As an educator, you give your all to shape young minds. But, the financial side of teaching can be tough. The average teacher’s salary in the U.S. has dropped by 5% over the last decade, adjusted for inflation. This leaves many teachers struggling financially. But, there’s hope – side hustles for teachers are becoming more popular to help increase their income and financial stability.
A recent Pew Research study found that about 17% of teachers have a second job outside the classroom. You can make more money by tutoring, selling lesson plans, freelance writing, or teaching ESL. The right side hustle can boost your income, let you pursue your passions, and open new doors for personal growth.
Key Takeaways
- Side hustles can provide teachers with an additional source of income to supplement their teaching salaries.
- Tutoring, both in-person and online, can be a lucrative side hustle for teachers, with the potential to earn $30 or more per hour.
- Selling printables and lesson plans on platforms like TeachersPayTeachers can generate passive income for teachers.
- Coaching extracurricular activities and teaching ESL online offer flexible earning opportunities for teachers.
- Freelance writing, virtual assisting, and other remote work options allow teachers to leverage their skills and earn extra income.
The Importance of Side Hustles for Teachers
Teachers face the challenge of making ends meet with their primary job and need extra income. Teaching is rewarding but often doesn’t pay enough for all our needs. Side hustles offer a way to increase earnings and improve financial stability.
Reasons Why Teachers Need Side Hustles
Teachers should think about starting a side hustle for several reasons:
- Supplement teaching salaries: In the United States, over 58% of public school teachers work extra jobs to make more money.
- Prepare for unexpected expenses: Side hustles help teachers save for big buys, dream trips, or sudden family costs.
- Pursue professional development: The extra cash from side hustles lets teachers grow professionally, like going to conferences or getting advanced degrees.
- Diversify income streams: Teachers who only rely on their salary are at risk during economic downturns or budget cuts. Side hustles offer a safety net and add to their income sources.
Financial Benefits of Side Hustles
Side hustles bring many financial benefits to teachers:
- Increased earning potential: Teachers can make more money with side hustles, like earning up to $150 an hour online or through freelance writing.
- Debt reduction: The extra cash can be used to pay off loans, credit card debt, or other financial burdens, improving financial stability.
- Retirement savings: Teachers can put more money into retirement with side hustles, ensuring a secure financial future.
- Lifestyle improvements: The extra money can buy dream items, fund vacations, or cover unexpected costs, making life better.
“The extra income from my side hustle has been a game-changer, allowing me to pay off my student loans and save for a down payment on a house. It’s given me a real sense of financial security.”
– Emily, High School English Teacher
Tutoring: A Natural Side Hustle for Teachers
Teachers have a special skill set that can help them make extra money through tutoring. They can choose between in-person or online tutoring. This is a great way for teachers to make more money.
In-Person Tutoring Opportunities
Tutoring students one-on-one or in small groups is a great way for teachers to use their knowledge and make extra cash. Teachers can advertise their services on social media, local boards, or by word of mouth. They can charge $30 or more per hour. This lets them work around their schedule and help students who need it.
Online Tutoring Platforms
Online learning has opened up many chances for teachers to make money tutoring online. Sites like Wyzant and Outschool let teachers create profiles, set their rates, and meet students who need help. Online tutors can earn about $50 per hour, making it a good side job for teachers.
Online tutoring lets teachers work from anywhere, anytime. It’s flexible and easy for them. If you’re an expert in math, science, language arts, or any subject, there’s a need for your skills online.
“Tutoring is a natural fit for teachers looking to supplement their income. The skills we’ve honed in the classroom transfer seamlessly to one-on-one or small group instruction, allowing us to earn significantly more per hour than our regular teaching salaries.”
Tutoring is a great way for teachers to make more money. By using their teaching skills, they can earn extra income. This helps support themselves and their families.
Selling Printables and Lesson Plans
Lesson planning can be a big task for teachers. But, by selling lesson plans and other educational materials, teachers can help their peers and make extra money. Sites like Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT), Udemy, and Tes let teachers share their work with many teachers.
