15 Side Business Ideas Gen Z Can Start With $500 or Less đź’¸
You’re tired of being broke. Minimum wage isn’t cutting it, rent’s due next week, and you’re done Googling “how to make money fast” at 2 a.m. What you really want is a side business that’s legit, flexible, and doesn’t require a ton of money to start.
Good news: most of the best side business ideas today cost less than $500 to launch—and a lot of them can grow way bigger than just extra cash.
Here are 15 smart, creative ideas Gen Z can actually start (even in a dorm room), broken down by interest and lifestyle.
Why Gen Z Is Built for Side Hustles
We want more than just a paycheck—we want:
Freedom to work when we want
Flexibility to explore other goals
Financial independence without waiting for a raise
And today, starting a small business is easier (and cheaper) than ever thanks to free digital tools, short-form content, and platforms like Etsy, Shopify, and TikTok.
Online Side Business Ideas
1. Freelance design or writing
Use Canva, Figma, or ChatGPT to create graphics, resumes, or blog posts. You can start on Fiverr or Upwork, but also try cold messaging small brands who need help. Once you’ve built a few samples, you can start charging $50–$200 per project.
2. Dropshipping
Start an online store without holding any inventory. Platforms like Shopify and Printful handle fulfillment, while you focus on product ideas and marketing. Start with a niche like skincare tools or pet accessories to stand out.
3. Affiliate content creation
Create content around products you love—like books, skincare, or tech—and use affiliate links to earn commissions. Even with a small audience, short-form videos on TikTok or Reels can bring steady passive income.
4. Digital product sales
Sell Notion templates, resume bundles, or eBooks through Gumroad or Etsy. It’s a one-time effort to create, but you can earn for months. Design something useful for students or job seekers, and promote it on social.
5. Online tutoring
If you're good at a school subject, offer tutoring on Zoom. Use Wyzant to get listed, or reach out to your network directly. You can charge $20–$60/hour depending on your experience and the subject.
Side Business Ideas from Home
6. Baking or meal prep
If you love cooking, sell baked goods or prepped meals locally. You don’t need a storefront—just post on Instagram or message friends to start. Stick to one specialty (like cookies or vegan bowls) to keep it simple.
7. Candle or soap making
You can launch a cozy, handmade brand with just a few supplies. Post your process on TikTok for visibility, and list products on Etsy. Seasonal scents and gift sets can help you stand out and raise prices.
8. Virtual assistant work
Help creators or small business owners manage their inbox, calendar, or basic admin tasks. You can start at $15–$20/hour and grow into full-time freelancing. All you need is strong communication and consistency.
9. Social media management for local businesses
Offer to run Instagram or TikTok for a local salon, café, or boutique. Show off your skills with a free trial week or mockup content. This can easily scale into a $300–$500/month retainer if you’re consistent.
Side Business Ideas with Low Investment
10. Thrift flipping
Find cool pieces at thrift stores—like vintage sweatshirts or designer jeans—and resell on Depop or eBay. Learn to spot valuable labels and how to take great product photos. With $100 in inventory, you can often double your money or more.
11. Print-on-demand
Design mugs, shirts, or tote bags and sell through platforms like Printful or Printify. Focus on niche audiences—like gamers, dog parents, or students—and use TikTok to drive sales. You don’t need to ship anything yourself.
12. Content creation
Start a TikTok, YouTube, or Instagram page around a topic you love—books, food, sneakers, you name it. Monetize through affiliate links, product collabs, or even digital products. Focus on consistency, not perfection.
13. Textbook or gadget flipping
Buy used textbooks or electronics from friends or local sellers, then resell for a profit online. Check marketplaces like Facebook and OfferUp, and list your items before each school term for max demand.
Side Business Ideas That Match Your Personality
14. If you're a creative or into aesthetics
Launch a handmade jewelry line, resell beauty products, or design IG theme pages for others. Use your aesthetic as your brand. People are more likely to buy from you if your page already reflects what you're selling.
15. If you're in healthcare, into tech, or fitness-focused
Start a wellness blog, review tech gadgets, or build workout plans for clients. You don’t need to be an expert—just share what you know with honesty.
Bonus: many of these niches are packed with affiliate opportunities.
How to Choose the Right Side Business
Start with what you already enjoy. Ask:
How much time do I actually have weekly?
Do I want something passive or hands-on?
Would I keep doing this even if it made no money at first?
Once you’ve got an idea, test it for 30 days. You don’t need branding, an LLC, or a logo to start—just action.
When the money starts coming in, use Step to keep it separate, track your growth, or credit building if you scale up with a secured credit card.
Final Thoughts — $500 Is More Than Enough
You don’t need to go viral. You don’t need to quit your job. You just need to pick something, start small, and stick with it.
These 15 side business ideas are a way to get your money up and build skills you can use forever. Some may flop. Some will take off. But all of them get you one step closer to financial freedom.
And when your first payment hits? Let Step help you manage it, track it, and turn your hustle into real momentum. 🙌
