Teaching is a rewarding profession, but the pay isn’t always enough to keep up with rising costs. Side jobs for teachers provide the chance for additional income through flexible work opportunities. 

And you’re not alone if you’re considering it: According to the Pew Research Center, about 1 in 6 US teachers work second jobs. 

Even if money isn’t the main motivator, it may still be worth pursuing options beyond traditional teaching roles. After all, some side gigs stay small, providing extra income for teachers, while others might grow into long-term second careers. 

The good news is that many of the skills educators use every day, like communication and subject expertise, transfer well to a wide range of side gigs. With the right fit, picking up extra work is entirely doable. 

Read on for the best side hustles for teachers, including typical income ranges and the skills you need to get started. 

Key Points 

• For teachers, a second job can be a great way to diversify your skills and reduce burnout. It’s also a chance to explore new career paths. 
• Core teaching skills, like communication and subject expertise, make teachers strong candidates for many side gigs. 
• All sorts of side hustles for teachers are out there, with remote and in-person opportunities to grow your income. 
• Some side jobs for teachers remain supplemental, while others can grow into more stable second jobs or long-term career opportunities. 

Why Teachers Often Look for Side Jobs 

Teacher pay varies significantly depending on grade level and subject area. And those differences show up in official data. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), annual median wages and typical earnings ranges (from the bottom 10% to top 10%) for some common teaching roles in 2024 were: 

• Kindergarten and elementary school teachers: $62,310 ($45,750–$102,010) 
• Middle school teachers: $62,970 ($47,050–$100,980) 
• High school teachers: $64,580 ($47,330–$104,670) 
• Special education teachers: $64,270 ($47,380–$103,290) 
• Adult basic and secondary/ESL teachers: $59,950 ($39,750–$95,750) 
• Postsecondary teachers (such as college instructors): $83,980 ($48,570–$199,520) 

That variation in pay helps explain why side jobs for teachers are so common. Depending on the role and location, earnings can differ by tens of thousands of dollars a year. And in higher-cost areas, even a solid salary may leave little room for flexibility. 

Unsurprisingly, finances are among the top reasons why teachers seek side hustles. An extra few hundred or thousand dollars a month can go a long way to paying the bills and building savings. 

Supplementing income isn’t the only reason educators pick up additional work, though. Side gigs also give them a chance to pursue other passions or interests without burnout—while still getting paid. 

A good side job for teachers is flexible and rewarding. Sometimes, what started out as a temp gig can become a way to slowly transition into a new career. 

If you’re ready to start a side gig that works with your schedule, you have plenty of options to consider. 

24 Side Jobs for Teachers (Remote and In-Person) 

Whether you’re looking to pick up additional income or exploring your options beyond a traditional educator’s career path, you’re in the right place. These are some of the best side jobs for teachers, along with their income estimates. 

Note: Income ranges are based on information obtained from publicly available data, including job boards and BLS data. Actual income can vary based on various factors such as experience, location, and time commitment. 

Online Tutoring or Academic Coaching 

Estimated income range: $14 to $47/hour 

Tutoring and academic coaching are natural fits for teachers. These gigs are flexible and can be done online or in person. Parents often seek help when their children are falling behind in school. And there’s even demand from adult learners who want academic support themselves.   

Specializing in core academic subjects and niche areas—like music or game design, for example—can sometimes help you stand out. 

Curriculum or Educational Content Creation 

Estimated income range: $26 to $61/hour 

Do you have folders full of curricula, lesson plans, or digital worksheets? You may be able to turn that work into sellable educational content. Some teachers focus on creating and selling digital resources or online courses, while others work with schools or education organizations to help develop or refine curriculum.  

Rules around sharing or selling instructional materials can vary by district, so it’s always a good idea to confirm what’s permitted under local policies. This is particularly important for materials you create as part of your teaching role. 

Freelance Writing or Editing 

Estimated income range: $10 to $53/hour 

Freelance writing and editing can be a good side hustle for teachers who enjoy working with language and ideas. Having a thorough understanding of specific subjects is helpful, but most important is the ability to clearly convey your thoughts to the audience at hand. Some freelancers get started on sites like Upwork or by tapping into their professional network for referrals. 

Bookkeeping or Entry‑Level Accounting Work 

Estimated income range: $13 to $35/hour (bookkeeper) 

Bookkeeping is a predictable, flexible side hustle for teachers that you can often do remotely. Bookkeepers analyze and interpret financial documents to inform business decisions. They also work closely with clients’ assets, expenses, transactions, and other financials. A free online bookkeeping certificate from Intuit can help get you started. 

Seasonal Tax Preparation 

Estimated income range: $14 to $48/hour 

Part-time tax preparers work with individuals and businesses to prepare accurate tax returns. Demand is usually highest from January to April, making this a common side job during tax season. Teachers interested in this type of work can explore tax preparer roles through Intuit, which offers entry-level opportunities designed to support flexible, part-time schedules. 