Many teachers find selling educational printables very profitable. Lisa Fink, who used to teach, made over $400,000 a year in two years. She sold over $1,000,000 worth of printables. Her work has been downloaded more than 250,000 times.
Teachers can make a lot of money on Teachers Pay Teachers. Some authors make five figures a month after six months. The best part is, once you upload a resource, it can keep selling without needing more stock.
| Seller | Earnings | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Think Tank Teacher | $60,000+ in sales from Etsy escape room printables | Unspecified |
| Becky Powell | $125,500 from TPT store, $50,000 from husband’s TPT store | $21,000 in first year, $10,400 per month on average |
Not just teachers can succeed in selling educational printables. With tools like PowerPoint or Canva, anyone can make and sell resources. This includes teachers, homeschool parents, and party planners.
Monetizing teacher resources through printables and lesson plans can be very rewarding. By using online platforms and smart marketing, teachers can turn their work into a steady income.
Coaching Extracurricular Activities and Sports
Teachers who love sports and extracurricular activities can make coaching a great side job. They can work at local centers, sports clubs, or within their school district. This way, they earn more and keep doing what they love.
Coaching Local Sports Teams
Many youth sports leagues and teams need good coaches. Teachers can use their student experience and family connections to get these jobs. These roles pay well, either by the hour or a set amount, making it a good side job.
Offering Skill-Based Classes or Lessons
Not into coaching? Teachers can teach classes in what they’re good at. This could be music, dance, sports, or hobbies. They can earn by teaching at studios, centers, or even in schools. It’s a flexible way to make extra money.
| Coaching Side Hustles for Teachers | Potential Monthly Earnings |
|---|---|
| Coaching Local Sports Teams | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Offering Skill-Based Classes or Lessons | $1,500 – $10,000 |
Coaching or teaching classes lets teachers use their skills, stay with their passions, and make more money. These options give teachers many ways to increase their income and help their communities.
Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) Online
Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) online is now a great way for teachers to earn extra money. More people are learning English online, which means there are many jobs for those wanting to make some extra cash.
Popular ESL Teaching Platforms
If you want to teach ESL online as a side job, there are many ESL teaching platforms to choose from. They offer flexible hours and good pay. Here are some top choices:
- VIPKid: Pays up to $22 per hour, catering to students in China.
- Qkids: Offers up to $20 USD per hour and requires a minimum of 6 hours per week.
- Preply: Emphasizes teaching business professionals in Spain and Italy, with a focus on qualifications and experience.
- iTutorGroup: Pays between $18-24 USD per hour, with bonuses based on class size and student feedback.
- BEILS Turkey: Offers flexible schedules, professional training, and pays up to $1200 USD per month.
- Whales English: Pays up to $26 per 50-minute class with additional bonuses.
These ESL teaching platforms have great perks like flexible hours, reaching students worldwide, and good pay. They’re perfect for teachers looking to teach ESL online as a side job.
“The flexibility to set my own schedule and potentially my own pay rate is what makes teaching English online so appealing as a side hustle.”
With more people wanting to learn English online, teaching ESL online is a great way for teachers to earn extra. It lets them use their skills and tech knowledge to make more money.
House Sitting and Pet Care Services
If you’re a teacher who loves pets but doesn’t have space or time for one, consider house sitting and pet care. These jobs don’t need much extra work. You just stay in homes while the owners are away or take care of their pets. This can pay well with little effort.
Finding House Sitting and Pet Care Gigs
To find these jobs, check out different places:
- Advertise on pet-related social media and local community boards.
- Sign up on platforms like Wag! or Rover, which connect pet owners with sitters.
- Look on job boards like Care.com for house sitting and pet care jobs near you.
House sitting can earn you about $16 an hour, and pet sitting around $15 an hour. These jobs are great during school breaks when families travel and need someone to watch their homes and pets.
“With the right approach, house sitting and pet care services can provide teachers with a steady stream of extra income, allowing them to supplement their primary salaries and achieve greater financial stability.”
Use your love for animals and teacher schedule to make house sitting and pet care a rewarding side job. It can help you earn more, cover unexpected costs, or save money. These services are a great way to increase your income.
