15 best ways to make money online in 2025  

Did you know that 64 million Americans earned income through online opportunities in 2023? With remote work becoming more accessible and digital platforms expanding, making money online gets easier. But for beginners, looking for legitimate ways on how to make money online can be challenging.   

In this article, we will provide you with 15 tried-and-tested ways to earn money online, the types of work opportunities available, steps and tips to avoid scams, and an actionable guide for beginners to build a sustainable online income.  

Quick summary of ways to make money online 

Method	Description	Time Investment	Best platforms
Do affiliate marketing	Earn commissions by promoting products through unique affiliate links.	Long-term	Amazon Associates, ShareASale, CJ Affiliate
Sell digital products	Create and sell digital assets like e-books, courses, or stock photography.	Long-term	Etsy, Shopify, Gumroad
Start a print-on-demand business	Sell custom-designed products like T-shirts and mugs without managing inventory.	Medium to long-term	Shopify, Redbubble, Printful
Start dropshipping business	Sell physical products online without holding stock, collaborating suppliers who ship directly.	Medium to long-term	AliExpress, Shopify, Spocket
Utilize Youtube platform	Earn from ads, sponsorships, and memberships by creating video content. Once you meet the eligibility criteria of 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 valid public watch hours in the past 12 months.	Long-term	YouTube, Patreon, AdSense
Look for freelancing jobs	Refers to skills or services to clients on a project basis, providing flexibility in work and clients.	Short to long-term	Upwork, Fiverr, LinkedIn
Apply for virtual assistant roles	Provide remote administrative support to businesses and entrepreneurs.	Short to long-term	Upwork, LinkedIn, Wing Assistant
Start with social media management	Manage content, engagement, and marketing strategies for brands.	Medium to long-term	Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn
Online tutoring and teaching	Provide educational instruction through digital platforms using video calls and online resources.	Medium to long-term	Tutor.com, Udemy, Teachable
Do AI proofreading	Earn from ads, sponsorships, and memberships by creating video content.	Long-term	YouTube, Patreon, AdSense
Sell handmade goods on Etsy	Create and sell unique crafts, jewelry, or digital art on Etsy to people who are into unique handmade items.	Medium to long-term	Upwork, Fiverr, LinkedIn
Flip items on eBay/Facebook Marketplace	Buy low-priced items from thrift stores or online and resell them for a profit on eBay or Facebook Marketplace.	Short to medium-term	Etsy, Shopify, Gumroad
Become an online coach	Offer coaching in areas like fitness, business, or personal development, helping clients reach their goals with expert advice.	Long-term	Zoom, Skype, TikTok
Start a subscription-based business	Start a subscription service on platforms like Patreon to share exclusive content and earn regular income.	Long-term	Patreon, Swagbucks
Earn money from apps	Use apps like Honeygain or Sweatcoin to make passive income by sharing your internet or walking. memberships by creating video content.	Short to medium-term	YouTube, Patreon, AdSense

Do affiliate marketing  

Affiliate marketing is an effective money maker that allows you to earn commissions by promoting products or services from other companies. Instead of creating your own products, you recommend existing ones through your blog, social media, or YouTube channel. Each sale made through your unique link earns you a commission.  

Tools like website builder for setting up a blog, Ahrefs for keyword research, and Google Analytics for tracking performance help you grow your audience and boost sales. With the right tools and strategy, affiliate marketing can become a scalable and profitable income stream.  

How to get started?  

• Pick a niche that matches your interests and expertise, like tech, health, or finance, where people actively search for recommendations.  
• Sign up for affiliate programs such as Amazon Associates, ShareASale, or direct brand partnerships that offer commission-based earnings.  
• Build a content platform by launching a blog, YouTube channel, or social media page to share reviews, comparisons, and tutorials.  
• Create valuable content that educates and helps your audience instead of just pushing products. Offer real insights and honest recommendations.  
• Optimize with SEO to rank higher in search results and attract potential buyers searching for product advice.  
• Track performance and refine your strategy by analyzing clicks, conversions, and earnings to improve results over time.  