Remote Administrative or Virtual Assistant Work

Estimated income range: $16 to $44/hour 

For teachers looking for a remote second job, administrative and virtual assistant work can be a practical fit. These roles call on organization and communication skills, which teachers already use to manage classrooms. They typically involve supporting clients from behind the screen, handling tasks like scheduling and event coordination. Taking an online virtual assistant course can help get you started. 

Online Selling or Small Product‑Based Businesses 

Estimated income range: $10 to $31/hour 

Those who enjoy crafting or creating products might be able to see them online. This can be done either through your own site or an e-commerce marketplace. Good photography and writing skills are useful to help make listings pop. 

Child Care, Small-Group Learning, or Enrichment Services 

Estimated income range: $11 to $21/hour (child care worker) 

Teachers are often highly sought out for child care, small-group learning, or after-school support. If you enjoy working with kids (and possibly their families) but want more flexibility than the classroom offers, this could be a good side hustle.  

Opportunities range from small-group academic support to enrichment-focused care during afternoons or school breaks. Some teachers work independently with local families, while others partner with schools or after-school programs. 

Private Music, Art, or Language Lessons 

Estimated income range: $13 to $90/hour 

Core subjects aren’t the only option for tutoring. Teachers may decide to offer private lessons in other areas, like music or foreign languages. Different types of art, like painting or 2D animation, are also options for creative types. Whatever the focus, this can be a rewarding side hustle for teachers with specialized expertise. 

Proofreading, Grading, or Assessment Roles 

Estimated income range: $11 to $48/hour (varies widely by industry) 

Education companies, testing organizations, and online learning platforms sometimes hire teachers to support proofreading, grading, test scoring, or assessment-related work. Depending on the role, tasks may include evaluating instructional materials or scoring exams. And sometimes they might involve analyzing assessment results with an eye on accuracy and clarity. Subjects span from languages to science, so subject matter expertise can be a strong asset. 

Resume, Essay, or Career Coaching 

Estimated income range: $5 to $31/hour (career coach) 

Teachers’ experience with editing and guidance translates well into many areas. That includes helping others craft work-related materials like resumes, cover letters, or even LinkedIn profiles. Those skilled in interviewing and negotiations can also work as career coaches to help others get hired. 

Fitness, Wellness, or Hobby‑Based Instruction 

Estimated income range: $13 to $39/hour (fitness instructor) 

Teachers who enjoy staying active beyond the classroom can pursue opportunities in fitness or wellness instruction. This might include yoga, running, or weight training. Other types of classes, like crafting or cooking, can also stretch those education-based skills and bring in some extra cash. And you can often do the work on weekends or during holidays. 

Customer Support or Tech Support Roles 

Estimated income range: $14 to $40/hour 

Remote support roles call for good communication and computer skills, already within most teachers’ wheelhouses. These positions often involve helping users troubleshoot issues or answer questions. Those without prior experience in tech might start out in help desk roles. Many of these jobs are part time and weekend- and evening-friendly. 

Community Classes or Continuing Education Instruction 

Estimated income range: $12 to $45/hour (adult education instructor) 

Some teachers earn additional income by teaching community classes or continuing education courses on a part-time basis. This could mean leading community workshops or adult learning classes. Work is usually done in person at community colleges, vocational schools, or workplaces. If you enjoy working with adult learners, this type of instruction can also open the door to longer-term opportunities in adult or continuing education. 

Social Media Management or Content Scheduling 

Estimated income range: $15 to $38/hour (social media manager) 

Social media managers run companies’ social media profiles. This means producing content and scheduling posts. It also means staying engaged in the community and analyzing metrics for what works (and what doesn’t). 

It’s a good side hustle for teachers who are comfortable creating content and communicating with others. It’s also a common need among small businesses seeking part-time support. 

Professional Organizing or Home Decluttering Services 

Estimated income range: $50 to $150/hour 

For teachers who love structure, a side hustle as a professional organizer could be perfect. It’s a flexible role that involves helping people declutter their homes and create systems that work for them. Work is typically done in person, with schedules based on clients’ needs. 

Pet Sitting, Dog Walking, or Pet Care Services 

Estimated income range: $12 to $23/hour

If you love animals, consider joining an online platform like Rover as a pet sitter, groomer, or dog walker. This is a fairly low-stress way to make extra cash in the evenings or on weekends. It also tends to be flexible, so it won’t get in the way of your day job. 

Event Staff, Workshop Hosting, or Community Outreach Roles 

Estimated income range: $16 to $47/hour (community outreach) 

Community outreach is a great way to get people together for a shared goal or outcome. It’s a way to leave a lasting impact. 

Community outreach, like workshop hosting and event staffing roles, fits those who enjoy public interaction and coordinating activities. You might reach out to local businesses or neighborhood associations to get started. 

