47 Side Hustles in South Africa to Earn Extra Income This Year

Looking to make extra money in South Africa? 

With the rising cost of living, finding a lucrative side hustle is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. 

But not all side hustles are created equal. Some ideas promise quick cash but fail to deliver meaningful results.

In this article, we’ve handpicked 47 side hustles that have real earning potential. From online ventures to property investments, these options go beyond the usual micro tasks and surveys that often do nothing but waste your time.

The best part? 

Many of these ideas require minimal upfront investment. 

By the end of this guide, you’ll have plenty of actionable ideas to kickstart your earning journey. 

Ready to dive in?

Side Hustle Ideas in South Africa

For easier digesting, I’ve divided these side hustle ideas into various categories:

• Online businesses
• Freelance services
• Teaching and coaching
• Real estate and property
• Creative side hustles
• Financial and investments
• Agriculture and food-based ideas
• Home-based services
• Events and entertainment services
• Vehicle-related South African hustles

a) Online businesses

Starting an online business gives you the flexibility to work from anywhere while scaling your income over time. 

With a laptop, internet connection, and creativity, you can tap into global markets.

1) eCommerce store

Why it’s lucrative:
eCommerce in South Africa is growing fast, with consumers increasingly shopping online.

How to start:

• Choose a niche. Examples include eco-friendly items, African-inspired fashion, or tech gadgets.
• Use platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce to create your store.
• Source products from local suppliers or global platforms like Alibaba.

Success tip: Offer unique products and prioritize customer service. A loyalty program or personalized shopping experience can help you stand out.

To get started, all you need is to get a reliable web hosting service, install WordPress, set up WooCommerce, and start selling right away. 

How Truehost can help: Truehost offers everything you need to launch and manage a successful eCommerce store:

• Affordable web hosting: Host your website on a reliable server with excellent uptime.
  
  Truehost provides plans tailored for small businesses, ensuring your store remains online and fast.
• Free SSL certificates: Build trust with customers by securing your website with SSL, provided for free by Truehost.
• Domain registration: Get a professional domain name that reflects your brand, all at competitive prices. Free select domain extensions with annual hosting plans
• User-friendly website builders: Use tools like WordPress or WooCommerce, supported by Truehost, to create a professional-looking store without technical expertise.

Pro tip: Truehost’s scalable hosting plans allow you to grow your eCommerce business without worrying about outgrowing your current setup.

Start building your store today with Truehost—your partner in online success.

2) Print-on-demand business

What it involves:
You design custom products like T-shirts, tote bags, or mugs. A print-on-demand service handles production and shipping.

Steps to launch:

• Use design tools like Canva or Photoshop to create your designs.
• Partner with platforms like Printful or Printify.
• Sell your products through an online store or marketplaces like Etsy.

Revenue potential: Margins range from 20% to 50% per item, depending on pricing and demand.

3) Dropshipping

With drop shipping, you sell products directly to customers without keeping inventory. 

Suppliers ship items on your behalf.

Steps to get started:

• Research trending products on platforms like AliExpress or SaleHoo.
• Set up an online store using tools like Shopify.
• Focus on marketing and customer service while your supplier handles logistics.

Key advantage: Minimal upfront costs make it accessible to beginners.

4) Affiliate marketing

Affiliate marketing is where you earn commissions by promoting products or services through a blog, YouTube channel, or social media.

How to start:

• Sign up for affiliate programs like Amazon Associates. You could also try your luck with local brands. Just ensure they have robust affiliate software that helps you track your referrals
• Share honest reviews and helpful guides to build trust with your audience.
• Use tools like Google Analytics to track performance and optimize your strategies.

Some of the best affiliate networks to try:

• Amazon Associates
• Share a Sale
• ClickBank
• CJ Affiliate (Commission Junction)
• Rakuten
• Awin
• Partnerstack, etc

Pro tip: Focus on high-paying niches like tech, fitness, or finance.

5) Blogging

Blogging lets you earn money while sharing your knowledge on topics like food, parenting, or business.

