25 ways to make money online in 2026

To make money online, you can sell products through your own online store using business models like dropshipping or print-on-demand. Another popular path is creating content for a blog that you can monetize with ads or by earning commissions when promoting other brands’ products.

You can also focus on selling digital products like ebooks and online courses, which have high-profit margins since you create them once and can sell them repeatedly. Or, if you have a passion for photography, you can sell your photos online at stock photo websites.

The key is finding the business model that fits your skills, interests, and financial goals. Here are five of the most popular ways to make money online:

• Start an online store: Sell physical products to customers worldwide without managing your own inventory.
• Create and monetize content: Build an audience with a blog or YouTube channel and earn revenue from ads, sponsorships, or donations.
• Become an affiliate marketer: Promote other companies’ products and earn a commission for every sale made through your unique referral link.
• Sell digital products: Create and sell digital products like ebooks, software, or online courses.
• Become a freelancer: Offer your professional skills, such as writing or graphic design, directly to clients on a project basis.

Watch the short video below for a quick overview of the most popular online income strategies.

1. Start an online store

Starting an online store allows you to sell products directly to customers through your own website or marketplaces like Etsy or eBay. To get the most out of this option, use an ecommerce website builder for a quick setup and a professional brand image.

Earning potential

When you first start an online business, you can typically generate between $1,000 and $10,000 in monthly revenue. After three or more years, online stores can earn up to $20,000 on average.

How to start

• Choose a niche and product line based on your expertise or market demand.
• Secure funding for initial inventory and website design.
• Source products in bulk from wholesalers or manufacturers.
• Set up your store and add professional product images, detailed descriptions, and pricing to your store.
• Create social media content to start promoting your online store.

For a detailed guide, check out our article on how to start an online store.

Entry requirements

Starting an online store requires upfront payment for hosting, a domain, and inventory tools. Basic marketing and ecommerce skills are helpful. Most stores take a few weeks to set up, with earning potential starting after several months of consistent promotion.

2. Start a dropshipping business

Dropshipping allows you to sell products online without holding inventory. Your supplier ships directly to the customer, making it a low-risk way to start an eCommerce business.

Earning potential

Dropshipping can generate a wide earning range depending on effort and strategy. Some can earn over $1,000/month in profit, while the top earners can make an impressive full-time income of over $7,000/month.

How to start

• Find a profitable niche by using Google Trends to research trending products.
• Create your store using WordPress with WooCommerce for a cost-effective option.
• Find reliable suppliers on platforms like Doba or AliDropship for effective order fulfillment.
• Add products to your store with appealing descriptions and images.
• Run ads on social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok to attract customers.

Check out our article on how to start a dropshipping business for more details. This includes registering the business and planning the marketing strategy.

Entry requirements

Expect to invest $1,500–$13,000 to start your dropshipping business. Basic skills in ecommerce platforms, product research, and digital marketing are needed. Most stores can be set up in a few weeks, with potential profits starting within two months.

3. Monetize your blog through ads

A straightforward way to earn income is monetizing your blog through ads. You can display automated ads through networks like Google AdSense or sell ad space directly to brands. Displaying ads offers an easy setup, while selling ad space gives you more control and higher earning potential.

Earning potential

Revenue often depends on how many monthly page views you get. Generally, 500,000 views can bring in $1,000 to $5,000, while 1 million views might earn you anywhere from $2,500 to $25,000 monthly.

How to start

• Pick a niche that appeals to a broad audience and choose your blog monetization methods.
• Set up your blog with platforms like WordPress.
• Publish high-quality, SEO-optimized articles consistently to grow traffic.
• Apply for ad networks like Google AdSense to start earning.
• Partner with brands for sponsored content related to your niche.

Entry requirements

Expect to invest $50–$100 for WordPress hosting and a domain. Strong writing skills and SEO knowledge are essential. Ad revenue usually begins after several months of steady audience growth.

4. Become an affiliate marketer

Affiliate marketing involves promoting products or services and earning money for each sale made through your unique referral link. It’s a scalable way to make money since you can promote various product types within the same niche.

Earning potential

While a recent survey found that the average affiliate marketer earns $8,038/month, the real story is in the details. The same data shows that experience pays off significantly, with marketers who are in the business for over three years making nine times more than beginners.

