Nearly Half of Americans Have a Side Hustle in 2025
A new 2025 Side Hustle Survey from LendingTree shows that 44% of Americans now have a side hustle—many out of necessity rather than choice. The data points to rising financial strain as wages stagnate and the cost of living continues to climb. For a growing number of people, side gigs aren’t about extra spending money—they’re about survival.
Most Side Hustlers Earn Less Than $500 a Month
Among those juggling multiple streams of income, 43% say their side hustle is critical to covering daily expenses. That’s a sharp jump from recent years. Yet most aren’t making much—71% earn under $500 a month from their side gigs, and nearly a quarter bring in less than $100.
“The median amount our side hustlers earned monthly was $400, but the average was $1,215,” wrote LendingTree’s Matt Schultz. “Considering how tight many households’ budgets are, $1,215 is nothing short of a game-changing monthly amount.”
The data also reveals a gender gap: men report earning an average of $1,580 per month, while women earn about $749.
D.C. Ranks Among the Most Overworked Cities in the U.S.
Earlier reporting from Secret DC highlights how overwork extends beyond just side hustles. Washington, D.C., ranks among the most overworked cities in the country, scoring 81.1 on the overwork index. The typical workweek there is 39 hours, and residents face a 31-minute average commute.
More than 61% of households in the District have multiple jobs. Additionally, 64% of workers put in 50 or more weeks per year, and 23.4% of residents aged 65 and older are still in the workforce. The report notes that 5.6% of employees hold two jobs, while 3% have a side hustle. In contrast, Las Vegas was named the least overworked city, with a score of just 18.7.
Younger Generations Lead the Hustle Economy
Side hustles are more common among younger Americans. According to the LendingTree survey, 60% of Gen Z and 55% of millennials have a side gig. That compares to 39% of Gen X and just 24% of baby boomers.
While 18% of side hustlers earn at least $1,000 a month, the majority fall into lower income brackets. Inflation continues to chip away at purchasing power, making it difficult for workers to build savings or long-term financial security.
Income Instability and Burnout Are Growing Concerns
Freelance and gig work remain highly unstable. Only 31% of side hustlers say they feel financially secure, and 36% worry their side income could vanish if demand drops or the economy falters. Nearly one-third (32%) report working at least 20 hours per week on their side hustle—essentially holding down a second job.
“Sure, many people have side hustling in their blood. They’re working these side gigs because they’re passionate about them, not just because of the money,” Schultz wrote. “That’s not most people, though. Our survey revealed, not surprisingly, that many Americans take on side hustles to help them manage debt. They’ve cut their spending to the bone… before realizing they need to bring in more income to make a real dent in their problem.”
Cultural Pushback Against Side Hustle Normalization
Side hustle fatigue is starting to show. Last fall, one user on X (formerly Twitter) expressed frustration with the grind: “I kinda hate the side hustle / second income culture,” wrote a user named Mayowa. “Someone shouldn’t have to work so much just to be comfortable.” The post received over 62,000 likes and 16,000 reposts.
While platforms like Uber, DoorDash, and Etsy provide flexibility, they rarely provide lasting stability. For many, the hustle isn’t a passion—it’s a lifeline.