Steps to get started:

• Choose a niche based on your interests and expertise.
• Get website domain name and hosting
• Build a blog using platforms like WordPress 
• Monetize through ads, affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, or selling your products.

Example: A travel blog can earn money through partnerships with hotels or airlines.

Some of the most profitable blogging niches in South Africa include finance, tech, travel, education, health and wellness, food and cooking, and lifestyle blogging to name but a few

b) Freelance services

Freelancing allows you to use your skills to earn independently. 

The demand for skilled professionals continues to grow in South Africa and beyond.

6) Graphic design

Another great way to build a sustainable side hustle in the country is becoming a skilled graphic designer, as businesses always need visuals for branding and marketing purposes.

As a graphic designer, you could help South Africans design branding and marketing assets such as:

• Posters
• Logos
• Business cards, flyers, brochures
• PDFs
• Lead magnets, etc

How to start:

• Learn tools like Adobe Illustrator or Canva.
• Showcase your work on platforms like Behance or Dribbble.
• Offer services on freelance services marketplaces such as  Fiverr, Upwork, or local platforms.

Example: A logo design can fetch between R500 and R5,000 depending on complexity.

7) Web development

Every business needs a website. If you know coding or platforms like WordPress, this is a high-paying side hustle.

Steps to succeed:

• Start by learning web design basics on platforms like Coursera or Udemy.
• Offer affordable packages to small businesses to build your portfolio.
• Upsell maintenance services for recurring income.

Revenue range: Websites can cost anywhere from R2,000 to R30,000.

8) Content writing

If you are an experienced writer in South Africa, you could build a lucrative side hustle as a content creator, helping companies with their blogs’ content, ad copy, and even web content for their main pages.

How to market your services:

• Write for startups, bloggers, or digital agencies.
• Specialize in niches like finance, health, or travel.
• Use LinkedIn to connect with potential clients.

Payment example: Articles can pay R500 to R2,500 depending on length and expertise.

9) Virtual Assistant

This is a side hustle that has stood the test of time, even with the advent of AI. 

As a virtual assistant, (VA), you help brands, businesses, and individuals with demanding tasks so they can focus on what drives the bottom line.

There are various types of virtual assistants:

• Admin VAs
• Podcast assistants
• Social media management assistants
• Content assistants
• Technical assistants
• eCom merce assistants, etc.

Your main task is to help busy professionals get things done, faster.

What you need:

• Good organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency with business and collaboration tools such as Trello, Slack, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Google Workspace.

Earnings: Charge hourly rates between R100 and R500 depending on your expertise.

10) SEO services

As South Africans start to take their digital presence more seriously, the demand for SEO services has never been greater. 

If you know your way through SEO, you can make good money by taking this up as your new side hustle. 

Your main task is to help businesses rank higher on Google and other search engines, which is quite easy to do when the businesses you are dealing with are local. Unlike global search queries, local queries, are usually less competitive.

Even without backlinks, you could bring thousands of organic traffic to a local website with a solide on-page SEO strategy.

Steps to excel:

• Learn SEO tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, or Google Analytics.
• Offer services like keyword research, on-page optimization, or link building.
• Create reports showing measurable results for clients.

Why it’s valuable: Businesses see a direct return on investment, making SEO a premium service.

c) Teaching and coaching

Teaching and coaching let you earn by sharing your expertise. 

The growing demand for personal and professional development creates endless opportunities.

11) Online tutoring

Think you have a tutoring spirit within you? Then you could actually make money as an online tutor. 

As an online tutor, you get to help students learn school subjects, prep for an upcoming exam, or advance non-academic skills such as intrumentals, coding, public speaking, etc.

How to get started:

• Sign up on platforms like Superprof or TutorMe.
• Offer specialized tutoring for high-demand subjects like math or coding.

Earnings: Online tutors can charge R150 to R500 per hour depending on expertise.

