If you’re a teen, then it’s likely that money is tight. But that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on experiences because of a lack of cash. Instead, find ways to make extra money without spending your limited resources. Working for free isn’t the answer; finding part-time jobs and gigs where you get paid to perform tasks are much better options. Even if your allowance is small, there are still side hustles you can take on that won’t cost you anything but time and energy. Here are some ideas for side hustles as a teen:
Run Your Own Blog
A blog can be a great way to earn extra income and stay active in your free time. You can create a blog to write about your interests, create guidebooks, or even sell your own products, like ebooks and courses. You can also use your blog to host guest posts, where you’re paid to write about topics that are relevant to your readers. You can generate revenue with your blog in many ways, like selling advertisements, selling digital products on your site, or offering paid services like virtual assistant work.
Sell Products You Create
When you’re in high school, you have the freedom to experiment with products you create. With the cost of materials being so low, you can try your hand at selling crafts, baked goods, and homemade items to your friends and family. You can set up a booth in your school’s commons, or even organize a garage sale to make some money.

Write and Record Music
Music and writing are two areas that can be profitable, even if you’re in high school. You can sell your own songs on iTunes, SoundCloud, or other digital distributors. You can also try your hand at writing and recording music. There are many platforms you can use to record music, like GarageBand or Logic Pro. Once you have your music, you can share it online and ask for donations via iTunes, Bandcamp, or streaming services like Spotify.
Start a Photography or Video Company
Many teens start a side hustle by starting a photography or video company. You can use your cellphone as your camera and create short videos, or use a tripod to create more professional content. Some videos can be less than a minute long, so keep that in mind when pricing your work. You can try posting your videos online, or work with local newspapers to get your work published. You can also create websites with affiliate links, where you earn a percentage of the profits generated by each purchase made through your link.
Handwrite Notes and Cards
If you’re gifted at writing, then you can use that talent to earn money. You can make customized cards, postcards, and notes, and then sell them online or at local craft markets. You can also create stationery with your own designs and sell those items on Etsy. You can also create stationery with your own designs and sell those items on Etsy. You can also create stationery with your own designs and sell those items on Etsy.
Don’t Forget About Summer Jobs
If you have summer break, don’t forget about the many jobs that are out there. Many summer jobs only pay for a week or two, so be prepared to make the most of your time off. You can also find summer jobs that offer training for future jobs, such as working at a community center after school. You can also sign up with your high school’s career center to find future job listings.
Wrap-Up
Finding ways to make extra money when you’re in high school isn’t as hard as you might think. With so much time off for sleep and relaxing, it’s easy to find new ways to make money. Here are some great ways to make money when you’re a teen, and you don’t have to give up your social life in the process. If you have more ways to make extra money when you’re a teen, let us know in the comments!