Easiest Side Hustles in Canada: Effortless Extra Income

In today’s dynamic economy, many Canadians are looking for ways to supplement their income or explore new career paths. A recent Angus Reid poll of women pursuing side hustles in Canada revealed that ninety percent of women in Canada between 18 and 34 years old are interested in pursuing a side hustle. Whether you’re saving for a specific goal, paying off debt, or simply want to boost your financial security, starting a side gig can be a smart move.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the easiest and most accessible side hustles available in Canada, helping you find opportunities that align with your skills and schedule. From freelancing to ridesharing, we’ll cover a range of options that can help you start earning extra cash with minimal upfront investment.
Understanding Side Hustles
A side hustle is a job or paid activity that you do in addition to your main job, providing an opportunity to earn extra income and explore new skills or interests. Unlike traditional part-time jobs, side hustles offer more flexibility and independence, allowing you to be your own boss and set your own hours.
These ventures can range from freelance work and creative projects to small businesses and gig economy jobs. The beauty of a side hustle lies in its versatility – it can be a way to pursue a passion, develop new skills, or even transition into entrepreneurship. With the rise of digital platforms and the gig economy, starting a side hustle has become more accessible than ever, offering Canadians diverse opportunities to boost their income and explore new career paths.
Easiest Side Hustles in Canada
Here are some of the easiest side hustle ideas in Canada:
1. Sell Handmade Goods Online
Selling handmade goods online is a great way to turn your crafting hobby into a profitable side hustle. You can showcase your creativity and earn extra income from the comfort of your home.
To get started, choose a platform to sell your creations. While Etsy is popular, consider alternatives like Shopify. These platforms offer various pricing plans to suit your needs, from free options to more comprehensive packages. Here are some popular handmade items you can sell:
- Jewelry
- Knitted or crocheted items
- Pottery
- Candles
- Artwork
When pricing your items, factor in material costs, time spent, and a fair profit margin. Don’t undersell your unique creations! High-quality photos are crucial for attracting buyers. Use natural light and showcase your products from multiple angles. Write detailed descriptions highlighting the unique features of your handmade goods.
Promote your online store on social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. These visual platforms are perfect for showcasing your crafts and reaching potential customers.
2. Freelance Writing
Freelance writing offers a flexible and potentially lucrative side hustle for Canadians. You can work from home and set your own schedule, making it an ideal option for those with full-time jobs or other commitments.

To get started, you’ll need strong writing skills and a computer with internet access. Consider specializing in a niche you’re knowledgeable about, such as technology, health, or finance. Popular freelance writing opportunities include:
- Blog posts
- Articles for websites and magazines
- Product descriptions
- Social media content
- Technical writing
You can find writing gigs on platforms like Upwork, Freelancer.com, or by directly approaching businesses and publications. Building a portfolio is crucial to landing higher-paying jobs.
Rates for freelance writers in Canada vary widely. On average, you can expect to earn around $23.19 per hour. Some writers charge per word, with rates ranging from $0.05 to $0.35 per word. As you gain experience and build a reputation, you can increase your rates and potentially earn $1000+ per month from this side hustle. Remember to track your income and set aside money for taxes, as you’ll be considered self-employed.
3. Virtual Assistance
Virtual assistance is a popular side hustle that allows you to work from home. As a virtual assistant, you’ll provide administrative support to businesses or entrepreneurs remotely. Your tasks may include:
- Managing emails and calendars
- Scheduling appointments
- Data entry
- Social media management
- Customer service
To get started, you’ll need a reliable internet connection and a computer. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential for success in this role. Many virtual assistants earn between $15 to $30 per hour, depending on their experience and skills. You can find clients through freelance platforms or by networking with local businesses.
One of the best things about virtual assistance is its flexibility. You can often set your own hours and work as much or as little as you want. To stand out, consider specializing in a specific area like social media management. This can help you command higher rates and attract more clients.
Remember to keep your skills up-to-date by learning new tools and technologies. This will make you more valuable to clients and help you grow your side hustle.
4. Participate in paid online surveys
Taking online surveys is an easy way to earn extra cash in Canada. You can share your opinions on various topics from the comfort of your home.
Popular survey sites like Swagbucks offer cash and gift cards for completing surveys, watching videos, and even shopping online. The minimum payout threshold is just $5, making it accessible for beginners. Branded Surveys provides 200 free points when you join, giving you a head start. This platform allows you to earn money by answering questions about products and services.
