In today’s digitally-driven world, the desire to earn extra income has sparked a surge in the use of gig apps. Whether you’re looking to build a financial safety net, pay off debt, or simply enjoy more flexibility in your work life, gig apps can help you achieve those goals. These platforms offer a wide range of earning opportunities—right from your smartphone.
The phrase “best gig apps to make extra money” is no longer just a trendy topic—it represents a lifestyle choice embraced by millions. From delivering food and groceries to completing microtasks or freelancing online, gig apps have revolutionized how we work. You don’t need a traditional 9-to-5 job anymore to earn a decent income. With the right strategy and tools, you can make meaningful money in your spare time or even replace your main income entirely.
In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the best gig apps that are currently helping people earn extra cash on their own terms. We’ll explore gig apps across several categories—delivery, rideshare, freelance work, microtasks, creative gigs, and more—so you can find the ones that suit your lifestyle, skill level, and financial goals.
Before we dive into the list, let’s quickly understand what gig apps are and why they’ve become such a dominant force in the modern economy.
What Are Gig Apps?
Gig apps are mobile or web-based platforms that connect people looking for work with those who need specific tasks completed. These tasks can be as simple as delivering food or walking a dog, or as advanced as coding a website or designing a logo. The app acts as a bridge, facilitating transactions between workers (gig workers) and customers or businesses.
Gig apps thrive on:
Flexibility – You choose when and how much you work.
Speed – Quick sign-up and fast payouts.
Scalability – Many gigs can grow into full-time income streams.
Accessibility – No degree or years of experience required for most platforms.
Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent, college student, retiree, or someone looking to escape the 9-to-5 grind, gig apps offer something for everyone.
Why Are Gig Apps So Popular?
Several reasons have led to the explosion of gig work through apps:
Work-Life Balance
People crave freedom over their schedules. Gig apps let you work when it suits you, allowing for better work-life balance.Economic Necessity
With inflation and rising living costs, many are turning to side hustles just to make ends meet.Remote and Mobile Work Culture
Post-pandemic life has normalized working from home or from your phone, making gig work more accepted and appealing.Variety of Options
There’s no one-size-fits-all gig app. Whether you’re a driver, a designer, a writer, or someone who just wants to take surveys for spare change—there’s an app that pays.Fast Earnings
Unlike traditional jobs, many gig apps allow you to earn and cash out the same day.
In the following parts, we’ll walk you through different types of gig apps, highlight their best features, show how much you can earn, and give you tips to maximize your income from each platform.
Ready to find the best gig apps to make extra money in your life? Let’s dive in!
Top Delivery and Rideshare Gig Apps
When it comes to flexibility and fast earnings, delivery and rideshare gig apps top the list. These platforms allow you to earn on your own schedule—whether it’s a few hours after work or a full day on weekends. They’re ideal for anyone with a reliable vehicle, smartphone, and a desire to make money without being stuck in an office.
Below are some of the best gig apps to make extra money in the delivery and rideshare category:
1. DoorDash
DoorDash is a leader in the food delivery gig economy. As a “Dasher,” you deliver meals from local restaurants to customers in your area. You can choose your own hours and work in multiple cities if you travel often.
Requirements: Valid driver’s license, smartphone, background check.
Average Pay: $15–$25/hour (including tips).
Payment Schedule: Weekly via direct deposit (Instant Pay available).
Tip: Work during lunch and dinner rush hours to maximize tips and bonuses.
2. Uber / Uber Eats
Uber lets you drive passengers, while Uber Eats focuses on food delivery. You can toggle between the two based on demand. It’s one of the most flexible gig platforms around.
Requirements: Age 21+, car (or scooter in some cities), insurance, smartphone.
Average Pay: $15–$30/hour depending on demand and city.
Payment Schedule: Weekly, with instant cash-out available.
Tip: Use both Uber and Uber Eats to avoid downtime and increase earnings.
3. Instacart
Instacart is a grocery delivery app where you either shop and deliver groceries or just prepare the order for pickup. It’s great for people who prefer less interaction compared to passenger driving.
Roles: Full-Service Shopper (shop + deliver) or In-Store Shopper (shop only).
Requirements: 18+, car, smartphone, lifting ability (30–40 lbs), background check.
Average Pay: $12–$20/hour (Full-Service Shoppers often earn more).
Payment: Weekly payouts with Instant Cashout available.
Tip: Larger or more complex orders usually mean higher earnings and tips.
4. Grubhub
Another major player in the food delivery space, Grubhub is known for its consistent orders in urban areas. Drivers choose their own schedule and receive 100% of tips.
Requirements: Valid license, car, insurance, smartphone.
Average Pay: $12–$18/hour.
Payment: Weekly or Instant Cash Out.
Tip: Grubhub often runs “block scheduling” which gives priority to drivers who sign up for time slots in advance.
5. Lyft
Like Uber, Lyft is a rideshare app where you drive people to their destinations. It offers driver bonuses, referral rewards, and flexible hours.
Requirements: At least 21 years old, car that meets Lyft’s requirements, driver’s license.
Average Pay: $18–$35/hour depending on city and time.
