With rising living costs and economic uncertainty, more Canadians than ever are turning to side hustles to supplement their income. Whether you’re saving for a major purchase, paying down debt, or simply looking to build financial security, the right side hustle can transform your financial situation while fitting into your existing lifestyle.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the most profitable and accessible side hustles in Canada for 2024, complete with real earnings potential, platform recommendations, and success stories from Canadians who’ve turned their spare time into serious income. From online opportunities you can start today to offline gigs that leverage your existing skills, you’ll discover practical options that match your abilities and schedule.
Why Start a Side Hustle in Canada?
Before diving into specific opportunities, let’s understand why side hustles have become so popular across Canada:
Financial Benefits
- Generate additional income beyond your primary job
- Create financial security with multiple income streams
- Pay down debt faster or build savings more quickly
- Test business ideas without quitting your day job
- Potentially earn income in USD while living in Canada
Lifestyle Benefits
- Develop new marketable skills and expand your resume
- Create flexible work arrangements on your schedule
- Pursue passions that your main job doesn’t fulfill
- Build valuable professional connections
- Potentially transition to full-time self-employment
Did you know? According to recent studies, approximately 28% of Canadians now have a side hustle alongside their primary employment, with that number continuing to grow in 2024.
Best Online Side Hustles in Canada
The digital economy has created unprecedented opportunities for Canadians to earn money from anywhere with an internet connection. These online side hustles offer flexibility, scalability, and in many cases, the ability to work with clients globally.
1. Freelance Writing
If you have a way with words, freelance writing can be a lucrative side hustle with growing demand. Canadian writers are particularly valued for their English proficiency and cultural perspective.
Skills Required:
- Strong writing and grammar skills
- Research abilities
- Basic understanding of SEO (for digital content)
- Ability to meet deadlines
Average Earnings:
- Entry-level: $0.05-0.10 per word
- Experienced: $0.15-0.50+ per word
- Hourly: $25-75 CAD
- Monthly potential: $500-3,000+ part-time
Success Story: Sarah from Vancouver
“I started freelance writing as a side hustle while working full-time in marketing. I focused on writing about Canadian travel destinations and lifestyle topics. Within six months, I was earning an extra $1,500 monthly working just evenings and weekends. After a year, my side hustle income matched my day job, allowing me to go freelance full-time.”
Sarah recommends focusing on a specific niche and building a portfolio of published work to attract higher-paying clients.
Recommended Platforms:
Upwork
Largest freelance marketplace with many Canadian and international clients seeking writers.
Contently
Premium platform connecting writers with major brands (best for experienced writers).
ProBlogger Job Board
Quality writing opportunities with reputable companies and publications.
2. Virtual Assistant Services
Virtual assistants provide administrative, technical, or creative support to businesses remotely. This side hustle is perfect for organized individuals with strong communication skills and is in high demand from Canadian entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Skills Required:
- Excellent organization and time management
- Communication skills (written and verbal)
- Proficiency with digital tools and software
- Problem-solving abilities
Average Earnings:
- General VA: $20-30 CAD per hour
- Specialized VA: $30-50+ CAD per hour
- Monthly potential: $500-2,500+ part-time
Ready to become a Virtual Assistant?
Join Virtual Assistant Canada to connect with businesses seeking your organizational skills.
3. Social Media Management
With businesses of all sizes recognizing the importance of social media presence, skilled social media managers are in high demand across Canada. This side hustle allows you to leverage your digital marketing skills and creativity.
Skills Required:
- Understanding of major social platforms
- Content creation abilities
- Basic graphic design skills
- Analytics and reporting knowledge
Average Earnings:
- Per platform: $300-500 CAD monthly
- Full service: $500-1,500+ CAD monthly per client
- Hourly rate: $25-50 CAD
“The key to success as a social media manager is staying current with platform changes and focusing on delivering measurable results for clients, not just posting content.”