If you’re looking for higher payouts, Pinecone Research Canada pays between $3 and $5 per survey. You might also get opportunities to test products before they hit the market. For quick rewards, try PrizeRebel. You can cash out as soon as you reach 200 points, which is equivalent to $2. This site also offers additional ways to earn, like completing simple tasks.
Remember, consistency is key. Set aside some time each day to complete surveys. While it won’t make you rich, it’s an easy way to earn extra pocket money in your spare time.
5. Dropshipping
Dropshipping is one of the easiest side hustles you can start in Canada. It allows you to sell products without holding inventory or handling shipping.
You simply set up an online store, list products from suppliers, and when a customer orders, the supplier ships directly to them. You keep the profit margin between your selling price and the supplier’s cost. To get started:
- Choose a niche
- Find reliable suppliers
- Set up your online store
- Market your products
Shopify is a popular platform for Canadian dropshippers. It offers easy store setup and integration with suppliers. When selecting products, consider factors like profit margins, shipping times, and customer demand. Popular categories include fashion, home decor, and electronics.
You’ll need to handle customer service and marketing. Social media advertising and content marketing can help drive traffic to your store. While dropshipping has low startup costs, be prepared for challenges like product quality control and shipping delays. Building a successful dropshipping business takes time and effort, but it can be a rewarding side hustle.
6. Instagram influencing
Becoming an Instagram influencer can be an exciting and profitable side hustle in Canada. You can turn your passion into income by sharing content about topics you love. To get started, choose a niche that aligns with your interests. This could be fashion, food, travel, fitness, or any area you’re knowledgeable about.
Create a consistent posting schedule and engage with your followers regularly. Authentic interactions are key to building a loyal audience. Use relevant hashtags to increase your visibility. Research popular tags in your niche and mix them with more specific ones.
Collaborate with other influencers to expand your reach. Cross-promotions can help you tap into new audiences and grow your following faster. As your follower count grows, brands may approach you for partnerships. You can also reach out to companies that align with your values and audience.
Income potential varies, but Instagram influencers with fewer than 100k followers earn around $200 per post and between 100k – 300k followers may expect to earn around $600 per post.
Remember, building a significant following takes time and effort. Stay patient and focus on creating valuable content for your audience. With persistence, you can turn your Instagram presence into a rewarding side hustle.
7. Print-on-Demand Services
Print-on-demand (POD) is an excellent side hustle option for creative Canadians. You can design products and sell them without holding inventory or handling shipping. To get started, choose a POD platform like Printify or Printful. These services integrate with popular e-commerce platforms, making it easy to set up your online store.
Next, decide what products you want to sell. Common options include:
- T-shirts and apparel
- Mugs and drinkware
- Phone cases
- Wall art and posters
- Accessories like tote bags
Focus on creating unique designs that appeal to specific niches or interests. This can help your products stand out in a competitive market. Once you’ve uploaded your designs, set your prices and start promoting your store. Social media platforms are great for showcasing your products and reaching potential customers.
ArtOfWhere, based in Montreal, is a Canadian POD company worth considering. They handle everything from printing to quality control in-house. Remember, success in POD requires patience and persistence. Keep refining your designs and marketing strategies to grow your side hustle over time.
8. Pet Sitting

Looking for a fun and rewarding side hustle? Pet sitting might be perfect for you! This flexible gig allows you to spend time with adorable animals while earning extra cash. As a pet sitter in Canada, you can expect to make between $15 and $40 per hour. Your duties may include feeding, walking, and playing with pets while their owners are away.
To get started, consider these steps:
- Join pet sitting platforms
- Advertise in your community
- Get certified in pet care
- Complete a pet first aid course
There are many platforms in Canada where you can offer your services. It’s free to create a basic profile, and you can set your own rates and choose the types of services you want to provide. Remember to factor in some initial costs:
- Business registration
- Marketing materials
- Website creation
- Liability insurance
Pet sitting is an excellent option if you love animals and have a flexible schedule. It’s a great way to earn extra income while enjoying the company of furry friends!
9. Become a rideshare driver
Looking for a flexible side hustle? Becoming a rideshare driver might be perfect for you. Companies like Uber and Lyft offer opportunities to earn extra income on your own schedule. To get started, you’ll need a valid driver’s license, a smartphone, and a vehicle that meets the company’s requirements. Most rideshare services require drivers to be at least 21 years old and have a clean driving record.
