30 Best Gig Apps – Find Work in the Gig Economy

In today’s workforce, finding a traditional job position can be challenging. Additionally, retaining a position is never guaranteed, and unexpected job loss can leave you in a world of trouble. Of course, these are just a couple of the many reasons that some workers have chosen to forgo traditional job roles and instead work for themselves and participate as self-employed professionals in the gig economy through contract labor.

Gig economy work can offer many advantages to those who pursue it, including flexibility, skill development, and independence. But is working as a freelancer or contractor in the gig economy the right career move for you?

This resource will break down all of the information that you need to know about the world of gigs. Within the piece, you can expect to learn about the gig economy, the rise in gig popularity, how gig workers find jobs on gig work apps and services, and the different types of gig opportunities available. From there, we dive into the top 30 gig apps in 2022 and provide all of the information you need to know about their duties, requirements, pros, and cons. Finally, we include extra information on the gig economy and address common facts and questions regarding this lucrative line of work. 

What is the Gig Economy?

The “gig economy” refers to the free labor market system where individuals perform freelance, temporary, on-call, or contract work roles rather than traditional permanent jobs. These roles are usually payment-by-task or short-term commitments that gig workers typically access through a digital on-demand company platform that matches customers with eligible workers to fulfill their needs.

Gig economy job structures became popular for their various advantages to workers. As their own managers, workers have more freedom over what work they do, how many jobs they are willing to take on at a time, and sometimes even how much they charge, which can easily match most competitive wages. 

Gig workers don’t need to worry about job security as they would with traditional jobs, as gig work can help them find and maintain work for themselves, even in the case of economic recessions. Additionally, gig workers aren’t shackled to a nine-to-five set schedule and don’t need to ask for time off for important events. The flexibility of their self-employment means that they can schedule work around their other activities in the way that works best for them.

Some people prefer to work gigs as a side hustle to earn extra money in addition to their traditional job income. However, the advantages of the gig economy mean that many people have been able to make gigs their main source of income. 

How do Gig Apps Work?

Gig apps work by connecting gig workers to employers hiring talent for their open positions. These apps are often web-based, meaning that workers can access and apply to many job opportunities from many locations at once. These services often provide additional advantages to their users as well. For example, the Adia on-demand staffing platform pre-vets its workers to ensure top-quality talent for its users.

Before we talk about specific gig apps to help you start your side hustle career, let’s first go over the different types of gig opportunities available on these platforms.

On-demand services: Many apps help buyers access on-demand services, providing them a lot of convenience when they need it. Usually, these apps work to help employers who use them to find talent for their job openings. From there, the app will show advertisements about the job to its gig workers who wish to find gig opportunities. 

Freelance apps: Freelance app platforms let gig workers advertise their skills to find gig job opportunities. Gig workers will advertise themselves on these apps by filling in their profiles in hopes of catching the interest of a buyer seeking their services. 

Platform-based apps: Platform-based apps provide a bit more freedom to sellers. Gig workers who wish to sell their services through the app are able to create a business profile and advertise to potential buyers. The app really serves as a connection between businesses offering services to the buyers seeking those services. In exchange for providing sellers a platform for them to list their services on, the apps usually take a commission for their seller’s sales.

The Top 30 Side Hustle Apps in 2022

1. DoorDash

DoorDash is a popular side hustle option for gig workers who want to earn extra money in their free time. Gig workers can easily sign up for DoorDash as a driver or “dasher,” and then they can deliver food and other products from businesses to buyers who place orders through the app. 

• Average income – DoorDash drivers earn an average income of $54,181 per year, according to Glassdoor.
• Requirements – DoorDash drivers must be over 18 years of age, have access to an approved mode of transportation (a car, scooter, or bicycle in select cities), and have a driver’s license number. Dashers must also provide their social security number if they are in the United States. Finally, all DoorDash drivers must consent to a background check.
• Pros. – Flexible schedules, control over what jobs you wish to accept, and 100% ownership of all tips received for each job you work
• Cons. – No guarantee that your services will always be in demand, so pay isn’t always guaranteed if business is slow. Also, your location may determine how many gigs are available.

2. Adia

Adia is an on-demand staffing platform that connects workers with open positions in their area. It also applies to virtually all industries, making it a great choice for a variety of workers’ backgrounds and skill sets. All you have to do is sign up and show up, and Adia will take care of the paperwork onboarding process. With Adia, you can earn cash fast with payday every Friday! Additionally, you can receive good reviews from your employers on the app, which can attract more job opportunities.