12) Language lessons

You could also hustle online as a language teacher. Here, you get to teach English or even South African languages such as:

• isiZulu
• isiXhosa
• Setswana
• Afrikaans

How to start:

• Offer classes on platforms like Preply or directly to expats.
• Provide customized lessons for businesses needing language training.

Demand driver: Many companies pay for language coaching for employees.

d) Real estate and property

Real estate is a tried-and-true way to generate wealth, offering options for both active and passive income. 

With the right strategy, you can leverage your property or expertise in the property market to earn significant returns. 

13) Airbnb hosting

Renting out your home or an extra room through Airbnb is an excellent way to monetize unused spaces. 

South Africa’s tourism industry makes this a lucrative option, especially in popular areas like Cape Town, Johannesburg, or Durban. 

So, whether it’s a private room or an entire house, travelers are willing to pay for well-maintained and conveniently located accommodations.

What you need to succeed:

• Prepare your space by keeping it clean, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.
• Create an engaging listing with high-quality photos and detailed descriptions.
• Respond promptly to guest inquiries to maintain a high rating on the platform.

Earnings potential: Properties in prime locations can earn R500 to R2,000 per night, depending on the season and amenities.

14) Real estate flipping

Property flipping involves purchasing properties below market value, renovating them, and selling them at a higher price. 

While it requires an upfront investment, it can yield significant profits when done strategically. 

You want to focus on areas with growing property demand to maximize returns.

How to get started:

• Research areas with potential for property value appreciation.
• Budget carefully for renovations to avoid overcapitalizing.
• Partner with contractors you can trust to deliver quality work on time.

Pro tip: Cosmetic upgrades, like fresh paint and updated fixtures, can significantly boost a property’s appeal without breaking the bank.

15) Property management

If you’re organized and good at problem-solving, property management could be a rewarding side hustle. 

Landlords often prefer outsourcing tenant management and maintenance, making this an in-demand service. 

You’ll earn a percentage of the rent, providing a stable income stream.

Key responsibilities include:

• Marketing rental properties and screening tenants.
• Coordinating maintenance and resolving tenant issues.
• Ensuring rent is collected on time and managing lease agreements.

Why it works: Managing multiple properties can provide consistent monthly income without requiring you to own the properties yourself.

Careful though, this can quickly turn into a full-time job, especially if the apartment has more than just a dozen units

16) Student accommodation rentals

With many students moving away from home for tertiary education, student housing is a consistent market. 

You can convert a property into shared student housing to meet this demand. 

Areas near universities and colleges are especially lucrative for this side hustle.

What makes it profitable:

• Students often prefer affordable, furnished spaces with utilities included.
• Monthly or semesterly payments ensure reliable income.
• Minimal customization is needed—basic, clean, and functional spaces work well.

Considerations: Ensure the property complies with local zoning and safety regulations.

17) Holiday rentals

South Africa’s diverse landscapes and tourist attractions make holiday rentals a fantastic option. 

Short-term vacation stays offer higher rates than long-term rentals, especially in tourist hotspots. 

Adding unique experiences like guided tours or themed stays can further increase your earnings.

Steps to stand out:

• Decorate your space to match the local vibe, whether it’s beach-inspired in Durban or safari-themed near Kruger National Park.
• Partner with local tour operators or restaurants to offer all-inclusive packages.
• Market on multiple platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, or TripAdvisor.

Earnings: Seasonal demand can result in nightly rates of R1,000 to R5,000, depending on the property’s location and features.

e) Creative and craft-based hustles

Creative hustles let you turn your artistic talents into income.

18) Photography

Photography is a versatile side hustle that can cater to various markets, including events, product photography, or portraits. 

With South Africa’s scenic beauty and vibrant culture, there’s no shortage of opportunities to capture memorable moments.

You want to start by building a portfolio to showcase your style and expertise. A professional portfolio can help you attract quality clients. 

Once you have made enough money, consider upgrading your gear, as investing in good equipment and editing software can greatly enhance the quality of work and experience you deliver to clients.

