Best Side Hustle Businesses (according to actual economic data)
Want to start a company that’s best way to make extra money on the side?
Ok, spoiler alert! The most lucrative side hustle businesses are:
- Construction
- Real Estate
- Professional Services & Consulting
- Health
- Transportation, Logistics, Delivery
- Retail
- Arts & Crafts
And not necessarily in that order!
We aren’t basing this on trending TikTok videos or creator recommendations. This list is based on legit economic data, census reports, IRS receipts, etc.
We are not going to steer you wrong here. So keep reading for a deeper dive.
FYI, this is going to be a fact-based rundown of the best businesses and their statistics. We’ll cover them more later.
Let’s start with some Maple Madness (aka Canada) with some data pulled right from Stats Can🍁.
Profitable Canadian Side Hustles for 2025
1. Freelance Writing (NAICS 541)
Why It’s Profitable:
The rise of digital content has made freelance writers essential. The Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services sector, which includes freelance writing, reports an average income of $65,000—the highest among self-employed professionals. From blogs and white papers to website copy, opportunities abound for skilled writers.
- Income Potential: $30,000–$100,000+ (depending on niche and experience)
- Getting Started: Build a portfolio on platforms like LinkedIn, Upwork, or Fiverr. Explore high-demand niches such as tech writing, green business communications, or finance.
- Source: Open Government Canada
2. Online Tutoring (NAICS 611)
Why It’s Profitable:
The education sector’s shift to online platforms has made tutoring more accessible and flexible. With many parents and students seeking supplemental education, this side hustle provides a steady income stream.
- Income Potential: $20–$100 per hour (depending on subject and audience)
- Getting Started: Focus on high-demand subjects like math, science, or bilingual education. Market your services on platforms such as Tutor.com or through social media.
- Source: Statistics Canada
3. Handmade Crafts and Artisanal Products (NAICS 711-713)
Why It’s Profitable:
The Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation sector includes artisans leveraging platforms like Etsy to sell handmade crafts. Unique, high-quality products can attract both local and international buyers.
- Income Potential: $20,000–$60,000 (varies with product demand)
- Getting Started: Develop a product line with a unique angle, such as Canadian-themed or sustainable crafts. Sell through Etsy, Shopify, or local craft fairs.
- Source: Open Government Canada
4. Personal Fitness Training (NAICS 621-624)
Why It’s Profitable:
Canadians like to stay sexy, eh? Well apparently, since demand for personal trainers continues to grow. This aligns with the health care and social assistance sector’s average income of $50,000.
- Income Potential: $40,000–$70,000 (varies by client base and specialization)
- Getting Started: Obtain certification through organizations like CanFitPro. Offer in-person or virtual fitness classes, or specialize in areas like weight loss or strength training.
- Source: Statistics Canada
5. Home Renovation and Repair Services (NAICS 236-238)
Why It’s Profitable:
The construction industry is booming, with home renovations in high demand. Self-employed tradespeople such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters earn an average income of $58,000.
- Income Potential: $50,000–$80,000 (depending on skills and workload)
- Getting Started: Highlight eco-friendly renovations or custom carpentry to stand out. Market your services on platforms like HomeStars or through local advertising.
- Source: Statistics Canada
6. Real Estate Management and Rental Services (NAICS 531)
Why It’s Profitable:
The Real Estate and Rental and Leasing sector provides opportunities for property management and rental services. With an average income of $52,000, managing short-term rentals or assisting absentee property owners can be lucrative.
- Income Potential: $20,000–$100,000+ (depending on property scale and management services offered)
- Getting Started: Begin by managing your own property or acting as a local property manager for others. Platforms like Airbnb can be helpful.