• Average income. – The average salary for an employee at Adia is $35,273 per year, according to Zippia.
• Requirements – Adia gig workers are required to be over 18 years of age, provide their social security number if they are in the United States, and must consent to a background check
• Pros. – Adia is easy to sign up for and a very flexible option for workers looking to create their own work schedules. It is not limited to one industry, so virtually any worker can find a job on the platform that suits them. Paperwork and timesheets are taken care of by the app, which also sends users push notifications, so they never miss a job!
• Cons. – Adia is available in many major cities across the country. However, Adia, unfortunately, may not be in your city – yet. You can check back in online to see if your location has been added to their ever-growing list of cities!

3. Uber

Uber is a rideshare service that connects its drivers to customers seeking rides through their app. The platform makes it easy to provide driver services to customers, and workers can supplement their income as part-time drivers. And if you don’t have a car that meets Uber’s standards, never fear. Drivers can rent cars through Uber that come with insurance and basic maintenance.

• Average income. – The average Uber Driver salary in the United States is $37,302, according to Salary.com. 
• Requirements – To become an Uber driver, you must meet the minimum age to drive in your city, have at least one year of driving experience, and clear a background check. The mandatory documents that Uber requires are a valid driver’s license, proof of residency in your city, state, or province, and insurance if you plan to drive your own car. To sign up, you must submit the necessary documents and photos and provide information for a background check. Drivers will also need to find out if their car is eligible or get a car that is.
• Pros. – Becoming an Uber driver is a flexible alternative to other positions, and you can even set your own schedule. Workers can get paid fast with Instant Pay through their easy-to-use platform, and Uber jobs are available almost anywhere in the world.
• Cons. – The sign-up process to work for Uber is rather demanding compared to some other gig work platforms. While the platform lets drivers choose their hours, the platform’s pricing schedules determine how much you will get paid depending on when you drive. Drivers are also responsible for most of the wear and tear to their cars and may not feel comfortable with strangers traveling in their vehicles. Finally, Many believe the Uber driver rating system to be ineffective, as customers can rate a driver 1 to 5 stars, but a 4-star average is viewed as “failing” to the company, resulting in possible termination.

4. InstaCart Shopper

InstaCart shoppers earn cash through the platform by shopping for customers and delivering them the groceries that they purchase. 

• Average income. – InstaCart shoppers in the U.S. earn on average $14.85 per hour, according to Indeed.
• Requirements – If you wish to become an Instacart shopper in the U.S., you must be 18 years of age or older, have legal authorization to work in the U.S., be able to lift up to 40lbs without accommodation, have access to a smartphone capable of running the Instacart Shopper app and have regular access to a reliable car. Additionally, shoppers must pass a background check. To sign up, you must provide your contact information, your social security number, and your banking information so that you can set up your direct deposit to get paid.
• Pros. – InstaCart drivers work by wages, not by commission, meaning they get paid by the number of hours worked, not the number of orders completed.
• Cons. – Many shoppers have reported issues with the app, and believe that the company is difficult to contact if issues arise.

5. Lyft

Lyft is similar to Uber, as an alternative rideshare platform. Drivers are connected with ride seekers through the app, and can drive them around to earn money and tips.

• Average income. – The average annual pay for a Lyft Driver in the United States is $31,164 according to Indeed.
• Requirements – To become a Lyft driver, workers must submit an application, have a clean driving history, provide their drivers license, pass a background check, provide proof of insurance, and have a 4-door vehicle. Alternatively, drivers who do not have access to a 4-door vehicle can rent one through Lyft, and vehicle requirements may vary by region. 
• Pros. – Lyft drivers work flexible hours, and can earn money through completed trips, earning tips, or receiving bonuses on the platform. Lyft also lets drivers withdraw their earnings at any time, and even allows for instant cash outs immediately after completing rides. 
• Cons. – The minimum age requirement can vary based on location, and can reach up to 25. Lyft drivers must also meet state and city-specific requirements. Finally, drivers may incur costs on the job for things like tolls, vehicle maintenance fees, taxes, insurance, and gas purchases.

6. Postmates

Postmates is an on-demand food delivery app platform. Customers can use the platform to order convenient deliveries from restaurants, grocery stores, convenience stores, and more. Postmate drivers then pick up the orders and drive them to the customer’s location.