Sell digital products  

Selling digital products is one of the best ways to earn passive income because there’s no need to manage inventory or handle shipping like with physical products. Once you create a digital asset, such as an e-book, online course, or design template, you can sell it repeatedly without any additional production costs.  

With the growing popularity of e-learning, remote work, and digital content, selling digital products has become more relevant than ever. Platforms like Udemy, Teachable, and Gumroad have seen significant growth, making it easier for creators to reach a global audience. However, success in this space depends on how well you position your product, choose the right niche, and provide real value to your customers.  

How to get started?  

• Identify a profitable niche where there’s demand for digital products, such as business, personal finance, design, or education.  
• Create high-quality digital products like online courses, e-books, stock photos, music, or printables. Use tools like Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, or Teachable to design and package your offerings.  
• Choose a platform to sell on, such as Gumroad, Etsy, or Shopify, or set up your own website for direct sales.  
• Market your products through content marketing, social media, and SEO optimization to attract potential buyers.  
• Provide excellent customer support and continuously update your products to maintain engagement and positive reviews.  

Start a print-on-demand business  

A print-on-demand (POD) business lets you sell custom-designed products like t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and posters without needing to store inventory. A supplier handles production and shipping, allowing you to focus on design and marketing.  

The rise of ecommerce and social media has made POD a compelling opportunity for creative entrepreneurs. Customers love unique and personalized products, making this a promising space for growth. The challenge is standing out in a crowded market, so developing a strong brand and marketing strategy is important.  

How to get started?  

• Choose a niche that aligns with trending interests or personal passions, such as motivational quotes, pop culture, or niche hobbies.  
• Create unique and eye-catching designs using software like Adobe Illustrator or Canva.  
• Partner with print-on-demand platforms like Printful, Teespring, or Redbubble that handle production and fulfillment.  
• Set up an online business using Shopify, Etsy, or WooCommerce to showcase and sell your products.  
• Promote your store using social media marketing, influencer collaborations, and paid ads to drive traffic and boost sales.  

Start dropshipping products 

Dropshipping lets you sell products online without storing inventory. When a customer places an order, you purchase the item from a supplier who ships it directly to them. This eliminates the hassle of packaging and fulfillment. 

Dropshipping is popular because it has low startup costs and doesn’t require a big investment. You don’t need to buy inventory upfront, so there’s less risk compared to traditional retail. However, success depends on picking the right products, working with reliable suppliers, and standing out in a crowded market.   

How to get started?  

• Research trending products with demand, using tools like Google Trends or Exploding Topics.  
• Choose a reliable supplier from platforms like AliExpress, Spocket, or Oberlo.  
• Set up an online store using Shopify or WooCommerce, integrating it with your chosen dropshipping supplier.  
• Drive traffic through content marketing, paid advertising, and social media campaigns. 
• Provide top-notch customer service to build brand loyalty and encourage repeat purchases.  

Utilize YouTube platform 

From vloggers to educators, gamers to entrepreneurs, people across all industries use YouTube to generate income. The platform offers several ways to make money directly to your bank account, including ad revenue, sponsorships, channel memberships, and even direct fan support through features like Super Chats and Patreon.  

With almost 3 billions monthly active users, YouTube provides massive exposure and the potential to turn content creation into a full-time career. Whether it’s daily vlogs, tutorials, entertainment, or product reviews, successful YouTubers build a loyal following that opens multiple income streams.  

Even if you have a busy schedule, dedicating just a few hours a week to creating content can help you grow your channel over time.

How to get started?  

• Choose a niche that aligns with your expertise and audience demand, such as tech reviews, fitness tutorials, or personal finance advice.  
• Invest in basic video production equipment, including a good camera, microphone, and video editing software.  
• Optimize your content for YouTube SEO by using keyword-rich titles, descriptions, and tags.  
• Join the YouTube Partner Program once you meet the eligibility criteria of 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours.  
• Diversify income streams by incorporating brand sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and exclusive memberships.  

