Are you a 20-year-old looking to make some money? Or, are you a 20-year-old that wants to change careers? You may want to start a side hustle or quit your full-time job.
There are lots of opportunities out there for young adults who are willing to put in the effort. Whether you want to get into retail sales, marketing, customer service, or something else, there are plenty of options.
Here are 13 great ideas for young adults who want to make extra money on their terms.
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1. Freelance Writing
If you’re good with words and enjoy writing, this is one of the best part-time jobs for 20-year-olds. You can write about anything from news events to personal experiences. Freelancing allows you to work when it suits you, which means more free time to do what you love!
You can find clients online or through networking at local events. You may have to learn how to write well before you begin charging, but you could be making good money once you do.
2. Dog Walking
Dog walking has become very popular over recent years. Many people don’t have the time to walk their dogs anymore, and they need someone reliable to take care of them while they work. Dog walking might be perfect for you if you love animals and enjoy spending time outdoors.
To apply, contact local dog owners and ask if they would like you to come by and walk their pets. Then, set up times and days that suit you. When you’re not working, you can spend your time doing whatever you want – playing sports, reading, going to the movies, hiking, etc.
3. Tutoring

Do you know any kids who need help with schoolwork? Tutoring is another way to earn extra cash without having to leave home.
It doesn’t matter where you live as long as children in your area need help with homework. You can tutor them after school or during the week. The only requirement is that you must be able to teach them in person.
You can charge anywhere between $10-$30 per hour, depending on the subject you teach. Plus, tutors often receive referral fees and other perks.
4. House Sitting
Many homeowners will hire someone to watch their house and property while away. This is called “house sitting,” and it’s a fantastic opportunity to meet new friends and save some money on rent.
All you need to do is sign up with a reputable company and look for houses that need watching. Once you decide on a place, you can either pay for an entire month (or longer) or stay for a few nights.
You can use your spare time to explore the city and meet new people when you’re not watching the house. Be careful, though, because most houses require a background check. Make sure the company you choose does too.
5. Driving
If you’ve always wanted to drive a car, now is the chance to start. Many companies offer flexible hours and allow employees to pick their shifts.
You only need to worry about finding enough customers to keep busy. It’s easy to find driving gigs on FlexJobs and Upwork. Most of these positions allow you to set your schedule, which makes it easier to fit into your daily routine.
The average hourly wage for drivers ranges from $12-$16. But remember that this job is only right for some. For example, if you hate being outside, you won’t enjoy this gig. So, make sure you’re happy with the location before signing on.
6. Selling Avon
Avon is a great business to get started in. Not only is it fun and rewarding, but it also offers lots of flexibility.
There are different ways to sell Avon, including door-to-door sales, selling through retail stores, or even becoming a consultant. Regardless of your route, you’ll need to learn how to promote yourself and your products.
Once you’re ready to start promoting, you must create a marketing plan and follow it. Remember to focus on building relationships with customers rather than trying to push the product. After all, this is a relationship business, not a transaction one.
7. Organizing Events
Are you good at organizing events? If so, you could turn this skill into a side hustle.
Most communities have organizations dedicated to planning special events. These groups usually advertise in local newspapers and online, looking for volunteers to work behind the scenes.
These jobs don’t pay much, but they’re perfect for those who love being around people. Plus, you’ll likely get free food and drinks throughout the event.
Doing this kind of work requires patience and organizational skills. If you’re willing to put in the effort, consider trying it.
8. Being a Bouncer
Bouncers are everywhere! They’re often found working at clubs, bars, and restaurants. And, since there’s no shortage of places to work, bouncers are generally paid well.
However, you might be surprised by how many scams exist regarding this type of job. That’s why it’s important to research the company you want to work for before applying.
You’ll also need to take care of any legal issues during your shift. This includes making sure your employer has proper insurance coverage. Also, ensure you know the laws of serving alcohol before accepting a job.
This is another job where you’ll need some patience and organizational skills. You’ll need to deal with drunk patrons, angry bosses, and other difficult situations. So, if you can handle stress, this may be an ideal part-time job for you.
9. Working at a Coffee Shop
Coffee shops offer flexible hours, reasonable wages, and opportunities for advancement. Most coffee shop owners will tell you that their employees are their best asset.
If you want to become a barista, then you’ll need training first. However, once you do, you’ll spend time learning how to prepare various beverages.
You’d prefer to spend more time interacting with customers and less time preparing coffee. If you like working behind the counter, this is a perfect opportunity.
Keep in mind that most coffee shops require you to serve specific amounts each day. Also, you’ll typically receive tips as compensation. So, you’ll want to keep track of these tips.
10. Cleaning Houses
While cleaning houses may seem simple, it takes patience and organization skills to complete the task without getting distracted.
That’s because you’ll need many tools to clean properly. For example, you’ll use brooms, mops, dusters, and vacuums to clean every surface inside the house.
You’re also responsible for keeping the home organized. So, you’ll need to find ways to store all your supplies in one place.
11. Transcribing Videos
Are you interested in becoming a freelance transcriber? This could be a great way to supplement your income while still having flexibility in your schedule.
As a freelancer, you’ll record audio from interviews or lectures. Afterward, you’ll listen back over the recordings and write down what was said.
Once you finish transcribing videos, you’ll submit them to clients. The amount of money you earn depends on the number of assignments you accept.
Also, note that you will have little control over your schedule. So, if you prefer to avoid doing this type of work, you should reconsider.
12. Video Game Streamer
Do you love playing video games? If so, then you can turn your hobby into a side gig.
You can even create a full-time career out of streaming video games. Some people stream multiple times per week.
You could earn hundreds of dollars per month if you have a large audience.
Of course, you’ll need to invest time and effort to grow your following. But, if you put in the right amount of effort, you could earn a decent living.
13. Web designer

Many companies hire web designers to build websites for them. This includes small businesses and big corporations alike.
However, many people choose to start their businesses instead. That’s because they enjoy designing sites and creating content.
It’s important to note that you’ll need specialized software to design websites. Otherwise, you won’t be able to save files properly.
Additionally, you’ll also need to learn HTML5 and CSS3 coding. You can get started by watching YouTube tutorials.
Afterward, you’ll practice using code editors until you feel comfortable creating your website.
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Conclusion
It’s a good idea for students and recent graduates to work part-time while in school. It’s a great way to acquire extra cash and gain valuable experience.
You can avoid working in the fast food industry if you so choose. Finding work on the side is possible in a variety of other settings. Just use your imagination.
Provide information about your qualifications and experience in your resume. A good academic record will be obvious.
In this way, potential employers can see that you have the skills necessary to perform their available work. As a result, you can get better-paying jobs shortly.
Working also provides the added benefit of self-discovery. This may seem like a no-brainer, but many people need to realize just how much of an impact work has on their personal development.
A better resume is within your reach with the assistance of our professional resume writers. Additionally, we can offer guidance on whether or not a given career path is suitable for you.
We can advise you on how to prepare for interviews, what to ask, and what to say once you’re there.