• Average income. – The average annual pay for a Postmates Delivery Driver in the United States. is $40,145 according to ZipRecruiter.
• Requirements – Postmate drivers must be 18 years of age or older, have a valid U.S. driver’s license, have a valid Social Security number, and have a mailing address. To qualify, drivers should live in or near a city that Postmates operates in. They may be asked to upload a profile photo (a clear headshot), and must be able to pass a background check. Drivers must have access to a vehicle but do not need to own the vehicle, and they do not need to pass vehicle inspections.
• Pros. – Drivers can set their own flexible work schedules and routines. No technical skills are required, and the onboarding process is straightforward. Drivers are paid weekly or can cash out daily.
• Cons. – To earn money, drivers will likely need to work during peak business hours, which are usually lunch time, dinner time, or weekends. Postmates pay does not include costs like gasoline.

7. Amazon Flex

Amazon Flex drivers can earn money by using their vehicles to deliver packages for Amazon. They can choose to work in “delivery blocks” that fit in with their schedule, making it a nice flexible side hustle option.

• Average income. – The average annual pay for an Amazon Flex Delivery Driver in the United States is $42,889 according to ZipRecruiter.
• Requirements – To become an Amazon Flex delivery driver, applicants must must be 21 years old or older, have access to a qualifying vehicle (a 4-door sedan, pickup truck, or van), have a social security number, pass a background check, have a valid driver’s license, and show proof of auto insurance. Additionally to use the app, you need an iphone 6s running iOS 13 or newer, or an Android phone running Android version 6.0 or higher.
• Pros. – This gig option lets workers enjoy a high earnings potential (where they can keep 100% of tips), and start earning cash fast. Drivers can also cancel a delivery block up to 45 minutes before it starts with no penalties, in case unforeseen circumstances pop up.
• Cons. – Earnings may depend on factors like your location, any tips you receive, how long it takes you to complete your deliveries, and others. Vehicle expenses are also not covered. Finally, the competition to get delivery shifts may be high, so it can be challenging to consistently get shifts.

8. GrubHub

Grubhub is another food ordering and delivery platform. Customers can use their Grubhub apps to order food from local restaurants, and drivers then deliver the orders to earn money.

• Average income. – The average annual pay for a GrubHub Delivery Driver in the United States is $52,000 according to Indeed.
• Requirements – All Grubhub delivery partners must be over 18 years of age (21+ in Las Vegas), have an iPhone with iOS 11 or higher OR an Android with 5.0 or higher (must have a data plan) and will need to connect their checking accounts for direct deposit to get paid. Additional requirements may exist based on whether the delivery partner will be delivering with a car or bicycle.
• Pros. – Drivers can make their own schedules where they get to receive 100% of their tips, and can enjoy guaranteed minimum earnings. Even if you don’t have a driver’s license, delivery partners can deliver using a bicycle. 
• Cons. – The job may result in wear and tear on your vehicle. Delivery partners also can be penalized for missed shifts, rejected deliveries, or dropped orders.

9. Handy

The Handy platform is an online two-sided marketplace that connects customers with workers to perform house cleaning and handyman services. Services can include furniture assembly, cleaning, TV mounting, and more. 

• Average income. – The average annual pay for a Handy Pro in the United States is $54,252 according to Glassdoor.
• Requirements – Handy workers must be over 18 years of age, have paid experience with the services they are applying for, and be authorized to work in the country they are applying to work in. Additionally, workers will need to provide an approved form of ID (passport, driver’s license, government-issued ID).
• Pros. – There are vicarious services that sellers can provide on the app. Workers are in charge of their own flexible work schedules. Payments are provided via direct deposit soon after the job is completed, and workers can also earn money via bonuses and tips.
• Cons. – Workers will need to have their own supplies to perform their jobs. The platform also fees workers for showing up late to jobs, canceling jobs, and rescheduling jobs.

10. TaskRabbit

This same-day delivery service platform helps customers connect with “Taskers” for services. Services can include moving, furniture assembly, home repairs, odd jobs, and more.

• Average income. According to TaskRabbit’s April 2019 fact sheet, the average hourly pay for Taskers in the U.S. is $35.
• Requirements – To become a Taskrabbit tasker, you must have a U.S. social security number, be at least 18 years old, and provide personal information for a background and ID check. TaskRabbit also only provides work opportunities in its active cities in the U.S. Workers must have a smartphone with iOS 9.0 or later, or Android version 4.3 or later, to connect to gigs through the Tasker app.
• Pros. – TaskRabbit benefits include flexibility, consistent pay, and the ability to set your own rates. They provide limited insurance for certain damages, and workers can even do contactless or virtual work tasks.
• Cons. – The platform charges an upfront fee for new taskers, and work can be inconsistent depending on the demand in the location that they work in.

11. Getaround

Getaround is an online car sharing platform that connects drivers who need to rent vehicles with vehicle owners who rent out their vehicles in exchange for payment.