Recommended Tools:
Hootsuite
Canadian-founded platform for scheduling and managing social media posts.
Canva
User-friendly design tool for creating professional social media graphics.
Buffer
Scheduling tool with analytics to track performance and engagement.
4. Online Tutoring
Online tutoring has exploded in popularity, especially after the pandemic normalized virtual learning. Canadian tutors are particularly sought after for their education quality and English proficiency.
Skills Required:
- Expertise in your subject area
- Patience and clear communication
- Basic technology skills
- Teaching ability (formal experience helpful but not always required)
Average Earnings:
- General subjects: $20-40 CAD per hour
- Specialized subjects: $40-80+ CAD per hour
- ESL teaching: $15-25 CAD per hour
- Test prep: $50-100+ CAD per hour
Success Story: Amir from Montreal
“As a bilingual engineering graduate, I started tutoring math and science in both English and French. I created profiles on several tutoring platforms and quickly built a roster of regular students. The flexibility allows me to work around my full-time job, and I earn an extra $1,200-1,800 monthly working 10-15 hours per week.”
Amir suggests offering both French and English tutoring services to maximize opportunities in the Canadian market.
Recommended Platforms:
TutorOcean
Canadian-based platform connecting tutors with students globally.
Preply
Popular for language tutoring with many opportunities for bilingual Canadians.
Wyzant
Established platform with higher rates for qualified tutors.
Gig Economy Side Hustles in Canada
The gig economy offers flexible opportunities that allow you to work when and where you want. These side hustles typically require minimal specialized skills and can be started quickly.
5. Food and Grocery Delivery
Food and grocery delivery services have seen explosive growth in Canada, creating abundant opportunities for side hustlers who enjoy driving and working independently.
Requirements:
- Valid driver’s license and vehicle (or bicycle in urban areas)
- Smartphone with data plan
- Basic navigation skills
- Good time management
Average Earnings:
- Base pay: $15-20 CAD per hour
- With tips: $20-30+ CAD per hour
- Peak times can yield $25-35+ CAD per hour
Pro Tip: Maximize earnings by working during peak meal times (lunch and dinner) and in areas with higher-end restaurants where tips tend to be more generous.
Popular Platforms in Canada:
DoorDash
Available in most Canadian cities with flexible scheduling and instant pay options.
Uber Eats
Widespread availability with opportunities for car, bike, and scooter delivery.
Instacart
Grocery shopping and delivery with typically higher per-order earnings.
Ready to start delivering?
Sign up with DoorDash and start earning on your schedule today.
6. Ride-Sharing Services
Ride-sharing continues to be a reliable side hustle for Canadians with suitable vehicles who enjoy driving and meeting new people.
Requirements:
- Valid driver’s license with clean record
- Vehicle meeting platform requirements (typically less than 10 years old)
- Proper insurance coverage
- Smartphone with data plan
Average Earnings:
- Standard hours: $18-25 CAD per hour
- Peak hours/events: $25-40+ CAD per hour
- Monthly potential: $500-2,000+ part-time
“I drive for Uber on Friday and Saturday nights in Toronto. The demand is consistently high, and I average $300-400 per weekend working about 10-12 hours total. It’s been the perfect complement to my weekday office job.”
Popular Platforms in Canada:
Uber
Available in most major Canadian cities with the largest user base.
Lyft
Growing presence in Canadian markets with driver-friendly policies.
Rental-Based Side Hustles
One of the most passive ways to generate side income is by renting out assets you already own. These opportunities require minimal ongoing time investment once set up.
7. Short-Term Property Rental
Renting out your home, apartment, or even a spare room can generate substantial side income, especially in high-demand areas like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and popular tourist destinations.
