You want to save for something big. You want more freedom. Or maybe… you’re just tired of asking your parents every time you want to grab food with friends.
Good news — there are lots of ways teens can earn money, even with a busy schedule. Whether you’re looking for a traditional job or something more flexible, this guide breaks down real options that actually work (and don’t require working 40 hours a week).
Why Making Your Own Money Matters
Learning how to earn money as a teen helps you:
- Build independence
- Practice real-world responsibility
- Start saving for your goals
- Gain experience for your resume or college apps
- Stop feeling broke every weekend
It also gives you the chance to practice everything you’ve learned so far in this blog series — budgeting, saving, spending wisely, and more.
Part-Time Jobs for Teens (Classic, But Solid)
These jobs are tried and true for a reason. They’re consistent, often pay hourly, and help you build work experience and time management skills.
Great part-time options include:
- Grocery store or retail cashier
- Fast food or restaurant host/server
- Ice cream shops or coffee shops
- Lifeguard (seasonal, but flexible)
- After-school tutor or homework helper
- Recreation center assistant
- Library page or book shelver
- Camp counselor (especially summer jobs!)
Tip: Check your state’s laws — in most places, you can start working at 14–16 with a permit.
Online or Flexible Side Hustles (For the Creatively Independent)
If your schedule is packed with school, sports, or family responsibilities, you might need something more flexible. These options let you set your own hours and work when you can.
Try these side hustles:
- Pet sitting or dog walking (neighbors, friends, or apps like Rover with a parent’s help)
- Selling crafts or art online (Etsy, Redbubble, or local pop-ups)
- Tutoring younger students in subjects you’re great at
- Freelance writing, editing, or design on sites like Fiverr (with supervision)
- Helping small businesses with social media if you’re tech-savvy
- Photography for classmates (senior pics, prom, Instagram shoots)
Bonus: These side hustles build entrepreneurial skills — great for future resumes and college apps.
Local Gigs You Can Create Yourself
Sometimes the best jobs are the ones you create. If you’re dependable and proactive, people in your community will pay for help.
Ideas to consider:
- Yard work or snow shoveling
- Babysitting (bonus points if you’re CPR certified)
- Washing cars
- Cleaning or organizing garages, sheds, or basements
- Running errands for elderly neighbors
- Setting up holiday decorations or event help
Pro tip: Print flyers or post in a local Facebook group (with permission) to spread the word.
How Much Should You Charge?
Here’s a simple way to figure out your rate:
- Start with your goal (say $100/week)
- Estimate how many hours you’re available (say 5–7 hrs/week)
- Divide your goal by your hours → that’s your hourly target
- Then compare with local rates and adjust from there
💡 Always be clear about your prices before you start any job. If you’re just starting out, you can offer an “intro rate” to build trust and get experience.
Once You’re Earning: What to Do With That Money
Congrats — now that the money’s coming in, here’s how to make it work for you:
- Use your budget (see Blog #2 in this series!) to create a simple plan
- Automatically save a percentage — even if it’s just 10–20%
- Create categories: spending, saving, giving, investing
- Avoid the “payday trap” where your money disappears in 48 hours
- Celebrate small wins (like reaching your first savings goal!)
Real Talk: Earning Money Isn’t About Hustling 24/7
Yes, earning your own money is empowering — but you don’t need to grind yourself into the ground to do it. The goal is to find something that works for your life, builds your skills, and helps you reach your goals.
Whether you pick up shifts at a local shop or sell custom art on the side, remember: You’re building habits, confidence, and experience — not just a bank balance.