- Source: Statistics Canada
Table Breakdown of Canada’s Most Lucrative Side Hustle Industries
| Industry Subsector (NAICS 3-digit code) | Average Employment Income (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services (NAICS 541) | $65,000 |
| Construction (NAICS 236-238) | $58,000 |
| Real Estate and Rental and Leasing (NAICS 531) | $52,000 |
| Health Care and Social Assistance (NAICS 621-624) | $50,000 |
| Retail Trade (NAICS 441-454) | $45,000 |
| Transportation and Warehousing (NAICS 481-493) | $43,000 |
| Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation (NAICS 711-713) | $40,000 |
| Educational Services (NAICS 611) | $38,000 |
| Accommodation and Food Services (NAICS 721-722) | $35,000 |
| Administrative and Support, Waste Management, and Remediation Services (NAICS 561-562) | $33,000 |
Whew, exhausted. Anyways, it’s Murrica time, with data pulled from the BLS, Census Bureau, IRS, and maybe some other places we forgot about already.
Profitable American Side Hustle Industries for 2025
1. Construction Industry
Why It’s Profitable:
The construction industry offers diverse opportunities ranging from independent contracting to project management. The high demand for construction services, particularly in residential, commercial, and specialty trades, provides solid income potential for both employees and independent contractors.
Income Potential:
$35–$50 per hour (e.g., project managers, skilled trades)
Gross Income: $89,700 per year
Net Income: $49,000 per year
Getting Started:
Start by gaining hands-on experience in a specialized trade (e.g., carpentry, plumbing) or by pursuing a construction management degree. Many independent contractors begin by taking on small renovation projects before moving on to larger-scale projects. Certification and licensing may be required for certain trades.
Source:
U.S. Census Bureau
2. Real Estate and Rental Leasing
Why It’s Profitable:
The Real Estate and Rental Leasing sector is ripe with opportunities, particularly for independent agents and property managers. With a self-employment rate of over 50%, many professionals in this sector earn high commissions through property sales, leasing, and short-term rental management.
Income Potential:
$20,000–$100,000+ (depending on the scale and services provided)
Median Annual Wage: $57,570 for real estate agents
Getting Started:
Start by obtaining a real estate license and consider specializing in either sales or property management. Platforms like Airbnb can be a gateway to managing short-term rentals. Building a strong network with property owners and developers can also open doors to higher earnings.
Source:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
3. Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
Why It’s Profitable:
This sector includes highly profitable freelance and consulting opportunities in fields like law, finance, accounting, and design. Professionals in these industries benefit from high hourly rates and the potential for long-term contracts with businesses.
Income Potential:
$48–$60 per hour (e.g., lawyers, accountants, consultants)
Gross Income: $55,150 per year
Net Income: $30,000 per year
Getting Started:
Many professionals in this field begin their careers working in-house for firms before transitioning to freelancing or self-employment. Building a strong portfolio or obtaining certifications in areas like law, accounting, or technology is key. Networking and building a client base are critical to long-term success.
Source:
U.S. Census Bureau
4. Health Care and Social Assistance
Why It’s Profitable:
The healthcare industry offers a wealth of opportunities for independent practitioners, particularly in the growing fields of telehealth and home healthcare. With an aging population and increasing demand for medical services, self-employed professionals have the potential for high earnings.
Income Potential:
$40+ per hour (e.g., registered nurses, physical therapists)
Gross Income: $53,000 per year
Net Income: $27,000 per year
Getting Started:
If you’re interested in the healthcare field, consider pursuing a degree in nursing, physical therapy, or becoming a home health aide. Starting as a part-time caregiver or telehealth consultant can help you gain experience. Building relationships with healthcare providers and patients is key to establishing a steady client base.
Source:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
5. Transportation and Warehousing
Why It’s Profitable:
Transportation and warehousing, especially related to e-commerce, is a growing field with significant opportunities for independent drivers and logistics providers. The rise of online shopping has dramatically increased demand for delivery and last-mile logistics.
