Work from Anywhere: Best Remote Side Hustles in Canada
According to a recent survey by H&R Block Canada, 28% or nearly 9 million Canadians said they’ve taken on a side hustle, and another 12% are considering starting one? With the rise of digital platforms and the shift towards remote work, the landscape of side hustles has transformed dramatically.
Are you looking to join the ranks of enterprising Canadians who are leveraging their skills and spare time to create additional income streams? Or perhaps you’re curious about how you can turn your passion into profit without leaving the comfort of your home?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore a curated list of remote side hustles that are not only lucrative but also tailored to the Canadian market.
Identifying Your Skills and Interests
Before embarking on your remote side hustle journey, it’s crucial to assess your skills and interests. Start by making a list of your strengths, talents, and areas of expertise. Consider both hard and soft skills. Hard skills might include programming, graphic design, or writing. Soft skills could be communication, time management, or problem-solving.
Next, think about your passions and hobbies. What activities do you enjoy in your free time? These can often translate into profitable side hustles. Reflect on your work experience. What tasks have you excelled at in previous jobs? These competencies can guide you towards suitable remote opportunities.
Don’t forget about your educational background. Your degrees, certifications, or specialized training can open doors to specific side gigs. Consider taking online skill assessments or personality tests to gain further insights into your strengths and potential career paths.
Best Remote Side Hustles in Canada
Here’s are some of the best remote side hustles in Canada:
1. Digital Marketing and SEO Consulting
As businesses continue to expand their online presence, there’s a growing demand for digital marketing and SEO expertise. These kind of services are highly flexible and can be done from home, making them ideal for those with full-time jobs looking to earn extra income.
Additionally, these fields typically have low startup costs, which makes them accessible for many people. Digital marketing encompasses various specialties, including social media marketing, content creation, and SEO consulting, allowing you to choose an area that best suits your skills and interests.
These side hustles allow you to expand your portfolio and gain valuable experience in the field. SEO and digital marketing can be very lucrative businesses, with some professionals earning six-figure incomes.
2. Freelance Writing and Content Creation
With the digital landscape continually expanding, there’s a growing demand for skilled writers who can produce engaging content across various platforms. Freelance writers in Canada can earn up to $30 or more per hour, making it a lucrative option for those looking to supplement their income. The beauty of this side hustle lies in its versatility; writers can specialize in blog posts, articles, copywriting, or even technical writing, catering to diverse client needs.
Aspiring Canadian freelance writers can kickstart their careers by following specific tips and strategies, such as building a strong portfolio and networking within the industry. Moreover, freelance blog writing can easily generate $700 to $1,400 a month or more on a part-time basis, making it an attractive option for those seeking a profitable side gig. With minimal start-up costs and the ability to work from anywhere, freelance writing stands out as an ideal remote side hustle for Canadians looking to monetize their writing skills.
3. Graphic Design and Branding Services
Graphic design and branding services offer an excellent remote side hustle opportunity in Canada. You can leverage your creative skills to help businesses establish their visual identity and communicate effectively with their audience. As a graphic designer, you can offer a wide range of services. These include logo design, social media graphics, website design, and illustration and art.
To get started, build a strong portfolio showcasing your best work. This will help you attract clients and demonstrate your expertise. Consider specializing in a specific niche to stand out from the competition. Pricing your services can vary depending on your experience and the project complexity. You might charge hourly rates or fixed project fees. Some graphic designers in Canada earn between $50,000 to $70,000 per year working full-time, so adjust your rates accordingly for part-time work.
4. Social Media Management and Strategy
Social media management and strategy offer lucrative opportunities for remote side hustles in Canada. With businesses increasingly relying on digital platforms, your skills can be in high demand. As a social media manager, you’ll oversee accounts for various clients. Your tasks may include:
- Creating and scheduling posts
- Engaging with followers
- Analyzing performance metrics
- Developing content strategies
Social Media Managers in remote positions can earn competitive salaries, making it an attractive option for those looking to supplement their income or transition into a full-time career. The role typically requires a strong understanding of social media platforms, influencer marketing strategies, and the latest content creation trends, providing an exciting opportunity for those passionate about digital marketing to stay at the forefront of industry developments.
5. E-commerce and Online Store Management
E-commerce offers lucrative opportunities for Canadians seeking remote side hustles. You can leverage online platforms to sell products and manage virtual storefronts from the comfort of your home.
Dropshipping
Dropshipping allows you to run an online store without holding inventory. You set up a website, list products, and when a customer places an order, your supplier ships directly to them. This low-risk business model requires minimal upfront investment. However, its low-risk nature also means it’s a highly competitive business model. To start dropshipping:
- Choose a niche market
- Find reliable suppliers
- Set up an e-commerce platform like Shopify
- List and price products
- Market your store
You’ll need to focus on customer service and marketing to stand out in this competitive field. Experiment with different products to find what sells best. Be prepared to handle issues like shipping delays or product quality concerns.