How to start

• Choose a niche and focus on topics with high earning potential.
• Build an affiliate website using WordPress with SEO-friendly tools.
• Find reputable affiliate programs like Amazon Associates or eBay Partner Network. Alternatively, find affiliate networks like Rakuten Advertising to help connect you with various brands.
• Write engaging content like product reviews and tutorials to attract traffic.
• Track your campaigns and optimize top-performing strategies to scale your income.

To learn more about building a successful affiliate marketing business, check out our step-by-step guide on how to start affiliate marketing.

Entry requirements

You’ll need a website or social media platform, basic SEO skills, and content creation tools. Joining reputable affiliate programs is key, and earnings typically start within the first few months of consistent effort.

5. Start a print-on-demand business

The print-on-demand (POD) business allows you to create custom designs and deliver them to customers without needing inventory.

Earning potential

Earnings from print on demand depend on the platform and the number of active listings. On print-on-demand platforms, creators typically earn around $1/active listing/month. For example, maintaining 100 designs across multiple platforms can generate $100/month for each platform.

How to start

• Pick a niche and what you want to sell.
• Create your designs.
• Choose a platform, whether your own website or platforms like RedBubble.
• Price and market your products.
• Provide excellent customer service.

For a step-by-step guide, check out our article on how to start a print-on-demand business.

Entry requirements

Align with legal requirements to avoid copyright or trademark issues. Initial costs typically range from $400 to $500, covering website and design tools expenses. Basic design and marketing skills are essential, and you can begin earning as soon as your first products are sold.

6. Make money from streaming

The live-streaming market is set to grow fast, with a solid annual growth rate of 23% expected between 2024 and 2030. Twitch and YouTube are among the top streaming platforms. You can earn through subscriptions, ad revenue, paid subscriptions, and viewer donations.

Earning potential

Earnings can range from $50/month to $1,500/month. Twitch streamers in developed countries can earn over $3,000 weekly, while popular streamers like Ninja and xQc can make six-figure monthly sums.

How to start

• Choose your streaming platform, such as Twitch or YouTube.
• Set up your streaming equipment, including a computer, microphone, and webcam.
• Install streaming software like OBS Studio to manage your streams.
• Create engaging content, whether gaming, chatting, or niche interests.
• Promote your channel through social media and consistent uploads.

For more tips, check out our guide on how to make money streaming.

Entry requirements

To start streaming on Twitch or YouTube, you’ll need a reliable internet connection, a computer, a microphone, and a webcam. The total cost for these essentials typically ranges between $500 and $1500.

7. Make money on Amazon

Selling private labels and handmade items are among the top ways to make money on Amazon. Private label involves branding products sourced from manufacturers, while Amazon Handmade supports artisans selling crafts directly to customers.

Earning potential

Earnings for Amazon sellers vary widely. While most make at least $1,000/month in sales, some of the top sellers bring in more than $100,000 in sales each month.

How to start

• Choose a business model: private label for branded products or handmade for unique crafts.
• Create an Amazon Seller account to start selling.
• Source private label products through platforms like Alibaba or create your handmade items.
• Optimize your product listings with clear descriptions, professional images, and competitive pricing.
• Use Amazon FBA for fulfillment or handle shipping yourself to deliver orders.

Entry requirements

Invest in an Amazon selling plan. The Individual plan has no monthly fee but deducts $0.99/item sold, while the Professional plan costs $39.99/month with no per-item fee. Create a seller account and price your products to adjust Amazon’s referral fee. Basic skills in product research, marketing, and listing optimization are necessary.

8. Monetize a podcast

Turn your podcast into a source of income through sponsorships, listener donations, or paid subscriptions. This works by creating engaging content and building a loyal audience to unlock long-term earning potential.

Earning potential

Podcasters can earn $25 to $50 for every 1,000 downloads/episode, while successful podcasters like Joe Rogan can even earn up to $100,000/episode.

How to start

• Pick a niche and create engaging podcast content that resonates with your target audience.
• Set up your podcast equipment, including a good microphone and editing software.
• Choose a podcast hosting platform like Podbean or Buzzsprout to distribute your episodes. Alternatively, you can also create your own website.
• Grow your audience through social media, collaborations, and consistent uploads.
• Monetize through sponsorships, listener donations, or ad networks like Podcorn.

