job fast. There are many available, especially if you're 16 or older. But don't discount your prospects if you're 14 or 15 years old; there are jobs for you as well.
What Are The Best Side Hustles for Teens?
There are many side hustles and jobs available for teenagers to earn extra cash. Popular options include babysitting, tutoring, working in retail or fast food, yard work, and camp counseling. Entrepreneurial teens can start a blog, or YouTube channel, sell art/jewelry, do freelance writing, or take online surveys.
Key Takeaways
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Teens can find jobs without experience by volunteering, doing chores, or starting a side business.
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Popular teen jobs include babysitting, tutoring, retail, fast food, camp counselor, and yard work.
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Entrepreneurial options include blogging, YouTube, selling art/jewelry, freelance writing, and online surveys.
Can a Teenager Get a Job Without Experience?
A teenager can get a job without experience. Start by volunteering for an organization. This will show employers you're willing to work. You can also do jobs like babysitting or mowing the lawn and put those on your resume.
Anything that will show an employer that you’re industrious will help. There are many jobs you can do as a teenager. Some involve working for an employer in a formal situation.
You can also start your own business as an entrepreneur. We've developed a list for both.
1. Car Detailer
Image source: sage.com
This is a great summer job. And it’s especially good if you prefer working outside. People will pay you to wash and detail their cars.
You can go to the individual’s house so it’s convenient for them. Wash the outside and interior.
Make a price list of your services to present to prospective clients. Keep in mind when creating your price list that you need to factor in the cost of supplies and your time.
Post your services on your social media accounts and platforms like Craigslist to drum up business.
If you are interested to learn more about it I have written a detailed article on How you can start a Mobile Detailing Business on the Side. Do check it out.
2. YouTube Channel
Image source: sonosuite.com
This will be a long-term proposition, but you can make money on YouTube. The famous Mr. Beast started his YouTube career while a teenager, so it’s doable.
Even if you don’t feel 100 percent comfortable in front of the camera, just practice and you’ll get better.
You can use your smartphone or purchase a camera. The microphone on your phone will do the job, but an external mic will give you better quality.
If you want to edit, you can download free editing software from Davinci Resolve that works very well. Just go on YouTube and watch some tutorials on how to use it.
YouTube shares ad revenue with you; that's how you'll be paid. But there are certain requirements you must meet.
You must have 1,000 or more subscribers. You also must have 4,000 or more watch hours per year. But once you achieve this, you’ll earn money.
3. Tutoring
If you're a straight "A" student, put your hard work to use and tutor. You can work on your schedule. Go to the students’ house or have them meet you somewhere quiet.
Parents hire tutors to:
- Prep for SATs and ACTs
- Catch up on subjects
- Avoid the backslide in performance that happens over the summer
Advertise on social media or in the library or school bulletin boards to find students. You can either go with online tutoring services or simply offer offline services based on your flexibility.
Also, the choice of going full-time or part-time job with this service completely depends on you.
4. Lifeguard
Lifeguarding is a great summer job.
The minimum age for lifeguarding is 16. You also must be certified. But if you’re a good swimmer, get your certificate at the:
The YWCA/YMCA sometimes offers lifeguard certifications if they have a pool. Go online to find the closest organization to you.
Check with your local government. Some towns or cities also offer lifeguard training courses and certification.
5. Babysitting
Image source: kernodle.com
Babysitting on the weekends or nights during the school year can be a great way to make money. In the summer, when children are out of school and parents are still working, babysitters are in high demand.
You could probably find a regular gig that will put some extra cash in your pocket. You'll need to be reliable and responsible. Parents need to know you'll be there, so you can't call off at the last minute.
There are babysitting and certifications that you could take that will make you more marketable.
They consist of:
- Pediatric First Aid CPR AED Training
- American Red Cross Babysitting and Advanced Child Care Certification
- Safe Sitter
Put the word out with your parents’ friends to see who needs a babysitter. You can also contact your friends’ parents to see if they know of anyone.
6. McDonald’s
Working at McDonald's will give you regular hours and a constant paycheck.
McDonald’s will hire as young as 14. Not all states allow this but check with your local McDonald’s to see if you’re eligible.
You’ll be a crew member who:
- Takes orders at the window
- Operates cash registers
- Keeps the lobby and counter clean and sanitized
- Upselling
- Acting as a runner
Apply for a job at McDonald’s online
7. Movie Theater
Some movie theaters offer free movies to employees, so if you’re a movie buff, this is the job for you. In fact, some theaters will even pay you to watch movies as part of training. They want you up to date on the latest releases.
