Tired of that paycheck-to-paycheck cycle? Feeling the squeeze of inflation and that never-ending student loan drama? Girl, same. But what if we told you there’s a way to earn an extra $1,000 every month? No magic wands or fairy godmothers needed – just a little creativity and some smart hustling.
2024 is the year of the Black woman. Black-woman-owned businesses are on the rise (with a 30% increase since 2023), with some, like Slutty Vegan, reaching over $100 million in valuation. Kamala Harris is making history by running for president, and we’ve got more Black women billionaires than ever before.
But building wealth, especially generational wealth, isn’t always a cakewalk. It takes a whole lotta smarts, hustle, and fierce determination. Fortunately for you, we’ve done the digging, so you don’t have to.
Below are 15 super-smart and easy-to-launch Black-woman-approved ways to earn that extra dough in 2024. From leveraging your natural talents to tapping into unexpected markets, these money moves are about to turn your spare time into spare change – and then some.
Disclaimer: Income estimates are based on averages and can vary depending on location, experience, and market conditions. It’s essential to do your research and understand the potential risks associated with each opportunity.
Sell Your Hair – Estimated $600
As a Black woman, selling your hair sounds ludicrous. What if someone does juju with it? It’s downright frightening. But if you do not believe in spiritual connotations about hair or aren’t superstitious, hair can be your gateway to earning an extra $1,000 today.
According to various subreddits, depending on the quality and quantity, you can earn about $50 to $100 per ounce of hair. With the average head having anywhere between 6 to 12 ounces, that’s some serious coin waiting to be collected.
So, if you’re willing to take a chance, check out BuyAndSellHair.com – the site often offers way more for a full head of hair, making it a very lucrative financial option. There’s also HairSellon and OnlineHairAffair.com.
Drinking Wine – Estimated $800
If you love a good Sauvignon Blanc or Châteauneuf-du-pape, why not turn that love into profit?
Like the phenomenal Leslie Frelow, who turned her wine-tasting hobby into a successful business, you can achieve financial prosperity by drinking, sipping, and tasting wine. Here’s how:
- Host Virtual Wine Tastings: Share your wine knowledge and passion with others by organizing events where participants learn about different wines, their origins, and pairings.
- Support Black Winemakers: Focus on promoting wines from Black-owned wineries. This not only supports the community but also fills a niche market that’s often overlooked.
- Become a Wine Consultant: Offer personalized wine recommendations and pairings for individuals or events.
- Launch A Subscription-Based Wine Club: Curate a selection of wines each month for your subscribers, making it easy for them to discover new favorites.
- Leverage Social Media: Build a robust online presence to showcase your wine expertise and attract customers.
Practice Graphic Design – Estimated $2000
Think you’ve got an eye for aesthetics? Girl, you might be sitting on a goldmine! With tools like Canva, Leonardo AI, and Adobe at your fingertips, practicing and earning cash through graphic design is becoming easier than ever.
From crafting killer logos to designing eye-catching social media graphics, the possibilities are endless. And the best part? You are free to set your own rates – in fact, according to ZipRecruiter, the average freelance graphic designer earns about $35 per hour, which translates to over $2000 a month.
To get started, create a portfolio showcasing your best work. Then, check out sites like Fiverr, Upwork, and 99designs, where you can find gigs that match your skills. Many clients are looking for talented designers; these platforms can help you connect with them.
Online Stylist – Estimated $1000
Ever dreamed of turning your passion for fashion into a lucrative career? You could be the next Shiona Turini!
That’s right.
By becoming an online stylist, you can help clients develop head-turning, confidence-boosting looks or teach other Black women how to build their perfect summer or winter capsule wardrobes.
You can even go the Girl Boss route, selling unique pieces on eBay or collaborating with firms like Stitch Fix. With the right strategy, you could earn anywhere from $50 to $200 per styling session.
If you’re entrepreneurial, consider launching your own business with a website or Instagram page to find clients independently. @blackwomenwhostyle regularly publishes stylist jobs all over the U.S., so be sure to check them out.
Online Tutoring – Estimated $1500
Think you’re a math whiz or a grammar goddess? Don’t let those skills sit there collecting dust (like that unused treadmill in your basement). Tutoring is an incredible way to share your brainpower and earn an extra $1,000.
To get started, connect with local schools, browse various job boards, and tap into your local network. Platforms such as Tutor.com, Elevate K-12, and Brainfuse also offer tutoring opportunities for a very lucrative price.
According to insider sources, tutors’ earnings depend on factors such as experience, age group, qualifications, and subject, but the average tutor rate in the U.S. in 2024 earns about $25 per hour.
Rent Out Your Vehicle – Estimated $1000
Why let your car sit idle when it could be earning you cash? Just like renting out that empty garage or room in your house, Black women can rent out their vehicles using services like Turo or Getaround.
According to Turo, renting out a car through their platform can bring in an average of $10,868 a year—around $1,000 a month. So, whether you’re planning a staycation or your car is just parked, why not let someone else cover the gas bill? It’s like getting paid to own a car—now that’s a sweet deal!
Help People Declutter – Estimated $500
Is your closet bursting at the seams? Is your kitchen counter a chaotic masterpiece? You’re not alone, sis.
Everyone loves a good declutter, and with shows like The Home Edit gaining popularity, this is a golden opportunity to turn your love for organization into a profitable side hustle.
