Side hustles in Los Angeles are more than just a passing trend, they’ve become a necessity for many residents trying to keep up with the city’s high cost of living. With rent, gas, and groceries on the rise, finding flexible ways to earn extra income has never been more important.
Whether you’re a freelancer, a full-time employee, or someone dreaming of launching your own venture, side hustles in Los Angeles offer a wide range of opportunities. From creative gigs to tech-driven tasks, there’s something for everyone looking to make the most of their time and talent.
Top 10 Side Hustles in Los Angeles
With the high cost of living in LA, finding a flexible side income can be a real game-changer. Whether you’re saving up, paying off debt, or just want extra spending money, side hustles in Los Angeles can help you stay financially balanced while doing something rewarding.
Part-time gigs not only help boost your income but also give you a chance to learn new skills, meet interesting people, and build a stronger local network. Here’s a look at some of the top 10 most popular and profitable side hustles in Los Angeles to help you get started:
1. Drive for Uber or Lyft
Driving for Uber or Lyft is one of the most flexible and rewarding side hustles in Los Angeles, especially if you already own a car. You get to set your own schedule, use apps like Google Maps to navigate unfamiliar areas, and earn money while cruising through the city. It’s perfect for those who enjoy driving and want to make their downtime profitable.
What makes this gig even better is the local advantage—Los Angeles is always buzzing with events, tourists, and commuters. After just a few days, you’ll learn the city’s peak hours, event hotspots, and traffic patterns, helping you maximize your earnings. Among all the side hustles in Los Angeles, rideshare driving stands out for its earning potential and flexibility.
Just in case you’re curious—this one’s worth a click: Is Uber a Good Side Hustle?
2. List Your Spare Bedroom on Airbnb
If you have a spare bedroom, listing it on Airbnb can be one of the most passive yet profitable side hustles in Los Angeles. With tourists constantly visiting the city for its beaches, entertainment, and cultural landmarks, there’s a steady demand for cozy, affordable stays. Even if you’re not centrally located, travelers often look for unique, homey experiences over traditional hotels.
Managing bookings, cleaning schedules, and guest communication might take a bit of effort at first, but with positive reviews, your listing will gain traction quickly. Over time, this side hustle in Los Angeles can turn into a reliable income stream—especially during peak travel seasons and events like award shows, festivals, or conventions.
3. Deliver Green or CBD
Delivering cannabis or CBD products is a fast-growing option among side hustles in Los Angeles, thanks to the city’s booming cannabis industry. If you’re over 21, have a valid driver’s license, and are willing to follow regulations, this can be a high-demand gig with good tips and flexible hours. Many dispensaries offer delivery services and need reliable drivers to keep up with customer orders.
CBD delivery is especially popular in the health and wellness space, from oils and lotions to edibles and skincare products. By joining this wave, you’re not only earning extra cash but also tapping into a progressive industry that continues to grow. Among the many side hustles in Los Angeles, this one blends good earnings with a focus on customer service and responsibility.
4. Sell Unwanted Items in Your Closet
One of the easiest side hustles in Los Angeles is selling unwanted items from your closet. Whether it’s clothes, accessories, or gadgets, there’s always someone out there looking for secondhand treasures. Platforms like Poshmark, Depop, or local consignment shops make it simple to list your items and start earning quickly.
What’s great about this hustle is how low-effort and sustainable it can be. You’re decluttering your space, helping the environment by promoting reuse, and making money in the process. Beyond clothing, you can also sell furniture, electronics, or kitchen appliances that are no longer in use—making this one of the most flexible side hustles in Los Angeles for people who want to start with what they already have.
5. Become a Dog Walker
If you love animals and enjoy being outdoors, dog walking can be one of the most enjoyable side hustles in Los Angeles. Apps like Wag! and Rover help you connect with pet owners in your area who need reliable help walking their furry friends. It’s a great way to earn cash while spending time in some of LA’s most scenic parks and neighborhoods.