• Average income. – According to Getaround, members can make hundreds of dollars a month during peak demand hours, but there are no exact figures available.
• Requirements – To become a host and earn money for your vehicle with Getaround, your vehicle must meet the Getaround’s Vehicle Eligibility Requirements.  
• Pros. – A main benefit of becoming a Getaround host would be that the platform has a strong vetting system, so you can feel safe about the person driving your vehicle. Users can also determine their car availability and the platform has contactless key exchange, simplifying the process for hosts and renters.
• Cons.- The hourly rate to rent out a car with Getaround isn’t high, which reduces your earning potential. The platform also takes a high commission fee.

12. Fiverr

Fiverr is a freelance services marketplace that connects buyers with freelancers offering digital services. It is a nice way to list jobs, gigs, and services online, advertise your skills, and make sales with new customers. Fiverr also has different levels that sellers can reach once they meet prerequisites, to get additional business perks. 

• Average income. – It is difficult to determine the average yearly salary for a Fiverr seller, as this can depend on their industry niche, activity level on the platform, and the prices that they choose to sell their services for.
• Requirements – Fiverr sellers must comply with Fiverr’s Terms of Service, which requires that all users be at least 18 years of age and of legal age to form a binding contract. They must then create a seller profile and gigs advertising their services.
• Pros. – Fiverr is free to join and easy to use. Sellers can determine the price of their services, and money is transferred directly to the seller’s account right after they complete the order. 
• Cons. – Sellers only receive 80% of each transaction, as the platform has a large 20% fee. Tips for sellers are subject to this high fee as well. The app is also competitive for sellers, so high prices may receive less business from buyers.

13. Etsy

Etsy is an online marketplace platform where members can sell one-of-a-kind handmade items, vintage items, or craft supplies. 

• Average income. – It is difficult to determine the average yearly salary for an Etsy seller, as this can depend on their product niche, activity level on the platform, and the prices that they choose to sell their products for. But according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median income for craft and fine artists is $49,960 per year in 2021.
• Requirements – To open an Etsy shop, you must be in a location where selling on Etsy Payments is available and follow the Etsy seller policies. Sellers can only sell handmade, vintage, or craft supply products. 
• Pros. – Etsy is a creative and art-focused marketplace so many like-minded sellers enjoy listing their products on the platform.
• Cons. – Some sellers consider the platform’s recurring listing fees to be high. It also can require a lot of promotional work to get noticed by buyers among the many other sellers on the platform.

14. Bellhops

Bellhop is an American on-demand moving company that lets customers book movers and moving help online with their platform. 

• Average income. – The average pay for Bellhops Movers in the United States is $18.90 per hour according to Indeed.
• Requirements – Bellhop workers can be movers or drivers. To become a mover, you will need to be at least 18 years old, be able to lift at least 100 pounds, have a smartphone, checking account, and access to transportation, and complete the Bellhop interview process and pass a background check. To become a driver, you will need to pass a free online background check, have the appropriate driving registrations, own a smartphone and own or lease a box truck, and have liability and cargo insurance.
• Pros. – Workers can set their own hours and control their own work schedules. The app also has levels, and workers who have great reviews can increase their ranks, and earnings as a result. 
• Cons. – Bellhop may not be available for all areas. The manual labor work is also physically demanding, and business and earning potential may depend on factors like the demand in your area.

15. Wonolo

Wonolo is an online on-demand staffing platform that connects available workers, or “Wonoloers”, with users in different industries for their hourly or daily jobs. The platform offers jobs for a variety of industries.

• Average income. – The average pay for a Wonolo warehouse worker in the United States is $13.78 per hour according to Indeed.
• Requirements – To accept jobs through Wonolo, workers must be 18 years or older, have a valid social security number or business EIN, and must have access to a smartphone to clock in and out of each job.
• Pros. – Wonolo workers are paid daily, usually right after the job is completed, through Stripe. The app is easy to use, and many different types of workers can find opportunities to make money with the platform.
• Cons. – Wonolo work is only available in certain areas. Workers may experience last minute cancellations for jobs, which the platform allows for clients. Also work is not guaranteed, as there is a lot of competition for freelancers on the app.

16. Your Mechanic

Your Mechanic is a marketplace platform focused on providing car repair industry services to customers. The platform lets workers find and perform mechanic jobs and earn money.

