Let’s face it – everything is expensive these days, especially in Canada. Whether you're paying sky-high rent in Toronto or just trying to survive the latte inflation at your local Tim Hortons, we could all use a little extra cash. But what if you don’t want to sacrifice your sanity, or worse, your free time?
Enter the side hustle – that magical thing that lets you make money in your PJs while binge-watching the latest Netflix series. And guess what? There are plenty of side hustles in Canada that are perfect for you!
Ready to make some extra dough? Let’s break down some exciting options in true Canuck fashion: step-by-step and with a smile (and maybe a few jokes).
1. Freelance Writing (AKA Get Paid to Ramble!)
Why It Works:
If you’ve got a way with words, you can easily turn that skill into dollars. From blog posts to product descriptions, businesses are begging for writers to help them stand out online.
How to Get Started:
- Sign up on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Canadian niche sites like WriterAccess.
- Create a portfolio (even if it’s just a few pieces).
- Start bidding on jobs and wait for that first "Congrats, you're hired!" email.
Imagine getting paid to rant about why ketchup chips are the superior snack. Yes, that’s possible!
2. Pet Sitting (Canada’s Best Job: Cuddling Dogs)
Why It Works:
Who doesn’t love dogs, cats, or even the occasional quirky ferret? Pet sitting is a fun way to make money while spending time with furry friends.
How to Get Started:
- Sign up on sites like Rover or Pawshake.
- Create an engaging profile that highlights your love for animals (bonus points for adorable pet pics).
- Start accepting gigs from local pet owners in need of a caring sitter.
If you’re willing to sing "O Canada" to a puppy to calm it down during fireworks, you’ll definitely get a 5-star review.
3. Tutoring (School’s in Session – Even for Grown-ups!)
Why It Works:
If you know your algebra from your algorithms or are an ace at English literature, tutoring can be a gold mine. Canadian parents are always on the lookout for tutors to help their kids excel.
How to Get Started:
- Sign up on tutoring platforms like Superprof, or advertise your services locally on Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace.
- Pick your subject and target audience – elementary, high school, or even adult learners.
- Offer virtual sessions through Zoom or meet locally if that’s more your style.
Bonus points if you can explain Canadian history without putting your student to sleep.
4. Delivery Driving (Because Everyone Loves SkipTheDishes)
Why It Works:
The food delivery boom isn’t going anywhere, and Canadians love ordering in. Whether you’re delivering for Uber Eats, SkipTheDishes, or DoorDash, the side hustle opportunities are endless.
How to Get Started:
- Download the apps (Uber Eats, SkipTheDishes, etc.) and complete their sign-up process.
- Set your availability – work evenings, weekends, or whenever hunger strikes.
- Start delivering food to hungry folks and enjoy the sweet tips.
Warning – you may be tempted to "sample" fries. Resist the urge if you want to avoid a 1-star review!
5. Master Resell Rights (Build a Digital Empire Without Breaking a Sweat)
Why It Works:
Have you ever dreamed of owning a ready-made business? Well, with Master Resell Rights (MRR), you can do just that. MRR allows you to resell digital products like eBooks, video courses, and software – keeping 100% of the profits.
How to Get Started:
- Visit ResellRight.ca and check out our exclusive package that includes 470 video courses, 1,200 eBooks, and 800 TikTok videos – everything you need to get started selling today.
- Choose your niche (self-help, fitness, marketing – the list is endless!).
- Sell to others and create a passive income stream.
This is like printing money without the ink stains. You can literally make money while asleep!
6. Photography (Get Paid to Snap Instagram-Worthy Shots)
Why It Works:
If you’ve got a good eye and a decent camera (even your smartphone can work), there’s a market for your photos. From weddings to stock photos, you can earn extra cash just by capturing the right moments.
How to Get Started:
- Create a portfolio on sites like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock, and start selling your photos to brands.
- Offer local services for events like weddings, graduations, or even family portraits.
- Get creative and start doing themed shoots, like “Canadian autumn” or “Maple syrup enthusiasts.”
No, you don’t have to photograph every moose you see, but it’ll probably sell well if you do.
7. Blogging (Because You Have Opinions That Need to Be Heard!)
Why It Works:
Turn your thoughts into dollars! Blogging can be a lucrative side hustle if you pick the right niche (think: frugal living in Canada, fashion, fitness, etc.).
How to Get Started:
- Start a blog on platforms like WordPress or Wix.
