Navigating the rising cost of living in Singapore can be challenging, especially with the upcoming GST hike from 8% to 9%. Many Singaporeans are turning to side hustles to supplement their main income and bolster financial stability. Whether you’re looking to pay off debts, save for a big purchase, or just have extra cash on hand, side hustles offer a flexible and often lucrative solution. Here are the 10 best side hustle ideas in Singapore for 2024 that can help you make extra money.
1. Freelance Writing and Content Creation
Why It’s a Great Side Hustle
With the digital age in full swing, there’s a high demand for quality content. Companies and individuals are constantly on the lookout for skilled writers to create blog posts, articles, social media content, and more. Freelance writing offers flexibility, allowing you to work from anywhere and choose projects that fit your schedule.
How to Get Started
- Build a Portfolio: Start by writing samples on topics you’re passionate about.
- Join Freelance Platforms: Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer connect writers with clients.
- Network: Use LinkedIn to connect with potential clients and showcase your work.
Potential Earnings
Freelance writers in Singapore can earn anywhere from SGD 20 to SGD 100 per hour, depending on experience and the complexity of the work.
2. Online Tutoring
Why It’s a Great Side Hustle
Education is a thriving sector in Singapore, and many parents seek extra help for their children. Online tutoring allows you to teach from the comfort of your home, covering subjects you’re proficient in.
How to Get Started
- Choose Your Subject: Identify the subjects you’re good at and passionate about.
- Get Certified: While not always necessary, having a teaching certificate can boost your credibility.
- Sign Up on Tutoring Platforms: Websites like TutorMe, Chegg, and local platforms can help you find students.
Potential Earnings
Online tutors can earn between SGD 30 to SGD 80 per hour, depending on their expertise and the subject matter.
3. Ride-Sharing and Food Delivery
Why It’s a Great Side Hustle
With the rise of platforms like Grab, Gojek, and Foodpanda, ride-sharing and food delivery have become popular side hustles. These gigs offer flexibility and the opportunity to work during peak hours for higher earnings.
How to Get Started
- Sign Up: Register with platforms like Grab, Gojek, Foodpanda, or Deliveroo.
- Meet Requirements: Ensure you meet the vehicle and licensing requirements.
- Maximize Earnings: Work during peak hours and high-demand periods.
Potential Earnings
Drivers and delivery partners can earn between SGD 15 to SGD 35 per hour, depending on the time and location.
4. E-commerce and Dropshipping
Why It’s a Great Side Hustle
E-commerce is booming, and starting an online store has never been easier. Dropshipping allows you to sell products without holding inventory, making it a low-risk way to start an online business.
How to Get Started
- Choose a Niche: Select products that are in demand and have a loyal customer base.
- Set Up a Store: Use platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, or Lazada to create your online store.
- Find Suppliers: Partner with reliable suppliers through sites like AliExpress or Oberlo.
Potential Earnings
Earnings vary widely, but successful dropshippers can make between SGD 500 to SGD 5000 per month.
5. Graphic Design Services
Why It’s a Great Side Hustle
Graphic design is in high demand for creating logos, websites, marketing materials, and more. If you have a knack for design, this can be a highly rewarding side hustle.
How to Get Started
- Build a Portfolio: Showcase your work on platforms like Behance or Dribbble.
- Learn Design Tools: Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and other design software is crucial.
- Market Yourself: Use social media and freelance platforms to find clients.
Potential Earnings
Freelance graphic designers can earn between SGD 30 to SGD 150 per hour, depending on their skill level and the project’s complexity.
6. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
Why It’s a Great Side Hustle
Pet owners in Singapore often need reliable care for their furry friends while they’re away. Pet sitting and dog walking are great side hustles for animal lovers.
How to Get Started
- Get Experience: Start by offering your services to friends and family.
- Join Platforms: Websites like Pawshake and PetBacker connect pet sitters with pet owners.
- Build Trust: Positive reviews and reliable service are key to building a steady client base.
Potential Earnings
Pet sitters and dog walkers can earn between SGD 15 to SGD 50 per hour, depending on the services provided.
7. Social Media Management
Why It’s a Great Side Hustle
Businesses are constantly seeking help to manage their social media presence. If you’re savvy with platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, you can offer your skills as a social media manager.
How to Get Started
- Learn the Basics: Understand the fundamentals of social media marketing.
