9 Unique Ways to Make Extra Money With a Tutoring Side Hustle

By Kristin McCaseyOn July 1, 2021February 12, 2024

Looking for a side hustle to bring in some more cash? Have you considered tutoring?

Most people think of tutoring as helping kids with schoolwork. Think again! While tutoring students in traditional school subjects is always a viable option, there are endless possibilities that extend beyond schoolwork and children.

Check out this list of 9 niche tutoring jobs that might be the perfect fit for your skills and talents.

1. English (or any other language) as a second language

There are millions of people coming to the country who need help leaning English. As a native English speaker you can help, even if you're not a formally trained language teacher. Some states have regulations as to teaching English as a second language, but they're usually minimal. And what many people need is help with conversational English, not book English.

There are also people who need help learning a language other than English, and once again, they need it for conversational purposes. Whatever language you speak, there's a potential market of people out there who want to learn it.

Find a few people who are willing to pay you to teach them, and you'll have a nice side business. Websites like Tutors.com can help hook you up with potential clients quickly.

Additionally, if you happen to have 2 years of tutoring or teaching under your belt (and you have a 4-year college degree) you can teach English to Chinese students online with VIPkid. If you don't have any tutoring or teaching experience but do have a college degree, you can check out EducationFirst.

2. Computer applications

There are endless computer applications out there and so many people who need help learning how to use them. Sure, most computer have tutorials, but no small number of people need more hands on help, and might be willing to pay you to provide it.

There are common computer applications, like Word, Excel, Power Point, Quickbooks, Photoshop, etc., and if you're proficient in them, you can teach what you know to others.

You can apply to be a computer tutor on Wyzant.

3. Real estate

Do you know of any universities that have a degree program in real estate? I don't. But they should.

Investing in real estate is well-known as one of the most effective ways to increase your wealth. It also can have the added benefit of generating passive income, which allows you to clear out your daily schedule and pursue other passions.

If you have a knack for investing in real estate and have had some notable success, you can pass on your investment know-how to newbies!

Or, if you already have your real estate license, why not help others who need help studying for the exam? VarsityTutors helps find tutoring for people interested in obtaining their real estate license.

4. Business writing

Students always need help writing their papers for school. But think outside the box. Adults need help with writing business letters, sales material and client proposals. If you're experienced in this area, offer to teach others and make some easy pocket cash.

TutorMe hires tutors in hundreds of subjects, including writing.

5. Cooking

Yes, there are plenty of cooking shows and a range of cookbooks that could stretch around the world, but none of that squares with the fact that more people are eating more meals in restaurants than ever before!

As a result, many people today are intimidated by cooking, and might welcome some one-on-one instruction. If you're a great cook, have a particular specialty, and especially if you cook on the frugal side, there may be a willing market.

Superprof is an amazing site that connects a community of over 7 million teachers, coaches, mentors and artists around the world with students. You can share your passion for cooking with students in person or online.

6. Sewing

Do you hem your own pants, knit blankets for your friend's babies, and DIY your own Halloween costumes? If so, you possess a coveted skill that many people would love to learn.

You could tutor anything from basic use of the sewing machine to very specific projects, such as handbags or quilts!

Connect with possible clients on Wyzant or Tutorextra.

7. Finance

If there's one skill in life that everyone has a universal need for, it's financial knowledge. If you are lucky enough to be a whiz at finances, or especially if you work in the financial industry, you hold a wealth of information that can be a real asset to everyone.

Take a look at Classgap, HeyTutor or Tutors.com to apply as a financial tutor.

You can take your tutoring side hustle to the next level by elevating your expertise and unlocking new opportunities with our comprehensive resources designed for ambitious educators like you.

Whether you're looking to sharpen your financial management skills, explore new investment avenues, or streamline your business operations, we've got you covered. Empower your tutoring journey with the knowledge and tools to succeed.

8. Musical instruments

There are always a plethora of kids who need music lessons. But adults, especially retirees, are looking for music tutoring as well!

There are music schools with formal lesson programs, but they're expensive and time consuming. Many adults who have never played an instrument want to learn, but would do better with a private instructor who will provide close training at a more relaxed pace. If you play an instrument, this could be your niche.

Try LiveMusicTutor or Preply to find students.

9. Art

Much like playing an instrument, many adults are drawn to art, often upon retirement. If you are a proficient painter, sculptor or any other type of artist, you may be able to sell your services as an art tutor.

Take a look at some of the tutors who are currently helping students on Preply.

Is there anything else you can do better than most people?

For the most part, tutoring is possible for just about any skill you have that you can do better than most people. Identify what that skill (or skills) might be, and which you like best, then think about how to market your skills.

You could do this by word of mouth, advertising in a community or neighborhood newspaper, soliciting groups of interest (like senior citizens groups), setting up a simple website, joining an online site, or any other way you can think of that will offer an opportunity to get the word out.

HeyTutor is an awesome site that hires tutors for almost anything you can think of. You can set your own rates, and money is deposited directly into your bank account each week. Another great feature is that new tutors can transfer up to 10 reviews and testimonials from previous clients.

Once you have a few clients, you can grow your business by ratings and referrals, and you'll be on your way to a lucrative side hustle.

So where should you start?

Browse through this list of online tutoring services and research ideas that would work best for your specific talents.

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Kristin McCasey

Editor at Play Louder !

Kristin McCasey is a partner and editor atPlay Louder!She is a former award-winning film editor turned work-at-home-mom blogger. Three years after their son was born, she and her husband left their Los Angeles careers to have more time as a family. She now works with her husband, Joe, on their finance blog, teaching others how to achieve financial independence.