Requirements:
- Property you own or can legally sublet
- Compliance with local regulations and bylaws
- Basic hospitality and communication skills
- Time for guest communication and cleaning (or budget to outsource)
Average Earnings:
- Spare room: $500-1,500+ CAD monthly
- Entire apartment: $1,500-4,000+ CAD monthly
- House: $3,000-10,000+ CAD monthly
- (Varies significantly by location, season, and property type)
Important: Before listing your property, check your local municipal regulations regarding short-term rentals. Many Canadian cities have implemented specific rules and licensing requirements.
Success Story: Elena from Halifax
“I converted my basement into a separate suite and listed it on Airbnb. Located near downtown Halifax, it stays booked about 70% of the time, generating around $1,800 monthly. The initial renovation cost $15,000, but it paid for itself within a year. I’ve used the income to accelerate my mortgage payments.”
Elena recommends investing in quality photos and emphasizing unique local experiences in your listing.
8. Vehicle and Equipment Rental
If your car sits unused during certain periods or you own specialized equipment, you can generate passive income by renting these assets to others.
Car Rental
Platforms like Turo allow you to rent your vehicle when you’re not using it, with average earnings of $500-1,000+ CAD monthly depending on your vehicle and location.
RV/Camper Rental
Seasonal rentals through RVezy or Outdoorsy can generate $5,000-15,000+ CAD during camping season with minimal effort.
Equipment Rental
Tools, photography gear, and outdoor equipment can be rented through specialized platforms or local marketplaces, earning $200-500+ CAD monthly.
Turn your car into a money-making asset
List your vehicle on Turo and start earning when you’re not driving.
Creative Side Hustles
For those with artistic talents or creative skills, these side hustles allow you to monetize your creativity while maintaining full creative control.
9. Selling Handmade Products
Canada has a strong market for handmade, locally produced items, making this an excellent side hustle for crafty individuals.
Popular Product Categories:
- Jewelry and accessories
- Home décor and furnishings
- Art and wall hangings
- Clothing and textiles
- Bath and body products
Average Earnings:
- Starting: $200-500 CAD monthly
- Established: $1,000-3,000+ CAD monthly
- Seasonal peaks can double or triple earnings
Pro Tip: Incorporate Canadian themes, materials, or imagery into your products to appeal to both local buyers and tourists looking for authentic Canadian-made items.
Selling Channels:
Etsy
Global marketplace with strong Canadian presence and built-in audience for handmade goods.
Local Markets
Farmer’s markets, craft fairs, and holiday markets offer direct sales opportunities with no platform fees.
Shopify
Canadian-founded e-commerce platform ideal for building your own branded online store.
10. Print-on-Demand Products
Print-on-demand allows you to sell custom-designed products without inventory, making it an ideal low-risk creative side hustle.
Popular Product Types:
- T-shirts and apparel
- Mugs and drinkware
- Wall art and posters
- Phone cases and accessories
- Books and journals
Average Earnings:
- Starting: $100-300 CAD monthly
- Established: $500-2,000+ CAD monthly
- Profit margins: 15-40% depending on product
Success Story: Devon from Calgary
“I started creating Canadian-themed designs as a hobby and selling them on print-on-demand sites. My ‘Canadian Slang’ collection and provincial pride designs became surprisingly popular. I now earn about $1,800 monthly from my designs across multiple platforms, all while maintaining my full-time job as a graphic designer.”
Devon suggests creating designs that appeal to both Canadians and tourists for maximum sales potential.
Recommended Platforms:
Printful
Integrates with your own store and handles production, shipping, and fulfillment.
Redbubble
Marketplace model where you upload designs and earn royalties on sales.
Merch by Amazon
Print-on-demand service with access to Amazon’s massive customer base.
Professional Service Side Hustles
If you have specialized skills or professional training, these side hustles allow you to leverage your expertise for premium rates.
11. Freelance Consulting
Consulting allows you to monetize your professional expertise by helping businesses solve problems in your area of specialization.
