21 Legit Side Hustles in Canada That Actually Pay
Looking for ways to make extra money on the side? Whether you’re saving for a goal, paying off debt, or simply seeking extra income, there are plenty of legit side hustles in Canada that actually pay. The rise of the gig economy and digital platforms makes earning additional income easier than ever. From freelancing to selling products online, these 21 side hustles can help you boost your income in 2026.These legit side hustles in Canada that actually pay.
1. Freelance Writing
Freelance writing is one of the best side hustles in Canada, especially if you have a knack for words. Many businesses need skilled writers to produce content for blogs, websites, and marketing materials.
How to Get Started
To begin, create a portfolio showcasing your writing samples. Then, sign up on platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr to find gigs. As you build experience, you can also network with bloggers, marketers, and small businesses.
💡 Earning Potential: $20–$80+ per hour depending on experience and niche
2. Online Tutoring
If you’re good at teaching and knowledgeable in a specific subject, online tutoring is a rewarding side hustle in Canada. Demand is high for math, science, and language tutors, especially for students seeking extra help.
How to Get Started
Sign up with tutoring websites like Chegg, Tutor.com, or Skooli. You can also offer private lessons via platforms like Zoom or Skype. Additionally, advertising locally through social media or community boards can attract clients.
💡 Earning Potential: $15–$60+ per hour
3. Virtual Assistance
Many entrepreneurs and small businesses require help with administrative tasks such as email management, customer service, and scheduling. If you’re organized and detail-oriented, becoming a virtual assistant (VA) is a fantastic side hustle.
How to Get Started
Start by learning the basics of VA work. Platforms like Upwork and Belay allow you to offer your services. Once you’ve built a solid reputation, you can also set up a website to promote your services and attract clients.
💡 Earning Potential: $20–$50+ per hour
4. Social Media Management
With businesses increasingly relying on social media to reach customers, the demand for skilled social media managers has grown. If you’re familiar with Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, social media management can be an excellent side hustle in Canada.
How to Get Started
Offer your services to local businesses and influencers. Additionally, platforms like LinkedIn are perfect for connecting with potential clients. By building a portfolio of successful campaigns, you’ll attract more clients over time.
💡 Earning Potential: $25–$100+ per hour
5. Dog Walking and Pet Sitting
If you’re an animal lover, dog walking and pet sitting can be a fun and rewarding side hustle in Canada. With many people working remotely, pet care services have become essential, and pet owners are willing to pay for reliable help.
How to Get Started
Advertise your services on platforms like Rover or Care.com. You can also connect with neighbors or local pet owners directly. Offering excellent service will help you build trust and secure repeat clients.
💡 Earning Potential: $15–$30+ per hour
Best Side Hustles for 2026 That Actually Pay
6. Ride-Sharing or Delivery Driving
Owning a car opens up the opportunity for becoming a ride-share driver with Uber or Lyft or working as a food delivery driver for services like SkipTheDishes or UberEats. Both options allow you to earn money on your schedule, making them ideal side hustles.
How to Get Started
Sign up with ride-sharing or delivery platforms. To maximize earnings, drive during peak hours like rush hour and weekends. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and follows the platform’s requirements.
💡 Earning Potential: $15–$30+ per hour, depending on demand
7. Photography
Photography is an ideal side hustle if you have a camera and a creative eye. From event photography to portraits and stock photos, there’s high demand for talented photographers in Canada.
How to Get Started
Offer your services for local events like weddings, birthdays, and corporate events. Alternatively, you can sell stock photos on platforms like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock. Don’t forget to advertise your services online and through local connections.
💡 Earning Potential: $50–$200+ per session or project
10 Proven Online Side Hustles That Actually Work in 2026
8. Sell Handmade Products
If you’re crafty, selling handmade products online is a fantastic side hustle. Platforms like Etsy allow you to showcase and sell your creations to a global audience, while local craft fairs offer another way to connect with customers.
How to Get Started
Create unique products like jewelry, clothing, or home decor. Set up an Etsy shop, and use social media to promote your creations. Attending local craft fairs can also help you get noticed.
💡 Earning Potential: Varies based on the product, but can range from $100 to $5,000+ per month.
9. Graphic Design
If you have a talent for design, graphic design can be an incredibly profitable side hustle. Businesses, websites, and brands consistently need fresh logos, website designs, and marketing materials.
How to Get Started
Learn how to use tools like Adobe Illustrator or Canva. Build a portfolio and start offering your services on freelance platforms. You can also sell designs on sites like Redbubble.
💡 Earning Potential: $25–$100+ per hour
10. Freelance Web Development
If you’re tech-savvy, freelance web development is a high-paying side hustle. Many small businesses need custom-built websites or need help optimizing their existing ones.
How to Get Started
Learn popular coding languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. You can find gigs on platforms like Upwork and Freelancer. Focus on building websites for small businesses and startups.
💡 Earning Potential: $30–$150+ per hour
11. Transcription Services
Transcription involves converting audio or video content into written text, and it’s a great side hustle if you have good listening skills. With demand growing, especially for medical and legal transcription, this is a profitable option.
How to Get Started
Sign up with transcription platforms like Rev or TranscribeMe. Enhance your typing speed and accuracy for higher-paying gigs. Specializing in medical or legal transcription can lead to even higher earnings.
💡 Earning Potential: $15–$40+ per hour
12. Online Surveys and Market Research
While not the most lucrative, completing online surveys and participating in market research can be an easy way to make extra money in your free time. Many businesses pay for consumer opinions.
How to Get Started
Register with reputable survey sites like Swagbucks or InboxDollars. You can also participate in paid focus groups and product testing to earn more.
💡 Earning Potential: $5–$50 per survey or research session
13. Freelance Video Editing
With the explosion of video content on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and social media, freelance video editing is a highly profitable side hustle. Many creators and businesses need editors to help produce high-quality videos.
How to Get Started
Learn video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro. Build a portfolio and start offering your services on platforms like Fiverr and Upwork.
💡 Earning Potential: $25–$100+ per hour
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ What are the best side hustles in Canada?
Top side hustles include freelance writing, online tutoring, virtual assistance, dog walking, and ride-sharing. The key is finding something that aligns with your skills and interests.
❓ How much money can I make from a side hustle in Canada?
You can earn anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month, depending on the side hustle and the time you dedicate. Some hustles, like freelance web development or tutoring, offer higher pay rates.
❓ How do I start a side hustle in Canada?
Start by identifying a side hustle that matches your skills. Register on relevant platforms (like Upwork, Fiverr, or Etsy), create a portfolio, and begin networking to find clients.
❓ Are side hustles in Canada worth it?
Yes! Many Canadians successfully earn extra income through side hustles. Some even transition their side hustles into full-time businesses.