Discover the Top Weekend Side Hustles in Canada

Having a part-time job or side hustle can really change your life. With living costs going up, many Canadians are looking for ways to make more money.

Recent studies show over 5% of Americans have a second job. It’s likely Canadians are doing the same. Weekend side hustles offer a chance to make extra cash, learn new skills, and maybe even start a business.

Key Takeaways

• Earn extra income with flexible part-time jobs
• Gain new skills and experience
• Potential to turn your side hustle into a full-time business
• Supplement your income with weekend opportunities
• Improve your financial stability

The Growing Side Hustle Economy in Canada

Many Canadians are starting side hustles because of rising living costs. Housing, food, and transportation costs are too high for one income. This has led to a surge in side hustles.

The Rising Cost of Living and Need for Extra Income

The cost of living in Canada is going up fast. People are looking for easy money-making ideas to help out. Younger people and those with lower incomes are most affected.

Benefits of Maintaining Work-Life Balance with Weekend Work

Working on weekends through side gigs for extra cash helps keep a balance. It doesn’t mean giving up family time or hobbies. Many Canadian weekend side hustles are flexible, allowing for personal time.

How Much Canadians Are Earning from Side Gigs

Side hustle earnings vary based on the gig and hours worked. On average, people make an extra $500 to $1,000 a month. Popular options include food delivery, freelance writing, and pet sitting.

These opportunities help Canadians financially. They can reach their financial goals.

Best Weekend Side Hustles in Canada

For Canadians wanting to earn more, the right weekend side hustle is key. There are many options, but finding the most profitable ones is important.

What Makes a Good Weekend Side Hustle

A good side hustle should balance income, time, and personal satisfaction. Flexibility is essential. It lets you handle your main job and earn extra.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Side Gig

When picking a side hustle, think about a few things. These include:

• Time Commitment: How many hours can you give to your side gig?
• Startup Costs: What do you need to start?
• Skill Requirements: Do you need special skills or training?
• Income: How much can you make?

Time Commitment Considerations

Knowing how much time a side gig needs is important. Some jobs need a set schedule, while others are more flexible.

Startup Costs and Equipment Needs

Starting costs can vary a lot. For example, freelance writing might need little money upfront. But starting a photography business could cost a lot for equipment.

Skill Requirements and Learning Curves

Side hustles need different skills. Some jobs need formal training, while others can be learned online or by doing.

Income and Stability

It’s important to think about how much you can earn and if it’s steady. Some jobs pay regularly, while others are more hit-or-miss.

By thinking about these points, Canadians can find a weekend side hustle that fits their skills, interests, and money goals.

Food Delivery Services: Skip the Dishes, UberEats, and DoorDash

Canada’s food delivery market is booming. This means you can make money by delivering food on weekends. It’s a great way to earn extra cash while exploring your city.

How to Get Started

To start, sign up with Skip the Dishes, UberEats, or DoorDash. You’ll need a reliable car, a smartphone, and a driver’s license. The sign-up process includes an online form, a background check, and an orientation.

Potential Earnings and Peak Hours

How much you earn depends on where you live and how many hours you work. In big cities like Toronto and Vancouver, drivers can make $15 to $25 an hour during busy times. Busy hours include lunch, dinner, and late nights on weekends.

• Lunch rush: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
• Dinner rush: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Late nights: 10:00 PM – 1:00 AM (on Fridays and Saturdays)

Pros and Cons

Being a food delivery driver has its ups and downs. The good parts are the flexibility, meeting new people, and seeing different areas. But, you’ll face traffic, customer demands, and weather changes. Here are the main points to think about:
Pros:

• Flexible scheduling
• Opportunity to work independently
• Potential for good earnings during peak hours

Cons:

• Wear and tear on your vehicle
• Dealing with difficult customers
• Variable income

Food delivery is a good weekend side hustle for Canadians. It offers decent pay and flexible hours. Knowing the requirements, busy times, and pros and cons helps you decide if it’s for you.

Rideshare Driving with Uber and Lyft

The gig economy has made rideshare driving a great weekend job for many Canadians. Driving for Uber and Lyft is a modern gig that offers flexibility and good pay.

Provincial Requirements and Application Process

To start driving, you need a valid driver’s license, insurance, and a clean driving record. You must register with the company and pass a background check. For example, in Ontario, you need a valid Ontario license and a vehicle that meets Uber’s standards.