Virtual Assisting and Remote Work
Teachers looking for extra income can find great opportunities in virtual assistant jobs and remote work. These jobs let teachers use their skills in different roles outside of teaching. Tasks like managing social media or providing admin support can increase your income without overloading your schedule.
Many companies need skilled virtual assistants for tasks such as bookkeeping, proofreading, and creating content. Teachers can find these jobs on sites like FlexJobs, Belay, Upwork, and Fiverr. Virtual assistants in the U.S. can earn about $35 an hour, making it a top-paying side job without needing a degree.
Teachers can also look into other remote jobs, like freelance writing, online tutoring, or selling educational resources on Teachers Pay Teachers. With more people working remotely, teachers have more chances than ever to make extra money.
| Side Hustle | Average Hourly Rate | Potential Monthly Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Virtual Assistant | $35 | $5,600 – $7,000 |
| Online Tutoring | $20 – $40 | $3,200 – $6,400 |
| Freelance Writing | $20 – $85 | $3,200 – $13,600 |
| Teachers Pay Teachers | Varies | Up to $124,200 per product |
By looking into virtual assistant jobs and other remote work, teachers can open up new ways to make money. With the right skills and hard work, these jobs can really help increase a teacher’s income.
side hustles for teachers
As a teacher, finding ways to make extra money can change the game. There are many side hustles that can help you earn more. These gigs can cover expenses, help you save, or give you more spending money.
Tutoring is a popular side hustle for teachers. You can earn $18.30 per hour, or up to $50 during exam season. Online platforms let you work on your own schedule.
Selling printables and lesson plans is another great option. Some teachers make over $100,000 a year doing this. Sites like Teachers Pay Teachers make it easy to sell your educational resources.
If you love coaching, extracurricular activities and sports can be a rewarding side hustle. You can lead a sports team or offer classes in your area. It’s a way to make money doing something you enjoy.
For those who speak another language, teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) online is a good choice. ESL platforms let you work from home and earn a good hourly rate.
Teachers with strong writing skills can try freelance writing and proofreading. Freelancers can earn $30-$40 an hour. Proofreaders can make up to $53,733 a year.
These are just a few examples of side hustles for teachers. With creativity and effort, you can find the right gig to increase your income and reach your financial goals.
| Side Hustle | Potential Earnings |
|---|---|
| Tutoring | $18.30 – $50 per hour |
| Selling Printables and Lesson Plans | Up to $100,000+ per year |
| Coaching Extracurricular Activities | Varies, potential for $54,646 per year for summer camp counseling |
| Teaching ESL Online | Flexible hourly rates |
| Freelance Writing and Proofreading | $30-$40 per hour for writing, $53,733 annual salary for proofreading |
“Some teachers earn over $100,000 per year selling lesson plans, prompting some to leave their teaching jobs.”
Freelance Writing and Proofreading
Teachers can earn more by taking up freelance writing and proofreading. Even if you’re not an English teacher, improving your writing can lead to many freelance jobs. Companies often look for freelance writers for their online content and marketing.
Getting Started with Freelance Writing
To start as a freelance writer, check out Problogger and Blogging Pro for job listings. You can also pitch your writing to websites, magazines, and blogs that match your interests. This work can increase your income and improve your writing skills by covering different topics.
Your teaching skills make you great for freelance writing jobs. You can write blog posts, product descriptions, or marketing copy. Your teaching background gives your writing a special touch.
Teachers can also offer proofreading services. With your sharp eye for details and good grammar, you can help businesses, authors, and others. This job lets you use your language skills on your own time.
“Freelance writing has been a primary home business for me since 2015, providing a sustained income stream as a side hustle.”
Freelance writing and proofreading can increase your income and improve your writing skills. It’s a flexible job that fits well with teaching.
Exam Preparation and Academic Coaching
Teachers have a lot of knowledge and skills that can help students with exam prep and academic coaching. They can assist with college applications, help with the ACT or SAT, or give one-on-one academic support. These are great side hustles for teachers.
Tutoring for exams is a great way for teachers to earn extra money. Companies pay up to $180 per hour for tutoring. Teachers can set their own rates, usually between $25 to $100 per hour. By using their teaching skills, teachers can help students reach their goals.
