Even a two-salary household isn't enough to make it in a down economy. Sometimes it takes a little extra cash to keep life going. Fortunately, there are side hustles you can do as a couple to double up on additional income.
What Are The Best Side Hustles for Couples?
The best side hustles for couples are starting a YouTube channel, creating online courses, selling on Etsy, podcasting, thrifting, writing ebooks, providing services like pet sitting/tour guiding/detailing cars, and pursuing entrepreneurial ventures like flipping houses - leveraging their combined skills and efforts.
Key Takeaways
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Side hustles are essential for earning extra income, and couples can leverage their combined efforts for increased earning potential.
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Couples should consider side hustles that align with their interests, skills, and availability.
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Popular options include starting a YouTube channel, blogging, selling on Etsy or eBay, podcasting, woodworking, thrifting, writing an eBook, and providing services like pet sitting or tour guiding.
Do You Have to Pay Taxes on Side Hustle
You must pay taxes on a side hustle. Any profit is considered taxable income and must be reported to the IRS. If you are paid electronically, sell items online, or from a business, they will report it to the IRS, and you will receive a Form 1099 to file.
A side hustle is like owning a small business. You are the boss and set the rates charged. As a couple, you have double the earning power. But what are the best side hustles for couples?
1. YouTube Channel
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Starting a YouTube channel with your partner can be a lucrative side hustle. The sky’s the limit as to what the channel can be about. You could:
- Vlog
- Give tutorials
- Cook
- Unbox products
If you travel together, grab a camera and a couple of microphones and document it with commentary. Even If you don't travel together, you can share your knowledge and experience in front of the people from your spare room.
YouTube will run ads in your video. You’ll have the opportunity to earn a percentage of the ads. But there are some eligibility requirements.
You must have 1,000 subscribers to your channel. Four thousand hours of watch time are also required.
It doesn’t take a lot of equipment. You can use your smartphone.
Invest in microphones to ensure good audio. Shoot in a well-lit, uncluttered area.
Once, you get a decent audience, you'll get invited to corporate events where you can get more exposure that'll lead you to earn extra money.
You can also earn money when you sell online courses by sharing your experiences in this field.
2. Painting
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Painting a room goes faster when two people are doing it. Start a painting business where both of you can paint a home in a few days.
You’ll need to purchase some equipment like ladders and paintbrushes. You’ll also need to educate yourself. Some things you’ll need to know are:
- How to use brushes and rollers.
- Basic painting techniques.
- How to cut the paint.
- How to use different kinds of paint.
- When to use a primer.
Hands-on experience is the best way to learn. You might want to start with your house.
Ensure you have the proper liability insurance and set up a limited liability company (LLC) to protect yourself.
3. Yard Work
You’ll both need to be in shape for this one.
Yard work or landscaping is needed most of the year. In the fall, there are leaves to rake. Springtime often means cleaning up a yard to ready it for summer.
Cutting grass in the summer and doing basic gardening are also in high demand.
4. Blog
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Blogging can be a great side hustle. Once you do the initial work and set it up, you can earn passive income.
One or both of you can write the content while the other chooses or takes photos to go with it.
You’ll need a blogging platform to get started. Some platforms include:
Next, you’ll need to choose a niche. That's the topic that will be the blog's focus. A solid niche is essential; it can make or break your blog. Do the research and try to find a niche that is popular or not as covered by other blogs.
You’ll need to select a name or domain. This will be the URL people use to find your blog. Choose something similar to your niche.
Now, start to write. If both of you write, it will go faster. You'll want to publish at least 30 blogs in 30 days.
Once you have your blog up and running and people are coming to it (views), you can go to an ad exchange like Ezoic and have them run ads on your blog. You’ll receive a percentage of the revenue from the ads.
You can hire virtual assistants If you guys aren't able to handle every task.
5. Etsy
If you have a craft or access to products, starting an Etsy store might be the course you want to take. Some items you could sell include:
- Jewelry
- Clothing
- Textiles
- Art
- Collectibles
Just create an Etsy account and choose a shop name. You’ll also have to:
- Set your shop location and currency
- Create a listing
- Set a payment method
- Set a billing method (how you’ll pay Etsy fees)
It doesn’t cost anything to open an Etsy storefront. But it does cost $.20 to list a product until it sells or four months. A transaction fee of 6.5 percent is charged as well.
The two of you can produce or purchase goods to sell. Working on shipping together will make it go faster.
