Job hunting in South Africa can be a challenging and uncertain time, especially in today’s economic climate. However, this period doesn’t have to be financially draining. Whether you’re between roles or just looking to make extra cash while seeking your next job, there are many side hustles that can keep your wallet full and your skills sharp.
From digital opportunities to hands-on gigs, South Africa offers plenty of side hustles that cater to various interests and skill sets. In this article, we’ll explore a range of side hustles you can get involved with, how to start, and what kind of income you can expect—all while you continue your job search.
1. Freelance Work (Writing, Design, Web Development, Virtual Assistance)
Freelancing is one of the most flexible and rewarding side hustles you can pursue while job hunting. The beauty of freelancing is that it allows you to work from home or anywhere, pick your own hours, and use the skills you’ve developed in previous jobs or your personal life. In South Africa, the demand for freelance work is steadily growing, especially in industries like writing, graphic design, digital marketing, and web development.
Top Freelance Platforms:
| Platform | What It Offers | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Upwork | Job postings for various industries | Writers, designers, developers, marketers |
| Freelancer | Bid-based projects for all kinds of roles | Writers, programmers, creatives |
| Fiverr | Service-based work for as little as R75 | Content creators, voice artists, designers |
| Toptal | High-end freelancers in various fields | Experienced developers, designers, finance professionals |
How to Start:
- Create a profile on a freelancing platform and set up your portfolio or showcase your work.
- Browse through job listings or offer services in areas where you have expertise.
- Bid on jobs or post your service offering.
Potential Earnings:
- Freelancers can charge from R150 to R800 per hour depending on their skills and experience. For instance, a skilled web developer can charge R500-R1000 per hour, while a content writer can expect R200-R500 per article or post.
2. Online Tutoring and Teaching
Online tutoring has become a popular side hustle in South Africa due to the rise of remote learning. Whether you’re teaching English to foreign students or tutoring in subjects like maths, science, or accounting, this is an easy way to share your expertise while earning money.
Top Platforms to Use:
| Platform | Focus Area | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Superprof | Subjects like math, languages, music | Those with expertise in a subject |
| Preply | English and other languages | ESL teachers or language tutors |
| TeachMe2 | High school and university subjects | Tutors specializing in academics |
How to Start:
- Sign up on one or more tutoring platforms.
- Set your availability and hourly rate.
- Start tutoring students from around the world, using video calls.
Potential Earnings:
- Tutors can earn from R200 to R500+ per hour, depending on their subject and expertise. For example, a specialised subject like accounting or science can command a higher rate.
3. Delivery Services (Uber Eats, Mr D Food, Bolt Food)
If you have a car, motorbike, or even a bicycle, becoming a delivery driver for services like Uber Eats, Mr D Food, or Bolt Food can be a flexible side hustle. You can work as much or as little as you like, making this an ideal option when you’re job hunting.
Popular Platforms to Use:
| Platform | Service Offered | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Uber Eats | Food delivery service | Car and bike owners with flexibility |
| Mr D Food | Food delivery service | Flexible workers looking to earn extra cash |
| Bolt Food | Food delivery service | Riders looking to work at their own pace |
How to Start:
- Sign up with one of the food delivery services in your area.
- Complete the necessary background checks and vehicle requirements (if applicable).
- Start delivering food during peak hours for maximum earnings.
Potential Earnings:
- Delivery drivers in South Africa can earn between R50 to R150 per hour, depending on the number of deliveries, tips, and whether you’re working during busy times.
4. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Pet sitting and dog walking is an ideal side hustle for animal lovers. In South Africa, many pet owners are looking for trusted individuals to care for their pets while they’re at work or away on vacation. If you have a love for animals, this can be a rewarding side gig.
Top Platforms to Use:
| Platform | Service Offered | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| PetBacker | Pet sitting, dog walking, grooming | Animal lovers with flexible hours |
| Rover | Pet sitting, dog walking, and boarding | People with a love for animals |
How to Start:
- Sign up on a pet sitting platform.
- Set your availability and rates, and create a profile showcasing your experience with animals.
- Start accepting bookings and caring for pets in your local area.
Potential Earnings:
- Pet sitters and dog walkers can charge anywhere from R100 to R300+ per hour, depending on the type of service (walking, sitting, or grooming) and the length of time.
5. Affiliate Marketing
If you have a blog, website, or a strong social media presence, affiliate marketing can be a great way to make money passively while job hunting. This side hustle involves promoting products and earning a commission for sales made through your referral link.
How It Works:
- Join affiliate programs such as Takealot, Amazon, or Clicks.
- Share affiliate links through your blog, social media channels, or YouTube channel.
- Earn a commission when people make purchases through your links.
How to Start:
- Sign up for affiliate marketing programs that suit your niche.
- Start creating content (blog posts, videos, social media posts) that features your affiliate links.
Potential Earnings:
- Commissions typically range from 5% to 10% per sale. A high-traffic blog or popular Instagram account could earn anywhere from R500 to R5000+ per month, depending on the products and audience size.
6. Sell Handmade Goods or Crafts Online
If you’re skilled in crafts or have a passion for creating things, South Africa’s online marketplace offers many ways to sell handmade goods. Platforms like Etsy and local sites like Takealot or Bidorbuy allow you to sell everything from art and jewellery to clothing and home décor.
Where to Sell:
| Platform | What You Can Sell | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Etsy | Handmade goods, vintage, craft items | Crafters and artists |
| Takealot | Various products including crafts | Entrepreneurs looking for local reach |
| Bidorbuy | Anything from collectibles to crafts | Sellers of unique or custom goods |
How to Start:
- Set up an online shop on a marketplace platform.
- Take high-quality photos of your products and create compelling listings.
- Promote your products on social media and through word of mouth.
Potential Earnings:
- Earnings vary widely depending on the product, but many sellers can earn R2000-R5000 per month by selling handmade crafts or goods online.
7. Online Surveys and Market Research
Online surveys might not make you a fortune, but they are a simple way to earn a bit of extra money when you have free time. There are a variety of platforms where you can participate in market research and get paid for your opinions.
Popular Survey Platforms:
| Platform | Reward Type | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Survey Junkie | Points redeemable for cash or gift cards | Those with spare time and an interest in surveys |
| Swagbucks | Gift cards, PayPal cash rewards | People looking for low-effort side hustles |
| Pinecone Research | Points that can be converted to PayPal or gift cards | Those who prefer higher-paying surveys |
How to Start:
- Sign up for multiple survey platforms.
- Complete surveys in your free time and earn points or cash.
Potential Earnings:
- Depending on the platform, you can earn anywhere from R20 to R100 per survey. High-quality surveys may offer even more, especially with specialized research.
Check also: Top In-Demand Skills in South Africa: Get Hired Faster in 2025!
Job hunting in South Africa doesn’t have to be financially stressful. By taking advantage of these side hustles, you can earn extra income while keeping your skills sharp and even gaining new ones. From freelance writing to dog walking, the opportunities are vast and flexible. So, whether you’re just starting your job search or looking to supplement your income, these side hustles can keep you afloat, motivated, and ready for your next big opportunity!
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