- Build Your Own Presence: Demonstrate your skills by growing your personal social media accounts.
- Find Clients: Network with local businesses or join freelance platforms like Upwork or Freelancer.
Potential Earnings
Social media managers can earn between SGD 500 to SGD 3000 per month, depending on the number of clients and services offered.
8. Photography and Videography
Why It’s a Great Side Hustle
With the rise of digital content, there’s a high demand for professional photography and videography services for events, marketing, and personal projects.
How to Get Started
- Invest in Equipment: A good camera and editing software are essential.
- Build a Portfolio: Showcase your work on social media or a personal website.
- Network: Connect with potential clients through local events and online platforms like EventNook and Meetup.
Potential Earnings
Photographers and videographers can earn between SGD 100 to SGD 500 per session, depending on the project.
9. Virtual Assistant Services
Why It’s a Great Side Hustle
Busy professionals and entrepreneurs often need help with administrative tasks. As a virtual assistant, you can provide support services from the comfort of your home.
How to Get Started
- Identify Your Skills: Determine what administrative tasks you’re good at.
- Create a Profile: Use platforms like Upwork or Freelancer to offer your services.
- Build Relationships: Reliability and efficiency will help you retain clients.
Potential Earnings
Virtual assistants can earn between SGD 15 to SGD 50 per hour, depending on the tasks and clients.
10. Baking and Catering Services
Why It’s a Great Side Hustle
If you have a passion for baking or cooking, turning it into a side hustle can be both fun and profitable. Singaporeans love their food, and there’s always a demand for delicious treats and catering services.
How to Get Started
- Test Your Recipes: Perfect your recipes and get feedback from friends and family.
- Get Licensed: Ensure you meet local health and safety regulations. Check out the Singapore Food Agency for guidelines.
- Market Your Business: Use social media and word-of-mouth to attract customers.
Potential Earnings
Bakers and caterers can earn between SGD 200 to SGD 2000 per event, depending on the scale and complexity of the order.
Why Consider a Side Hustle?
With the GST hike from 8% to 9% and inflation in full swing, it’s fair to say that rising costs of living are leaving many Singaporeans feeling the pinch. In these uncertain times, a side hustle can be a good way to supplement your main income and boost your financial stability. Whether it’s a part-time gig or a side project, side hustles have the potential to grow into something more than just a source of side income. Some people choose a side hustle that allows them to pursue a passion or hobby. Others take up a side hustle as a way to build up their resume and eventually transition into their dream job.
Whether your goal is to supplement your main income, pay off debts, pursue a passion, or work towards a dream career — there are many flexible and profitable side hustle opportunities available in Singapore. In this article, we’ve reviewed 10 of the best side hustle ideas you can explore to achieve your goals.
Final Thoughts
Embracing a side hustle can significantly enhance your financial well-being, especially with the GST hike on the horizon. By exploring these 10 side hustle ideas, you can find an opportunity that aligns with your skills and interests, providing a rewarding way to make extra money in 2024. So, why wait? Start your side hustle journey today and secure a brighter financial future!
FAQs
1. Is it legal to have a side hustle in Singapore? Yes, as long as it doesn’t conflict with your main employment contract and complies with local laws and regulations.
2. How can I manage my time effectively with a side hustle? Prioritize tasks, set clear boundaries, and use productivity tools to stay organized.
3. Do I need to pay taxes on my side hustle income? Yes, any additional income earned from side hustles must be declared and taxed accordingly.
4. How can I choose the best side hustle for me? Consider your skills, interests, and the time you can commit. Research the market demand for your chosen side hustle.
Get Started Today
No matter where you are in life, taking on a side hustle can accelerate you towards your financial goals. Depending on your skills, side hustles can even grow from a supplemental source of income to your main source of income. One of the fields where this is possible is digital marketing. A digital marketing side job can help you gain the competency and confidence you need to transition into the rapidly growing digital marketing industry and improve your career prospects.
Learn the Skills You Need to Side Hustle Today
FirstCom Academy is helping professionals transform and upgrade their careers through courses taught by industry veterans. If you’re interested in pursuing digital marketing as a side hustle with the goal of turning it into a career, explore our range of practical digital marketing courses that focus on in-demand skills taught in a progressive and easy-to-understand manner. Supported by SkillsFuture and WSQ — our learners enjoy up to 70% subsidies on all SkillsFuture courses and receive recognised certificates to help them grow their careers.
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