Other theaters give their employees free popcorn or other snacks.
An AMC movie Theater will give you a good work experience. They have a 3.6 out of five on Glassdoor based on 5,302 reviews.
To find an AMC job go on their webpage.
8. Sell Art
If you have a talent for drawing or sculpting, go ahead and sell it. You can set up an online store. Or, if you really want to avoid that hassle, there are websites that will allow you to sell any art you create. They include:
You’re never too young to earn money for your talent.
9. Landscaping and Shoveling Snow
In the summer, fall, and spring make money while staying outside. Most people are willing to pay to have someone work in their yard. Some jobs you could do are:
- Gardening
- Mowing
- Raking leaves
And if you live where it snows, we guarantee someone will want you to shovel their sidewalks or driveways.
You could start with your neighbors. Go door-to-door and solicit. Posting fliers around the neighborhood or going on social media will also help drum up some business.
10. Sell Old Video Games and Consoles
You probably have some video games or consoles that are gathering dust. They may be old to you but they're going to be new to someone.
There are various places to sell your video games. You can start with Facebook Marketplace. But here are some video game-centered websites like:
Take a drive over to GameStop if you prefer selling in person.
You could also check out a few garage sales and try to find old video games to re-sell.
11. Online Surveys
You won't get rich with this one, but you should be able to put a few extra bucks in your pocket and it is one of the best ways to make money online.
Share your opinion and get paid for it. Online surveys are simple and accessible to teens looking to make some money.
There are online websites that offer paid surveys. Rewards range from gift cards to cash payouts.
Survey Junkie
With Survey Junkie, you’ll share your opinion via surveys and focus groups.
To participate, you'll need to fill out your profile so that you can be matched to surveys. Once matched, you'll be notified. You'll need to act fast if you're notified because surveys fill up fast.
Once you take the survey, you’ll earn points that you can cash in for:
- iTunes
- Amazon
- Walmart
Or, in some cases, you can cash out with PayPal or a bank transfer.
Branded Surveys
Image source: YouTube.com
You’ll need to fill out the Branded Survey profile. The more details you provide, the more eligible you'll be for specific surveys.
Surveys are provided by market research clients on behalf of Fortune 500 companies. These companies depend on your honest opinion.
When you submit a survey, your answers are sent to the market research clients. Once the client reviews your input, points are posted as "approved".
When you earn 500 points, you choose how you want to cash out and collect your earnings. You can receive payout through PayPal or retail gift cards.
LifePoints
Another online survey company, LifePoints has paid over $22 million to its members in the last year.
Sign up and verify your email. Once you’ve done this, you’ll fill out your profile. The profile will ask questions about your:
- Demographics
- Interests
- Lifestyle
This information will help you qualify for surveys. The more information you provide, the better the match.
When you complete a survey, you’ll earn points that can be redeemed for retail gift cards or a PayPal transfer.
I have shared how much you can actually earn in each survey. Check it out If you are interested.
12. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
People love their pets, and pet sitting and dog walking services are in high demand. If you're an animal lover, this might be the side hustle for you.
You’ll need to be reliable and trustworthy. After all, the pup needs to be fed or walked regularly.
Spread the word among family, friends, and neighbors that you’re available. Another option is to use an app like Rover or Wag.
Rover
Rover is an app that connects dog walkers/sitters with clients. Clients go on the app and choose a walker/sitter. This could be for dogs or cats. You set your rates.
You’ll first need to fill out a profile, once that’s approved. You input what types of pets you’ll care for and the dates you’re available.
Payments are ready for withdrawal within two days of completing the service.
13. Retail Positions
Retail allows teens to develop:
- Customer service skills
- Work in a team environment
- Earn a steady income
Retail jobs offer various benefits, including employee discounts. You'll also have the opportunity to grow with the company.
Some jobs you’ll do include:
- Sales associates
- Cashiers
- Stockroom assistants
Many retail operations offer flexibility with your own schedule, but you might be required to work weekends and holidays.
14. Summer Camp Counselor
If you’re thinking about becoming a teacher or working with children in another capacity, you might want to consider a camp counselor position.
As a camp counselor, you will be:
- Supervising campers
- Leading activities
- Ensuring that campers are safe
Contact nearby camps or search for summer camp counselor positions on online job boards.
15. Blogging
Image source: venturz.co
For those writers, creating a blog could earn you some money. Choose a niche you want to write about. Some ideas could be:
- Pets
- Gardening
- Skateboarding
- Gaming
Once you have decided on a niche, write some articles. Don't forget to take pictures to go along with them. Then you'll be ready to build your website.