Look for freelancing jobs  

Freelancing lets you earn money by offering your skills to clients online. Whether you’re a writer, designer, or developer, freelancing offers the flexibility to choose your projects and work from anywhere. While it comes with some challenges, such as inconsistent income and deadlines, it offers the opportunity to build a career on your own terms.  

Freelancing is one of the most accessible ways to make money online because it connects you directly to clients worldwide. Online platforms provide a steady stream of opportunities for those with the right skills. As you gain experience, you can increase your rates, specialize in niches, and build long-term relationships that provide stable income.  

How to get started? 

• Identify your skills and niche by figuring out what you’re good at and what you enjoy doing. 
• Build a portfolio that shows your best work to help potential clients see your skills.  
• Create a professional online presence with a website or LinkedIn profile that highlights your work and services.  
• Set your rates by checking what others charge and choosing a fair price based on your skills.  
• Search for clients on freelancing platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to find projects you can work on.  
• Reach out to people in your field, attend online events, and build relationships to find new job opportunities or projects.  
• Always have a stable internet connection as this will be crucial when doing freelance jobs 
• Deliver excellent work consistently to build a strong reputation and keep clients coming back.  

Apply for virtual assistant jobs  

Virtual assistants provide remote administrative support to businesses and entrepreneurs, handling tasks like managing emails, scheduling appointments, and customer service. It’s a great option for those who are organized and enjoy helping others manage their day-to-day operations. The flexibility of working remotely makes this role accessible to many, and it offers the chance to work with multiple clients in a variety of industries.  

Virtual assistant jobs have become popular because they allow individuals to work from home. As businesses continue to rely on remote support, the demand for skilled virtual assistants grows depending on the client’s needs.  

Some of the most common duties include. 

• Email management. Sorting through emails, responding, and organizing them to help clients stay on top of their communications. 
• Appointment setter. Coordinating meetings, setting reminders, and making sure calendars stay organized. 
• Travel booking. Arranging flights, hotel stays, and transportation for business trips or personal travel. 
• Data entry. Keeping records and databases up to date, ensuring everything is accurate. 
• Social media management. Handling social media accounts, creating posts, and engaging with followers to build a brand presence. 
• Customer support. Answering questions, providing assistance, and solving problems for clients or customers through email, chat, or phone. 
• Project management. Helping with project planning, tracking progress, and ensuring things stay on schedule. 
• Content creation. Writing blog posts, articles, or newsletters to promote a business or brand. 
• Bookkeeping. Managing finances, including invoices, payments, and financial records. 
• Research. Gathering information and conducting research to support business decisions or projects. 

How to get started? 

• Identify the administrative tasks you are skilled at, such as email management, data entry, or scheduling.  
• Build a portfolio by offering your services to small businesses or entrepreneurs first.  
• Create a professional online presence on platforms like LinkedIn, showcasing your services and experience.  
• Set your rates by researching what others charge for similar services.  
• Search for clients on freelancing platforms like Upwork or LinkedIn.  
• Network with entrepreneurs and small business owners to find more opportunities.  
• Consistently deliver quality support to clients, ensuring their satisfaction and building lasting professional relationships. 
• Create contracts or agreements with clients to protect both parties. 

Start with social media management 

Social media management involves creating and managing content, interacting with followers, and developing strategies to promote brands on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. It’s an ideal job for individuals with strong communication skills and a good sense of what works on social media.   

This strategy works well because the rise of social media marketing has created an ongoing demand for skilled managers. Social media management provides steady work with opportunities to grow by taking on larger accounts or specializing in particular industries.  

A key part of social media management is tracking and analyzing performance using platform analytics. By monitoring metrics like engagement rates, click-through rates, and audience demographics, social media managers can optimize their strategies. This allows them to understand what works, optimize campaigns, and ensure their efforts align with business goals. 

How to get started? 

