12 Creative Ways To Set Up A Side Hustle For Extra Income Now

6. Rent Out a Spare Room on Airbnb

If you’ve got an extra room or a finished basement gathering dust, turning it into Airbnb gold is a classic move—especially in busy cities or vacation spots. Getting started is pretty simple: tidy the space, snap some nice photos, create an eye-catching listing, and be honest about quirks or house rules (no one likes unwelcome surprises). Airbnb hosts can earn anywhere from $50 to $250 a night—sometimes much more if you’re in a high-demand spot or offer a private suite (Shopify, 2024). But make sure to check your local laws and HOA rules; some places have tight restrictions on short-term rentals. Expect to handle occasional messes or high-maintenance guests, and factor in the cost of fresh linens or little upgrades. If you’re comfortable playing host and want to leverage your space for income, Airbnb is a reliable option—just do your homework first and build in the cost of cleaning, repairs, and downtime.