Popular Consulting Fields:
- Marketing and business strategy
- IT and digital transformation
- HR and organizational development
- Financial planning and analysis
- Industry-specific expertise
Average Earnings:
- Junior level: $50-100 CAD per hour
- Mid-level: $100-200 CAD per hour
- Senior/specialized: $200-500+ CAD per hour
- Project-based: $1,000-10,000+ CAD
“The key to successful consulting is to clearly define your niche and the specific problems you solve. Generic consultants struggle to find clients, while specialists command premium rates and attract clients who specifically need their expertise.”
Getting Started:
Define Your Offering
Identify specific problems you can solve and results you can deliver for clients.
Build Credibility
Create case studies, testimonials, and content demonstrating your expertise.
Network Strategically
Connect with potential clients through industry events, LinkedIn, and referrals.
12. Bookkeeping and Tax Preparation
Financial services are consistently in demand, especially among small businesses and self-employed Canadians who need help managing their finances and navigating tax regulations.
Skills Required:
- Understanding of accounting principles
- Familiarity with Canadian tax regulations
- Proficiency with accounting software
- Attention to detail and accuracy
Average Earnings:
- Bookkeeping: $25-50 CAD per hour
- Tax preparation: $150-500+ CAD per return
- Monthly bookkeeping packages: $300-1,000+ CAD per client
Certification Note: While not always required, obtaining certifications from organizations like the Institute of Professional Bookkeepers of Canada (IPBC) can increase your credibility and allow you to charge higher rates.
Launch your bookkeeping side hustle
Get certified and start helping Canadian businesses manage their finances.
Tax and Legal Considerations for Side Hustles in Canada
Understanding your tax obligations is crucial when running a side hustle in Canada. Here’s what you need to know to stay compliant and maximize your after-tax income.
Income Reporting Requirements
Self-Employment Income
All income from side hustles must be reported on your personal tax return using Form T2125 (Statement of Business or Professional Activities). You’re required to report all income, even if:
- You didn’t receive a T4A or other tax slip
- The platform paid you in a foreign currency
- You were paid in cash
- Your earnings were below the GST/HST threshold
GST/HST Registration
You must register for and collect GST/HST if your total revenue from self-employment exceeds $30,000 in any 12-month period. However, some services are exempt, including:
- Tutoring services directly related to school curriculum
- Most financial services
- Certain childcare services
- Residential rent (for periods of at least one month)
Important: The CRA has increased scrutiny of side hustle income in recent years, with particular focus on online platforms and sharing economy activities. Failing to report income can result in penalties and interest charges.
Deductible Expenses
One advantage of side hustles is the ability to deduct legitimate business expenses from your taxable income. Common deductible expenses include:
Home Office Expenses
If you use part of your home exclusively for your side hustle, you can deduct a portion of expenses like rent, utilities, internet, and property taxes based on the percentage of your home used for business.
Vehicle Expenses
If you use your vehicle for business purposes (like deliveries or driving to client meetings), you can deduct a portion of expenses including gas, insurance, maintenance, and depreciation.
Equipment and Supplies
Items purchased specifically for your side hustle, such as computers, software, tools, and materials, are generally deductible either immediately or through capital cost allowance.
Pro Tip: Keep meticulous records of all business-related expenses, including receipts and documentation of how each expense relates to your side hustle. The CRA may request this information if you’re audited.
Business Structure Considerations
Most side hustles start as sole proprietorships, which are the simplest business structure. However, as your income grows, you might consider incorporating for potential tax advantages and liability protection.
Sole Proprietorship
- Simple and inexpensive to set up
- Business income is personal income
- No separation between personal and business liability
- Ideal for most side hustles, especially when starting out
Corporation
- More complex and expensive to establish and maintain
- Potential tax advantages for higher-income side hustles
- Limited liability protection
- Consider when annual profits exceed $50,000 or liability is a concern
Get your taxes right the first time
TurboTax Self-Employed helps Canadian side hustlers maximize deductions and file with confidence.