• Identify the platforms you are most familiar with, like Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter, and understand what content works best on each. 
• Build a portfolio by offering to manage social media accounts for friends, family, or small businesses.  
• Set up a professional online presence showcasing your skills, either via a website or LinkedIn.  
• Research industry standards to set competitive rates. 
• Search for social media management opportunities on freelance platforms like LinkedIn, Upwork, or Facebook.  
• Network with businesses that could benefit from your services and attend events in your niche.  
• Deliver engaging content consistently and build relationships with clients for repeat business. 

Online tutoring and teaching  

Online tutoring and teaching involve providing instruction on subjects like language, mathematics, or professional skills through digital platforms. This is a great option for individuals who have expertise in a particular field and enjoy helping others learn.   

With the growing demand for remote education, especially in niche subjects or skills, there is a wide range of opportunities to teach both children and adults. Online tutoring offers flexibility and the ability to connect with students from around the world. You can set your own hours and work from home, making it a sustainable way to earn money online.   

How to get started? 

• Identify the subjects or skills you’re qualified to teach, such as math, coding, or a foreign language. 
• Create a portfolio of your teaching experience or create sample lessons to show potential students. 
• Set up a professional online presence with a website or profile on teaching platforms like Tutor.com or Udemy.  
• Set your rates by researching the going rates for your subject or skill.  
• Search for tutoring or teaching opportunities on platforms like Teachable or VIPKid.  
• Network by joining online education communities and connecting with others in your field.  
• Provide high-quality lessons that help students succeed, leading to repeat business and referrals.  

Do AI proofreading  

AI proofreading involves using tools powered by artificial intelligence to review and improve written content. These tools check for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and sometimes even style issues, helping to make the text clearer and more polished. AI proofreading can also suggest ways to improve sentence structure and overall readability. 

With the growing demand for online content, AI proofreading has become an essential tool for writers, bloggers, and content creators who want to ensure their work is professional and error-free. It’s perfect for people who enjoy working independently, have a strong eye for detail, and are comfortable using AI to enhance their writing.  

How to get started? 

• Get familiar with AI proofreading tools like Grammarly, Hemingway, and ProWritingAid. 
• Practice proofreading sample content to understand how the tools work and what they correct. 
• Offer your services at a lower rate or for free to build a portfolio of work samples. 
• Create an online presence with a website or LinkedIn profile that highlights your skills. 

• Research industry rates and set competitive pricing. 
• Look for AI proofreading gigs on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or specialized writing sites. 
• Reach out to bloggers, content creators, or small businesses who may need your services. 
• Focus on delivering high-quality, accurate work to build a solid reputation. 

Sell handmade goods on Etsy  

If you’re crafty, artistic, or great at designing digital products, selling handmade goods on Etsy is a profitable business. Etsy is a big marketplace that attracts millions of buyers looking for unique, high-quality handmade products like jewelry, home decor, etc. Unlike mass-produced items, handmade goods have higher perceived value, meaning you can set premium prices.  

This side hustle is perfect for creative individuals who want to monetize their skills without committing to a full-time business. You don’t need a physical store because everything is done online, and many sellers start with minimal investment. 

How to get started?  

• Choose a product to create and sell, such as jewelry, home decor, or digital artwork. 
• Set up your Etsy shop by creating a compelling profile and uploading your product photos. 
• Write clear and detailed descriptions of your products, highlighting unique features and materials.  
• Price your products based on research into similar items, ensuring you’re competitive while still making a profit.  
• Promote your shop on Instagram, Pinterest, or TikTok to drive traffic to your Etsy store.  
• Provide excellent customer service and fulfill orders quickly to earn positive reviews and repeat business.  

Flip items on eBay/Facebook Marketplace  

Flipping is the process of buying items at a lower price and reselling them at a higher price to make a profit. This is a popular method for making money online, especially if you know how to spot valuable items at thrift stores, garage sales, or online marketplaces. With a keen eye for deals, you can flip anything from electronics to furniture, clothing, and collectibles.  

Flipping allows you to leverage the value of secondhand items that may be overlooked by others. With the rise of online marketplaces like eBay and Facebook Marketplace, it’s easier than ever to access products at discounted prices and sell them to a global audience.   