Check out our article for more details on starting your podcast. It also guides you in creating your podcast website, which is a better option for long-term branding. SGGS Podcast is a great example of a podcast website.

Entry requirements

Starting a podcast requires an initial investment of $100–$500 for equipment such as a microphone, editing software, and hosting services. To secure brand sponsorships, you’ll typically need at least 1,000 listeners. Strong communication skills and basic audio editing knowledge are also important.

9. Make money as an influencer

Influencers monetize their social media following through sponsored posts, partnerships, or product recommendations. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube offer various opportunities for influencers to make money from their content.

Earning potential

Influencers’ average income per post ranges from $195 to over $5,000, depending on whether it’s a nano, micro, macro, or mega influencer.

How to start

• Find a niche – whether from your passion, the market demand, or a combination of both. For example, you can become a fitness influencer if you’re passionate about health.
• Understand your audience.
• Choose your platform. Many influencers use both TikTok and Instagram. 
• Find the best ways to influence brands for collaborations.
• Create genuine content focusing on product or brand recommendations, as this is the most preferred content by one-third of Gen Z and Millennials.

Entry requirements

To become an influencer, you’ll need engaged followers. Strong content creation skills are key to attracting brands. As your following grows, you can secure brand partnerships and sponsorships. A clear niche will help strengthen these connections.

10. Sell photos online

Freelance and amateur photographers can turn their creativity into income by selling photos online. Stock photography is one of the best starting points, with the industry projected to grow from $3.3 billion in 2023 to $4.8 billion by 2028. You can also create your website to connect directly with buyers.

Earning potential

Your earning potential from selling photos online varies widely based on your strategy and effort. Depending on your portfolio’s quality and size, income can range from a small passive stream on stock sites to a few thousand dollars per year.

How to start

• Find your photography niche.
• Choose multiple platforms to sell on like Pond5, Adobe Stock, and Lightstock.
• Create a website or social media accounts to showcase your work and connect with potential buyers. If you’re planning to sell on your website, check out our guide to selling photos online.
• Research what types of photos are in demand and tailor your portfolio accordingly.

Entry requirements

Invest in a good camera, lenses, and editing software to enhance photo quality. Mastering photography skills like composition, lighting, and editing helps make your photos stand out. You can start earning within a few months, depending on your chosen platforms and marketing efforts.

11. Make money from Instagram

There are a couple of ways to make money from Instagram: brand deals, enabling live badges, or even becoming an LTK Creator.

Earning potential

Earning from Instagram depends on your monetization methods. Micro-influencers can earn from $300 to $1,200 per brand deal. Live badges earn from $0.99 to $4.99 per badge purchase, and LTK Creator earnings depend on the commission fee, which ranges from 10% to 30%.

How to start

• Find your unique positioning.
• Create your Instagram account and build your following.
• Choose your monetization strategy – whether from brand deals or content creation.
• Be consistent and show up every day.

For more details, check out our article about making money on Instagram with stories from real content creators.

Entry requirements

You must be 18 and comply with Instagram’s Partner and Content Monetization Policies. Content creation, editing, and social media management skills are essential for engaging your audience. Earnings can begin once you reach a minimum of 1,000 followers, qualifying you as a nano influencer.

12. Sell digital products

Another profitable way to earn money online is by selling digital products. Create and sell items like ebooks, templates, online courses, or printables. Once created, digital products can be sold repeatedly without additional production costs, making them a scalable passive income source.

Earning potential

While many digital product sellers earn over $1,000 monthly depending on their niche, success stories show an earning potential of up to $30,000 in just a few months.

How to start

• Find your niche and decide on the digital products to sell.
• Create high-quality content.
• Choose your starting platform, like Gumroad, Etsy, or your website.
• Promote your digital products.

Entry requirements

You’ll want design tools like Canva Pro, which costs $10/month, and a website platform for your store, which can start as low as 0/month with Hostinger’s online store builder. You’ll need skills in product creation, marketing, and customer service. Some potential earnings start within a few months, while others may take up to a year.

13. Launch online tutoring business

If you have expertise in a subject, online tutoring can be a rewarding way to make money. With flexible hours and the ability to teach from home, online tutoring is ideal for those looking for part-time work. The more subjects or grades you can tutor, the more opportunities you’ll have.