Start your own decluttering service to help others organize their spaces and simplify their lives. Begin by offering your services to friends and family to gain experience and build a portfolio. Document the transformations to showcase your skills and attract potential clients.
Become A Pet Sitter – Estimated $900+
If you’re passionate about animals, why not get paid to do what you love? Many pet sitters earn over $900 monthly through platforms like Rover, Wag!, and Fetch. Plus, you can increase your rates as you gain experience and build your reputation.
As @maryhazel22 shared on Reddit, “I’ve been doing dog walking and sitting for the last 17 months, and I’m averaging $900/month YTD. I stumbled into it after I got my own dog two years ago. It’s perfect for me because I can make money while exercising with my own dog, and it keeps me outside, active, and healthy. Some months are harder than others, but ultimately, most gigs are worth it.”
To stand out, offer extra services like pet photography or basic training. Building trust with clients is vital, so go the extra mile with cuddles, playtime, and updates.
Sell Photography For Book Covers – Estimated $2000
Got an eye for stunning shots? Your camera could be your cash cow. Authors are always on the hunt for captivating cover images, and your photos might be the perfect fit.
According to renowned filmmaker and photographer @rekhagarton, Black women (and women in general) can earn over $2,000 per month selling photography for book covers.
While many turn to platforms like Pexels, Stock Images, and Shutterstock, Rekha recommends using Arcangel and Trevillion. Unlike other sites that offer minimal royalties—often less than 20%—these platforms provide up to 50% royalties on your photos.
Rekha has even created an eBook (Breaking into Book Covers) with a step-by-step guide on how to succeed in this niche.
Earn On Etsy – Estimated $800
Got a knack for crafting cool stuff? Etsy is your ticket to turning your hobby into a hustle. From handmade jewelry to digital downloads, this online marketplace is a goldmine for creatives.
Think of it as your own personal shop, open 24/7, with a built-in customer base. With a bit of creativity and hustle, you could be earning over $800 a month, to be exact. All you need to do is snap photos, list items, handle customer queries, and watch the money roll in!
Manage Social Media Accounts – Estimated $1200
Love scrolling through your feed? Turn that obsession into income! Businesses are hungry for social media experts who can boost their online presence. From crafting engaging posts to running targeted ads, your skills are in high demand.
Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr can connect you with clients, but building your own network is critical. With a little hustle, you could be raking in $14-$35 per hour. So, level up your social media game and start turning likes into dollars.
Create Online Courses On Amazon – Estimated $2000
Got expertise to spare? Turn your knowledge into cash. Offer coaching or consulting services in your field and help others reach their goals while growing your income.
Or package your wisdom into online courses and reach a global audience. Either way, you’re sharing your brilliance and making bank. It’s a win-win!
Dip Your Toes In Investing – Estimated $1000
Investing might seem scary, but it doesn’t have to be. Start small, do your research, and watch your money grow. Whether you’re into stocks, real estate, or something in between, there’s an investment option for everyone.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Stock Market: Dive into the world of stocks, bonds, or index funds. Platforms like Robinhood and Dream Exchange (a minority-controlled stock exchange) make it easier than ever to get started.
- Real Estate: Invest in properties or real estate investment trusts (REITs). Consider platforms like Arrived, Avanath Capital Management, and MacFarlane Partners for fractional real estate ownership.
- Diversify Your Portfolio: For a balanced approach, explore fixed-income investments like bonds, CDs, and money market funds (MMFs)
Investing involves risk, so it’s essential to research and consider consulting a financial advisor.
Prep Meals Or Cook For People – Estimated $1000
Got culinary chops? Turn them into cash by prepping meals for busy folks or cooking up full feasts! Becoming a full-fledged chef requires schooling and extensive work experience, but starting a meal prep business needs just a license, a solid business plan, and your mad cooking skills.
Start by asking friends and family for referrals or exploring local networks. With a few clients, you could quickly work your way up to earning over $2,000 a month.
Market Research And Surveys – Estimated $400
Got thoughts? Get paid for them! Online surveys and market research are your ticket to making extra cash while binge-watching your favorite show. No experience needed, just your honest opinions.
While you won’t be a millionaire overnight, platforms like Survey Junkie, InboxDollars, and Google Online Rewards can help you earn some extra spending money. Just remember, the advertised rates can be misleading, so don’t expect to consistently make the advertised $31 an hour. However, consider this your low-effort way to earn a few extra bucks.
Think of it as getting paid to gossip but with less drama and more dollars. Perfect for those commercial breaks or when you’re pretending to listen to your coworker’s vacation stories.
Use TaskRabbit – Estimated $800
Looking for a side hustle that connects you with quick cash? TaskRabbit links you with people who need small jobs done, like grocery deliveries, and pays you to get it done!
Jobs are posted, and you bid on them. The lowest bid wins, and TaskRabbit handles background checks for your safety.
Payment varies, but with the right skills and availability, you could easily pull in an extra $1,000 a month. Take Nina from San Francisco, for example. She’s tackled over 350 tasks, mostly furniture assembly, and has earned over $21,000 since January 2022.
So, what are you waiting for? Sign up, set your rates, and start turning tasks into cash.
Remember, building a successful side hustle takes time and effort. Be patient and persistent, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different opportunities. With dedication and determination, you can earn that extra $1000 monthly and be well on your way to achieving financial success.
