Do the [Summer] Hustle

Big news for your paycheck! Millions of workers are getting a raise starting today (July 1), as minimum wages increase in dozens of states and cities. These hikes mean that workers in cities like Chicago, Seattle, Denver, and Washington, D.C., will see pay boosts, with some fast-food workers in California already earning $20 per hour.

However, even with these raises, many workers still struggle to cover rising living costs, underscoring the ongoing debate over what constitutes a “living wage” in 2025.

The good news? If your paycheck still feels too tight, summer is the perfect time to pick up extra cash. Let’s dive into easy ways you can boost your income today. ⬇️

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🔥 Top Summer Side Hustles

Nearly 40% of working Americans report having a side hustle, and with costs climbing, it makes sense. So, what if this summer, you tried something that paid off?

Whether it’s outside, online, or in your own neighborhood, opportunity is everywhere, and now is the perfect time to get started. Here are some summer side hustles you can start this week without needing to quit your day job. ⬇️

1. Pool & Lawn Care Services 🥽

💰 Earning Potential: $30-$95/hour (pool cleaning services can earn $60-$95/hour and lawn care can cost $30-$65/hour, or $50 to $250 per service)

If you enjoy working outdoors, this one might be for you. From pool cleaning to lawn mowing and garden maintenance, these services can be a golden ticket during these hot summer months in your local neighborhood.

How to Start:

• Create a flyer highlighting your services

• Start with neighbors and friends for referrals

• Use apps like Thumbtack or TaskRabbit to find clients

• Offer package deals for weekly services

2. Pet Sitting & Dog Walking 🐾

💰 Earning Potential: $15-$40 per walk, or $50-$150 per day

Summer = peak travel season, which means lots of pet owners are looking for temporary care for their fur babies. If you love animals, this is a feel-good side hustle with flexible hours, minimal stress, and even an extra boost of dopamine on the side!

How to Start:

• Set up a profile on Rover or Wag

• Offer dog walking, drop-ins, or overnight stays

• Use friends' pets to build reviews/testimonials

• Add in extra services like plant watering or mail pickup to sweeten the deal

3. Event Photography 📷

💰 Earning Potential: $50–$300/hour (depending on expertise or event scale)

Weddings, graduations, birthday parties…summer is stacked with so many moments that people can’t wait to capture and share! That’s where you come in, making it possible for clients who might need a more budget-friendly option.

How to Start:

• Practice at friends' events or milestones to build your portfolio

• Offer mini-sessions at local parks

• Create packages for small events and parties

• Use social media to showcase your work

😎 Splash and Dash

Not ready to invest heavily upfront? These opportunities require minimal startup costs but can still generate a meaningful income, making them perfect for testing the waters or getting started with what you already have.

• Farmers Market Vendor: Sell your baked goods, crafts, or even vintage pieces you might be ready to part with.

• Social Media Assistant: Help local businesses around your area get the word out via Instagram/TikTok, etc.

• House Sitting: Get paid to chill in someone else’s AC. Minimal effort for maximum return and the chance to explore a new area for the weekend.

• Tutoring: Think middle school math, college essays, or ACT/SAT prep. There are many students (and parents) preparing for the upcoming school year.

• Food/Laundry Delivery: Check out apps like DoorDash, Instacart, UberEats, and Rinse for flexible hours (as long as you have reliable transportation and don’t mind driving).

• Freelance Writing: Polish up on your written work. From blog posts to vacation content, this is a perfect time for some reflection on your favorite places for tourists and small businesses alike.

Food for thought: Nearly half of all side hustlers only spend 5–10 hours a week on these gigs, so don’t overthink it. Start small. Pick a hustle you like and test it out!

Need help? Take our free quiz to find your perfect side hustle! 🌞

Ever wondered what Love Island contestants actually earn, and how much it costs to be on the show? 👀

In this episode, Hannah and James break down how much each Islander makes, different ways businesses are profiting off the craze, and whether Love Island is the ultimate dating show, or just a modern career accelerator.

This episode has all the tea on Love Island’s economics! Plus, we answer the big question: would we quit our jobs to join the villa? Tune in here!

• Are you earning enough? 🤑 Our free market research guide can help.

• Want a promotion? 🔐 She’s been promoted 5 times; here’s her secret.

• Looking for the perfect side hustle? 🌻 5 prompts to help you get started.

• News grads, listen up! 🎓 How to thrive in today’s AI-powered job market.

• Job cuts are coming 📉 These companies and industries should be prepared.

See you next week for more career tips, money moves, and AI-proof advice! 💚