• Average income. – YourMechanic claims that their freelancers earn between $40 -$50 per hour, however a worker’s actual pay is dependent on many factors.
• Requirements – To join Your Mechanic as a worker, you must fill out an application and do a phone interview. You must also have the certifications and other qualifications necessary for the particular service that you wish to perform on the platform.
• Pros. – Your Mechanic has a high earning potential, and the platform lets workers set flexible schedules and the app tracks payments and transactions for them.
• Cons. – Workers are required to acquire tools for their jobs.

17. Shipt

Shipt is a same-day delivery app service platform for ordering groceries and other products from local stores. Shipt hires workers to shop and deliver products to the customers who place orders through the membership-based grocery marketplace. Delivery drivers are responsible for shopping at the stores for the customers, and delivering their orders.

• Average income. – The average pay for a Shipt freelance worker in the United States is $35-$37 per hour according to Glassdoor.
• Requirements – To become a Shipt freelancer, you must be least 18 years old and have a valid current mailing address, a valid U.S. driver’s license and auto insurance, a reliable vehicle (1997 or newer), knowledge of produce selection, the ability to lift 45 pounds., and a smartphone to run the app – iPhone (iOS 10 or newer) or Android (5.1 or newer).
• Pros. – Shipt workers can work full time, part time, or whenever they please. The platform generally provides decent pay for freelancers, and pays via direct deposit. Workers can also receive pay as an instant cashout up to five times a day, for a charge of approximately 49 cents each time. 
• Cons. – Drivers are responsible for paying for their own car maintenance and gas costs. It can also be physically demanding.

18. Turo

Turo is a person-to-person car sharing platform that lets private car owners rent out their vehicles to customers. It can be a nice way for car owners or “hosts” to earn extra money for little effort. 

• Average income. – The average earnings for a Turo host is about $1,000 per month according to Turo.
• Requirements – To become a Turo host, you must list a gas, diesel, hybrid, or electric-powered vehicle that seats eight or fewer people. Hosts residing in the United States also must commit to only sharing your vehicle on Turo, and cannot list a car already listed on another car sharing platform or share your Turo-listed car on another platform. Finally, hosts must provide the car’s vehicle identification number (VIN).
• Pros. – The platform and app are easy to use and navigate, and can allow hosts to earn a lot in major cities as it is a popular rental option.
• Cons. – Turo takes a large commission fee 15%-40% per booking based on the protection plan chosen, or if hosts choose not to use their protection plan, the platform still takes 8.5%. Renting out cars to strangers can be risky, so protection plans are a good idea, even if they cost hosts more. 

19. Creative Market

Creative Market is an online e-commerce marketplace for design assets and services. As an independent contractor you can set your own rates and sell design content on the platform to its customers around the globe.

• Average income. – It is difficult to determine the average yearly salary for a Fiverr seller, as this can depend on their industry niche, activity level on the platform, and the prices that they choose to sell their services for.
• Requirements – To sell your goods on Creative Market, you must first go through the platform’s approval process. After that you can name your online shop, complete your shop profile, and list your first product.
• Pros. – Sellers have control over their product pricing, with no exclusivity lock-in to use the platform. They also don’t need to go through per-product approval when they launch new products, and the platform ensures safe delivery of all sold goods. Users can also see and track their selling stats on the app, to stay on top of their sales rates.
• Cons. – The Creative Market platform takes 40% commission of every sale, which is a high cut. Additionally it can be difficult to stand out from the competition on Creative Market, and the approval process can be strenuous. 

20. Qwick

Qwick is an on-demand staffing platform for food service industry professionals. The platform connects professionals with food and beverage gigs. Freelancers can create a profile on the platform, receive notifications for shift openings, and accept them if they are available. 

• Average income. – The average annual pay for a Qwick Independent Contractor in the United States is approximately $32,000 per year according to Indeed. However, different roles can command different wages.
• Requirements – To qualify as a Qwick freelancer, you must be 18 years of age or older and meet age requirements for shifts requiring alcohol certifications, which can vary by state. Additionally workers must Have at least one year of relevant food and beverage industry work experience, have a cell phone with data, complete a Qwick orientation, and create a Stripe account to get paid for their work. Finally, all freelancers should possess the necessary certificates for the positions they are working.
• Pros. – Freelancers are paid easily and directly after each shift by adding their debit cards or bank accounts. The platform lets workers choose their own gigs with flexible hours, earn decent wages, and receive pay quickly after their shifts.
• Cons. – This option is only for professionals with experience in the food and beverage industry, and who are seeking work in that industry. Additionally, competition from other workers can make it difficult to land a job, and location can determine your likelihood of getting work on Qwick as well.