6. eBay
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Selling on eBay is similar to Etsy, but it is a bigger platform. It also caters to a different type of buyer so the goods sold accommodate this. Some items that are sold on eBay include:
- Health and beauty
- Sporting goods
- Electronics
- Supplements and vitamins
- Pet supplies
You can create an eBay account using:
- Apple
Once you've entered the registration form, you merely follow the prompts. Converting a personal account to a business account is easy.
You receive up to 250 zero-fee listings. Different categories have different percentages charged as fees. For example, clothing is charged a 15 percent selling price fee up to $2,000 and nine percent over $2,000.
You can share the duties regarding your eBay shop and make double the money.
For those who may have missed it, you can check my post where I have shared Side Hustles that Pay Daily.
7. Podcast
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A podcast is similar to doing a YouTube channel. But a podcast works better with two people. You’ll be able to discuss the topics you decide to cover.
Choose a format with a subject you want to talk about. You might want to plan on having guests on your podcast to add additional interest to the audience.
You'll need to discuss if you're going to have an audio-only or video podcast and purchase the appropriate equipment. Recording software will also need to be purchased. Some software available include:
You’ll also need a podcast hosting service to distribute your audio and video files to podcast platforms like Apple.
Write and record your podcast. You’ll learn the nuances as you go.
Podcasters earn money by:
- Selling ads
- Selling merchandise
- Offering memberships
- Hosting live events
- Affiliate marketing
Podcasting is a great way to work together and earn extra income.
8. House Sitting
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House sitting is when you are paid to care for someone’s property while they’re away.
Several tasks come with house sitting.
They include:
- Water plants
- Pick up the debris that blows in the yard
- Report leaks or damages (only call them if it’s an emergency)
- Replace burned-out lights
- Check phone messages if they have asked and keep a log
- Do light housekeeping
- If power goes out reset the clocks
- Keep the house safe and overall tidy
Ensure that if you move anything, you put it back in its place. It's a good idea to take interior pictures so you know where everything goes.
House sitting together is a safer way to watch someone's house. After all, you're in a strange neighborhood and don't know the neighbors.
9. Print on Demand
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If one or both of you have a talent in graphic design or photography, print-on-demand might be a side hustle for you.
Print on demand (POD) is a business model where you can work with a third-party partner to make and sell custom merchandise. You create the design, and the POD does the rest.
This is how it works.
- Create the design.
- and choose the product you want the design printed on (t-shirts, mugs, mouse pads, etc.)
- POD prints the design on the product.
- POD ships products to customers.
You'll pay a small flat fee a month for the service. You'll also need to pay for the product, which is incorporated into the price you sell to the customer.
There are several PODs available. They include:
You can sell your designs on:
- Social media
- Your own website
- YouTube
You price the item based on the POD cost and what you want to earn. Couples can produce designs and manage their selling vehicles together.
10. Woodworking
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Woodworking and selling it takes a team effort. If one of you has experience in woodworking, the other can be in charge of selling the pieces made.
Woodworking pieces that are in demand include:
- Personalized chopping boards
- Shelving
- Wine racks
- Jewelry boxes
- Chairs
- Personalized signs
- Boxes
- Children’s toys
- Birdhouses
- Coffee tables
- Picture frames
The sky's the limit. Whatever you can imagine is a potential sale.
There are different ways to sell your woodworking products. They include:
- Going to craft shows
- Online website
- Social media
- Flea markets
Ensure you keep track of the expenses associated with each product. You’ll want to figure those in your pricing. Your time is worth money as well. Determine a rate per hour and factor in how long it takes you to create an item.
Between the two of you, you can build and sell woodworking projects.
11. Thrifting
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Do you and your partner enjoy going to garage sales or thrift shops? Why not turn that into a side hustle? There are many forgotten treasures that someone is willing to pay for. Why not put that need to good use and purchase these treasures?
Pick up a vase for five dollars and sell it for $25. Or that designer jewelry that cost a dollar may be worth $50.
Keep in mind that garage sales goods are always undervalued; there's good money to be found. Get there early before everything is picked over.
When there's more than one garage sale in progress, the two of you can divide and conquer. And don't forget estate sales—they have hidden gems as well.
12. Marriage Advisor
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What is the secret of a good marriage? Many people would love to know. Share that knowledge through offering seminars on marriage. You can make a name for yourself regarding the subject by building a blog and writing articles.
Approach other bloggers about writing guest posts on their blogs. And finally, you could host a podcast. Do anything to garner a following. Once you've established yourself, you can charge for seminars.
