10 Ways to Boost Your Summer Income
Posted on 
Summer is the season for fun in the sun; it is also a great time to make money. Whether you are looking to make some extra cash during those long warm days or just want a break from your regular job, there are many opportunities available. Join the thousands of people who will take advantage of this summer’s money-making potential!
Here are seven easy but effective ways to save money during the hottest months of the year.
Make Use of Your Space
In 2026 alone, the US vacation rental market is projected to reach $21.53 billion. If you live in a crowded city or popular tourist destination, consider renting out your space to cash in on this trend. Highlight unique features and provide context about your property on sites like VRBO or Airbnb to set it apart from others. Opt to stay elsewhere when your city is most bustling if you have an extra place–full homes or condos rent for more per night than shared accommodations.
Become One with The Server Life
With summer comes growth in the restaurant industry so it’s a good time to start working as a server. This type of job often offers flexibility around other commitments and decent paychecks–especially since tips are involved. Key responsibilities include taking orders, serving food/beverages, and providing excellent customer service. Head straight into nearby eateries or browse online job boards for these positions; showing up and expressing interest can leave a positive impression on potential employers alone.
Pet Care & Dog Walking
Since summer is peak travel season and 66% of American households own dogs, reliable dog walkers/pet sitters are in demand. Advertise your services on platforms like Rover and Wag (to reach more people). Build trust with potential clients seeking pet care by crafting a detailed profile and being able to provide references.
Yard Work Services
As people strive to enjoy their outdoor spaces throughout the summer months, offering yard work services (e.g., landscaping, gardening, grass mowing) can be a lucrative business idea. Use flyers, social media or word-of-mouth to promote yourself to those in need of professional maintenance for their outside spaces.
Pool Maintenance
Many homeowners have pools but may lack the time or knowledge to maintain them year-round. Opening and maintaining pools can be a profitable seasonal business. With some initial know-how, you could offer vacuuming, chemical balancing for safe swimming, pump reassembly, pool cover removal/basic equipment.
Virtual Assistance
The demand for remote work is on the rise and this has opened up opportunities for virtual assistants. You can offer flexible support services from home such as email management, social media account management, appointment scheduling etc. Upwork and Fiverr are great places to find virtual assistant jobs during your summer break.
Tutoring Services
Tutoring during the summer — especially in subjects that you excel at — or teaching English online to speakers overseas can be very lucrative. Online teaching services like VIPKid,QKids and Cambly have different requirements but provide flexibility and earning potential during the summer months.
Create Your Path to Wealth
If you have an artistic streak, the process of selling handmade creations can be fulfilling and profitable. Local craft fairs are great places to showcase and sell jewelry, paintings, pottery or woodworking products while websites like Etsy provide a virtual storefront.
Resale Business
Get some quick money by selling things you no longer use on Facebook Marketplace, eBay or Poshmark. Take advantage of the summer spirit and declutter your wardrobe or other items that aren’t necessary for you or your family.
Delivery Work
Be a food delivery driver with apps such as DoorDash, Grubhub or Uber Eats and bring meals right to customers’ doors. The average hourly wage is $20.63 with flexible hours making it a good side hustle for extra cash during the summer.
Babysitting Jobs
Families often require additional child care during the summer which creates opportunities for lucrative babysitting businesses. Use sites like Care.com or local community organizations to connect with families seeking nannies or babysitters. Babysitting pays an average of $12.22 per hour allowing you to make money while spending time with kids.
Conventional Part-Time Employment
Consider taking the traditional route by finding part-time work in food service, hospitality or retail industries. Many businesses hire more staff in response to increased seasonal demand over the summer months so search local companies or online job boards like Indeed for positions that align with your interests and availability.
Use this summer as an opportunity not only to relax but also diversify your income with these exciting options!
Senior Writer • Business and Information Trends Writer
Lucas writes long-form, investigative articles that explore the deeper implications of business and information advancements.