21. Thumbtack

Thumbtack is a home management platform that connects buyers with freelancers to do projects and provide services for their homes. Freelancers, known as “Thumbtack Pro” s, can join the platform as electricians, movers, roofers, house cleaners, handymen, contractors, painters, and more. Contractors on the site can then pay to reach out to potential leads.

• Average income. – It is difficult to determine the average yearly salary for a Fiverr seller, as this can depend on their industry niche, activity level on the platform, and the prices that they choose to sell their services for.
• Requirements – Thumbtack Pros must complete background checks to be approved, and need to provide their Social Security number (SSN) or a photo ID, like a passport or driver’s license.
• Pros. – Thumbtack is free to join, and only requires professionals to pay for the lead that they want to communicate with. It is a good flexible option for professionals, especially if they are looking to advertise their services without other online presence. The platform also provides some protection to sellers, as they can get refunded when they don’t hear back from their leads.
• Cons. – This platform limits sellers geographically, as Pros can only sell to only buyers within their area. The cost of purchasing leads is inconsistent, and varies based on the number of contractors bidding for that job. 

22. Upwork

Upwork is a platform where freelancers can create profiles, advertise their services, and apply to jobs using “connects”. Applying for jobs requires a certain number of “connects”, which can be earned or cost $0.15 each.

• Average income. – The median estimated hourly pay for an Upwork freelancer in the United States is $36 per hour according to Glassdoor. However, it is difficult to determine the average yearly salary for a Fiverr seller, as this can depend on their industry niche, activity level on the platform, and the prices that they choose to sell their services for.
• Requirements – To become a freelancer on Upwork, you must provide the information required to complete at least 60% of your profile (a photo of yourself, title, overview, work history, etc.) Upwork is also restricted to only members residing in approved countries, and all members must be over 18 years of age. Members also need to provide their contact and location details for tax purposes, a government-issued ID, and online visual verification.
• Pros. – It is easy to get flexible work through Upwork that lets users work at any time and from any location. Their payment system is pretty straightforward, and users can link their accounts for automatic payment transfers. They also provide some protection to freelancers to ensure that they receive pay for their work.
• Cons. – Upwork takes a high percentage of users’ income as a fee for service. This can be frustrating, as many jobs already go for little pay on the site. This is because most buyers use upwork as an inexpensive option, and there is a lot of competition from freelancers looking for jobs on the site. The website also isn’t very user-friendly.

23. Wag

Wag is an on-demand platform where people can access pet care services. Caregivers assist in pet care activities like dog walking, pet sitting, in-home training, overnight care, pet advice, and more.

• Average income. – The average hourly salary of a Wag dog walker in the United States is $15.84 per hour according to Indeed. 
• Requirements – Wag caregivers must reside in the platform’s approved cities/areas to be considered, have a reliable mode of transportation to and from gigs, and must own an iPhone 5 or newer or Android 4.2 or newer to access the mobile app. Caregivers must also be over 18 years of age, and physically able to walk several hours a day and handle dogs of all sizes. Dog walkers who apply to work for Wag will be assessed based on their availability, background check, previous experience with dogs, ability to properly secure different types of dog collars and harnesses, and their ability to handle unpredictable or unsafe scenarios as a dog walker.
• Pros. – The Wag website says dog walkers can earn up to $25 per hour, which is decent for a flexible part time freelance position. Freelancers can get tipped on the app, and can gain exercise and fresh air while they work as a dog walker.
• Cons. – Animals can be unpredictable, and some dogs may not get along with you, respect your authority, or follow your commands. Additionally Wag walkers get more gig opportunities in big cities and less in smaller ones, so the amount you make may be little due to your location.

24. Airbnb

Airbnb is an online marketplace where renters can find lodging, when the freelance member “hosts” rent out their homes or properties. By becoming a host, you can earn extra money by booking out your property as a side or main hustle. 

• Average income. – On average, hosts in the United States make more than $9,000 per year, according to Airbnb. However, those numbers vary based on factors like how much you charge to rent out your property, and how often you rent it out.
• Requirements – Aside from owning property and being respectful to guests of course, Airbnb does have some additional requirement guidelines for its hosts. Hosts must be attentive and responsive to reservation requests made through the app. They should also avoid canceling on guests unless necessary due to extenuating circumstances, and hosts are urged to offer good quality experiences to get good reviews from guests.
• Pros. – During peak seasons hosts can make a decent amount of money through Airbnb, and the platform makes the management process simple.
• Cons. – Unfortunately, being an Airbnb host can be a demanding line of work, and hosts should be prepared to answer guest inquiries and tend to their needs at any time, in addition to maintaining the property. Since cancellations are discouraged by Airbnb, unforeseen circumstances that require you to cancel on guests may be difficult to justify. Some people may not feel comfortable with strangers staying on their property as well, so this may not be the best option for all freelancers.

