Summer break has arrived, and while it’s awesome to relax, who wouldn’t want some extra cash to spend on cool stuff or just hang out with friends? If you’re looking to make some money this summer, you’re in luck because there are a ton of ways to earn cash. Here are some awesome summer jobs and side hustles that are perfect.
1. Dog Walking or Pet Sitting
If you love animals (who doesn’t?), dog walking or pet sitting is a perfect way to make some cash. Tons of people go on vacation during the summer and need someone to take care of their pets. You could walk dogs around your neighborhood or even watch them while their owners are gone. It’s a fun job, plus you get to hang out with cute pets!
2. Lawn Mowing or Yard Work
If you’ve got a lawnmower (or can borrow one), you can make money mowing lawns for your neighbors. During the summer, lawns get super long, and people don’t always have the time or energy to mow them. You could also help with other yard work like trimming bushes, watering plants, or raking leaves. Plus, you’ll get to be outside and enjoy the nice weather!
3. Car Washing
Everyone likes a clean car, and washing cars is an easy way to earn money. You don’t need fancy equipment—just some soap, water, and a sponge! You can offer to wash cars for neighbors or even your family. You can make a few bucks, and they get a shiny car. Win-win!
4. Tutoring Younger Kids
If you’re good at stuff like math or reading, you could help younger kids with their schoolwork. They might need help getting ready for the next school year, so you can offer to tutor them. Plus, you can do it online if you want! It’s a great way to make money while showing off your skills.
5. Freelance Writing or Blogging
If you like to write, this could be a cool way to make money. You could start a blog about something you love—like video games, sports, or even your favorite TV shows. Some websites even pay for blog posts! You can write from home, and it’s a great way to get creative while earning cash.
6. Social Media Help for Small Businesses
If you’re a pro at Instagram, TikTok, or Snapchat, small businesses might need your help! You can offer to post cool pictures, videos, or captions to help businesses grow their social media. A lot of businesses are looking for young people who know how to use social media, and you can be the one to help them!
7. Garage Sale Helper
When people clean out their homes in the summer, they usually have garage sales. You can offer to help them set up, price items, and even sell stuff. It’s a pretty chill job, and you can even sell some of your own things that you don’t need anymore. You might score some cool stuff while you’re at it!
8. Reselling Pokémon Cards
If you’re a Pokémon fan, reselling Pokémon cards is a super fun way to make money. Some Pokémon cards are worth a lot of cash! You can trade cards with friends or buy packs to look for rare ones. And o nce you get some valuable cards, you can sell them to other collectors or online. Just make sure to keep your cards in good shape so you can get the best price.
Tips for Getting Started:
- Ask Around: Don’t be afraid to ask your parents, neighbors, or friends if they need help. They’ll probably appreciate it, and you’ll get some cash in return.
- Stay Safe: Always let your parents know where you’re going and what you’re doing. It’s important to stay safe while you’re working.
- Be Reliable: If you agree to do a job, make sure you show up on time and do a good job. People will want to hire you again if you are hardworking and work efficiently.
Hernholm, Sarah. “5 Side Hustles Teens Can Start This Summer to Make $5,000.” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 20 Apr. 2025, www.forbes.com/sites/sarahhernholm/2025/04/20/five-side-hustles-teens-can-start-this-summer-to-make-5000/.
Written by Alison Kimberly Alison Kimberly is a freelance content writer with a Sustainable MBA, uniquely qualified to help individuals and businesses achieve the triple bottom line of environmental. “15 Best Side Hustles for Teens.” MoneyLion, 25 Feb. 2025, www.moneylion.com/learn/best-side-hustles-for-teens/.