How to grow your photography business:

• Offer specialized packages, such as family photoshoots or business branding sessions.
• Collaborate with local businesses to provide product photography.
• Sell prints of your work through online platforms or at local markets.

Earnings potential: Event photography can earn between R5,000 and R20,000 per session, depending on the scale and complexity of the event.

19) Custom jewelry making

Jewelry making allows you to design and sell unique, handcrafted pieces. 

Customers appreciate personalized items, making this a high-margin craft. You can work with materials like beads, gemstones, or metals to create rings, bracelets, or necklaces.

Start by designing a small collection to showcase your style. Platforms like Instagram and Etsy are excellent for marketing and selling your creations. 

Offering customizations, such as engraved names or birthstones, can help you stand out.

What you’ll need to succeed:

• Basic tools and materials for jewelry crafting.
• A social media presence to showcase your designs and interact with potential customers.
• Packaging that enhances the customer experience and promotes repeat business.

Pro tip: Cater to special occasions like weddings, anniversaries, or holidays for higher earnings.

20) Clothing alterations and tailoring

The demand for clothing alterations never goes away, as people always need adjustments for formal wear, wedding outfits, or everyday clothing. 

If you have sewing skills, this can be a steady source of income.

Start by offering your services locally, targeting dry cleaners, boutiques, or bridal shops. 

Quick turnaround times and quality work will help you build a loyal customer base. 

You can also expand by designing custom clothing for clients.

What you can offer:

• Alterations like hemming, resizing, or repairing clothes.
• Custom tailoring for unique designs or special occasions.
• Specialty services, such as creating costumes or uniforms.

Earnings: Small adjustments like hemming can bring in R100 to R500 per job, while custom clothing can earn significantly more.

f) Financial and investment services

Financial side hustles are perfect for individuals with expertise in money management or an interest in markets. 

These ideas often require some initial knowledge but can provide significant rewards once established.

21) Forex trading

Forex trading involves buying and selling currencies in the foreign exchange market. While it requires an understanding of market trends, it can be highly lucrative with the right strategy. 

The forex market operates 24/7, allowing you to trade at any time that suits your schedule.

How to get started:

• Learn the basics through online courses or platforms like BabyPips.
• Familiarize yourself with laws around forex trading in South Africa
• Open a trading account with a regulated broker like FXTM or Exness.
• Start small to minimize risks while you learn the market dynamics.

Risk management is essential. Never invest more than you can afford to lose.

22) Cryptocurrency trading

With the rise of digital currencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, cryptocurrency trading has become a popular side hustle. 

South Africans are increasingly embracing this new financial trend as a way to grow wealth.

Start by researching different cryptocurrencies and their market behaviors. Platforms like Binance or Luno allow you to buy, sell, and trade digital currencies with ease. 

Diversify your portfolio to reduce risks and increase earning potential.

Tips for beginners:

• Follow credible crypto news sources to stay updated on market trends.
• Use secure wallets to protect your assets.
• Avoid emotional trading—stick to your strategy.

Potential earnings: Cryptocurrency markets are volatile, but traders can see significant returns with smart investments.

23) Tax consulting

Tax consulting is a highly marketable skill, especially for small business owners and freelancers who need help navigating South Africa’s tax laws. 

Offering tax preparation or consulting services can bring in reliable, repeat clients during tax season.

Steps to get started:

• Take tax preparation courses to understand South African tax laws.
• Market your services to small businesses, gig workers, and self-employed individuals.
• Offer value-added services, such as tax-saving advice or bookkeeping.

Earnings: Tax consultants can charge R500 to R2,500 per client, depending on the complexity of the case.

24) Financial coaching

If you’re skilled at budgeting, saving, or investing, financial coaching can be a rewarding hustle. 

Many people need guidance on managing their money, paying off debt, or planning for retirement. 

Your expertise can make a significant impact on their financial health.

How to position yourself:

• Create workshops or one-on-one sessions to help clients create budgets or savings plans.
• Grow a financial management TikTok account.
• Focus on underserved markets, like young professionals or small business owners.
• Build trust by sharing free, valuable content on platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram.