25. Shopkick

Shipkick is a company where members can sign up to earn money as rewards, cash back, and gift cards while they shop. Members are rewarded by visiting stores, scanning participating product barcodes, and making purchases. When they have earned enough reward points, they can then be redeemed for free gift cards 

• Average income. – It is difficult to determine the average pay for a Shopkick user, as this can depend on their activity level on the platform, and the value of the gift cards that they earn.
• Requirements – Shopkick members must be a legal resident of the United States (or the District of Columbia) and must be at least 14 years of age or older at the time of registration. iPhone users can only use the app by running iOS 11 or above on the iPhone 6 or newer iPhones, the iPod Touch 6th generation or higher, or the iPad 4th generation or higher. Android users can only use the app with devices running version 6 or later of the Android operating system, and they do not yet support app use on Android tablets.
• Pros. – The safe, user-friendly app is free to register with, and easy to use for passive income. They also provide a large selection of rewards.
• Cons. – It can take time to earn enough reward points to actually redeem them for a gift card, as points are worth very little.. Also, only select stores let you earn points with Shopkick. Finally, Shopkick requires that users grant the app a lot of permissions, like access to bluetooth, contacts, location, SMS, phone, media, identifying information, camera, microphone, etc. That being said, some users may not find the platform to be worth the trouble.

26. Zeel

Zeel is a health and wellness company and on-demand wellness platform. They focus on in-person musculoskeletal care, meaning that Zeel customers can use the platform to access in-home, same-day massage sessions. Zeel workers make extra cash on a flexible schedule by delivering message therapy services to clients – all with the support of best-in-class safety protocols.

• Average income. – The average annual pay for a Care.com Caregiver in the United States is $60,554 per year according to Zippia. However, different roles can command different wages.
• Requirements – To become a wellness professional with Zeel, workers must hold a current state license or certification in good standing., possess current professional liability insurance with a minimum of $1 million per occurrence and $3 million aggregate coverage, be registered with the NPPES for a National Provider Identification (NPI) number, and have a smartphone to accept appointments through the Zeel app. The phone should be an iPhone 4s or above or Android 4.0.3 or above to work with the app, and must be lockable via a password or biometric identification like a thumbprint. Finally, wellness professionals must be able to speak, understand, and write English.
• Pros. – The platform isn’t limited to just massages, freelancers can perform other services as well, including yoga, behavioral therapy, physical therapy, and nursing. All of the tips that workers earn are paid to them, and an automatic 18% gratuity is added to each corporate and in-home appointment. The service pays well with transparent pricing that members can see through the app, and they receive pay via direct deposit on a weekly basis. The platform takes care of billing and insurance for its care workers, and respects worker’s time, as clients are fee’d for late cancellations within 4 hours of the appointment. They also provide various protection methods to ensure the safety of their workers like client identity verification and risk prevention.
• Cons. – To keep customers safe, the requirements to sign up and become vetted as a freelancer with Zeel are extensive. Also work can be unstable as it depends on the demand, which may be limited in some areas.

27. Care

Care.com is a digital platform marketplace that matches caregivers with customers who are seeking access to child care, senior care, tutoring, housekeeping, daycare, pet care, nanny, or babysitting services.

• Average income. – The average annual pay for a Care.com Caregiver in the United States is $18.27 per hour according to Indeed. However, different roles can command different wages.
• Requirements –Care workers are required to meet Care’s vetting criteria, which can include child care reference checks, video or in-person interviews, a 7-year Criminal Conviction Check, a Sex Offender Registry Check, name and address verification via Social Security Number, and U.S. Work Eligibility Verification.
• Pros. – Care lets members work flexibly and earn money for many types of services, and members can even apply for virtual care positions. It is free for freelancer members to use if you sign up for a basic account. Care.com also offers a benefits package to its independent caregivers.
• Cons. – It can be difficult to land jobs on Care, as you compete with other professionals and the platform is only available in top cities in the United States.. Additionally, the pay rate is determined by the care seeker and therefore compensation can be low. Taking these factors into consideration, the workload may be too high for some members compared to other gig work options. 

28. UrbanSitter

UrbanSitter connects customers with convenient solutions for childcare and other household needs. Members can sign up as babysitters/nannies, tutors/homework helpers, pet care providers, senior care providers, or to perform other household services like housekeeping. UrbanSitter freelancer members can create a profile on their platform to advertise caregiving services to potential clients. From there, UrbanSitter’s ‘on-demand’ booking makes it easy for customers to find part-time and full-time care, or other household services by selecting professionals by browsing their profiles on the platform. Additionally, freelancer members can apply to jobs on the platform’s Job Board.

