How Teenagers Can Make Money This Summer: 15 Jobs and Side Hustles

Summer is the perfect time for teenagers to earn extra money, gain valuable experience, and even explore potential career paths. Whether you're saving up for a big purchase, contributing to college funds, or just want extra spending money, there are plenty of side hustles that require little to no startup cost. The best part? You can still enjoy summer while making cash on your own schedule!

Why Should Teens Start a Side Hustle?

Earn Extra Money – Save for future expenses or enjoy summer activities without relying on allowances.
Gain Work Experience – Build skills and a resume that stand out for college and future jobs.
Learn Responsibility – Develop time management and entrepreneurial skills.
Have Fun & Be Creative – Find ways to make money doing what you love.

Best Traditional Jobs for Teens

If you prefer structured work with an hourly wage, consider applying for one of these summer jobs:

1. Retail Jobs

Retail stores often hire teens to help with stocking shelves, assisting customers, and working the cash register.

Where to Apply: Clothing stores, bookstores, supermarkets, and local shops.
Potential Earnings: $10–$15 per hour.
Best For: Friendly, social teens who enjoy helping customers.

2. Restaurant Jobs

Many restaurants, fast-food chains, and cafes hire teens to work as servers, hosts, cashiers, or kitchen assistants.

Where to Apply: Fast-food chains, diners, coffee shops, and family-owned restaurants.
Potential Earnings: $10–$20 per hour (plus tips for some positions).
Best For: Teens who thrive in fast-paced environments.

3. Lifeguarding

If you love swimming and are certified in CPR, working as a lifeguard is a great summer job.

Where to Apply: Community pools, water parks, beaches, and fitness centers.
Potential Earnings: $12–$18 per hour.
Best For: Responsible teens with strong swimming skills.

4. Camp Counselor

Summer camps need counselors to lead activities, supervise campers, and ensure a fun experience.

Where to Apply: Day camps, sleepaway camps, YMCA programs.
Potential Earnings: $300–$600 per week.
Best For: Teens who love working with kids and being outdoors.

5. Amusement Park or Entertainment Jobs

Theme parks, movie theaters, and mini-golf courses often hire seasonal workers.

Where to Apply: Local amusement parks, arcades, bowling alleys, and theaters.
Potential Earnings: $10–$15 per hour.
Best For: Outgoing and energetic teens.

6. Grocery Store Jobs

Grocery stores often need baggers, stock clerks, and cashiers.

Where to Apply: Supermarkets and local grocery stores.
Potential Earnings: $10–$15 per hour.
Best For: Teens who prefer indoor, structured work.

7. Golf Caddy

Caddying at a golf course can be a lucrative summer job with good tips.

Where to Apply: Local golf courses and country clubs.
Potential Earnings: $50–$100 per round (including tips).
Best For: Teens who enjoy being outdoors and are familiar with golf.

Best Side Hustles and Gig Jobs for Teens

If you prefer a flexible schedule or want to be your own boss, consider these side hustles:

8. Babysitting

Babysitting is always in demand, especially in the summer when parents need childcare.

Where to Find Clients: Family, neighbors, Care.com, Sittercity.
Potential Earnings: $10–$20 per hour.
Best For: Responsible teens who enjoy working with kids.

9. Dog Walking & Pet Sitting

Pet owners often need help with their pets while on vacation.

Where to Find Clients: Rover, Nextdoor, local Facebook groups.
Potential Earnings: $10–$30 per walk or visit.
Best For: Animal lovers.

10. Lawn Care & Yard Work

Lawn mowing, weeding, and gardening services can bring in steady cash.

Where to Find Clients: Neighbors, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace.
Potential Earnings: $20–$50 per lawn.
Best For: Teens who enjoy outdoor work.

11. Car Washing & Detailing

A simple but effective way to make money in the summer.

Where to Advertise: Local Facebook groups, door-to-door flyers.
Potential Earnings: $10–$50 per car.
Best For: Teens who don’t mind getting wet and dirty.

12. Selling Handmade or Digital Products

Sell crafts, jewelry, or digital downloads like phone wallpapers or planners.

Where to Sell: Etsy, Instagram, Shopify, Redbubble.
Potential Earnings: $50–$500 per month.
Best For: Creative and tech-savvy teens.

13. Online Tutoring

Help younger students with subjects you excel in.

Where to Tutor: Wyzant, Care.com, or through word of mouth.
Potential Earnings: $10–$30 per hour.
Best For: Academic teens who enjoy teaching.

14. Flipping Items (Reselling Clothes, Electronics, or Sneakers)

Buy used items at thrift stores or garage sales and resell them for profit.

Where to Sell: eBay, Depop, Poshmark, Facebook Marketplace.
Potential Earnings: $100–$1,000 per month.
Best For: Teens who enjoy shopping for deals.

15. Social Media Management

Help small businesses manage their social media accounts.

Where to Find Clients: Local businesses, Instagram DMs, Fiverr.
Potential Earnings: $100–$500 per month.
Best For: Social media-savvy teens.

Final Tips for Finding Summer Work

Start Early – The best jobs fill up fast, so apply in advance.
Use Your Network – Ask friends, family, and teachers if they know of job openings.
Create a Resume – Even for part-time jobs, having a resume helps you stand out.
Be Professional – Dress appropriately and prepare for interviews.
Stay Safe – Be cautious when accepting gigs from strangers online.

Whether you prefer traditional jobs or side hustles, summer is a great time to earn money, gain experience, and build your future. Choose the option that fits your interests and schedule, and start making money today!