Programming is an incredibly versatile and fulfilling profession. But like all careers, sometimes you need to supplement your income with a side hustle.

Whether it’s to make some extra money each month or to get out of a financial pinch, having other sources of income can be invaluable.

Fortunately, there are plenty of options available that cater specifically to programmers. From freelance coding gigs to monetizing open-source projects, here are a few side hustles for programmers.

Best Side Hustles for Programmers

Listed below are some side hustles for programmers that can be pursued without affecting their full-time job.

Freelance Coding

Freelance coding is the perfect side hustle for those who want to make money on their own terms. With freelance coding, you can set your own rates and work on projects that interest you.

Plus, you get to develop your skills and build a portfolio while working from anywhere in the world.

If you earn at least $600 through freelancing coding, you will receive a 1099 form from your client. It is advisable to form an LLC to deduct the cost of equipment and materials used in providing your services.

Monetize Open-Source Projects

If you’re passionate about open-source projects, why not try monetizing them? There are a few options available, such as offering support services or selling digital products related to your project.

This is a great way to make money while giving back to the open-source community.

Remote Consulting

Remote consulting is another great side hustle for programmers.

You can set your own rates and help clients with their coding needs from the comfort of your home. This is also a great way to network with other professionals and build relationships.

Online Tutoring

Are you an experienced programmer? Consider offering online tutoring services to students or others who are just entering the field.

You can charge by the hour or session, and you’ll get to help people learn while also earning some extra money.

Web Development

If you’re looking for a more hands-on side hustle, web development is an excellent option.

You can build websites, design logos, and create templates for clients who need your services. You can also easily make a lot of money if you’re good at what you do.

Mobile App Development

Mobile app development is a great side hustle for programmers who are interested in creating apps. With mobile app development, you can develop an app and monetize it through ads, in-app purchases, or subscriptions.

You can even list your app on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to make it available to millions of users worldwide.

Software Testing 

If you’re a detail-oriented programmer, software testing is an ideal side hustle for you.

As a software tester, you’ll be responsible for finding bugs and errors in programs or websites before they are released to the public.

This is a great way to make money while also helping companies ensure their products are of high quality.

Blogging

If you’re passionate about programming and want to share your knowledge and experiences with others, consider starting a blog.

With a blog, you can write posts about programming topics such as coding tips, software updates or trends, and more. You can even monetize it by offering digital products like e-books or online courses.

Develop Video Games

Are you passionate about video games? Why not make your own?

Developing video games is both challenging and rewarding, and you can monetize it by selling the game or offering in-app purchases.

This is also a great way to get creative and show off your programming skills.

Freelance Writing 

Freelance writing is a great side hustle for those who have an interest in coding and technology.

By writing about programming topics and trends, you can create content for websites, magazines, blogs, and more. You can easily make some extra money each month.

Sell Online Courses

If you’re an experienced programmer, you can make some extra money by creating and selling online courses. You can create courses on topics such as web development, coding, software engineering, and more.

This is a great way to share your knowledge while also monetizing it.

Develop Plug-ins

If you’re a web developer or programmer, you can create plug-ins to simplify certain processes.

You can create plugins that make it easier to integrate third-party software, add custom features to existing websites, or even automate tasks.

You can also set your own prices and make some extra money from this side hustle.

Create Custom Themes

Are you a creative programmer? Consider creating custom themes for websites and blogs.

You can design unique themes that are tailored to the needs of each client, and make some money in the process. This side hustle will also allow you to show off your design skills.

Write Technical Documents

If you have a strong grasp of programming concepts, you can make some extra money by writing technical documents.

This type of work involves creating user manuals, tutorials, and other documents that help people understand the inner workings of a certain software or system.

Plus, this is an excellent way to share your knowledge while also getting paid for it.

Build Software

If you’re a programmer, you can create custom software for clients that meets their specific needs.

Whether it’s a web-based application or a desktop program, building software is an excellent way to showcase your programming skills and make some extra money.

Plus, this type of side hustle allows you to work with clients from all over the world and get paid for it.

Manage Projects

Do you have experience developing or managing software projects? Consider doing this as a side hustle. You can help clients manage their software projects by providing guidance and oversight. 

If you earn at least $600 through managing software projects, you will receive a 1099 form from your client.

It is advisable to establish an LLC to deduct equipment and material expenses incurred in providing your services.

Work as a Developer Mentor 

Are you an experienced programmer? Consider using your skills to mentor aspiring developers.

You can provide guidance and support to students of all ages, and you can help them gain the skills they need to become successful programmers.