There are several online platforms you can use, like:
Once you have "views" or people reading your blog, you can approach one of the ad exchanges, like Ezoic, to place advertisements on your blog. You’ll then earn money.
Another way to earn money on a blog is through affiliate links. Businesses like Amazon will give you a link that you can embed in products you recommend.
Once someone clicks your link and goes to the product, you have the potential to earn a percentage of the purchase price if they buy.
16. Sell Jewelry
Finding a niche in the jewelry business can be profitable. You can make jewelry, or you can sell already created pieces. Fashion or costume jewelry can be found at thrift stores and garage sales.
Start by researching trends. That way, you'll know what will sell quickly. Decide how you want to sell. You can use different platforms and places to sell, like:
- Flea Markets
- Antique Stores
- Websites
- Social Media
If you’re making your own jewelry, factor in the cost of materials and your time when you price the pieces. If you’re buying jewelry at a garage sale, mark up the price to a profit you’ll feel comfortable with. Keep in mind that you’ll want to factor in the time it took you to find the piece.
17. Print on Demand
This one is perfect if you have some artistic ability. If you can draw or take photos, you can incorporate them into the merchandise that you design.
Print-on-demand is a low-risk way to sell your designs. They can be put on:
- T-shirts
- Posters
- Books
- Cups
Develop an online store through a platform like Shopify or Etsy. Then connect it with a print-on-demand (POD) service like:
The sky is the limit. You can also combine this with your blog and sell your products through the blog. Regardless, you’ll be a designer.
I have written a dedicated post on How to Make Money with Printify in specific. Do read the article and I’m sure it’ll help you get started with POD.
18. Freelance Writing
So, you can write. Well, put those valuable skills to good use and freelance. You can use several platforms to market yourself as a freelance writer.
Many of them offer entry-level opportunities. Some of these platforms include:
You'll be writing everything from blogs to email campaigns. All you need to do is watch for opportunities and then propose your talents and terms.
19. Grocery Store
Image source: Forbes.com
Grocery stores are always looking to hire. You could bag groceries and help customers to their cars with their groceries. Another job is bringing the carts in from the parking lot.
Many teens help stock shelves. There are a lot of support jobs that need to be filled just waiting for you.
When you get your foot in the door, there are often opportunities to advance within the organization.
If you want to save some money instead of earning via the grocery store, check out our article.
20. Garden Center
If you're looking for a summer job and like plants, working in a garden center could be for you. Some of the big box stores have garden centers or you could apply at an independent one.
You could work as a:
- Cashier
- Waterer
- Customer service attendant
- Grower
- Maintenance worker
You’ll be assisting the nursery workers. When you apply stress your experience with plants and that you’re a hard worker.
21. Horse Farm
Working as a farm hand at a horse farm provides exposure to horses and pays you. You might have to start as a volunteer but not necessarily.
There are websites like YardAndGroom.com that have ads for horse farms where you can find a job. Also, approach your local farm and inquire about work.
22. Summer Youth Employment Programs
Many local municipalities have summer youth employment programs (SYEP). Many require you to live in the town’s school district to apply. Some jobs are based on the family’s income.
You could be working in the town’s:
- Library
- Police station
- Fire station
Check with your local municipality to see if they have a program. But you’ll want to check early; usually around January. Jobs often run from June through August.
23. Country Club Caddy
For those who love golf, working as a country club caddy can be a high-paying gig. You can be as young as 14, carry a bag, and learn the skill.
On average you can earn $100 to $120 carrying two bags for 18 holes. This is called a “loop”. A loop usually takes around four hours.
But you’ll make even more money from the tips. Golfers tip well. Do well and you could probably double your pay.
24. Youth Sports Referee
Because of the increase in youth sports, there is a significant demand for youth sports referees.
Youth sports referees require some training and certifications. However, an entry-level certification is only a day-long program. Many sports, like soccer, have online courses.
A youth sports referee can be as young as 13 but must be at least two to three years older than the participants.
25. Design Logos
If you’re an artist there’s a demand for logos. Logos are used for brick-and-mortar and online businesses. Places to sell logos include:
- Design
- Social media
- logoGround
- Scalebranding
The market is very competitive, but the pay can be great. Most businesses are willing to pay around $500 for a logo.
26. Barista
You’ll be fixing coffee and other drinks for those looking for a caffeine fix. On-the-job training will be provided, but you must pay attention to detail and people skills.