Weekend Earning in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal

Earnings for rideshare drivers vary by city and time. In big cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, you can make a lot during peak hours. Here are some estimated weekend earnings in these cities:

• Toronto: $250-$400 per weekend
• Vancouver: $220-$380 per weekend
• Montreal: $200-$350 per weekend

Tips for Maximizing Your Rideshare Income

To make more money, follow these tips:

1. Drive during peak hours when demand is highest.
2. Keep a high driver rating to attract more riders.
3. Ensure your vehicle is clean and comfy for riders.
4. Choose strategic locations to pick up more passengers.

By knowing the rules, driving during busy times, and providing great service, you can make a good income. Rideshare driving is a great weekend job that fits well with other side gigs.

Freelance Writing and Content Creation

Freelance writing and content creation are in high demand in Canada. Many people are using these skills to earn extra money. The need for quality writers has grown with the rise of digital content.

Finding Canadian Clients on Upwork and Fiverr

Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr help freelance writers find clients in Canada. By creating a professional profile and bidding on projects, you can find good-paying jobs. Focus on making a strong profile and delivering quality work to get noticed.

Niches with High Demand in the Canadian Market

Some niches are more in demand in Canada, like technology, finance, and healthcare. Specializing in these areas can boost your earnings. For example, AI content creators can make up to $200 per hour, a very profitable field.

Building a Portfolio and Setting Your Rates

To attract clients, you need a strong portfolio that shows your writing skills. When setting your rates, think about your expertise, the research needed, and the client’s budget. This way, you can get steady, well-paying weekend jobs in Canada.

Virtual Assistant Services

Remote work has made virtual assistant jobs popular in Canada. These jobs offer flexible hours and extra income. They help businesses run smoothly while giving people a chance to work from home.

Skills Needed and Services to Offer

To be a good virtual assistant, you need to be organized and good at talking. You can help with emails, calendars, data entry, and social media. Picking a special area, like real estate, can make you stand out.

• Email management and customer service
• Calendar organization and scheduling
• Data entry and bookkeeping
• Social media management and content creation

Canadian Companies Frequently Hiring Weekend VAs

Many Canadian businesses look for virtual assistants. They might need help on a part-time or project basis. Some of these companies include:

• Virtual staffing agencies like Fancy Hands and Zirtual
• E-commerce businesses needing customer service support
• Real estate agencies requiring administrative assistance
• Healthcare providers looking for medical transcription services

How to Market Your VA Services Locally

To market your virtual assistant services, try these tips:

1. Create a professional website to show off your services
2. Join local business groups and virtual events
3. Use social media to promote your services
4. Directly contact local businesses to offer your help

These strategies can help you market your services well. You’ll attract clients looking for best side jobs for weekends and top part-time jobs.

Pet Sitting and Dog Walking

You can make extra money on weekends by taking care of pets on platforms like Rover. Pet sitting and dog walking are great easy money-making ideas for those who love animals. With more Canadians traveling on weekends, there’s a big need for reliable pet sitters and dog walkers.

Using Apps Like Rover to Find Clients

Rover is a well-known platform that connects pet sitters and dog walkers with pet owners. To start, make a profile that shows your experience and what you offer. You can walk dogs, sit pets overnight, or even give them medicine. Rover says you can earn up to $30 an hour or more, based on what you do.

Setting Up Your Own Pet Care Business

To start your own pet care business, first figure out what you want to do, like dog walking or pet sitting. Make a business plan that includes what you offer, how much you’ll charge, and who you’ll target. Having a website to promote your services can help attract clients. Getting certifications, like pet first aid, can also make you more credible. As a pet sitter, you can set your own rates, making it a good side gig for extra cash.

Insurance and Safety Considerations for Canadian Pet Sitters

As a pet sitter, think about insurance and safety to protect yourself and the pets. Getting liability insurance can help cover accidents or injuries. Also, make sure you have a safe place for pets, and think about getting certifications in pet first aid.

Tutoring and Online Teaching

Tutoring and online teaching are popular weekend jobs in Canada. They let people earn money by sharing their knowledge. With digital learning platforms, it’s easy to find students who need help.

In-Demand Subjects for Canadian Students

Canadian students often need help with math, science, and English. There’s also a big need for tutoring in programming and technical skills.

Platforms for Finding Tutoring Gigs

There are many places to find tutoring jobs, like Upwork, Chegg, and TutorMe. These sites let you make a profile, show off your skills, and meet clients.

Setting Competitive Rates Based on Your Expertise

Think about your skills, experience, and how much people want your help when setting your rates. Rates can change based on the type of tutoring you do.

Elementary and High School Tutoring Rates

For tutoring elementary and high school students, you can charge $20 to $50 an hour. This depends on your skills and the subject.