Why it works: Financial coaches often charge per session, with rates ranging from R500 to R1,500.

25) Bookkeeping

Many small businesses struggle with maintaining accurate financial records. 

By offering bookkeeping services, you can help them track income, expenses, and taxes while earning a steady side income.

To be a successful bookkeeper, you need to be conversant with popular accounting software such as QuickBooks or Xero.

Your first entry with this side hustle is local businesses or freelancers who don’t have the resources to hire full-time accountants. 

Consistent, high-quality work can turn this into a long-term income stream.

What to offer:

• Monthly or quarterly financial statements.
• Payroll management for small teams.
• Tax-ready records for accountants.

Earnings: Freelance bookkeepers can charge R1,000 to R5,000 monthly, depending on the complexity of the business.

g) Agriculture and food-based hustles

South Africa’s rich agricultural environment makes farming and food-related businesses highly profitable.

26) Urban farming

Urban farming involves growing vegetables, herbs, or flowers in small spaces like backyards or rooftops. 

This side hustle is ideal for those passionate about sustainability and healthy eating.

You could grow high-demand crops such as lettuce, spinach, basil, etc. Popular farming techniques for small spaces include vertical farming and hydroponics.

To earn money from this hustle, you could sell directly to local markets, and restaurants, or through subscription services

Why it’s profitable:

• There’s a growing demand for organic, locally grown produce.
• Urban farming requires minimal startup costs compared to large-scale farming.

Earnings: Depending on the crops, you can earn R2,000 to R10,000 monthly from a small operation.

27) Poultry farming

Poultry farming is a relatively low-risk agricultural venture. You can focus on selling eggs, chicks, or broiler chickens. 

With proper planning and management, this side hustle can provide consistent income.

Start small with a manageable number of chickens. Ensure proper feeding, hygiene, and shelter to keep your birds healthy. 

Selling directly to households or local markets can maximize profits.

Steps to success:

• Research the best breeds for your specific market (layers for eggs, broilers for meat).
• Partner with local butchers or grocery stores for bulk sales.
• Advertise your products on local community platforms.

Earnings: Broiler chickens can yield R30 to R50 profit per bird, while layers provide steady egg income.

28) Beekeeping

Beekeeping is a sustainable and profitable agricultural side hustle. 

By harvesting and selling honey, beeswax, or even pollination services, you can generate multiple income streams.

Invest in a few beehives and place them in areas rich in flowering plants. Harvest honey during peak seasons and package it attractively for retail. 

Selling additional products like beeswax candles or cosmetics can further boost your income.

What you’ll need:

• Basic beekeeping equipment like hives, protective clothing, and tools.
• Training on hive management and honey extraction.
• A network of local retailers or farmers markets to sell your products.

Earnings: A single hive can produce 10–20 liters of honey annually, which sells for R80 to R120 per liter.

29) Mobile food truck

A food truck business is perfect for bringing unique and tasty meals directly to your customers. 

With proper planning and a great menu, this hustle can be both fun and profitable.

Focus on high-demand food items like gourmet burgers, tacos, or traditional South African dishes. Park your truck at busy events, markets, or office parks. 

A catchy brand name and creative menu can help you stand out.

Tips for success:

• Maintain strict hygiene and quality standards.
• Use social media to announce your location and specials daily.
• Offer vegan or gluten-free options to cater to dietary preferences.

Potential earnings: A well-run food truck can generate R15,000 to R30,000 monthly, depending on location and menu prices.

30) Catering services

Catering is a reliable side hustle, especially for weddings, corporate events, or private parties. 

If you’re skilled in cooking or baking, you can turn this into a thriving business.

Start by offering small-scale catering services for friends or family. Build your reputation by delivering high-quality food and exceptional service. 

Once the business starts picking up, you can expand by hiring a team and purchasing bulk cooking equipment.

What you can offer:

• Full-service catering for large events.
• Specialized menus like vegan or traditional South African cuisine.
• Desserts or baked goods for corporate functions.