The application process is straightforward. You’ll submit your information online, undergo a background check, and complete any necessary training. Once approved, you can start accepting ride requests through the app. Rideshare driving can earn you around $18-$25 per hour. Keep in mind that your earnings may vary depending on factors like location, time of day, and demand.
One of the best perks is the flexibility. You can choose when and where to drive, making it easy to fit around your main job or other commitments. Plus, you’ll meet new people and explore your city.
Remember to factor in costs like fuel, vehicle maintenance, and insurance. It’s also wise to set aside money for taxes, as you’ll be considered an independent contractor.
To maximize your earnings, try driving during peak hours and in high-demand areas. You can also boost your income by providing excellent service and earning tips from satisfied passengers.
10. Deliver groceries and other items
Looking for a flexible side hustle? Delivering groceries and other items might be perfect for you. This gig allows you to work on your own schedule and earn extra cash. Popular delivery apps like Ritual, DoorDash, and Uber Eats are always seeking new drivers. You can choose which platform suits you best based on their pay structure and available opportunities in your area.
To get started, you’ll need:
- A reliable vehicle
- A valid driver’s license
- A smartphone
- Good time management skills
The best part? You can often start working within days of signing up. Simply complete the application process, pass a background check, and you’re ready to go. Your earnings will depend on factors like:
- Number of deliveries completed
- Distance traveled
- Tips from customers
Remember to track your mileage and expenses for tax purposes. This can help maximize your profits at the end of the year.
11. Deliver Packages
With the rise of e-commerce, there’s always a need for reliable delivery drivers. DoorDash isn’t just for food anymore. They’ve expanded into package delivery, offering you more opportunities to earn. Uber Eats is another popular option. While primarily known for food delivery, they sometimes offer package delivery services too.
To get started, you’ll need:
- A reliable vehicle
- A valid driver’s license
- A smartphone for app-based deliveries
- Good time management skills
Benefits of package delivery include flexible hours, choosing your own schedule, working as much or as little as you want, and potential for tips. Remember, you’re responsible for vehicle maintenance and fuel costs. Keep track of your mileage for tax purposes.
Package delivery can be a great way to earn extra cash on your own terms. You can work evenings, weekends, or whenever fits your schedule. It’s an easy side hustle to start and can provide steady income with minimal training required.
12. House Cleaning
House cleaning can be a lucrative and flexible side hustle for those looking to earn extra income. With low startup costs and the ability to set your own schedule, it’s an attractive option for many. The potential to earn a substantial income is there, with some entrepreneurs even building six-figure businesses from what started as a side gig.
The key to success in this field is providing excellent service, setting fair rates, and building a loyal customer base. Additionally, house cleaning offers the opportunity to learn new skills and meet new people, making it a rewarding experience beyond just the financial benefits. Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent looking for extra cash or someone aiming to transition into full-time entrepreneurship, house cleaning can be a great way to mop up extra money and potentially grow into something more substantial.
13. Lawn Care
Lawn care can be a profitable side hustle in Canada, offering entrepreneurs the opportunity to earn extra income while enjoying the outdoors. General liability insurance for this business in Ontario typically costs between $500-2000 per year, which is an important consideration when starting out. The earning potential can be significant; you can make up to $200 per yard for mowing lawns in Canada.
When starting a lawn care business, it’s crucial to decide on the range of services you want to offer, which may include lawn mowing, maintenance, leaf removal, and even snow removal during the winter months. This versatility allows for year-round income opportunities. However, it’s important to consider factors such as available daylight hours after your primary job and the frequency of lawn maintenance required, as these can impact the number of clients you can serve and your overall earnings.
14. Photography
Are you passionate about capturing stunning images? A photography side hustle might be perfect for you. With the potential to earn over $50,000 per year, it’s an exciting opportunity to turn your hobby into a profitable venture. You don’t need to be a professional to get started. With a decent camera and some basic skills, you can begin exploring various photography niches. Here are some popular options:
- Wedding photography
- Portrait sessions
- Real estate photography
- Product photography
- Event coverage
To kickstart your side hustle, consider creating an online portfolio to showcase your work. Networking is key in this industry. Reach out to local businesses, attend events, and join photography groups to connect with potential clients and fellow photographers.
Don’t forget to explore different revenue streams. You can sell prints, offer photography workshops, or even rent out your equipment when you’re not using it.
Remember, building a successful photography side hustle takes time and effort. Start small, focus on improving your skills, and gradually expand your services as you gain experience and confidence.
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Resources for Starting a Side Hustle in Canada
About the author
Maurice