Aside from the physical activity and mental relaxation it offers, dog walking helps you build trust with clients who may offer recurring gigs. Over time, this casual job can turn into a steady side income. Among the many side hustles in Los Angeles, this one is perfect for animal lovers looking to stay active and earn on the go.
6. Become a Part-time Photographer
If you own a good camera and have an eye for detail, part-time photography can be one of the most creative and rewarding side hustles in Los Angeles. With countless events, fashion shoots, and scenic backdrops across the city, there’s no shortage of opportunities to get started. You can begin by offering services for birthday parties, engagement shoots, or portraits.
Los Angeles is full of iconic landmarks, beaches, and artistic neighborhoods—perfect for building a strong portfolio. Take some sample shots around the city and post them on your website or social media. As word spreads, this side hustle in Los Angeles can evolve from a hobby into a profitable freelance gig that lets you express yourself while earning money.
7. Take Online Surveys
Taking online surveys is one of the easiest side hustles in Los Angeles for anyone looking to earn money without leaving home. Platforms like Survey Junkie, Swagbucks, and InboxDollars pay users for sharing opinions on products, services, or general habits. It’s simple, flexible, and requires no special skills—just consistency.
While it won’t make you rich, regular participation in surveys can offer a steady trickle of income over time. It’s especially useful during downtime or while multitasking. If you’re looking for low-effort side hustles in Los Angeles, taking surveys can be a convenient way to earn a little extra and put your opinions to good use.
While you’re here, check out this useful guide: Surveys That Pay Cash Instantly
8. Start Dropshipping Online
Starting a dropshipping business is one of the most accessible side hustles in Los Angeles, especially for those looking to work from home. It requires minimal upfront investment since you don’t need to manage or store any inventory. You simply partner with suppliers through platforms like Shopify or Etsy and sell products online, focusing on marketing and customer experience.
This hustle gives you the freedom to explore different niches—from fashion and gadgets to home decor and health products. With the right SEO strategies, social media presence, and store customization, you can drive traffic and start making sales. As far as online side hustles in Los Angeles go, dropshipping offers both flexibility and long-term potential.
9. Run Errands for People
Running errands through platforms like TaskRabbit is one of the most hands-on yet reliable side hustles in Los Angeles. Whether it’s grocery shopping, dry cleaning pickup, assembling furniture, or event setup, people in the city are always looking for help with everyday tasks. If you have a motorcycle or a car, you can easily schedule your time and assist clients across town.
This side hustle is also flexible enough to let you leverage your unique skills. If you’re a good cook, consider offering personal chef services. If you’re organized, event planning or home organization might be a great fit. With the variety of tasks available, this is one of the most versatile side hustles in Los Angeles for anyone who enjoys helping others and staying active.
10. Become an Upwork Freelancer
Freelancing on platforms like Upwork is one of the most skill-based side hustles in Los Angeles, ideal for anyone looking to work remotely and monetize their talents. Whether you’re into graphic design, writing, marketing, programming, or video editing, Upwork gives you access to a wide range of gigs across various industries. It’s a great way to test your skills, build a client base, and earn income on your own terms.
To succeed, create a professional profile showcasing your experience, skills, and past work. Be proactive in applying for jobs, maintain clear communication, and deliver high-quality work to build long-term relationships. Among the many side hustles in Los Angeles, freelancing offers the unique advantage of location independence and career growth without traditional 9-to-5 constraints.
Bonus read for you—don’t miss this: How to Maximize Earnings as a Freelancer: Budgeting and Savings Strategies
Conclusion
Exploring different side hustles in Los Angeles can help you grow both personally and professionally while giving your finances a much-needed boost. Whether you’re walking dogs, freelancing online, or launching a small business, there’s something for everyone looking to earn on the side. Pick what aligns with your interests and dive in—you’ll learn as you go.
And if you’re ever short on cash while juggling your side gigs, apps like Beem can help. With Everdraft™, you can access $10–$1000 of your verified bank deposits early—no credit checks, no interest, and no due dates. It’s a smart backup for those unpredictable moments in your side hustle journey. Download the app here.