Handmade Goods Sales
Selling handmade items online can be a rewarding side hustle for creative Canadians. You can create and sell unique products through platforms like Etsy or your own website. Popular handmade items include:
- Jewelry
- Home decor
- Clothing and accessories
- Art prints
- Candles and soaps
To succeed in handmade sales:
- Develop a unique style or product line
- Take high-quality photos of your items
- Write compelling product descriptions
- Price your goods competitively
- Offer excellent customer service
You’ll need to manage your time effectively, balancing production with order fulfillment and marketing. Consider starting small and scaling up as demand grows. Engage with customers through social media to build a loyal following.
6. Virtual Assistance and Remote Admin Work
Virtual assistance and remote administrative work are increasingly recognized as top side hustle options in Canada, thanks to their flexibility and diverse opportunities. This field allows individuals to leverage their organizational and communication skills to support businesses and entrepreneurs from the comfort of their homes.
Tasks can range from managing emails and scheduling appointments to handling social media accounts and bookkeeping. With a growing demand for these services, many Canadians are finding success by offering their skills on freelance platforms or through dedicated virtual assistant companies. This side hustle not only provides a chance to earn extra income but also allows individuals to build valuable experience and potentially transition to full-time remote careers.
The accessibility of online tools and resources further enhances the appeal, making virtual assistance a practical and rewarding choice for many.
7. Stock Photography and Videography Sales
Stock photography and videography sales offer a lucrative remote side hustle opportunity for Canadians with a keen eye for visuals. You can capture and sell high-quality images and videos to various online platforms, generating passive income. Popular stock websites where you can sell your content include:
- Shutterstock
- Adobe Stock
- iStock
- Getty Images
To succeed in this field, focus on creating unique and in-demand content. Research trending topics and styles to ensure your work appeals to potential buyers. Consider specializing in specific niches such as:
- Canadian landscapes
- Local culture and events
- Business and corporate imagery
- Lifestyle and wellness
Invest in quality equipment to produce professional-grade content. A DSLR camera, tripod, and editing software are essential tools for creating marketable photos and videos. Consistently upload new content to increase your chances of making sales. Aim to add fresh material weekly or bi-weekly to maintain visibility on stock platforms.
Earning potential varies, but successful stock contributors can make anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month. Your income will depend on the quality and quantity of your uploads.
8. Podcasting
Podcasting offers creators a unique platform to share their voices and connect with audiences across the country and beyond. With minimal startup costs and the flexibility to work from anywhere, aspiring podcasters can easily produce content that reflects their passions and expertise.
The potential for monetization is significant, as podcasters can earn income through sponsorships, advertising, and even listener donations, making it a lucrative venture for those willing to invest time and effort. Additionally, podcasting enhances personal branding and authority in a specific niche, allowing creators to promote their businesses or personal projects effectively. As more Canadians embrace remote work, podcasting stands out as a versatile and rewarding side hustle that fits seamlessly into modern lifestyles.
Remember to consistently produce high-quality content and engage with your audience to build a loyal following. With dedication and creativity, podcasting can become a lucrative remote side hustle in Canada.
9. Remote Project Management
Remote project management offers flexibility and the opportunity to work with diverse teams across various industries. With the increasing demand for skilled project managers, professionals can leverage their organizational and leadership skills to oversee projects from anywhere.
This role typically involves coordinating tasks, managing timelines, and ensuring that project goals are met, which can often be done on a part-time basis. Platforms like Indeed and Upwork feature numerous remote project management positions, allowing individuals to find opportunities that fit their schedules and expertise. Moreover, the potential for competitive compensation, with many roles offering rates between $30 to $69 per hour, makes it an attractive option for those looking to supplement their income while enjoying the benefits of remote work.
10. Customer Service
Remote customer service and sales support roles allow you to work from home while assisting customers and promoting products or services. Customer service representatives earn an average hourly wage of $20.05 in Canada. You’ll typically handle customer inquiries via phone, email, or online chat platforms.
Key skills for success in these roles include:
- Strong communication abilities
- Problem-solving skills
- Patience and empathy
- Basic computer proficiency
Many companies hire remote customer service agents, providing flexibility in scheduling. This makes it an ideal side hustle to complement your main job or other commitments. Global companies like Sykes and Transcom frequently offer work-from-home customer service positions in Canada. Some even provide health benefits, adding value to your side gig.
Frequently Asked Questions
Side Hustle Resources for Canadians
About the author
Maurice