10 recession-proof side hustles to start right now
Discover 10 smart, recession-proof side hustles you can start today to boost your income, build financial stability, and thrive no matter the economy
In turbulent economic times, having a fallback income stream isn’t just smart. It’s essential.
The idea of a “recession-proof” side hustle may be overoptimistic. No gig is entirely immune to macro shifts. However, you can aim for ventures with low overhead, solid demand, and recurring earning potential to boost monthly income.
In 2025, only 27% of U.S. adults reported having a side hustle. That’s a drop from 36% the year before. Meanwhile, many started side hustles due to inflation and cost pressures squeezing household budgets. Among them, 38% cite economic uncertainty as their impetus.
The income potential isn’t something to be overlooked. On average, side hustlers earned $891 per month in 2024, up from $810 in 2023, proving even small ventures can make a measurable impact on household budgets in the existing economy. Side gigs are becoming a path for financial flexibility, as the landscape evolves and fresh possibilities emerge.
Now more than ever, focusing on multiple income streams can open doors to growth and security. In an ever-changing economic landscape, side hustles are more than short-term income boosters. They can create lasting pathways to financial freedom by diversifying earnings, reducing reliance on a single job, and building skills that compound over time.
When it comes to long-term financial wins, more isn’t just better. It’s a game changer.
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Virtual assistant or admin services
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Many businesses still need remote admin support, even in lean times. This side hustle is incredibly versatile in today’s remote work culture. If you have a laptop, wifi, and the propensity for systems and organization, offering virtual assistant or admin services could be a sure bet. A low overhead makes this an even more attractive opportunity.
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Freelance writing, editing, or content creation
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Demand for blogs, newsletters, and marketing copy often holds, even in recessions. The digital landscape of the workforce will continue no matter the economic climate, and a well-versed content creator can provide a definitive contribution. Those with copywriting, editing, or other digital content skills can turn this into a lucrative freelance opportunity.
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Tutoring or coaching
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Education and personal development tend to persist as priorities, even in shaky economies. For the side-hustling entrepreneur, online, and in-person tutoring allows you to leverage your expertise while maintaining flexible hours. Side Hustle Nation promotes tutoring and coaching as among the most recession-resilient small enterprises. Additionally, low startup costs and the potential for repeat clients make it a smart, scalable side hustle.
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Sell digital products or templates
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Selling digital products and downloads – such as templates, printables, or other design assets – is a smart side hustle with high earning potential. Once created, these products can be sold repeatedly with minimal overhead, making them scalable and low-risk. The demand for ready-made digital solutions continues to grow, allowing creators to turn skills and ideas into a steady income stream.
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E-commerce or dropshipping
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Online retail lets you test demand quickly without heavy inventory or massive overhead. Hostinger lists e-commerce among its top side‐hustle ideas, and SumUp names e-commerce and drop shipping in its “recession-proof business” guide. Thanks to the accessibility of large online manufacturers, anyone can take this side hustle out for a spin.
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Pet care
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No matter the state of the economy, the household pets’ needs persist. Bankrate’s survey lists pet care among the gigs people often choose as an income stream, and pet and/or house sitting offerings are included in lists of recession-proof side hustles. If you’re not afraid to clean up after Fido, you might just turn that mess into a successful side business.
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Delivery services
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With meals, groceries, and parcels still needing transport, delivery remains a viable option for the side-hustle curious. While full time employees are busy at the office, research is showing they are willing to pay for a little extra help with that grocery delivery. Capitalize on this opportunity in your free time for a solid side income.
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User testing & micro-task platforms
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Platforms that pay for feedback or completing tasks give modular income streams, and require minimal startup costs or large overhead. While individual payouts are small, completing multiple tasks consistently can add up to a reliable supplementary income. Thanks to their online accessibility, these are proving to be recession-resistant opportunities.
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Reselling unused or secondhand goods
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Reselling unused or secondhand goods has the ability to turn clutter into cash. Minimal upfront costs and access to an online audience make this a flexible way to earn income while meeting growing demand for affordable, pre-owned items. Savvy sellers can quickly scale by sourcing in-demand products and leveraging online marketplaces to reach buyers everywhere.
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Consulting or freelance professional services
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Your expertise could turn into additional monthly earnings if leveraged properly. Offering professional consultation or freelance services lets you monetize your skills on your own terms, with minimal overhead and maximum flexibility. Companies often prefer contracting specialists over hiring full-time, making this a side hustle that pays both in cash and credibility.