University-Level and Professional Exam Prep Rates

For university and professional exam prep, you can charge more. Rates are usually $50 to $100 an hour or more because it’s more specialized.

Language Tutoring Opportunities in Canada

Canada’s bilingual nature means there’s a lot of demand for language tutoring. This includes French and English as a second language. Rates for language tutoring can be good, often between $30 to $60 an hour.

By using your skills and the right platforms, you can make tutoring and online teaching a lucrative weekend gig. It’s a great way to earn extra money and have a better balance between work and life.

Handyman and Home Repair Services

The side hustle economy is booming, and handyman services are in high demand. Many homeowners in Canada need help with repairs and maintenance. Weekends are perfect for this, as they’re free from work.

Marketing Your Skills in Your Local Community

To start, you must market your skills well. Use local online classifieds, social media, and word-of-mouth to find clients. TaskRabbit is also a great place to find handyman jobs. Having a strong online presence is key to attracting customers and growing your business.

Tools and Equipment Investment

You’ll need to buy the right tools and equipment. This includes hand tools, power tools, and safety gear. The cost depends on the services you offer. For example, electrical work requires special equipment.

Focus on buying the most needed tools first. This way, you can start without spending too much.

Licensing and Insurance Requirements in Different Provinces

Before starting, learn about licensing and insurance in your province. Some places need licenses for certain tasks, like electrical work. Liability insurance is also important to protect you and your clients.

Knowing the rules in your area helps you avoid fines. It keeps your business running smoothly.

Some of the top part-time jobs for handymen include:

• Furniture assembly
• Home maintenance
• Minor repairs
• Gardening and yard work

By working as a handyman on weekends, you can meet the growing need for home repairs. It’s a great way to earn money on the weekends.

Photography for Events and Portraits

Photography is a flexible way to make extra money on weekends. With social media’s rise, the need for quality photos has grown. This makes it a great side hustle for those with a good camera and an eye for detail.

Building a Weekend Photography Business

To begin, decide what kind of photography you want to do. This could be weddings, family portraits, or corporate events. Creating a portfolio is key to show off your work to clients. You can list your services on freelance sites or through local ads.

Having a strong online presence is also important. This includes a website and social media profiles. It helps draw in clients.

Equipment Needs and Startup Costs

While smartphone cameras are better, a dedicated camera is needed for professional photos. You’ll need a camera body, lenses, and lighting. Startup costs vary based on the equipment’s quality and brand.

You can start with the basics and add more as your business grows.

Finding Your First Clients in Canadian Markets

Networking is essential to find your first clients. Go to local events, join photography groups, and use social media to promote your work. Offer discounts to friends and family for referrals.

Online marketplaces like Craigslist or local Facebook groups can also help. Consider teaming up with event planners or venues to get started.

As one source says, “photography’s a flexible way to earn extra money in Canada.” By using your photography skills, you can start a side hustle that brings in extra cash on weekends.

• Identify your niche and build a portfolio.
• Invest in necessary equipment.
• Network and promote your services.

Selling Handmade Crafts and Art

Many Canadians turn their crafting skills into a side hustle by selling handmade goods. This creative outlet lets them make money and connect with others who share their interests.

Popular Canadian Marketplaces and Craft Fairs

There are many places to sell handmade crafts in Canada. Online sites like Etsy, eBay, and Amazon Handmade are popular. Local craft fairs and markets also offer a chance to show off your work. Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal have lots of craft events all year.

Pricing Strategies for Profitable Sales

Setting the right price for handmade items is key to making money. Think about the cost of materials, time, and other expenses. Looking at what others charge and knowing your target market can help set a good price.

Managing Production Time for Weekend-Only Work

For those working on their side hustle only on weekends, managing time is key. Making a schedule and sticking to it boosts productivity. Focusing on easy, popular items can also make production faster.

By using these tips, Canadians can make a lucrative weekend gig out of their crafting. This adds to the growing number of side hustles for Canadians.

House Cleaning and Organization Services

Starting a weekend side hustle in house cleaning and organization can be rewarding. Many Canadians are busy and need help keeping their homes tidy. This is a great opportunity to earn money while helping others.

Setting Up Your Service Offerings

First, decide what services you’ll offer. You might clean homes or help with organization. Think about your skills and what you have. Creating a service menu will attract different clients.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning as a Competitive Edge

Offering eco-friendly cleaning can make you stand out. Using green cleaning products appeals to those who care about the environment. This can lead to loyal customers and higher earnings.

Finding Reliable Weekend Clients

To find clients, use online platforms, social media, and local ads. Networking at community events or through friends can also help. Offer discounts for first-time clients or referral bonuses to grow your base.