Micro‑Task or Gig Apps (User Testing, Surveys, Transcription) 

Estimated income range: A few cents to $50 per task 

Micro-tasks are short tasks that usually take a few minutes or hours to complete, so they can be done during breaks or weekends. There are many gig apps and user testing sites to choose from that connect you to these sorts of roles. 

Some teachers also take remote transcription work as a side hustle. There’s a need for all sorts of transcription work, including in the health care, legal, and business fields. Medical transcriptionists, for example, earn around $18 an hour, but pay varies by industry. 

Ride‑Share or Delivery Services 

Estimated income range: $10 to $49/hour (ride-share driver) 

Ride-share driving and delivery services typically only require a valid driver’s license, a working vehicle, and a clear driving record. Hours are flexible, so you can schedule your availability around regular teaching hours or vacation times. It’s also a popular evening or weekend option for teachers seeking predictable supplemental income. 

House Sitting or Property Management for Short‑Term Rentals 

Estimated income range:  

• House sitting: $11 to $23/hour 
• Property management: Around 8% to 12% of rental income 

House sitting and short-term rental property management can appeal to teachers who want flexible, responsibility-based work.  

House sitting often involves caring for a property while the owner is away—handling basic upkeep, coordinating cleaners, or managing guest check-ins—making it a lower-commitment way to get started. 

The property management route has the potential to become a second career for teachers exploring their options. Short-term rental property managers charge a percentage of the monthly rental income. For example, if the rent is $1,000 and you charge 10%, you’d get $100 a month. 

Property managers need to be dependable and organized. They often handle tenant screening and maintenance requests. But they also keep the books, so bookkeeping or entry-level accounting courses can come in handy. Responsibilities (and pay) can increase over time or with more properties being managed. 

Voiceover Work or Audiobook Narration 

Estimated income range: $9 to $40/hour (voiceover artist) 

Clear articulation and pacing are central to teaching, which is why some educators explore voiceover or audiobook narration as a remote side job. These roles can include recording educational content, explainer videos, commercials, or audiobooks. Check out online marketplaces, like Voices.com or Upwork.com, to see what’s out there. 

Academic Camps 

Estimated income range: $12 to $24/hour (recreation worker) 

Since teachers are often free during the summer and winter holidays, it’s a good time to take on extra work as an academic camp counselor. Schools and preschool centers may offer after-school or camp opportunities. These positions are typically tied to a set schedule and program duration, which can appeal to teachers looking for seasonal work with defined start and end dates.  

Handmade Goods, Classroom Décor, or Digital Products 

Estimated income range: $16 to $63/hour 

Teachers can sell crafts, planners, décor, or digital downloads on sites like Etsy or TPT (a leading marketplace for pre-K-through-12th-grade resources). Digital downloads can also include e-books, templates, music, art, or PDF files. 

Benefits of a Side Job for Teachers

Side jobs have a clear financial benefit. The average side gig earns just under $700 a month, though earnings vary widely depending on the type of work and time commitment. 

That might already be enough incentive to take on some extra work during your free time. But if not, know there are other benefits. Taking on a side hustle can diversify your skills and help build the confidence needed to pursue other opportunities. It can also simply get you out of your comfort zone, another way to stretch your skills and test interests you might not otherwise explore. 

Some of the best side hustles for teachers can lead to new career paths. You might start out by dedicating a few hours here and there to something on the side without realizing what it can become until later. In some cases, teachers eventually use side work to transition into fields like accounting or bookkeeping. 

Start Growing Your Side Income 

Even if you built a career in education, you never know what’s out there until you try. Explore flexible side jobs that are rewarding and that align with your strengths and goals. It might take some trial and error to find the best side hustle, so give it time. 

For those considering a bigger shift, some side jobs—particularly in areas like bookkeeping or tax preparation—offer scalable income and longer-term career potential. Building skills through free accounting or finance courses can be a practical way to expand your options and strengthen your skills and employability. 

Thinking about a future in accounting? Explore your options with Intuit to see what’s out there. 

FAQs 

What are the best websites or platforms for teachers to find side jobs? 

The best platform depends on the type of side job you’re looking for. Teachers interested in tutoring or virtual assistant work often find opportunities through online marketplaces and job boards. Others connect with local schools or small businesses for in-person roles like camps or enrichment programs. 

Professional networks can also be valuable. Referrals from colleagues or parent communities often lead to flexible, short-term opportunities that aren’t widely advertised. 

Should teachers find side jobs that align with the subjects that they teach? 

Not necessarily. While subject-aligned side jobs, such as tutoring or curriculum creation, can be a natural fit, many teachers succeed in roles that draw on broader skills like communication and organization. Some educators prefer side jobs connected to their teaching expertise, while others use side work as a way to explore new interests or potential career paths.  

How much time should a teacher dedicate to a side job? 

There’s no single right answer. Many teachers start with a small commitment—5 to 10 hours per week, for example—to see how a side job fits alongside their teaching responsibilities. Others might choose seasonal or project-based work that aligns with school breaks or lighter periods in the academic year.