Plus, this is an excellent way to share your expertise while also making some extra money.

Sell Code 

If you’re an experienced programmer, consider selling code as a side hustle.

You can create custom software projects that clients can purchase or distribute your code online through various coding marketplaces. This is also an excellent way to make money while also showcasing your programming skills.

Data Analysis 

Are you comfortable working with data? Consider doing data analysis as a side hustle.

You can use your programming and analytical skills to help clients understand their data and gain valuable insights into their business. Plus, this is an excellent way to show off your skills while also making some extra money.

Develop Educational Software

If you have a passion for teaching and software development, consider using your experience to create educational software.

You can develop programs that are designed to help students learn about coding and provide them with the tools they need to become successful programmers. 

Virtual Reality Development 

If you have experience coding in virtual reality (VR) platforms, consider developing VR applications as a side hustle.

You can develop apps that are designed to provide users with immersive and interactive experiences or create custom apps that meet the specific needs of clients.

Plus, this is an excellent way to make money while also showing off your coding skills.

Develop AI-Based Solutions 

If you’re comfortable working with Artificial Intelligence (AI), consider developing AI-based solutions as a side hustle. You can develop custom AI systems that are designed to meet the specific needs of clients or create AI applications that can be distributed online. 

Develop E-Commerce Solutions

If you’re familiar with the development of e-commerce websites and programs, use your expertise to develop custom solutions as a side hustle.

You can create systems that are designed to meet the specific needs of clients or create e-commerce applications that you can distribute online. 

3 Advantages of Starting a Side Hustle

Starting a side hustle can be an intimidating prospect for many people, especially if you’re a programmer. But the potential rewards and benefits are well worth the effort. Here are three advantages of starting a side hustle:

1. Financial Security

Side hustles are great ways to supplement your income and provide financial security in case of unexpected job loss or other unexpected expenses.

You’ll also have financial freedom to pursue your passions and dreams.

2. Flexibility

Side hustles provide the flexibility to work when and how you want. You can often set your own hours, choose which projects you take on, and work from anywhere with an internet connection.

This is especially beneficial for programmers who need to stay up-to-date with new technology trends.

3. Career Advancement

Side hustles offer valuable opportunities to hone your skills and pad out your resume. It’s a great way to develop your portfolio, gain experience in new areas, and potentially increase your career prospects.

Plus, side hustles can provide invaluable networking opportunities that could lead to lucrative projects or job offers.

Ready to start your side hustle? Grab a free consultation with one of our experts on the first steps you need to take to register your business.

How to Start Your Side Hustle as a Programmer in 5 Steps?

Are you a programmer looking to start a side hustle? If so, you’re in luck. There are plenty of ways to make money with your programming skills.

With just five simple steps, you can launch your side hustle and start earning extra income.

Step 1: Choose Your Side Hustle

The first step to starting a successful side hustle as a programmer is to decide what type of work you want to do. Consider your programming experience and skills, as well as the types of projects that interest you.

You may choose to focus on creating web applications, developing mobile apps, creating plug-ins, or developing AI-based solutions.

Step 2: Set Clear Goals

Once you’ve chosen a side hustle, it’s important to set clear goals. Think about the skills you need to develop, the types of clients you want to work with, and how much money you want to make.

Setting clear goals will help you stay focused and motivated as you develop your side hustle.

Step 3: Research Your Market

Before launching your side hustle, take some time to research your market. Look for potential customers, assess the competition, and determine the price points that will make your services competitive.

This research will help you create an effective strategy for your side hustle.

Step 4: Develop Your Brand

Creating a strong brand is essential for success as a programmer. Take some time to develop your own brand identity, complete with a logo, website, and social media presence.

This will help you stand out from the competition and attract customers.

Step 5: Launch Your Side Hustle

Once you’ve done your research, developed your brand, and set clear goals, it’s time to launch your side hustle!

Start by marketing your services to potential customers and networking with colleagues in the industry.

With hard work and dedication, you can start making money from your side hustle as a programmer.

Launch Your Side Hustle With doola’s Backing

No matter your financial situation, there are plenty of side hustles available for programmers. Whether you’re looking to supplement your income or just want to make some extra money each month, these options can help get you on the right path.

With a little effort and dedication, you can easily start earning money from one or more of these side hustles.

If you’re balancing a full-time job and a side hustle, managing your finances can be difficult.

doola bookkeeping can assist you with income and expense tracking and provide support during tax season.

Grab a free consultation to ask our in-house experts any questions you may have.

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