As economic pressures mount and technological advancements reshape the job market, side hustles are surging in popularity across the United States in 2025. A recent survey reveals that many Americans are increasingly turning to secondary income sources to mitigate the rising costs of living and financial uncertainty. With 71% of Americans actively seeking side gigs, the landscape of entrepreneurship is rapidly evolving.
According to a study conducted by SideHustles.com, which analyzed Google search volume data from January 2022 to January 2025, the fastest-growing side hustles reflect a significant shift in consumer preferences and behaviors. The research examined search trends related to 170 side hustle keywords across all 50 states and the 25 most populated cities, revealing insights into what Americans are looking for in terms of additional income.
The findings indicate a remarkable 28% increase in interest in AI-powered side hustles over the past year. Notably, YouTube monetization has emerged as the fastest-growing side hustle in six states, including New York, Illinois, and Michigan. This trend suggests that digital entrepreneurship is becoming a primary avenue for many looking to supplement their income.
Here’s a look at the top ten fastest-growing side hustles ranked by their search growth from 2023 through 2024:
- Mobile car wash service (276%)
- Selling stock photos online (151%)
- Crypto trading (122%)
- Personal shopping service (100%)
- Food delivery driver (87%)
- Crypto trading strategies (84%)
- Freelancing (80%)
- Sustainable investing strategies (77%)
- Selling digital products (75%)
- Online tutoring (54%)
Leading the pack is the mobile car wash service, which saw an astounding 276% increase in interest. This trend highlights a growing consumer preference for convenience-driven services, where professionals come directly to customers rather than requiring them to visit a traditional car wash. Edward Huang, a career expert at SideHustles.com, notes, "Mobile car washing presents a low-barrier, high-demand opportunity with flexible hours and minimal overhead costs."
Mark Slack, another career expert at SideHustles.com, emphasizes that side hustles are evolving from a mere trend into a fundamental approach for many individuals seeking financial freedom and security. He states, "If you’re working full-time but still just getting by, this is your cue to get into where real demand is picking up. That massive surge in mobile car wash demand? It’s not about washing cars—it’s about convenience, low overhead, and the freedom to run a business on your terms, out of your own space."
Additionally, a survey conducted by Academized.com among 2,500 millennials aged 26 to 41 revealed that 52% of respondents engage in side hustles, with 33% managing four or more jobs simultaneously. The average annual income from side hustles is reported to be $12,689, with top earners making as much as $45,000. Interestingly, 41% of these polyworking millennials reported reduced financial stress due to their side hustles, although 42% also expressed feelings of burnout.
Furthermore, 58% of millennials view polyworking as a sustainable long-term career model rather than a short-term fix. This perspective emphasizes a shift in how younger generations are approaching work and financial stability.
Experts predict that searches for side hustles will surge by 441% over the next five years, indicating a robust interest in alternative income sources. Slack offers practical advice for those looking to capitalize on this trend: "Identify something that’s in your interest or skill set, block out a few hours a week, and give it a solid try. If that’s dog walking, reselling thrift store items, or creating videos about what you already know—just start. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel, just get on one that’s already turning," he concludes.
In summary, the side hustle phenomenon is reshaping the American workforce as individuals seek creative ways to adapt to economic challenges. With a diverse range of opportunities available, many are discovering that pursuing their passions can lead to not only supplemental income but also personal fulfillment.