Earning potential

Online tutors typically earn up to $38/hour, depending on their expertise and the platform they use. Some tutors, like Molly Wheatley, earn $1,000 in a month.

How to start

• Sign up on popular platforms like Wyzant, TutorMe, or Preply. Alternatively, you can create your own website to promote your tutoring service.
• Highlight your qualifications and experience in your profile to attract students.
• Set your availability, choose your hourly rate, and start accepting tutoring sessions.
• Consider offering a free trial session to build trust with new students.
• Gather positive reviews to boost visibility and credibility.

Get more tips by checking out our article about how to start an online tutoring business.

Entry requirements

You’ll need a reliable internet connection and a webcam, typically costing $50–$100 if you don’t already own one. Strong subject expertise and clear communication skills are essential for working with students. Depending on the tutoring schedule and price/hour, many tutors earn their first payment after a few weeks.

14. Start flipping domains

Buying domain names at a low price and selling them for a profit is a process known as domain flipping. While the process requires patience and some upfront investment, it’s a flexible side hustle or full-time business that can generate consistent profits with the right strategy.

Earning potential

Part-time earnings can be up to a few hundred dollars monthly, while full-time earnings can reach up to $100,000 annually. Your strategy also plays a role – holding domains longer can lead to higher profits.

How to start

• Research trends and keywords to identify profitable domain opportunities.
• Purchase a domain name through registrars like Hostinger.
• Build a portfolio of valuable domains.
• Sell your domains on marketplaces or auction sites like Flippa or Sedo.
• Market your domains to potential buyers via social media or targeted outreach.

Entry requirements

The average domain name cost is $10–$20/year. You’ll need strong research skills to identify profitable domains and negotiation skills to close sales. Flipping domains is a long-term strategy, with profits typically appearing after six months.

15. Sell your artwork

Selling art online has become increasingly popular because it offers artists multiple opportunities, from selling custom pieces to providing workshops and classes to diversify their income streams.

Earning potential

Earnings from artwork can range anywhere from $50 to $10,000 per sale, depending on the piece and selling model.

How to start

• Research the market and choose what to sell.
• Protect your artwork by registering for legal protection and copyright.
• Choose to sell via marketplaces like Redbubble or your online stores.
• Price and market your art.
• Track order and sales performance.

Check out our guide for everything you need to know about selling art online. It also includes how to prep your art before selling.

Entry requirements

Your costs are mostly limited to materials and platform fees, which usually range from $50 to $150. Artistic skills, creativity, and basic editing are essential to presenting your work well. You can start earning as soon as you get your first order, like a custom commission.

16. Make money from crafts

Selling crafts, whether jewelry, home decor, or knitted goods, is a perfect way to blend creativity with entrepreneurship. It allows you to share your unique creations with a global audience by starting your own craft business or using online marketplaces.

Earning potential

Craft earnings can range from a few hundred dollars per month to a full-time income of over $30,000 per year.

How to start

• Research the market to identify trending crafts or niches. Check out our list of profitable things to make and sell to help you.
• Choose your sales platform, like Etsy, Amazon Handmade, or your website.
• Set competitive pricing based on material costs and time spent creating.
• Create high-quality photos and descriptions to showcase your crafts.
• Market your products through social media and email newsletters to attract buyers.

Entry requirements

Start by factoring in platform fees, materials, shipping, packaging, and marketing. Costs vary but can go up to $3,000. Craftsmanship, creativity, and basic marketing skills are important. Depending on demand and promotion efforts, you can expect to start earning within a few weeks.

17. Run a membership website

A membership website is a great way to build a steady online business if you’re an expert in your field with a knack for creating content. By offering exclusive content, courses, products, or services, you can make a reliable income stream.

Earning potential

New membership websites can earn between $200 and $500/month, while building a loyal customer base can boost earnings from $1,000 to $5,000/month.

How to start

• Choose a niche or topic for your membership website.
• Set up your membership website with WordPress.
• Provide valuable content to keep members engaged.
• Offer exclusive content or benefits to attract paying members.
• Promote your membership through your website and social media.

