Located on the island of Newfoundland, St. John’s is a charming city that attracts nature and history enthusiasts. However, modern life drives many to seek additional jobs. If you live in St. John’s or plan to move there, exploring local side hustles could help you supplement your income. Here are five unique ideas that might inspire you.
- Operating cabins or cottages for tourists
One of Newfoundland's greatest assets is its spectacular natural setting. With tourists looking for an escape, you could invest in a small cabin or cottage. You don’t even need a large initial investment. Many cottage owners share their space during tourist seasons.
The advantage of this activity is that you can capitalize on key periods such as the summer months or the holiday season, when demand surges. Platforms like Airbnb allow you to attract international and domestic visitors. By focusing on local decor and offering services such as guided tours, you can earn a substantial income.
To read: Top 5 Side Hustle Opportunities in Regina You Can Start Today!
- Creating Handmade Crafts
Craftsmanship always holds a special place in St. John’s, especially when it comes to local creations. Artisans make use of the region’s natural resources to create items that capture its essence. Whether it’s ocean-inspired jewelry, local wood sculptures, or textiles featuring Indigenous cultural patterns, the possibilities are endless.
With a modest investment in materials, this type of side hustle will bring in additional income, as well as a creative and fulfilling activity. You can sell these creations online through Etsy or at local markets like the St. John’s Farmers’ Market, allowing you to reach both local and international audiences.
- Offering Tourist Experiences or Guided Activities
The wild beauty of St. John’s and its surroundings makes it a perfect spot for outdoor activities. You could create experiences like guided hikes, kayak tours, or even historical tours around the city.
In addition to tourists, some locals might also want to explore lesser-known spots. Platforms like Airbnb Experiences make it easy to offer these services without a large investment. This activity perfectly combines a passion for nature with supplementary income.
Also read: The Most Lucrative Side Hustles in Nova Scotia to Diversify Your Income
- Starting an Online Store for Local Food Specialties
If you’re passionate about local cuisine, why not turn this passion into a source of income? Newfoundland specialties like artisanal sea salt, homemade jams, or even the famous “touton” will attract locals as well as visitors looking to take a piece of St. John’s home with them.
You can open a small online shop on Shopify or WooCommerce. By adding a touch of history or sharing traditional recipes on an associated blog, you could capture the attention of food enthusiasts across the province and even beyond.
And if large-scale production seems challenging, starting on a small scale with local markets or custom orders can allow you to test your concept without major financial risk.
- Specialized Tutoring Services
With the rapid expansion of remote work, online tutoring has become a popular side hustle, but the key to success is specializing in a specific field. In St. John’s, for instance, many families seek tutors in math, science, or English, particularly to help students prepare for final exams or university entrance exams.
If you have strong academic skills, you can turn this knowledge into a source of income. You could offer intensive courses before exams or summer catch-up sessions. You can also position yourself as a coach for adults looking to improve their English skills or acquire new professional skills, using platforms like Zoom or Skype for your sessions. Also read: Here are 6 profitable side hustles in Moncton