You could work in a:
- Large chain
- Local coffee house
- Roasteries
A high-end coffee shop may want someone with a lot of experience, but an informal chain will likely hire entry-level candidates.
27. Call Center Representative
Image source: abetteranswer.com
Retailers and technology firms have call centers. You’ll be answering questions via:
- Phone
- Messaging Apps
You'll be given on-the-job training. But you will need to be willing to hunt down the answer to a question you don't know the answer to.
28. Busser
You’ll be clearing the table after patrons complete their meal as a busser. Once the dishes and customers are gone, you’ll also need to reset the table.
Bussers are constantly on the move. You’ll make an hourly wage and possibly share tips.
29. Caterer
Part-time catering positions offer many opportunities. You could be:
- Answering phones
- Preparing food
- Serving food
You’ll need to have a passion for food. Flexibility is a must since hours will constantly be changing. Being detail-oriented and organized is also required.
30. Dishwasher
It's not a glamorous job, but it can be steady. It's like doing a chore for your mother, but in this instance, you'll be paid.
You'll be scrubbing pans and plates and then putting them back in rotation.
Strong arms are necessary. Stamina and strong legs are also necessary since you'll be standing for long periods.
31. Restaurant Host/Hostess
Greeting guests and seating them is the primary purpose of a host/hostess. You'll need people skills and the ability to listen since some patrons will have seating requests.
You are the first person the customer sees representing the restaurant so being helpful and friendly is vital.
32. Swim Instructor
This dovetails on the lifeguard job. You’ll coach swimmers on proper swim techniques, including:
- Breathing
- Types of swimming strokes
- Diving
You’ll need to obtain a CPR and lifeguard certification.
33. Library Assistant
For you bookworms, this is a great opportunity. You'll help visitors find and check out books. Your duties will also include helping with inventory and returning books to the shelves.
Some libraries need help in digitizing old documents. There are also summer reading programs for children that you can participate in.
34. Daycare Assistant
Daycare assistants help out in daycare facilities. This is especially a high-demand job in the summer when children are out of school. Some tasks involve:
- Changing diapers
- Potty training
- Feeding
- Reading children’s stories
- Supervise on the playground
You'll also be able to get imaginative and develop different activities to keep the children engaged.
35. Kennel Assistant
A lot of these are volunteer jobs in the shelters. But veterinarians will pay to have animals being boarded and cared for.
You’ll be tasked with cleaning cages, grooming, and possibly bathing. Sometimes, you may have to administer medications.
36. Data Entry
This is for 18- and 19-year-old teens. Data entry can be done in the home and pays well. You’ll need to have:
- Attention to detail
- Computer
- Stable internet connection
You’ll be entering various information into electronic formats.
37. Reviewing Music, Clothes, and More
Teens who love sharing their opinions may go for this side gig. You won't make a ton of money, but you'll certainly have fun. Websites you can review items on include:
There are even more platforms available. But the bottom line is you can get paid to tell others exactly what you think about music.
38. Watching Ads
Yes, you can get paid to watch advertisements. You’re already being inundated with ads so getting paid is a bonus. InboxDollars pays people to do tasks and one of them is watching ads.
You can join for free, and when you do, you will receive a five-dollar bonus. Other activities you can do include:
- Trying new apps
- Exploring new products
- Play video games online
- Cashback shopping
You can also do paid surveys. You basically sign up for InboxDollars and have the opportunity to use various ways to make money.
You won’t get rich but you will make some extra money.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve given you a list of jobs. Some you can do from your home while others are in-person. But you still might have some questions. Here are the most asked questions.
1. Does a teenager need a work permit to work?
Federal law doesn’t require a work permit, but some states do. A work permit is also known as a working paper. It’s a legal document that verifies a minor’s eligibility for employment. It typically includes an age certificate and is valid for one year. Depending on the state the state labor department or minor’s school may issue the document.
2. Can a teen work in the construction industry?
Federal law does not permit a teen under the age of 16 to work in the construction industry. But teens over 16 can. They are limited to certain tasks. They cannot operate power-driven equipment like forklifts, cranes, hoists, etc.
3. Can 14- and 15-year-olds work in jobs?
There are many jobs 14- and 15-year-olds can perform. However, they cannot work in warehouses and storage, car repair, public utilities, or with ladders and scaffolding. Check with your state labor department to determine if a job is eligible.
Side Hustles for Teenagers
There are many side hustles for teens. Some are entrepreneurial in spirit and can be done on your own. These can turn into lucrative careers.
Others are outside the home. While some jobs like retail and grocery stores have potential for career advancement, others can be fun ways to temporarily earn money.