Bonus points if one or both of you are counselors.
If your wife isn’t interested in any of the above ways to make extra cash I have mentioned above, I have specifically shared some of the best side hustles for women. Do take a look and you’ll find a lot of unique options.
13. Write an eBook
Image source: literatureandlatte.com
Writing can be a lonely profession but if you can partner up with your spouse, you’ll be ahead.
If you or your spouse have expertise, write about it - even if you don't, delve into books and the internet to research the subject. Your interpretation is just as meaningful as the original information.
Or maybe you've always wanted to write a mystery. Two heads are better than one for plotting and character development.
Whichever is your fancy, put your fingers on the keyboard and start writing. You can type and your partner can dictate, or vice versa. You’ll get double the work done fast and be ready to publish.
If you want to self-publish, there are several routes to take. Some platforms include:
Many of these will allow you to use more than one, so you can publish your books on various platforms.
Although it doesn’t cost to publish, it does cost to hire an artist for cover art. You’ll also need an editor. But you may be able to forgo the second if you can successfully edit each other.
Because you're a new author, you might have to charge a low rate initially. But if you follow up with other books, you might be able to increase your price.
14. Flea Market Vendor
It's easier to man a booth at a flea market when there are two of you. Someone is always there if the other needs to step away.
Most of the time, a flea market is outdoors and sells second-hand goods. You rent a booth for the day or weekend. There are some booths inside, but they tend to be expensive.
There are usually many vendors at a flea market. That’s good and bad. If there are many vendors, it attracts large crowds. But that also means there’s more competition.
Before you set up your booth, you’ll need to make a plan. What kinds of goods will you sell? And how will you take payment?
To decide what to sell, do a little investigating. Walk around the flea market and note which booths are the busiest. That will tell you what products are in demand.
If you’re setting up shop on a regular basis, you might want to consider starting an LLC or sole proprietorship. It’s only a couple hundred dollars with your state and it will protect you. It’s also great for tax purposes.
Check with your state. Some states require flea market vendors to collect sales tax from customers. You don’t want to be stuck paying the tax out of your pocket.
How to take payment. There are various ways to receive payment for goods, including a point-of-sale (POS) system.
They include:
You’ll also need a credit card reader. The best are those that will plug into your phone like Square Reader Magstrip.
15. Tour Guides
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If you live in a popular city, you and your partner could pair up and offer your services as tour guides. You’ll both need to be:
- Good communicators
- Good performers
- Knowledgeable
- Have a customer service mindset
- Organized and on time
- Energetic
- Leaders
You can offer public tours, which are for groups that come together without knowing each other. Or you could offer private tours for groups that do know each other, such as a small family or business outing.
Depending on your area, you may have to attend training and be licensed. They’ll want to make sure you know the history and have accurate information about the area.
For example, New York City requires you to pass a knowledge test. Charleston, SC has strict criteria and requires you to pass an extensive test.
To find gigs, start with the Convention and Visitors Bureau. Some refer to it as the Destination Management Organization. Let them know you’re available for tours and ask what you need to do to be referred to visitors.
You can also advertise on social media.
16. Detailing Cars
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Cars always need to be cleaned. And you can do well by starting a detailing company as a side hustle. It has low overhead and minimal start-up costs. You can also do it on your schedule. Clients will appreciate the convenience of you coming to their house or work.
You’ll need some basic equipment like:
- Wash mitt and bucket
- Towels and brushes
- Cleaning products
- Extractor
- Steamer
- Vacuum
- Hose
There are several ways to drum up business. But start with your clients. They have friends and business acquaintances; ask if they're willing to refer you to them. Other ways include:
- Invest in online ads
- Use email marketing
- Social media
- Participate in community events
One selling point to your business is that there are two of you working at a time. This means the customer’s car will be ready faster. Or you could spit up and double your income.
For those who have no idea about this business, I have written a dedicated post on “How to Start a Mobile Detailing Business on the Side”. Read the post and you’ll get to know all the important aspects of the business.
17. Arts & Crafts
The two of you could team up and create. Arts & crafts always sell big. And there are many different types that are popular. Some of these are:
- Paper flowers
- Ceramic or clay pots
- Handmade beauty products
- Tufted rugs or mats
- Textile dyeing
- Tote bags
- Woven and knotted home décor
- Homemade jewelry
Couples can work together to create these beauties. Later, they can sell them at local fairs and craft shows. But if going to a show isn't for you, there are other ways to market. Social media is always big, or you can go online.