Competitive rates and flexible hours will draw in weekend clients. As you gain reputation, you can adjust your offerings. This will make your side hustle a success.

Seasonal Side Hustles in Canada

Exploring seasonal side hustles can be a great way for Canadians to earn extra money. By taking advantage of seasonal demands, people can make more money and feel more financially secure.

Winter Opportunities: Snow Removal and Holiday Help

In the winter, Canadians can make money by providing snow removal services. You can offer snow shoveling, plowing, or ice melting. These are easy money-making ideas.

The holiday season also offers chances to earn extra cash. You can make money by wrapping gifts, decorating homes, or working in retail.

Many cities also hire temporary workers for snow removal and winter tasks. This is another way to find side gigs for extra cash.

Summer Gigs: Gardening, Landscaping, and Tourism

When summer comes, Canadians can start gardening, landscaping, or tourism side hustles. You can offer lawn care, gardening help, or start a landscaping business. These can be profitable.

With tourists visiting Canada in the summer, you can also offer tour guides, bike rentals, or other tourist services. These are side hustles that can make good money.

Summer festivals and events also need temporary workers. You can find jobs in event staffing or food service.

Planning Your Year-Round Side Hustle Strategy

To make the most money, plan a side hustle strategy that works all year. Include both winter and summer opportunities. By diversifying your services and being ready for seasonal changes, you can have a side hustle that makes extra cash all year.

Tech-Based Side Hustles for Skilled Canadians

The digital economy has opened up many weekend side hustles for Canadians with tech skills. The tech world offers lots of chances for lucrative weekend gigs to increase your earnings.

Website Development and Design

Website development and design are in high demand. Many need professional websites, making it a high-paying weekend job in Canada. You can offer:

• Custom website design
• Website development using CMS platforms like WordPress
• Responsive design for mobile compatibility

App Testing and User Experience Feedback

App testing and user experience (UX) feedback are key for app success. As a tester, you give valuable feedback to developers. This can be a flexible and rewarding weekend gig.

Social Media Management for Local Businesses

Many local businesses in Canada need help with social media. You can create and schedule posts, engage with followers, and analyze performance. This role needs a good grasp of social media platforms and ads.

By using your tech skills, you can make good money on weekends. Whether it’s website development, app testing, or social media management, there are many lucrative weekend gigs for skilled Canadians.

Tax Considerations for Canadian Side Hustlers

Canadian side hustlers need to know about taxes to stay on the right side of the law and make the most of their money. As a side hustler, you’re seen as self-employed. This means you have to report your earnings and business costs on your taxes.

When to Register for a GST/HST Number

If your side hustle makes over $30,000 in a year or in the last four quarters, you must get a GST or HST number. Getting a GST/HST number lets you get back the GST/HST you paid on business costs. You can also sign up early if you think you’ll spend a lot on business expenses, even if you’re not yet over the $30,000 mark.

Tracking Expenses and Income for Tax Season

Keeping good records is key for side hustlers. You should log all your business income and expenses all year. Using accounting software or apps can make this easier. You can deduct things like home office costs, tools, supplies, and travel for your side hustle.

“The key to successful tax planning for side hustlers is meticulous record-keeping and understanding what expenses are deductible.” – Tax Professional

Working with an Accountant vs. Self-Filing

Filing your taxes yourself is doable, but an accountant can offer great advice on how to save on taxes and follow the law. An accountant can guide you on things like claiming home office costs or GST/HST. If your side hustle is complicated, think about getting an accountant’s help.

In summary, knowing and handling taxes is vital for a successful side hustle in Canada. By getting a GST/HST number when needed, keeping track of your money, and getting professional advice, you can cut down on taxes and increase your earnings.

Conclusion: Creating Your Sustainable Weekend Side Hustle Plan

Exploring weekend side hustles in Canada shows many ways to earn extra money. Begin by finding what you’re good at and enjoy doing. Use sites like Upwork, Etsy, or Twitch to get started.

Think about how much time you have, what you need to start, and how much you can make. For example, if you’re good at writing or design, freelancing can pay well. If you love animals, pet sitting or dog walking might be perfect.

To grow your side hustle, build a loyal client base and provide excellent service. As you get more experience, you can raise your prices and offer more services. For Canadians, using popular platforms and knowing about taxes, like GST/HST, is key to success.

Start small and stick to your side hustle to make a plan that works for you. Whether you’re looking at side hustles for Canadians or weekend jobs in Canada, be open to new chances. This way, you can boost your income and feel more secure financially.