If you need to make money online fast, flipping is a great option, as you can start with little investment and see quick returns.

How to get started?  

• Search for underpriced items in thrift stores, garage sales, or online marketplaces that you can flip for a profit.  
• Check eBay’s completed listings to see what similar items are selling for to determine resale value.  
• Clean and repair items to improve their appeal, increasing their value before reselling.  
• List your items with high-quality photos and detailed, accurate descriptions to attract buyers.  
• Set a price that covers your costs and includes a reasonable profit margin.  
• Offer local pickup for bulky items to avoid shipping costs and increase buyer interest.  
• Ship items quickly and communicate well with buyers to maintain high ratings.  

Become an online coach  

If you have specialized knowledge in a field like fitness, business, productivity, or personal finance, you can monetize it by becoming an online coach. With remote coaching, you guide individuals or small groups to reach their goals through structured programs.  

You can offer one-on-one coaching, create digital courses, or run subscription-based group sessions. People are willing to pay for expert advice that helps them achieve real results.  

How to get started?  

• Pick a niche you’re an expert in, like fitness, personal growth, or career coaching. Focus on a specific area where you can stand out.  
• Build a coaching program with clear goals and a step-by-step process that delivers results.  
• Set up your website or professional social media profiles to showcase your program and expertise.  
• Share free, valuable content like tips, live Q&As, or success stories to build trust and attract clients.  
• Research what other coaches charge and set competitive rates based on your experience and value.  
• Offer coaching through video calls using tools like Zoom to connect with clients anywhere.  

Start a subscription-based business  

A subscription business is one of the best ways to earn income online. Instead of making a one-time sale, you get paid regularly for providing exclusive content, services, or products. This means you don’t have to constantly find new customers because your existing subscribers keep supporting you as long as they see value in what you offer. 

Services like Netflix, Spotify, or even Patreon creators. People subscribe to these apps because they enjoy what’s being offered and want continued access. A subscription-based business gives you predictable income while focusing on what you do best. 

How to get started? 

• Decide what exclusive content or products you can offer, like premium videos, articles, or subscription boxes.  
• Choose a platform like Patreon or Substack to host your subscription service.  
• Create multiple subscription levels with varying perks to attract different types of customers.  
• Promote your service through social media, email newsletters, and collaborations to reach your audience. 
• Deliver consistent, high-quality content to keep subscribers engaged and prevent churn.  
• Use feedback from subscribers to improve and offer even more value.  

Earn money from apps   

Earning money from apps is a way to make passive income by completing simple tasks on your phone. Apps like Honeygain and Sweatcoin reward you for activities like walking, sharing your internet bandwidth, or watching ads.   

This method is perfect for people who want to make use of their idle time. Whether you’re walking, browsing the web, or even sleeping, these apps can work for you. It’s an entry-level approach to online money-making that requires minimal setup.  

How to get started?  

• Choose apps like Honeygain or Sweatcoin that pay you for simple tasks like walking or sharing your internet. 
• Download and sign up for the app, then set it up to run in the background. 
• Complete daily tasks or let the app work passively to maximize earnings.  
• Use referral programs to boost your income by getting others to sign up.  
• Track your earnings and cash out when you reach the payout threshold.  

How to avoid online scams and get-rich-quick schemes  

There are many ways to look for job opportunities online but there are also scams. These scam websites claim to pay users for taking online surveys but never actually send payments. Knowing how to spot these scams and verify legitimate opportunities is key to staying safe online.  

Here’s how you can avoid getting caught in a scam.  

1. Identify the red flags   

• Promises of fast, easy money. If an online job promises you’ll make a lot of money with little effort, be cautious. Scammers often make these promises to lure you in, but real opportunities usually require hard work or time. 
• Asking for upfront payments. A legitimate job will never ask you to pay money upfront for training, membership, or access to the job itself. If you’re asked to pay to get started, it’s a big red flag.  
• Vague job descriptions. If you can’t find clear details on what the job involves, or if it sounds too general, it’s likely a scam. Legitimate jobs should explain exactly what you’ll be doing.  
• Unrealistic offers. Scammers often say things like “make $500 a day” with no experience. Real opportunities take time to build, and if someone guarantees fast money, it’s a warning sign.  

