British Columbia is a province rich in landscapes and economic opportunities. With the high cost of living, many are considering a side job to supplement their income or explore new professional passions. Whether you live in Vancouver, Victoria, or a small town, several options are available to you. Here’s a guide to the best side hustle ideas suited to British Columbia, based on current trends and local opportunities.
1. Local Delivery Services
The delivery sector has exploded in British Columbia, especially in major cities: Vancouver (Downtown, Kitsilano), Burnaby (Metrotown), and Richmond (City Centre). With Uber Eats, DoorDash, and other similar services, you can become a delivery driver. It’s a flexible activity that only requires a vehicle and a good knowledge of the area. Additionally, with the rise of e-commerce, local businesses are also seeking fast delivery services.
Advantages:
- Flexible hours
- Low startup costs (if you already own a bike, car, or scooter)
- An activity that allows you to stay active while exploring different neighborhoods
Disadvantages:
- Time is a crucial factor, especially in winter when driving becomes more challenging.
- Earnings fluctuate based on hours and demand.
Also read: Side Hustles in Vancouver: 8 Ideas to Quickly Supplement Your Income
2. Online Tutoring and Private Lessons
With the rise of remote learning, many students, parents, and adults are looking to improve their academic or professional skills. If you have expertise in a specific area such as mathematics, science, languages, or music, offering private lessons would be an excellent side hustle. Platforms like VIPKid, Preply, or even local networks allow you to connect with learners.
Advantages:
- Ideal for individuals with expertise in a specific field.
- Work from home possible, which reduces commuting costs.
- Allows setting your own rates and schedule
Disadvantages:
- Requires preparation and a long-term commitment
- Demand fluctuates depending on the time of year
3. Digital Marketing Consultation
Many small businesses in British Columbia are looking to improve their online visibility. If you have SEO skills, social media management expertise, or online advertising experience, offer your services as a consultant. Digital marketing is an essential skill, and many local business owners are eager to stand out in an increasingly competitive market.
Advantages:
- Option to work remotely
- High demand in growing sectors such as tourism, hospitality, and retail
- Enables building a portfolio and charging competitive rates
Disadvantages:
- Requires prior expertise and constant knowledge updates
- Competition can be strong with other consultants
Estimated income for digital marketing consulting in British Columbia ranges between 50,000 and 120,000 CAD annually, depending on experience. Hourly rates can reach 150 CAD, depending on the services offered and local demand.
4. Content Creation on YouTube or TikTok
The rise of short- and long-form video platforms like YouTube and TikTok has created new opportunities to diversify your income. If you’re passionate about a topic or hobby, you can create videos around it and generate income through monetization. British Columbia, with its stunning landscapes and diverse activities, is the perfect setting for producing engaging content.
Advantages:
- Low initial investment
- Total creative freedom
- Potentiel de revenus élevé si votre contenu devient populaire
Disadvantages:
- Competition is fierce, so it may take time to build an audience.
- Advertising revenue can be unpredictable.
Content creators in British Columbia earn between $1,000 and $10,000 per month depending on engagement and partnerships. Income varies based on subscribers, views, and collaborations with local or international brands.
5. Selling Handmade Products Online
If you have a talent for making jewelry, sewing, pottery, or other forms of craftsmanship, selling your creations online through platforms like Etsy can be a rewarding path. Additionally, local markets and craft fairs offer great opportunities to promote your products.
Advantages:
- Allows you to turn a hobby into a source of income
- Demand for local and handmade products is rapidly growing.
- Opportunity to sell internationally through online platforms.
Disadvantages:
- Product creation can be time-consuming.
- Online competition is strong, so standing out with original creations is essential.
6. Short-Term Rentals with Airbnb
British Columbia is a popular tourist destination, whether for its mountains or coastal cities. If you have a spare room, studio, or vacant property, consider renting it out on platforms like Airbnb. This option is especially appealing for those living in tourist areas such as Whistler, Vancouver, or Tofino, allowing you to supplement your income without hassle.
Advantages:
- Potentially high income during tourist seasons
- Freedom to choose when to rent out your space
- Allows you to meet people from around the world
Disadvantages:
- Requires regular management (guest check-in, cleaning, etc.)
- Strict regulations in certain cities, like Vancouver, for short-term rentals
Estimated income from short-term rentals through Airbnb in British Columbia varies by season, location, and demand. On average, a host can generate about 2,500 to 4,000 CAD per month, depending on the area and type of property offered.
7. Freelancing in Web Writing or Graphic Design
If you have skills in writing, graphic design, or website management, you can monetize your talent through freelancing. Demand for writers, designers, and visual content creators is booming.
Advantages:
- Flexible work hours
- Opportunity to work with a diverse client base
- Work can be done from home
Disadvantages:
- Workload can be irregular, with periods of inactivity
- Pricing can vary based on experience and the project.
Freelance income in web writing or graphic design in British Columbia ranges between 30,000 and 70,000 CAD per year. Rates depend on skills, network, and experience.
8. Property Management
Do you have skills in administration and management? Offer your services as a property manager to earn money. Many homeowners in British Columbia, especially those with rental properties remotely, are looking for managers to handle administrative tasks, maintenance, and tenant relations.
Advantages:
- Stable compensation, often based on long-term contracts
- Requires low initial costs, apart from good organization
- Demand is continuously increasing, particularly in tourist areas.
Disadvantages:
- Management of unforeseen events, such as emergency repairs.
- Responsibilities related to tenant relations.
Property management generates average annual income of 50,000 to 120,000 CAD, depending on experience.
Whether you're looking for an activity that requires low initial investment or you want to monetize a passion, there are plenty of opportunities. The local market, with its tourist appeal and craft culture, allows everyone to find a side activity that aligns with their interests and schedule, especially thanks to the growing demand for online services.