Online stores that sell people’s arts & crafts include:
Another avenue to take is local shops. Visit gift shops and local clothing stores and inquire about placing your goods with them. You could set up a consignment system where they receive a portion of the sales.
Between creating the products and selling them, it will take the two of you working together.
18. Pet Sitting
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You and your partner could take care of pets. This is a great job for an animal lover. And there’s a big need for the service.
There are over 160 million dogs and cats in the U.S., and according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), pet care employment is expected to rise 22 percent each year. Don't forget the:
- Birds
- Fish
- Reptiles
As the owner of a pet-sitting side hustle, you and your partner are the boss. You set the rates and dates when you’re available.
Besides pet sitting there is also:
- Dog walking
- Pet transportation
- Overnight sitting
Pet transportation is particularly a service for older people. You take their pet to the groomer or veterinarian.
Some tasks you will perform include:
- Feeding
- Taking out bathroom breaks
- Walking
- Changing litter
- Giving loving
If you have a pet, you’re already used to these tasks, so they'll be easy.
You’ll need to be reliable if you go into this business. And getting a bond may reassure customers.
When it comes to rates, consider the pet's needs. If it's sick and needs medicine, charge appropriately. If it's just feeding and walking, you won't charge as much.
As for cats, they usually take less time than dogs so clients will expect to pay less.
On average, pet sitters earn between $16 and $24 per visit.
To advertise your side gig, go on social media or use word of mouth. Rover and Wag are two platforms catering to pet sitters and dog walkers.
Both platforms connect clients with sitters. You set your rates and dates. But remember that both apps take a percentage of your earnings to use their platform. It generally comes to about 15 to 20 percent.
19. Baking for the Holidays
The two of you enjoy baking and want to start making money from your hobby. Baking for the holidays or any day can be a great way to capitalize on your talents.
If you want to set up a home bakery, ensure you research local laws. You will need to comply with the local and possibly state laws. Part of this may be the requirement that your kitchen be inspected by the health department or relevant authorities.
Choose the types of baked goods you want to specialize in. Do you make a great nut roll, or is your grandmother's molasses cookie recipe divine?
Whatever it is, be sure to narrow down your offerings. Don't try to be all things to all people.
While you don't legally need insurance, you'll be providing food for people, so it's a good idea to have it. You may even be required to have insurance if you sell your goodies at a business or event.
When pricing, take into account the cost of ingredients and your time. Then mark it up so that you make a profit. Be prepared to change pricing if ingredient prices increase.
20. Flip Houses
Flipping is when you buy a house in poor condition, renovate it, and then sell it for a profit. House flipping can be profitable. But it does have its risks.
Start by researching the market. You won’t know a deal to buy unless you understand the pricing in the neighborhood or general area. You’ll also want to know how the neighborhood ranks. Is it top of market or is it the lowest-income neighborhood?
Talk to a real estate investing agent from your local community. They can give you the ins and outs of the market.
You and your partner will also need to have your finances in order. Will you be getting financing, or do you have cash on hand?
You’ll then need to find, buy the house, and then renovate it. Ensure you and your partner have the skill and knowledge to do this. It can be an expensive lesson if you don’t buy low and sell high.
Frequently Asked Questions
As couples, you can do many side hustles. In many instances, when you split the work, you double the pay. But despite our list, you may still have some questions. Here are the most frequently asked questions.
1. Should I incorporate my side hustle?
Incorporating a business depends on the stage and type of business you’re in. A beginner may not want to form an LLC, but a more advanced business may feel the need. Incorporating with an LLC can protect your personal assets if something were to go wrong and you are sued. It may also be advantageous from a tax perspective.
2. How do I choose a side hustle?
When choosing a side hustle, consider your likes and dislikes. If you don’t care for animals, then dog sitting isn’t for you. Lean toward your strengths. If you like a certain activity, research the potential for profit. And consider the time element. Will the side hustle take too much time from your day job?
3. How can I grow my side hustle?
To grow your side hustle, start by asking clients for referrals. Another way is to spread the word among friends and family. Social media like Facebook and TikTok are great ways to reach a lot of people.
Couples’ Side Hustles
When choosing a side hustle, ensure you both enjoy the activity. It’s no fun if you drag your partner along.
You don’t have to be an expert in your side hustle at first. But be willing to learn and advance so that you make yourself more marketable.
Talk up your side hustle to friends and family. Word of mouth can be the best advertising.