Side Hustles vs. Part-Time Jobs in Canada
When looking to increase your income, you might wonder whether a side hustle or traditional part-time job is the better option. Here’s how they compare in the Canadian context:
| Factor | Side Hustle | Part-Time Job |
| Income Potential | Unlimited; scales with effort and growth | Fixed hourly wage with limited growth |
| Schedule Flexibility | High; work when and where you choose | Limited; set shifts and location |
| Startup Costs | Varies; some require investment | Minimal; usually just transportation |
| Tax Situation | Self-employment taxes; deductible expenses | Employer withholds taxes; limited deductions |
| Benefits | None; must provide your own | Possible benefits for 20+ hours/week |
| Growth Opportunity | Can develop into full-time business | May lead to full-time employment |
| Skill Development | Broad business and entrepreneurial skills | Specific job-related skills |
“The right choice depends on your goals. If you value stability and simplicity, a part-time job might be better. If you prioritize flexibility, growth potential, and building something of your own, a side hustle is the way to go.”
Hybrid Approach: Many Canadians find success with a hybrid approach—maintaining a part-time job for stable income while developing a side hustle with long-term growth potential.
Balancing Your Side Hustle with Full-Time Commitments
Successfully managing a side hustle alongside full-time work or studies requires intentional strategies to prevent burnout and maintain productivity in all areas of your life.
Time Management Strategies
Dedicated Time Blocks
Allocate specific hours for your side hustle and protect this time from distractions. Many successful side hustlers use early mornings, evenings, or weekend time blocks.
Batch Similar Tasks
Group similar activities (like content creation, client communication, or administrative work) to maximize efficiency and minimize context switching.
Use Productivity Tools
Leverage tools like Trello, Asana, or Google Calendar to track deadlines, manage projects, and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
Setting Boundaries
With Your Primary Job
- Never work on your side hustle during paid work hours
- Check your employment contract for non-compete clauses
- Be transparent with your employer if appropriate
- Ensure your side hustle doesn’t affect your primary job performance
With Your Personal Life
- Schedule regular breaks and days off from your side hustle
- Communicate expectations with family and friends
- Create physical separation between work and relaxation spaces
- Prioritize sleep and physical health
Success Story: Nadia from Winnipeg
“I started my virtual assistant side hustle while working full-time as a teacher and raising two young children. The key was being extremely intentional with my time. I work on my side hustle from 5-7 AM before my family wakes up, and for two hours on Sunday afternoons while my partner takes the kids to the park. I use a detailed planner to track all commitments and ensure nothing overlaps.”
Nadia emphasizes that having less time actually made her more productive because she couldn’t afford to procrastinate during her dedicated work blocks.
Scaling Strategically
As your side hustle grows, you’ll need to make decisions about how to scale without overwhelming yourself:
Automation
Identify repetitive tasks that can be automated using tools like Zapier, IFTTT, or industry-specific software.
Outsourcing
Consider delegating certain aspects of your side hustle to freelancers or virtual assistants once you’re generating consistent income.
Selective Growth
Focus on the most profitable activities and clients rather than trying to grow in all directions simultaneously.
Watch for Burnout: Pay attention to signs of burnout like chronic fatigue, decreased motivation, or declining quality of work. It’s better to scale back temporarily than risk your health or primary income source.
Start Your Side Hustle Journey Today
The Canadian side hustle landscape offers unprecedented opportunities to generate additional income, develop new skills, and potentially build something that could transform your financial future. Whether you’re looking to pay down debt, save for a major purchase, or simply create more financial security, the right side hustle can help you achieve your goals.
Remember that the most successful side hustles align with your existing skills, interests, and schedule constraints. Start small, be consistent, and focus on delivering value—whether to clients, customers, or platform users. With time and dedication, your side hustle can grow into a significant income stream or even a full-time business.
Ready to launch your side hustle?
Start with the platform that best matches your chosen opportunity and take that first step today.
Have you started a side hustle in Canada? Share your experience in the comments below!
