Summer is pretty much here, and it’s about time! With the warm weather finally here, most people want to get out and enjoy the sunshine.
If you’re watching every penny, though this isn’t always as simple as it should be. Even money for the ice cream truck could be hard to come up with, let alone money for a vacation.
If you need some fun money this summer, you could cut a little extra from your budget. Or you could try to make extra money!
Not sure what to do? Here are a few ideas on how to make extra money and have a NOT bummer summer!
Get a Summer Job
Summer jobs aren’t just for high school and college kids. Lots of businesses are in search of extra summer help. You may be able to make extra money this summer at parks, pools, ice cream shops, beaches, cafes, stadiums, campgrounds, and golf courses. Check with your local employment agencies and temp agencies, which will often know of summer openings. Also, be sure to apply early, as part-time summer positions are generally filled quickly.
Do Some Landscaping
If you have a green thumb, you could make extra money this summer by performing landscaping duties. Consider mowing lawns, planting flowers, or weeding gardens for a fee. Put up fliers in public places on community message boards, and let your friends and family members know that you’re looking for extra work.
Sell Extra Produce
Do you have a large garden? Instead of giving your extra produce away, you might be able to make extra money by selling it. You can set up shop in a local farmer’s market or ut up a roadside stand. Be sure to check your local laws, as some areas require permits for selling produce or seedlings.
Do Odd Jobs
During the summer, many homeowners and landlords want to spruce up their properties. This could work to your advantage if you’re handy with tools, as you can make extra money by doing simple repairs or maintenance work around local properties.
Paint Houses
Some homeowners are also looking to have their houses painted during the summer. Check your local help wanted ads for painting jobs, or put an ad out offering your painting services.
Become a Craft Vendor
Summertime is packed with co-ops and craft fairs in many areas. Vendors can make extra money by selling crafts, baked goods, and trinkets. You’ll most likely have to come up with a booth fee and wares to sell, though, so this option does require a little cash up front.
Entertain People
Grab your guitar or juggling balls and put on a show! Leave your instrument case or tip jar on the ground in front of you and watch the tips roll in!
Housesitting and Pet Sitting
Many people opt to take off for vacation during the summer as well. You may be able to make extra money housesitting. This usually involves simple tasks, like visiting a person’s house every day, picking up mail, and watering plants. You may also be required to feed and walk pets while the owners are away.
Babysitting
During the summer, working parents may be in a bind since school is out. Babysitting is a great way to make extra money in the summer, and it gives your own kids someone to play with!
Wash Cars
Grab your hose, some sponges, a couple of buckets, and some soap, and you have yourself a car wash! Charge a little less than the local car washes and offer refreshments. You can also charge extra for hand waxing.
Sell Lemonade
Or bottled water, iced tea, Kool-aid, or any other cool refreshment you can think of. This is a classic way for kids to make extra money in the summer, but it doesn’t mean adults can’t get in on the action too. Keep in mind that this usually works best in bus areas, like busy streets with a lot of pedestrian traffic and parks, but be sure to check with your local laws. You may need a special permit to set up shop.