Earnings: Small events can bring in R5,000 to R10,000 per job, while large weddings or corporate gigs can exceed R50,000.

h) Home-based services

Home-based side hustles are convenient because they require minimal setup and allow you to work from the comfort of your home. These hustles often target local communities, making them ideal for consistent income.

31) Laundry services

Laundry services are always in demand, especially in busy urban areas where people lack the time or equipment to wash their clothes. 

Offering washing, drying, ironing, and folding services can make this a profitable venture.

Advertise within your neighborhood and offering pick-up and drop-off options for added convenience. Invest in a reliable washing machine, dryer, and ironing equipment to handle larger volumes of clothing efficiently. 

You can also offer eco-friendly options, such as biodegradable detergents.

How to grow:

• Partner with apartment complexes or local businesses to secure regular clients.
• Offer loyalty discounts for recurring customers.
• Expand to include specialized services, like cleaning delicate fabrics or curtains.

Earnings: Charge R15 to R30 per item or offer package deals for bulk laundry, potentially earning R3,000 to R10,000 monthly.

32) Cleaning business

A cleaning business caters to residential and office clients who need professional cleaning services. 

With a minimal upfront investment, this hustle can provide steady income, especially in areas with high demand.

When getting started, you want to focus on residential cleaning as you build your reputation through word-of-mouth referrals. When ready, you can expand to offices and commercial properties to grow your customer base.

Offering specialized cleaning services, such as post-construction cleaning or deep cleaning, can increase your earnings.

Steps to start:

• Purchase basic cleaning supplies like vacuums, detergents, and mops.
• Advertise on local platforms like Gumtree or community WhatsApp groups.
• Hire part-time help as you grow to manage more clients.

Potential income: A single cleaning session can range from R300 to R1,500, depending on the size of the space and services offered.

33) Daycare services

If you love working with children, starting a home-based daycare is a rewarding option. 

With many parents working full-time, there’s a consistent need for reliable childcare services.

Prepare your home by creating a safe and fun environment for kids, including toys, books, and age-appropriate activities. 

Also, be sure to register your daycare with local authorities to ensure compliance with regulations. 

In this business, building trust with parents is crucial, so focus on safety, cleanliness, and transparent communication.

What to consider:

• Limit the number of children to ensure quality care.
• Offer flexible hours to accommodate parents’ schedules.
• Provide educational activities, like crafts or early learning games to compete with others.

Earnings: Daycare fees range from R1,000 to R3,500 per child monthly, depending on your location and the services offered.

34) Pet sitting and grooming

Pet owners often need help caring for their animals when they’re busy or traveling. 

Offering pet sitting or grooming services can be a lucrative side hustle, especially in urban areas with many pet owners.

Pet sitting involves tasks like feeding, walking, and playing with pets. 

Grooming services, such as bathing, nail clipping, or fur trimming, require some initial training and equipment. 

Steps to succeed:

• Attend basic pet grooming workshops to learn the skills.
• Create social media pages to showcase your services and happy clients.
• Offer discounts for first-time clients to build a loyal customer base.

Earnings: Pet sitting can earn you R100 to R300 per visit, while grooming services can bring in R300 to R1,000 per session.

35) Furniture restoration

Furniture restoration is a creative hustle that involves repairing and refinishing old or damaged furniture. 

With the right skills, you can transform worn-out pieces into high-value items for resale.

Start by sourcing affordable furniture from thrift stores, auctions, or online marketplaces. Invest in tools like sanders, paint, and wood varnish to restore the items. 

You can market your restored furniture through social media platforms or at local markets.

Why it works:

• Restored furniture often sells for much higher prices than the original acquisition cost, so the margins are great.
• South Africa’s growing interest in sustainable living makes this an appealing option for eco-conscious buyers.

Earnings: Restored furniture can sell for R1,000 to R10,000 per piece, depending on the quality and style.

i) Event and entertainment services

Event-related side hustles let you earn by helping people celebrate life’s special moments. 