Entry requirements

Starting a self-hosted membership website typically costs between $100–$500, covering essentials like hosting, domain, WordPress, a membership plugin, and payment processor. Additional costs may include email marketing and video hosting. Cloud platforms can simplify setup but cost $200–$400 monthly.

18. Find freelance work

Freelancing allows you to earn money by offering your skills and expertise on a project-by-project basis. Popular platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal connect freelancers with clients worldwide in various fields.

Earning potential

Freelancers in the U.S. earn an average of over $99,000/year, with salaries ranging from $31,000 to $275,000 annually.

How to start

• Identify your skills and decide on the services you want to offer.
• Build a professional portfolio using tools like Hostinger’s portfolio builder.
• Create profiles on freelancing platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer.
• Set competitive rates and apply for jobs that match your expertise.
• Deliver high-quality work to build your reputation and secure repeat clients.

Entry requirements

Freelancers who already have a computer and internet connection can start with minimal costs, such as creating a portfolio website for 0/month with Hostinger. Developing marketable skills is vital in attracting clients. Most freelancers begin earning within the first few weeks.

19. Take surveys for money

Online surveys are a simple way to earn extra cash in your spare time. Survey platforms like Swagbucks or Ipsos iSay pay users to share their opinions on products and services. While it won’t replace a full-time income, it’s a simple way to monetize your spare time.

Earning potential

Survey participants can typically earn over $50/month, depending on the number of surveys completed and platform availability.

How to start

• Sign up for survey platforms.
• Complete your profile to match with relevant surveys.
• Start taking surveys in your free time to earn points or cash rewards.

Entry requirements

Taking surveys requires no upfront investment or special skills. You’ll need a stable internet connection and enough free time to complete surveys consistently. Depending on survey availability, most users can start earning rewards within a few days of signing up.

20. Offer professional voice-over services

Voice-over work is a great way to make money online if you have a clear, engaging voice. With this gig, you can work from home on your own schedule. As you gain experience and receive positive feedback from clients, you can increase your rates and attract more high-paying jobs.

Earning potential

Earning potential for voice-over work varies widely depending on the project. Commercials can pay $100 for local radio and $10,000 for national TV. Animation voice work ranges from $100 for short clips to $10,000 for lead roles, while audiobooks pay $200-$300 per hour, averaging $1,500 per project.

How to start

• Practice voice acting and improve your vocal range, tone, and delivery.
• Create a demo reel showcasing your voice-over skills.
• Sign up on Voices.com, Voquent, or Fiverr to connect with clients.
• Market your services through social media and professional networks to attract high-paying opportunities.

Entry requirements

Starting voice-over work requires a microphone and headphones, costing $100–$300, and a soundproof recording space. Strong communication skills and the ability to take direction are essential.

21. Get advertising revenue from your YouTube channel

YouTube allows creators to earn money through ads once their channel meets the monetization threshold of 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours. You can build your YouTube channel and apply to the YouTube Partner Program.

Earning potential

YouTubers typically earn around $0.018/ad view, translating to approximately $18 for every 1,000 ad views and anywhere from $1,200 to $6,000/million views. This depends on factors like the type of ads shown, the number of clicks they receive, and the advertiser’s budget.

You can also calculate your earning potential using the YouTube Earnings Calculator.

How to start

• Create a YouTube channel and choose a niche for your videos.
• Consistently upload high-quality, engaging content that resonates with viewers.
• Apply to the YouTube Partner Program once you meet the subscriber and watch hour requirements.

Entry requirements

Reaching 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours requires consistent, engaging content and skills in editing and storytelling. Equipment costs range from $250–$600 for a camera, microphone, and lighting. Most creators achieve monetization within 15 and a half months with regular uploads and audience interaction.

22. Sell used items

Selling used items is a quick way to make money while decluttering your space. Another option is to buy items from thrift stores, curate them, and then sell them online for a profit. Focus on high-demand products, such as designer clothing, vintage items, or unique collectibles.

Earning potential

Earnings vary depending on the quantity and quality of items sold. Part-time sellers can make $500/month, while dedicated sellers with a curated inventory can earn over $10,000/month.

How to start

• Gather your inventory and prep the items (cleaning, etc.)
• Choose a platform like eBay, Depop, Poshmark, or Facebook Marketplace, or start an online thrift store of your own.
• Take high-quality photos of your items and write clear, honest descriptions.
• Price your items competitively and market them on social media.
• Communicate with buyers and handle transactions securely.

