The Best Side Hustles for Writers and Wordsmiths

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Making Money

Looking to make money with your writing skillsHere's a curated list of side hustles tailored for writers of all levels:


1. General Content Writing

  • Earnings: Varies by platform and client.
  • Write blog posts, articles, or website content for clients.
  • Start: Join platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or FlexJobs.

2. Copywriting

  • Earnings: High-paying (focus on marketing emails, sales pages, and ads).
  • Write compelling content that drives sales.
  • Start: Explore opportunities on freelance sites or upskill through copywriting courses.

3. Technical Writing

  • Earnings: $35,000 - $70,000/year (freelancers can earn per project).
  • Create technical documents like user manuals, white papers, and product descriptions.
  • Start: Join Upwork, TextBroker, or approach tech firms directly.

4. Write Reviews

  • Earnings: $5 - $100+ per review.
  • Review books, movies, software, or products for blogs and brands.
  • Start: Platforms like Booklist, Online Book Club, and Capterra.

5. Ghostwriting

  • Earnings: Flexible (based on complexity and length).
  • Write content that clients publish under their name.
  • Start: Find gigs on ZipRecruiter, Toptal, or local businesses.

6. Write Resumes and Cover Letters

  • Earnings: $50 - $200 per resume.
  • Help job seekers craft professional resumes and cover letters.
  • Start: Advertise locally or on platforms like Fiverr.

7. Join Content Mills

  • Earnings: Paid per word or project.
  • Submit articles to platforms like iWriter, TextBroker, or HireWriters.
  • Note: Good for building skills but might have lower pay.

8. Write for Magazines

  • Earnings: $100 - $1,000+ per article.
  • Submit articles to niche magazines like Discover, AARP, or Earth Island Journal.
  • Tip: Bring your A-game - competition is tough!

9. Proofreading

  • Earnings: $20 - $50/hour.
  • Check written content for errors in grammar, spelling, and formatting.
  • Start: Use platforms like PeoplePerHour or SimplyHired.

10. Transcriptionist

  • Earnings: $15 - $30/hour.
  • Convert audio or video files into text.
  • Start: Join platforms like Rev or Upwork.

11. Self-Publish eBooks

  • Earnings: Royalties and direct sales.
  • Write and sell books or guides on platforms like Kindle Direct Publishing or Scribd.

12. Create Online Writing Courses

  • Earnings: Six-figure potential.
  • Teach writing skills on platforms like Udemy, Skillshare, or Teachable.

13. Start a Blog

  • Earnings: Through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate links.
  • Write about niches like writing tips, lifestyle, or hobbies.
  • Start: Use WordPress or Wix.

14. Sell Short Stories

  • Earnings: $50 - $500+ per story.
  • Sell to publications like Carve or Ploughshares, or pitch movie producers.

15. Speech Writing

  • Earnings: $100 - $1,000+ per speech.
  • Write speeches for CEOs, politicians, or special events.
  • Start: Advertise on freelance platforms or approach organizations.

16. Write Personal Bios

  • Earnings: $50 - $200 per bio.
  • Create compelling biographies for professionals, artists, and public figures.
  • Start: Use freelance job boards.

17. Write Obituaries

  • Earnings: $50 - $300 per piece.
  • Craft heartfelt obituaries for newspapers or clients.
  • Start: Approach local publishers or create a niche blog.

18. Write Student Essays

  • Earnings: $20 - $100+ per essay.
  • Help students craft academic papers (ethical considerations apply).
  • Start: Market services discreetly or via freelance platforms.

19. Social Media Management

  • Earnings: $15 - $50/hour.
  • Write posts and manage content for brands on platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
  • Start: Pitch to local businesses or join platforms like Fiverr.

20. Teach Writing

  • Earnings: $10 - $50/hour.
  • Teach kids or aspiring writers online or in-person.
  • Start: Join Preply, Skooli, or local schools.

21. Start a YouTube Channel

  • Earnings: Through ads, sponsorships, and product sales.
  • Share writing tips, tutorials, or personal experiences.
  • Start: Focus on creating engaging, valuable content.

22. Affiliate Marketing

  • Earnings: Unlimited potential.
  • Recommend products on blogs or social media and earn commissions.
  • Start: Join affiliate programs like Amazon Associates or ShareASale.

Summing it up

Writers have endless opportunities to monetize their skills! From traditional content writing to modern gigs like YouTube and blogging, there's a side hustle for every passion and skill level. Which one will you try


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