Income Potential:
$25–$30 per hour (e.g., drivers, logistics coordinators)
Gross Income: $41,900 per year
Net Income: $17,000 per year
Getting Started:
To enter the transportation field, consider becoming an independent truck driver or courier. Many drivers work through platforms like Uber Freight or Amazon Flex. Alternatively, starting a small logistics or delivery service can provide lucrative opportunities as the demand for quick deliveries increases.
Source:
U.S. Census Bureau
6. Retail Trade
Why It’s Profitable:
The retail trade industry offers a wide array of opportunities for independent entrepreneurs. With the growth of online sales, many small business owners earn substantial profits running e-commerce shops or brick-and-mortar stores. Retail businesses can range from niche online stores to specialty physical retailers.
Income Potential:
Gross Income: $74,900 per year
Net Income: $20,000 per year
Getting Started:
Start by identifying a niche or product line that you can sell either online (e.g., through platforms like Shopify or Etsy) or in a physical storefront. Building an online presence through social media and other marketing tools can significantly increase sales and visibility.
Source:
IRS
Most Lucrative Sole Proprietor Sectors
(Average gross and net incomes for sole proprietors across various sectors Based on the IRS Statistics of Income (SOI) data for Tax Year 2020)
| Industry Sector | Average Gross Income | Average Net Income |
|---|---|---|
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $55,150 | $30,000 |
| Construction | $89,700 | $49,000 |
| Real Estate and Rental and Leasing | $72,600 | $36,000 |
| Transportation and Warehousing | $41,900 | $17,000 |
| Health Care and Social Assistance | $53,000 | $27,000 |
| Retail Trade | $74,900 | $20,000 |
Bonus Data! Discretionary Spending
So here’s where the money is. This table summarizes sectors showing discretionary spending growth which correlate with side hustle opportunities!
| Sector | Description |
|---|---|
| E-commerce and Online Retail | The rise in online shopping has led to increased consumer spending in e-commerce. Opportunities in dropshipping and online stores. |
| Health and Wellness Services | Increased consumer spending on health and wellness creates opportunities in personal training, coaching, and digital content. |
| Home Improvement and DIY | Growth in home improvement spending suggests potential for handyman services, DIY workshops, or home décor businesses. |
| Pet Care Services | Rising expenditures in pet care offer opportunities for pet sitting, grooming, and product creation. |
| Travel and Tourism | Growth in travel spending presents opportunities for travel planning, tour guiding, or travel content creation. |
| Entertainment and Recreation | Increased spending on recreation opens doors for event planning, content creation, and recreational classes. |
| Education and E-Learning | Expansion of online education platforms has created opportunities for online tutoring and course creation. |
| Personal Care and Beauty Services | Rising consumer spending on personal care offers potential in beauty services, personal styling, and product creation. |
| Food Delivery and Meal Services | Growth in food delivery spending suggests opportunities in meal preparation, delivery, or specialty food product creation. |
| Fitness and Sports Equipment | Rising expenditures on fitness equipment indicate opportunities in fitness classes, training, and sports gear sales. |
(BLS Consumer Expenditures 2023)
So the Best Side Hustle Businesses Are:
- Construction and Real Estate are particularly lucrative for independent contractors and managers due to high wages and the potential for large-scale projects.
- Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services offer the highest hourly wages, especially for consultants and freelancers in legal, finance, and technology fields.
- Health Care and Social Assistance is an expanding field, with increasing opportunities for independent healthcare professionals and caregivers.
- Transportation is becoming increasingly profitable due to the rise of e-commerce, creating opportunities for independent drivers and logistics professionals.
- Retail Trade continues to be a solid source of income, especially with e-commerce and niche businesses gaining traction.
Ugh, okay. You can’t say we didn’t bring the receipts! Hope this breakdown of the actual best side hustle businesses was helpful!
We’ll be exploring these more and getting into how we can find and capitalize on the opportunities right for us! Stay tuned!
Oh, and P.S. Don’t worry about things like construction not being a good fit for you. There are ways to fit into these industries, like in renovation! But it’s naptime now and we’ll get to that later. 😜
