Discover real ways to earn extra cash in 2025 – whether you're employed, studying, or in between jobs.

In today’s South Africa, having a second income stream is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. With rising inflation, high unemployment, and stagnating wages, many South Africans are turning to side hustles to fill the gap.

Whether you're saving for something big, trying to pay off debt, or just want to cushion your monthly income, there are more opportunities than ever to make money on the side – without quitting your job.

At Lula Lona, we’ve put together a list of 10 smart, realistic side hustle ideas tailored to the South African context in 2025. We'll break down what each one involves, what it pays, what you’ll need to get started, and how to stay compliant with the law.

1. Online Tutoring

If you’re strong in maths, science, languages, or even coding – tutoring can bring in consistent income.

How it works:

• Teach learners from primary school to university level
• Platforms: Teach Me 2, Superprof, or freelance on WhatsApp groups
• You can also tutor ESL (English as a Second Language) to students overseas

Earnings:

• R120–R300/hour (local)
• Up to $10–$20/hour (international)

Start-up costs:

• Stable internet, Zoom or Google Meet, quiet space

2. Delivery Driving (Food or Courier)

With services like Mr D, Uber Eats, and Bolt Food expanding, delivery driving remains a solid hustle if you have a bike or car.

How it works:

• Work flexible hours
• Earn per delivery + tips
• Can combine with driving for Uber/Bolt passengers

Earnings:

• R3,000–R8,000/month part-time

Start-up costs:

• Reliable vehicle or bike, valid licence, fuel, mobile data

3. TikTok or Instagram Affiliate Marketing

If you enjoy creating content, you can earn by promoting products using affiliate links.

How it works:

• Join affiliate programs (Takealot, Superbalist, Amazon SA)
• Post short videos, reviews, or tutorials
• Get paid per click, sign-up, or sale

Earnings:

• R500–R5,000+/month depending on traffic

Start-up costs:

• Smartphone, basic editing app (CapCut, InShot), social media presence

4. Selling Digital Products

Selling templates, eBooks, online courses, or even stock photography allows you to earn passively.

What you can sell:

• Budget templates (Google Sheets, Excel)
• Canva social media kits
• eBooks (e.g. “How to Meal Prep on a Budget”)
• Online courses (via Udemy or Teachable)

Earnings:

• R500–R20,000+/month depending on niche and promotion

Start-up costs:

• Design software (many have free versions), time to build once

5. Freelance Writing or Graphic Design

If you’re skilled with words or visuals, there’s a huge market for freelance services – both locally and internationally.

How it works:

• Offer services on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or local Facebook groups
• Niche examples: blog writing, ad copy, CV design, logos

Earnings:

• R300–R1,500/article
• R500–R3,000/design project

Start-up costs:

• Portfolio, Canva or Adobe tools, PayPal account for international gigs

6. Rent Out a Room or Parking Spot

Got extra space? Put it to work.

How it works:

• List spare room on Airbnb
• Rent out driveway or parking bay near busy areas, malls, or campuses

Earnings:

• R1,500–R8,000+/month (depending on location)

Start-up costs:

• Cleaning, linens, WiFi for Airbnb; little to no cost for parking space

7. Weekend Market Selling or Home Baking

If you enjoy baking, sewing, or crafting, you can make and sell products at local markets or online.

What to sell:

• Biltong, baked goods, handmade accessories, candles, kids’ clothes

Where:

• Neighbourhood markets, Facebook Marketplace, Yaga, Takealot Marketplace

Earnings:

• R2,000–R10,000/month

Start-up costs:

• Raw materials, packaging, stall fees

8. Virtual Assistant Work

Small businesses and entrepreneurs often outsource admin tasks like email handling, calendar management, or social media.

How it works:

• Work remotely, part-time or freelance
• Find clients via LinkedIn, job boards, or Upwork

Earnings:

• R100–R250/hour

Start-up costs:

• Laptop, reliable WiFi, basic admin or organisational skills

9. Car Washing or Mobile Grooming Services

Low-tech but high-demand – especially in areas with lots of foot traffic or gated communities.

How it works:

• Offer mobile car wash or pet grooming
• Book via WhatsApp, Facebook, or flyers

Earnings:

• R50–R150/wash; R200–R500/grooming session

Start-up costs:

• Cleaning products, water access, transport

10. Reselling Items for Profit

Buy low, sell high – it’s a classic hustle.

What to flip:

• Thrifted clothes
• Refurbished electronics
• Clearance stock from major retailers

Where to sell:

• Yaga, Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace, or via Instagram store

Earnings:

• Varies widely; some sellers earn R1,000–R15,000/month

Start-up costs:

• Starting inventory, mobile data, courier arrangements

Do You Need to Pay Tax on Side Hustles?

Yes – if your side hustle earns you more than R95,750/year (2025 threshold), you must register with SARS and submit annual returns.

Even if your income is lower, it’s wise to keep records:

• Track invoices and payments
• Open a separate bank account for side income
• Set aside 15–20% of earnings for potential tax

You can register as a sole proprietor or set up a micro business through the Turnover Tax system (for incomes under R1 million/year).

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be a full-time entrepreneur to start a side hustle – but you do need consistency, creativity, and a willingness to learn.

With just a few hours a week, you can turn your skills or time into income, build financial stability, and even discover a new passion.

At Lula Lona, we support South Africans at every stage of their money journey. Whether you’re side hustling to save, survive, or start something big – you’ve got this.