Some of us are made for the singular side hustle built around one skill or service. Others aren’t the type to commit to the same old side gig. If you’re the second, don’t worry. There’s a whole world of surprising side hustles you can choose from to create a quirky cornucopia of cash flow.
1. Professional cuddler
Yes, you read that right. Some folks make money by spooning strangers. This is the ultimate gig for those who aren’t afraid of close contact (really, really close contact with detailed boundaries built into the contract).
If that sounds like your sweet spot, you can get paid to hug it out with someone who feels lonely, stressed, or has a profound appreciation for platonic snuggles. Sites like Cuddle Comfort and Cuddle Companions exist to connect cuddlers and clients. Don’t forget: this is strictly PG. See also: the 2016 Vice story about a therapist who cuddles as a side gig.
2. Selling pictures of your feet
You’ve probably heard of this one, but let’s give it some attention. There’s a whole foot-fetish economy waiting to line your pockets. Websites like FeetFinder connect people with a passion for feet with those willing to sell snapshots of their tootsies.
Paint your nails, moisturize those heels, and suddenly, you’re a walking/posing cash cow. Then again, beauty is in the eye of the account holder, so there’s probably equal demand for plain old, dirty, calloused, hard-working dogs. As long as you’re 18 or older, let your feet do the walking …. to the bank.
3. Renting out your backyard
Have you got a backyard? Congratulations, you’ve got a side hustle. If you don’t mind strangers pitching a tent on your grass, you can list your yard on sites like Hipcamp. People are willing to pay good money to sleep outside… just as long as it’s not their outside. Bonus points if you’ve got a fire pit, a scenic view, or minimal neighbors who will call the cops on a bunch of backpackers roasting marshmallows in your suburban neighborhood.
Hate people, love dogs? If your yard has the right features, sites like SniffSpot let you list it for rent as a private dog park—NO AWKWARD CONVERSATIONS WITH CUSTOMERS NEEDED.
4. Becoming a professional mourner
Are you prone to over-the-top displays of emotion? Does a good cry leave you refreshed and ready to take on the world? In some cultures, it’s normal to hire people to wail at funerals. Your job? Show up, shed some tears, and make the dearly departed look like the most beloved human ever to walk the Earth.
A few important notes: This is serious work, and it’s not for amateurs—you might even need to study up on the deceased to blend in with the crowd and stay in character. It hasn’t quite taken off in the United States, but you could undoubtedly explore launching your career as a professional mourner in London.
5. Human billboard
Admit it: you’ve seen them. They come out at tax time and stand on corners by the local CPA. They parade up and down the street in all sorts of bodywear while you desperately strive to avoid eye contact. At the same time, a little voice in your head wonders how much they make for that. If you’ve ever thought I’d do anything for money, being a human billboard might be for you.
Companies will pay you to wear branded clothing, hold signs, or even (brace yourself) tattoo their logo on your body. Yes, permanent tattoos are an option for the brave or very broke. If you’re cool with standing on a street corner waving a sign that says “Eat at Joe’s,” this might be your new calling.
Some sites also advertise the position as a “sign holder.” According to ArtisanDirect, this role is perfect for flexible candidates who love to spread happiness and stay connected.
6. Selling your hair
Chop, chop! If you’ve got long, luscious, virgin hair (translation: no dye jobs or chemical treatments), you can sell it for some serious cash. Wig makers and hair extension companies will pay top dollar for premium locks.
Sites like Hairsellon let you post your ponytail online for the highest bidder. Just make sure you’re emotionally prepared to part ways with your mane. If you’re undecided, Hairsellon’s Hair Price Calculator may help you decide if it’s worth the snip.
7. Professional Line Stander
Is it peak laziness? Or exemplary time management? People are now outsourcing the act of standing in line.
If you’ve got patience, comfy shoes, an umbrella, and no qualms about wasting hours of your life, you can earn some sweet cash holding a spot in line for someone who just has to get their hands on the latest iPhone or concert tickets. Charge by the hour and pack snacks. Extra points if you’re willing to battle Black Friday crowds.
Get started as a professional line stander by signing up on Task Rabbit – the site that encourages your future customers to “take your life back – without the lines.”
8. Virtual dating assistant
Online dating is a full-time job, and some would rather just delegate it. That’s where you come in. As a virtual dating assistant, you swipe, message, and arrange dates on behalf of clients. It’s like being a matchmaker but without the satisfaction of seeing the picture-perfect meet cute.
You’ll need excellent communication skills, a knack for flirting on someone else’s behalf, and the ability to serve snappy icebreakers that sort through the duds. And note: the virtual dating assistant goes both ways: next time you’re looking for love online, remember who you might be chatting with.
9. Renting out your car
Got an extra car sitting around, or not even using the one you own? Rent it out on a site like Turo or GetAround. It’s the Airbnb for cars, minus the awkwardness of someone doing their laundry in your house.
The rental platform handles insurance while you set the rental price and availability. And there’s always the chance someone will return it with a questionable odor or a mysterious dent. No risk, no reward, right?
10. Professional bridesmaid or groomsman
If you build your gigs the right way, you could end up crying at a funeral in the morning and dancing at a wedding that night.
Weddings are stressful, and not everyone has a squad of close friends ready to step up and hold the bouquet. Enter the professional bridesmaid or groomsman. Start by getting to know Jen Glantz, the brain behind Bridesmaid for Hire (as well as two memoirs, additional books, and a game).
If you feel a calling for calming bridezillas, faking lifelong friendships with strangers, and occasionally busting out mediocre dance moves, grab your Spanx® and get your sparkle on.
11. Selling plasma
For those willing to sacrifice a little blood, sweat, and tears—well, mostly blood—selling plasma can be a reliable side hustle. Blood and/or plasma donation centers will pay you for your time as well as those bodily fluids, and some even offer bonuses for repeat donors.
You can also donate plasma more frequently than blood: up to twice a week. If you meet the requirements, you’ll spend about two hours with a needle in your arm each time. Bonus karma: You’re saving lives, and some places let you know where your donation will be used (trauma, burns, cancer, liver disorder centers).
Ready to donate? Start with the Red Cross or search for a local blood donation center.
12. Participating in mock trials
Do you solemnly swear that you don’t live for the drama, but it loves you?
Look into making money by participating in mock trials. Law firms and universities hire regular folks to act as jurors or witnesses to test out legal strategies.
Live out your legal nerd dreams while experiencing the thrill of courtroom drama without real-life crime. Search “mock juror application near me” to determine who’s hiring in your area and peruse their requirements.
Final thoughts
We live in a world where you can cuddle strangers, sell pictures of your feet, and pretend to be someone’s lifelong BFF for cash.
Whether you’re looking for a quick buck or a side hustle with a story to tell at parties, these weird gigs prove that creativity and hustle go hand in hand. Just don’t forget to double-check the fine print—and keep your sense of humor turned up to eleven while you’re at it.