From weddings to corporate events, there’s always demand for professionals who can make events unforgettable.

36) DJ services

If you have a passion for music, becoming a DJ can be a fun and lucrative side hustle. DJs are needed for weddings, parties, and corporate events. 

With some basic equipment and practice, you can create memorable experiences for your clients.

Invest in a quality sound system, mixing equipment, and a music library catering to different tastes. 

You can build your brand by promoting your services on social media and offering discounted rates for your first few gigs to gain exposure.

How to stand out:

• Develop a unique style or specialize in specific events, like weddings or nightlife.
• Offer additional services, such as lighting or event coordination.
• Always arrive early and stay professional to build a solid reputation.

Earnings: DJs can earn R5,000 to R15,000 per event, depending on their experience and the scale of the gig.

37) Party Planning

Party planning involves organizing everything from small birthday celebrations to large corporate functions. 

If you’re detail-oriented and enjoy bringing ideas to life, this could be the perfect hustle for you.

The easiest way to get into the event planning business is by planning small events for friends and family. 

Once you gain experience, you may offer your services to clients and charge a flat fee or a percentage of the event’s budget. 

Partnering with vendors, like caterers or decorators, can also boost your income.

Steps to succeed:

• Develop a checklist to ensure all event aspects are covered.
• Offer themed packages, like kids’ parties or luxury weddings.
• Market your services through word-of-mouth, social media, and local ads.

Earnings: Party planners can earn R2,000 to R20,000 per event, depending on its complexity and scale.

38) Videography

Videography is in demand for weddings, birthdays, corporate events, and promotional videos. 

If you have an eye for detail and basic editing skills, this side hustle can bring in consistent income.

Invest in a good camera, tripod, and editing software to get started. Offer packages that include filming, editing, and delivering final videos in multiple formats. Highlight your work on platforms like YouTube or Instagram to attract new clients.

How to grow your business:

• Collaborate with photographers to offer combined packages.
• Learn advanced editing techniques to deliver high-quality videos.
• Build a network of event planners or businesses for recurring gigs.

Earnings: Videographers can charge R3,000 to R15,000 per project, depending on the scope.

j) Vehicle-related hustles

If you own a vehicle or have access to one, there are several ways to turn it into a money-making asset. 

These side hustles are flexible and can generate consistent income.

39) Ride-hailing

Ride-hailing platforms like Uber and Bolt are popular in South Africa, offering drivers the opportunity to earn a steady income. 

If you have a well-maintained car and some spare time, this can be a highly profitable side hustle.

How to get started:

• Sign up with ride-hailing services like Uber or Bolt and meet their vehicle requirements.
• Ensure your car is insured, clean, and reliable for passenger safety.
• Use the apps to target high-demand areas during peak hours, such as mornings, evenings, or weekends.

Tips to maximize earnings:

• Offer excellent customer service to receive positive ratings and tips.
• Drive during events or holidays when demand surges.
• Reduce fuel costs by driving efficiently and maintaining your vehicle.

Earnings: Drivers can earn between R4,000 and R15,000 per week, depending on hours worked and location.

40) Mobile car wash

A mobile car wash is a convenient service that brings vehicle cleaning directly to customers. 

With a small investment in cleaning supplies and water tanks, you can operate from any location, such as office parks, malls, or residential areas.

Why it’s appealing:

• Many car owners prefer the convenience of a mobile car wash.
• Low startup costs make it accessible, even for beginners.

Steps to succeed:

• Invest in portable equipment like pressure washers, cleaning solutions, and microfiber cloths.
• Offer additional services like waxing or interior detailing for higher earnings.
• Promote your business through flyers, social media, and partnerships with parking lots or businesses.

Earnings: Mobile car washes can generate R3,000 to R10,000 per month, depending on the number of clients and services offered.

41) Delivery services

With the growth of e-commerce and food delivery in South Africa, becoming a delivery driver is a great way to earn extra money. 

Whether you’d be delivering parcels, groceries, or takeout meals, this side hustle offers flexibility and steady demand.