• Average income. – The average annual pay for a babysitter/nanny working for UrbanSitter in the United States is $17.36 per hour according to Indeed.
• Requirements – Freelancer members must be at least 18 years of age and legally able to work in the U.S. They are also required to pass an annual background check to become a member and retain membership.
• Pros. – The platform lets freelancers choose to perform a variety of services. The app is user-friendly, and freelancers can even set their own hourly rate. Finally, the app does not take cuts from freelancers, so they can keep 100% of the cash that they earn.
• Cons. – The app is free to download, sign up for and to use – but members must pay a membership fee of up to $70 per year. 

29. Swagbucks

Swagbucks is a loyalty and consumer rewards program. The Swagbucks platform offers a free service where members can earn points for the regular activities they do online, like shopping, playing games, watching videos, searching the web, and answering surveys. Once they earn points, members can get cash back for their points from PayPal or redeem their points for gift cards to retailers like Walmart and Amazon. 100 Swagbucks points is equal in value to $1 USD in rewards. Users can also share their opinions by answering surveys and polls to earn Swagbucks points and get free gift cards and prizes.

• Average income. – The average annual pay for a Swagbucks worker in the United States is $52,000 according to Indeed.
• It is difficult to determine the average annual pay for a Swagbucks worker in the United States, as this is dependent on the amount of surveys they complete and the price per survey. However, workers can usually earn between $0.05 and $2.50 per completed survey, though they can earn more.
• Requirements – Swagbucks members must be above the age of 13 and be a resident of the United States (and its territories), Ireland, France, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, India, Canada, Spain, Portugal, or the United Kingdom to redeem rewards from Swagbucks.
• Pros. – Swagbucks is a legitimate and safe to use option for people looking to earn extra money or rewards online, and members get a $10 welcome bonus just for signing up. From there, the platform is free and easy to use and requires little effort. It provides many ways for members to earn points and generate passive income.
• Cons. – Swagbucks may not be available for you to use if you do not reside in the aforementioned countries that the service is limited to. Though your income will be passive, it can take time to earn a lot of cash through the service, so members should not expect to make a lot of earnings. Additionally, the minimum payout is rather high, and users need at least 2500 Swagbucks points to get cash back from PayPal, which can mean waiting a long time to make enough to cash out your earnings.

30. Survey Junkie

Survey Junkie is an online market research community where brands access consumer insights based on completed consumer surveys. Users can sign up and create a profile on the Survey Junkie platform to share their opinions via surveys and focus groups. With the basic SJ Opinion plan, they can then receive awards in the form of points for each survey they complete, and users can redeem their points for cash via PayPal or e-Gift Cards. Additionally, users can also choose to sign up with their SJ Pulse option, which enables them to automatically share their digital browsing behaviors in exchange for extra rewards. The SJ Pulse plan also provides additional user options that are not included in the SJ Opinions plan. 

• Average income. – It is difficult to determine the average annual pay for a Survey Junkie worker in the United States, as this is dependent on the number of surveys they complete and the price per survey. However, workers can usually earn around $0.50 to $3 per completed survey.
• Requirements – Survey Junkie members must be 16 years of age or older and must live in the United States, Canada, or Australia.
• Pros. – Some pros to the Survey Junkie platform are that they provide an incentive to sign up, and sign-up bonus points are available right away. Additionally, it is easy to navigate their user interface and easy to get paid through the app by cashing out via Paypal or choosing instead to receive e-Gift Cards. The platform also has a good rating with Better Business Bureau and is considered a trustworthy survey site.
• Cons. – Unfortunately, not all members can qualify to take all surveys, which can be a pain for users looking to make quick and easy cash. In fact, high-paying surveys can sometimes reach capacity quickly, as they only require so many participants, so members need to be fast to take advantage of them. Completing surveys through the platform can also be a lengthy process, which some users may find tedious. 

Benefits of Gig Economy Apps

There are many benefits of using gig apps and platforms to earn money. Gig apps can even pay higher than minimum wage and, in some cases, don’t require workers to have previous skills – depending on the side hustle apps that you choose. From having the freedom to make your own flexible schedule to being your own boss, it’s no wonder so many Americans have turned to freelance gig work in place of a regular 9-5 job.

If you made it to the end, we thank you for reading this article.

If you’re reading from Texas in the Houston area, check out our resource on Houston labor gigs!