Teachers can also offer academic coaching and test prep services for teachers. They can work with students alone or in small groups. This includes helping them with study plans, writing skills, and understanding course material. Teachers can do this in person or online, fitting it into their teaching schedule.
| Side Hustle | Average Hourly Rate | Potential Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Tutoring for Exam Prep | $25 – $180 per hour | $25,000 – $180,000 per year |
| Academic Coaching | $50 – $100 per hour | $50,000 – $100,000 per year |
| Test Prep Services for Teachers | $50 – $150 per hour | $50,000 – $150,000 per year |
Teachers can use their skills and experience to find rewarding side hustles. These include tutoring for exam prep, academic coaching, and test prep services for teachers. These jobs not only bring in extra money but also help students succeed.
Working with Local Homeschools
The homeschooling movement is growing fast, offering teachers great chances to help local homeschool communities. Homeschools vary a lot, from co-ops that meet once a week to hybrid schools with classes several times a week. They might need teachers for different tasks like giving tests, helping with curriculum, tutoring, grading, or helping students who are struggling.
Homeschool Consulting and Support Services
Teachers who know a lot about teaching methods and making curriculums can offer consulting services to homeschool families. This includes:
- Helping parents make and use good learning plans
- Guiding on choosing the right curriculum for subjects
- Providing tutoring and help for homeschool students
- Giving tests and explaining the results
- Grading work and giving feedback
- Offering advice and support to homeschool families facing challenges
By offering homeschool support services, teachers can earn extra money and help out in their communities. This is a great way to use your teaching skills to make a difference.
This side job is perfect for teachers who love making education fit each student’s needs. It also lets them support families in their educational journey. With homeschool consulting, teachers get to work flexibly and can earn well while doing something they love.
Caregiving and Babysitting Services
Teachers often finish their school day in the afternoon. Caregiving side hustles for teachers are a great way to earn extra money. They love kids, so babysitting jobs for teachers or nanny work might be a good fit. Teachers can share their caregiving services with friends, family, or use websites like Care.com.
They might help with feeding, bathing, and playing with kids, or help older adults with things like getting dressed or cooking. Reports say babysitters make about $16.75 an hour, with some making up to $40 an hour.
- Offer babysitting services in the evenings or on weekends
- Provide part-time nanny work for families in your area
- Help with elderly care, like daily tasks or just being a friend
Teachers can use their love for kids and free time to find caregiving side hustles. These jobs can be both fulfilling and profitable.
Summer Jobs for Teachers
When school ends, teachers get more free time in the summer. Many side hustles can be done all year, but summer jobs offer a big pay boost. These jobs help teachers earn more throughout the year.
Summer School and Camp Counseling
Summer school teaching and camp counseling are top jobs for teachers in the summer. They usually don’t take as much time as regular school work. Yet, they can still add a lot to a teacher’s income.
- Summer school teaching can pay well, with teachers earning $25 to $80 an hour.
- Camp counselor jobs at places like the YMCA or local centers are rewarding. They let teachers share their skills and love for learning with kids.
These summer jobs offer more than just money. They give teachers valuable experience and chances to grow professionally. Teachers can try new teaching methods or subjects too.
“More than one in five educators work a second job during the summer, according to analysis from the Pew Research Center.”
Jobs like summer school teaching or camp counseling are great for teachers. They help teachers earn extra and enjoy their summer break.
Conclusion
Teachers often face financial challenges. Side hustles can be a great way to make extra money. They offer many options, like tutoring, selling educational resources, or virtual assistant services. Teachers can use their skills to find flexible side hustles that help them earn more and follow their passions.
Side hustles can help teachers save money, pay off debt, or just have more spending money. This article has given insights and strategies for teachers to start their side hustle journey. With hard work and planning, teachers can find a side hustle that fits their goals and lifestyle. This can lead to better financial stability and flexibility.
In summary, side hustles are key for teachers. They offer many chances to make extra money, reach financial goals, and enjoy personal interests. Teachers should use their skills to explore different side hustles. This can improve their financial health and overall life quality.