A side job is a flexible way to generate additional income alongside your main job. It can be a profitable hobby, freelance work, or even a part-time position. Whether you want to pay off your loan, save money for a vacation, or have extra financial support, a side hustle can help you achieve these goals.
Not everyone has the time, energy, or resources to take on a side job. Many Albertans are already balancing work, parenting, studies, and other responsibilities. That’s why we’ve selected the best side jobs that require minimal investment.
1. Start Blogging
If writing is your passion, blogging could be a great opportunity to express your ideas while generating income. Platforms like WordPress or Medium make creating your blog simple.
After attracting a loyal audience, you can start monetizing it through ads, sponsored posts, or affiliate marketing. Choose themes that resonate with Albertans, like outdoor activities, regional events, or experiences related to the Calgary Stampede.
2. Become a Tour Guide
If you have good knowledge of your region, why not consider becoming a tour guide? Alberta’s breathtaking landscapes and historic sites attract visitors year-round. Whether it's a walking tour of downtown Calgary or a guided excursion in Banff National Park, you have the chance to offer unforgettable experiences. You can organize tours in Banff National Park, famous for its mountains and turquoise lakes, as well as Jasper National Park. This activity can earn you between 2,000 CAD and 5,000 CAD per month, depending on the season and demand. Guides specializing in popular niches, like cultural or culinary tours, can achieve higher earnings.
Read on this blog: 10 Best Side Hustles in Ontario to Increase Your Income
3. Gardening and Landscaping
Offer your gardening or landscaping services during the warmer seasons in Edmonton and Calgary. Many Albertans seek help with their gardens, whether it’s mowing the lawn, planting flowers, or weeding. This type of seasonal work can be a profitable part-time activity, especially in residential areas.
Monthly earnings for gardening services range between 2,000 CAD and 5,000 CAD, depending on demand and the types of services offered.
4. Become a Freelance Graphic Designer
If you have a talent for design, working as a freelance graphic designer could be the perfect option for a side gig. Many small businesses in Alberta seek services for creating logos, websites, or marketing materials. You can start by showcasing your portfolio on platforms like 99designs or Upwork.
5. Snow Removal
As we know, winters in Alberta can feel endless, and the need for snow removal is constant. Offer your services to clear driveways and sidewalks in your neighborhood. This work is very profitable, especially during heavy snowfalls. You can promote your services locally or use platforms like Kijiji to get the word out.
6. Start Podcasting
Podcasting, like blogs and social media, has become an essential pillar of the vast world of online content. Indeed, the number of podcast listeners has steadily increased over the past six years.
Additionally, podcasting is a relatively affordable activity. You can get a good-quality USB microphone, specifically designed for podcasting, for under $100. Recording platforms like Audacity are free and easy to use.
7. App Testing
Nothing slows down a business as quickly as a website full of bugs or a malfunctioning app. That’s why developers hire testers to check every link and interact with all features to ensure everything is in order before going live.
And the best part? You can get paid for these tests. Some players in the market even offer up to $100 for a one-hour testing session, making it an interesting opportunity to earn money.
8. Sponsorship on Social Media
If you have a passion for a specific hobby, you can create content on TikTok or Instagram that captures your community's interest. Once you’ve built an engaged audience, you can monetize your profile by partnering with brands that will pay you to promote their products.
Also read this article: Side Hustles and Opportunities in Edmonton: Here Are the Best Activities and How to Get Started!
9. Become an Event Planner
Alberta hosts numerous events throughout the year, from weddings to corporate seminars. If you have strong organizational skills and a creative touch, event planning could be a rewarding side activity. You could specialize in uniquely Albertan events, like ranch weddings or mountain retreats.
10. Offer Cleaning Services
Offer cleaning services to individuals or businesses. Many busy Albertans are willing to pay for reliable cleaning services. You can start by offering your services to neighbors or promoting them through platforms like Facebook.
11. Recycling
If you're inventive and environmentally conscious, recycling could be the perfect side activity for you. Give old furniture or clothing a second life by transforming them into trendy pieces, and sell them at local markets or online. Albertans value unique and sustainable items, and recycling fits perfectly into this approach. You can take inspiration from a local business.
12. Ridesharing Service
Alberta's cities are well-suited for ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft. If you have a reliable car and enjoy driving, this can be a flexible way to generate additional income, especially during peak hours or events like the Calgary Stampede.
A rideshare driver in Alberta can earn between 2,500 and 4,000 CAD per month, depending on hours worked.
For more, read the article: 7 Side Hustle Opportunities in Calgary to Generate Additional Income