- Choose a niche that excites you and has an audience (maybe even test your keyword research skills with Ahrefs).
- Monetize your blog with ads, affiliate marketing, and sponsored posts.
Now you have a reason to complain about your weather app being wrong… for cash!
8. Online Courses (Teach What You Know – Get Paid to Do It)
Why It Works:
Do you know something others would pay to learn? Whether it’s crocheting, cooking, or coding, creating an online course is a fantastic way to turn your skills into passive income.
How to Get Started:
- Pick a topic you’re passionate about.
- Create your course using platforms like Udemy or Teachable.
- Promote your course and start earning money each time someone enrolls.
Just think – you could teach someone how to make butter tarts and get paid for it. Life goals.
9. Social Media Management (Get Paid to Scroll… Sort of)
Why It Works:
Businesses are always looking for people to help manage their social media accounts. If you’re savvy with Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok, this could be your ticket to a side income.
How to Get Started:
- Create a portfolio by managing your own social accounts or offering your services for free to local businesses.
- Promote your services on platforms like LinkedIn, Fiverr, or even Reddit.
- Start getting clients and creating killer content strategies.
Warning: endless exposure to TikTok dance trends may occur.
10. Flipping Items (Turn Trash Into Treasure)
Why It Works:
Whether it’s furniture, clothes, or vintage electronics, you’d be surprised how much money you can make flipping second-hand items.
How to Get Started:
- Hunt for bargains at garage sales, thrift stores, or online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace.
- Clean them up, maybe do some minor repairs, and resell them for a profit.
- Pro tip: specialize in something – furniture flipping is huge in Canada right now.
One person’s old snowmobile helmet is another person’s treasure!
11. Dropshipping (Sell Without Ever Touching the Product)
Why It Works:
With dropshipping, you don’t need to handle the products yourself. You sell items through an online store, and the supplier handles the shipping. Easy-peasy.
How to Get Started:
- Set up a store using platforms like Shopify.
- Find reliable suppliers through platforms like Oberlo.
- Market your store and start earning money.
Finally, a way to sell maple syrup cozies… without having to knit them yourself.
12. Transcription (Get Paid to Type Out Stuff You Were Already Listening To)
Why It Works:
If you can type quickly and accurately, transcription is a great way to make extra cash. Many companies, podcasters, and content creators need their audio turned into written text.
How to Get Started:
- Sign up for platforms like Rev or TranscribeMe.
- Take a typing speed test to ensure you’re fast enough.
- Start accepting transcription jobs and watch the cash roll in.
If you’ve ever typed out lyrics to a song, you’re halfway there.
13. Affiliate Marketing (Promote Other People’s Products and Earn Commission)
Why It Works:
Affiliate marketing is simple – promote products and earn a commission each time someone buys through your link. It’s a great side hustle because you don’t need to create your own product.
How to Get Started:
- Sign up for affiliate programs (Amazon Associates, CJ Affiliate, etc.).
- Promote products through your blog, YouTube channel, or social media.
- Earn money whenever someone makes a purchase using your link.
You’re basically a modern-day salesman, but you can do it from your couch.
14. Virtual Assistant (Be a Business’s Secret Weapon from Home)
Why It Works:
Companies and entrepreneurs often need help managing their day-to-day tasks. As a virtual assistant, you can assist with email management, scheduling, social media, and more.
How to Get Started:
- Create a profile on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer.
- Highlight your administrative skills and experience.
- Start offering your services and growing your client base.
You’re basically the superhero of remote work, minus the cape (unless you really want one).
15. Graphic Design (Create Cool Stuff and Get Paid for It)
Why It Works:
If you’ve got a flair for design, you can offer services like creating logos, brochures, or social media graphics.
How to Get Started:
- Create a portfolio using platforms like Behance or Dribbble.
- Start offering your services on sites like Fiverr or 99designs.
- Build up your client list and get paid to do what you love.
Yes, you can get paid to turn a moose into a logo. Canada, eh?
Conclusion: You Got This, Eh?
There you have it, 15 exciting side hustles in Canada that can boost your income without turning your life upside down. Whether you're tutoring math, driving for SkipTheDishes, or building a digital empire with Master Resell Rights, there’s something for everyone. The best part? These side hustles are flexible, fun, and often downright entertaining.
Ready to get started? Check out ResellRight.ca for a chance to build your very own online business with Master Resell Rights – it's a side hustle like no other!