With inflation squeezing budgets, side hustles are no longer optional but essential. Side gigs help Americans bridge income gaps, tackle rising costs, and regain control over their finances.
Newsweek mapped Google Trends data compiled by web host Hostinger to illustrate which states' residents made the most searches for side hustles and reveal the most popular side gigs in the U.S.
The findings highlight a growing national reliance on side gigs, with trends varying by region based on demands, interests and opportunities. From virtual assistants to delivery drivers, Americans leverage these roles to stay afloat in challenging economic times.
Newsweek's data analysis reveals that Utah leads the nation in side hustle interest. The state has the highest number of searches for related keywords, adjusted for population size.
Minnesota ranks second, showing significant enthusiasm for alternative income streams, followed by Indiana and Arizona.
Other states topping the list include Wisconsin, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Florida and Washington.
On the other hand, Mississippi, West Virginia and Alaska show the least interest in side hustles, indicating regional differences in demand for supplemental income opportunities.
The study shows the top most popular side hustles include:
Side hustle preferences vary significantly across states, reflecting regional lifestyles and economic conditions.
In Connecticut, suburban-friendly gigs like tutoring, pet sitting, and dog walking were the most sought-after, aligning with the needs of residential communities. On the other hand, Vermont prioritizes transportation-related side hustles, with ridesharing and car rentals topping the list. This preference is likely due to its rural geography and the need for reliable transport options.
Georgia and Maryland lead in interest for virtual assistant roles, showcasing a strong demand for remote administrative work. Meanwhile, Vermont, Delaware, and Rhode Island lean toward creative writing, indicating a regional preference for freelance or artistic pursuits.
Interestingly, larger urban states like New York and Illinois focus heavily on online surveys, a side hustle well-suited for dense, digitally connected populations. These trends highlight how geography and local economies shape Americans' side hustle choices, with suburban areas gravitating toward community-oriented roles, rural states favoring transportation gigs, and urban centers leveraging technology-driven opportunities.
Americans are turning to side hustles more than ever, showing adaptability during tough economic times.
With inflation putting pressure on budgets, side gigs like virtual assistance or delivery driving offer flexible ways to earn extra money, all tailored to different lifestyles and personal and regional needs. As technology grows and the economy changes, experts project demand for these side hustles to increase.
For policymakers and businesses, this is a chance to support the gig economy by offering better training, resources, and worker protections. By creating a supportive environment, Americans can not only ease their financial struggles but develop new skills and income opportunities for a more secure future.