Entry requirements

Most costs for selling used items are for cleaning supplies or small platform fees. Photography and marketing skills can help improve sales, and shipping knowledge is essential for secure delivery. You can start earning within a few days of listing your items, depending on demand and platform visibility.

23. Become a virtual assistant

As a virtual assistant (VA), you can help businesses manage their day-to-day tasks, such as scheduling, email management, or social media. It’s also a great opportunity to work remotely.

Earning potential

The hourly rate for a Virtual Assistant (VA) can range from $10–$20 for entry-level work to $50–$100+ for experienced specialists, with the overall average being about $26/hour.

How to start

• Build a professional resume or portfolio highlighting your experience.
• Create a profile on platforms like Upwork.
• List your skills, such as scheduling, email management, or data entry.
• Set competitive rates and apply for jobs that align with your expertise.

Entry requirements

Becoming a virtual assistant requires minimal upfront investment, with costs primarily for essential tools like a computer and reliable internet. Many VAs begin earning within the first couple of months of joining freelancing platforms and applying for jobs.

24. Test websites and apps

Companies pay users to test their websites and apps to ensure a smooth user experience. To get started, look for platforms like UserTesting that allow you to sign up, perform tasks, and provide feedback.

Earning potential

You can earn $3-$30 per test. Additionally, UserTesting pays testers $11/hour.

How to start

• Sign up on testing platforms like UserTesting, TryMyUI, or Userlytics.
• Complete the sample test to qualify for paid testing.
• Start accepting tasks and testing websites or apps.
• Provide feedback on usability, design, and user experience.

Entry requirements

You need a PayPal account, a computer or smartphone with internet access, and basic website and app navigation knowledge. You also need to pass the practice test on UserTesting.

25. Sell unused gift cards

If you have gift cards you didn’t use, you can sell them online for cash. Many platforms, like CardCash or GCX, allow you to sell gift cards from popular retailers and turn them into extra income.

Earning potential

When selling an unused gift card, you usually get around 80-90% of its value after the platform takes a small commission. For example, if the gift card is worth $100, you’ll typically earn $80 to $90. However, if the card is less popular, you might only get 50-70% of its value, meaning you’d earn $50 to $70.

How to start

• Sign up on platforms like CardCash or GCX.
• List your unused gift cards and the remaining balance with the retailer.
• Sell the cards at a slight discount to attract buyers and earn cash.
• Complete the transaction and receive your payment via PayPal, direct deposit, or other methods offered by the platform.

Entry requirements

No upfront investment or special skills are required. Simply sell the cards you already own and compare offers online to get the best deal. Most sellers can start earning within a few days, depending on the platform and the demand for the gift cards.

Watch out for money-making scams

Before diving into opportunities to make money online, it’s important to be aware of common scams that could cost you time and money. Here are some to watch out for:

• Freelance job scams. Be cautious when you receive unsolicited job offers that promise high pay for little work. Always research the company and verify the opportunity before committing.
• Pyramid schemes. They promise significant returns by recruiting others but only work for those at the top. Avoid opportunities that focus more on recruitment than on legitimate products or services.
• Survey scams. Avoid surveys that ask for upfront fees or require sensitive personal information. Legitimate survey companies will never ask you to pay to participate.
• Fake supplier scams. These often target online sellers by offering products at discounted rates but failing to deliver. Research suppliers thoroughly and look for verified reviews before making purchases.
• Investment scams. Beware of schemes promising guaranteed returns, like crypto gurus who claim they can double your money. Fake trading apps may lock your funds and disappear, so always verify platforms through trusted sources.

Which online earning strategy should you start with?

Each money-making strategy in the list has its advantages. For example, selling photos, artwork, or crafts is excellent if you have a related hobby since it’ll give you a headstart.

However, if you don’t have a specific interest or skill set, virtual assistant or freelance work is the best option as it requires minimal investment and can be done anywhere with an internet connection.

You can also combine some strategies. For example, combine affiliate marketing with blogging or podcasts with selling digital products.

Focus on what aligns with your skills and try different approaches to find what works best. Then, take the first step today by choosing the method that excites you most. Good luck!