If you’re looking to make extra money without committing to a second job or climbing the corporate ladder, your phone could be your best tool.
The rise of the gig economy has made it easier than ever for people to earn extra income from the comfort of their homes.
Whether you’re seeking a side hustle or just a new way to put your skills to work, here are 10 apps you can use in 2025 to make money:
1. Upwork
Upwork is one of the largest freelance platforms that offers a wide range of job opportunities. From tech jobs to marketing, design, and writing, Upwork allows you to create a profile showcasing your skills and bid on projects. Itโs perfect for freelancers looking to build long-term relationships with clients while working remotely.
How it works: Create a profile, set your hourly rate, and apply for jobs that match your skill set. As a freelancer, you can work on multiple projects simultaneously and set your own schedule.
Benefits: Flexibility in working hours, access to a global client base, and diverse job offerings across various industries.
2. Fiverr
Fiverr is a freelance marketplace where you can offer services (called โgigsโ) starting at $5. Itโs a great platform for people looking to sell specific services, such as graphic design, video editing, voiceovers, and even writing.
How it works: Create gig listings based on your skills. Set the price for each service, and when clients purchase your gig, you deliver the work via Fiverrโs platform.
Benefits: Easy entry for beginners, ability to scale by offering multiple gig types, and a reputation system that helps build credibility.
3. Etsy
Etsy is an e-commerce platform that focuses on handmade, vintage, and unique goods. If you have a creative side and enjoy making jewelry, artwork, home decor, or digital products, Etsy could be the perfect marketplace for you.
How it works: Set up your own online shop, list your products, and make sales. Etsy also allows digital items like printable planners, artwork, and patterns, which means you can earn money without worrying about shipping.
Benefits: Creative freedom, low startup costs, and a large, engaged community of buyers looking for unique products.
4. Vinted
Vinted is a marketplace where you can sell second-hand clothes, shoes, accessories, and even home items. Itโs a popular app in Europe and allows users to sell their gently used items directly from their phones.
How it works: List your items by taking pictures and adding descriptions. You can then ship the items to buyers or offer local pick-up options.
Benefits: A great way to declutter your home while making money, no fees for selling (except for shipping costs), and a growing community of users.
5. Shopify
If you’re interested in running your own e-commerce store, Shopify is one of the best platforms to help you get started. With its mobile app, you can manage your online store, track sales, and even design your store on the go.
How it works: Set up a store through the Shopify app, upload your products, and start selling. Shopify integrates with various payment systems, making it easy to accept payments from customers.
Benefits: Full control over your business, customizable store designs, and built-in marketing tools to help you grow your business.
6. Nextdoor
Nextdoor is a community-based app where neighbors connect to share local information, recommendations, and even sell items. Itโs a great app if you want to sell personal items, offer services, or even advertise your skills locally.
How it works: Create a profile, join your local neighborhood group, and post your products or services. You can also use the app to connect with people in your community for various gigs and jobs.
Benefits: A strong focus on local communities, no fees to list items, and an easy way to connect with nearby buyers or potential clients.
7. Twitch
Twitch is a live-streaming platform where you can make money while streaming video games, music, art, or other creative content. The app allows creators to build a community and earn income through ads, subscriptions, and donations.
How it works: Stream content regularly, engage with viewers, and monetize your channel by enabling ads, donations, and subscription-based perks.
Benefits: Potential to build a fanbase, interactive live streaming, and a variety of monetization options as your channel grows.
8. YouTube Studio
YouTube Studio helps creators manage their YouTube channels, and if you meet YouTubeโs Partner Program requirements, you can start monetizing your videos. You can earn money through ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links, all of which can be tracked through the app.
How it works: Create and upload videos, engage with your audience, and activate monetization options once you reach the required threshold of subscribers and watch hours.
Benefits: Opportunities to earn passive income, diverse revenue streams, and access to a massive global audience.
9. Shutterstock Contributor
If youโre a photographer or videographer, Shutterstock allows you to upload and sell your work through their platform. Every time your content is downloaded, you earn a commission.
How it works: Upload your photos, illustrations, or videos to Shutterstock and earn money each time someone purchases your work.
Benefits: Passive income from previously uploaded content, global exposure to buyers, and a marketplace for a wide range of creative work.
10. TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit is an app that connects people with local freelancers for various tasks, including home cleaning, moving, handyman services, and errands. Itโs perfect if youโre looking to offer your services to people in your area.
How it works: Create a profile as a “Tasker,” set your hourly rates, and accept tasks that match your skills. You can work when itโs convenient for you and choose the jobs youโre interested in.
Benefits: Flexibility in choosing your tasks, payment for completed jobs, and the ability to earn by doing things you already enjoy.