How to start:

• Sign up with platforms like Mr. D Food, Uber Eats, or Courier Guy.
• Use a car, motorbike, or even a bicycle to complete deliveries.
• Focus on areas with high demand, like city centers or densely populated suburbs.

What to consider:

• Invest in a smartphone to manage delivery orders efficiently.
• Maintain good communication with customers to ensure positive reviews.
• Work during peak times to maximize your earnings, such as lunch or dinner hours.

Earnings: Drivers can make R5,000 to R12,000 per month, depending on the volume of deliveries and hours worked.

42) Renting out your vehicle

If you own a car but don’t use it daily, renting it out can generate passive income.

Platforms like RentMyRide allow vehicle owners to connect with renters, such as tourists or local drivers.

Steps to get started:

• Register your car on platforms like RentMyRide and provide accurate details.
• Keep your car in excellent condition to attract renters and receive positive reviews.
• Set competitive rental rates based on your car’s model and condition.

Why it’s a smart option:

• Rentals provide passive income without requiring your active involvement.
• Insurance is often included through the platform, minimizing risks.

Earnings: Depending on your car and location, you can earn R200 to R1,000 daily.

k) Other side hustles

Some side hustles don’t fit neatly into a category but can still generate significant income. 

These unique ideas cater to specific skills, interests, or untapped markets.

43) Recycling business

Recycling is not only environmentally friendly but also a lucrative hustle. 

Collect and sell recyclable materials like paper, plastics, or scrap metal to recycling centers. 

South Africa’s growing emphasis on sustainability makes this an ideal time to start.

How to start:

• Identify local recycling centers and the materials they accept.
• Partner with businesses or households to collect their recyclable waste.
• Invest in a small vehicle for transportation and storage.

Earnings: Recycling businesses can earn R3,000 to R10,000 monthly, depending on the volume of materials collected.

45) Renting out equipment

If you own specialized equipment like cameras, drones, tools, or even party supplies, renting them out can generate income. 

Many people prefer renting instead of buying for one-time projects or events.

How it works:

• List your equipment on rental platforms or advertise locally.
• Ensure proper agreements are in place to protect against damage.
• Offer delivery and pick-up services for added convenience.

Earnings: Rental prices vary but can range from R500 to R5,000 per day, depending on the equipment.

46) Personal shopper

Personal shoppers assist clients with buying groceries, clothing, or gifts. 

With busy schedules and online shopping, many people are willing to pay for this convenience.

How to start:

• Offer your services to busy professionals, the elderly, or anyone with limited mobility.
• Charge per trip or as a percentage of the total purchase.
• Use apps and tools to streamline the shopping and delivery process.

Earnings: Personal shoppers can charge R200 to R1,000 per trip, depending on the complexity and time required.

47) Tutoring in niche subjects

If you’re an expert in a specific subject, like coding, music production, or financial planning, offer private lessons. 

These specialized skills are in high demand and command higher rates than general tutoring.

Steps to succeed:

• Create lesson plans tailored to your students’ needs.
• Offer both in-person and online sessions to expand your reach.
• Promote your services on social media and through word-of-mouth referrals.

Earnings: Tutors in niche areas can earn R300 to R1,500 per hour, depending on their expertise.

This completes the list of 47 side hustles rsa in South Africa that offer real earning potential. 

Each hustle requires dedication, skill, and proper planning, but with consistent effort, they can lead to substantial financial rewards.

What side hustle makes the most money in South Africa

The side hustle that makes the most money in South Africa often depends on one’s skills and resources, but some of the most profitable options include:

• Real Estate Ventures: Airbnb hosting in tourist hotspots can generate thousands of rand per night.
• Ecommerce Stores: Selling niche products online through platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce has high earning potential.
• Freelance Services: Skills like web development, graphic design, or SEO consulting can bring in substantial hourly rates.
• Catering and Event Planning: These services for weddings or corporate events can yield large payouts per job.

Choose one that aligns with your abilities for the best results.