2. Verify the online work opportunity  

• Research the company. Look up reviews, complaints, or feedback from people who have worked with the company. Trustworthy websites like Trustpilot or Google Reviews can give you a clearer idea of whether the opportunity is legit.  
• Understand the business model. Make sure the company is actually selling products or services and not just focused on recruiting. Legitimate businesses focus on offering real value, not just signing up more people.  
• Ask for proof. A real business will show evidence of success like product samples, customer testimonials, or financial results. If they’re vague or won’t provide any proof, be suspicious.  
• Don’t rush into decisions. Scammers create a sense of urgency, telling you that you’ll miss out if you don’t act fast. A legitimate opportunity will give you time to think it over.  
• Consult with others. Ask people you trust if they’ve heard of the company or if they know anyone who’s worked with them. If you can’t find any real experiences, that’s a major red flag.  

How to choose the best income method for You  

Choosing the right method to earn money online depends on your personal goals, time availability, skills, and how much you’re willing to invest. Here’s a simple guide to help you make the right choice.  

Assess your goals  

Think about what you want to achieve with your online income. Are you looking for quick cash to cover immediate needs, or are you focused on building a steady, long-term income stream? Identifying your goals will help guide your decision.   

If your goal is to build a sustainable income, consider methods that take more time but provide long-term rewards. Freelancing, selling products, or starting a business can take time to grow, but they have the potential to evolve into reliable, ongoing sources of income.  

Consider your time availability   

Your available time plays a big role in determining which income method is best for you. If you have limited free time, you’ll want to look for options that don’t demand much ongoing commitment.  

However, if you have more time to invest and are looking for something that can grow into a more substantial source of income, consider side hustle like freelancing, online coaching, or selling products. These opportunities require a larger time investment upfront, but once you’ve built momentum, they can provide more steady and higher-paying returns over time.  

Evaluate your skills  

If you have specialized skills like writing, design, coding, or marketing, freelancing can be an ideal option. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr allow you to offer your services to clients all over the world, often with little to no upfront cost.   

If you enjoy teaching, mentoring, or guiding others, online coaching could be the perfect fit. Whether it’s fitness, business, or personal development, coaching allows you to share your knowledge and expertise with others while earning money. Consider what you’re passionate about and how you can use that to help others, turning it into a successful income stream.  

Decide on the level of investment  

Think about how much time and money you’re willing to invest before you start earning. Some methods, like freelancing and earning from apps, require little to no financial investment. These are ideal if you want to get started quickly without taking any financial risks.  

Other methods may require some initial investment, such as buying inventory, setting up a website, or running ads. While these can be more expensive to start, they offer the potential for larger returns once you’ve built your business. Consider your budget and how much you’re comfortable investing in before making a decision.  

If you’re on a budget, consider starting with low-cost options like freelancing, affiliate marketing, or online tutoring. These methods let you earn without major upfront expenses, helping you save money while building your online income.

Think about the level of involvement you want  

If you want to be involved in every aspect of your business, methods like freelancing, online coaching, or selling products are great choices. These require more of your time and effort, but they allow you to control how your income grows and where you put your energy.  

If you’re looking for a more passive income source, methods like dropshipping or subscription businesses could be a good fit. While they require more work upfront, once set up, these businesses can run with less day-to-day involvement.   

Start earning income online  

Making money online offers diverse opportunities for those willing to put in the effort. Whether you’re looking for passive income, a full-time active job, or a flexible side hustle, there’s a method that can fit your needs. By choosing the right path based on your time, skills, and willingness to invest you can find one that aligns with your aspirations. But remember to avoid scams and verify these strategies before making a decision.  

Want to succeed online in 2025? Pick a strategy, take action, and stay consistent. Which of these methods interests you the most?  

Frequently asked questions (FAQ’s)