Payment: Weekly or instant via Express Pay.
Tip: Lyft offers guaranteed earnings for new drivers. Take advantage of this when signing up.
6. Amazon Flex
With Amazon Flex, you deliver Amazon packages to customers using your own vehicle. It’s ideal for people who like structure but still want freedom over their schedule.
Requirements: 21+, car, driver’s license, background check.
Average Pay: $18–$25/hour.
Payment: Twice weekly via direct deposit.
Tip: Choose delivery blocks that match your availability; weekends and holidays pay higher.
Summary: Best Delivery and Rideshare Apps
| App | Best For | Avg. Pay | Payout Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| DoorDash | Food delivery | $15–$25/hr | Weekly / Instant Pay |
| Uber / Uber Eats | Rides + food delivery | $15–$30/hr | Weekly / Instant Pay |
| Instacart | Grocery shopping | $12–$20/hr | Weekly / Instant |
| Grubhub | Restaurant orders | $12–$18/hr | Weekly / Instant |
| Lyft | Driving people | $18–$35/hr | Weekly / Instant |
| Amazon Flex | Package delivery | $18–$25/hr | Bi-weekly |
These gig apps provide flexible work that can be tailored to your schedule and financial goals. If you’re looking for one of the best gig apps to make extra money, starting with delivery or rideshare is often the fastest path to getting paid.
Best Gig Apps for Freelancers and Skilled Work
If you have a particular skill—like writing, design, video editing, coding, or even consulting—freelance gig apps can turn your talent into income. These platforms connect skilled professionals with clients around the globe, offering high earning potential and remote work flexibility. Unlike delivery or rideshare apps, these gigs are often based on long-term projects, creative work, or hourly contracts.
Here are some of the best gig apps to make extra money for freelancers and professionals:
1. Fiverr
Fiverr is a leading freelance marketplace where users can sell services (known as “gigs”) starting at $5. However, skilled freelancers often charge far more, with premium packages priced at $100–$1,000 or more.
Best for: Creative work—graphic design, writing, voiceovers, SEO, animation.
How it works: Create gig listings with defined pricing and packages. Buyers find you through Fiverr’s search.
Average Pay: Varies widely based on your niche and experience.
Payment: Funds available 14 days after order completion.
Tip: Offer add-ons or bundle services to increase your average order value.
2. Upwork
Upwork connects freelancers with clients for both short- and long-term projects. Unlike Fiverr, where buyers come to you, Upwork requires submitting proposals to open jobs. It’s more competitive but often yields higher-paying work.
Best for: Web development, writing, customer service, admin support, marketing.
How it works: Create a profile, apply to jobs, and negotiate rates with clients.
Average Pay: $15–$100/hour depending on skill.
Payment: Weekly or after project milestone; uses an escrow system.
Tip: Build long-term relationships with recurring clients to stabilize income.
3. Freelancer.com
Freelancer.com offers a broad range of gig opportunities—from data entry and transcription to software development and product design. It works similarly to Upwork but includes contests where clients pick from multiple entries.
Best for: Beginners and experienced freelancers alike.
How it works: Bid on projects or enter competitions to win work.
Average Pay: Project-based; $5 to $5,000+ depending on complexity.
Payment: Through escrow system; funds are released upon project approval.
Tip: Start with smaller jobs to build ratings and win client trust.
4. Toptal
Toptal is a premium freelance platform that accepts only the top 3% of applicants. It’s ideal for highly experienced professionals in fields like software development, finance, and project management.
Best for: High-end clients and serious professionals.
How it works: Rigorous screening process followed by access to exclusive job offers.
Average Pay: $50–$150/hour depending on expertise.
Payment: Weekly or biweekly via direct deposit.
Tip: If you qualify, Toptal can provide some of the highest-paying freelance gigs online.
5. PeoplePerHour
PeoplePerHour is a UK-based freelance platform with a global reach. It offers both hourly and fixed-price project listings.
Best for: Writing, translation, branding, SEO, coding.
How it works: Post “hourlies” or send proposals to job posts.
Average Pay: $10–$80/hour depending on niche.
Payment: Via escrow after job completion.
Tip: Set up detailed profiles and regularly refresh gig offerings to stay visible.
6. Guru
Guru is another platform where freelancers can find flexible work in areas like tech, business, legal services, and marketing.
Best for: Small business contracts and niche professionals.
How it works: Bidding system; you create a profile and send quotes for jobs.
Average Pay: $20–$100/hour depending on role.
Payment: Through SafePay escrow system.
Tip: Offer fast response times and competitive rates to win more projects early on.
Summary: Best Freelance Gig Platforms
| App | Best For | Avg. Pay | Payout Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiverr | Creative gigs | $5–$500+/gig | 14 days post-completion |
| Upwork | Professional freelancing | $15–$100/hr | Weekly/Escrow |
| Freelancer.com | Broad job categories | $5–$5,000/project | Escrow |
| Toptal | High-level professionals | $50–$150/hr | Weekly |
| PeoplePerHour | Niche freelance services | $10–$80/hr | Escrow |
| Guru | Business, tech, admin | $20–$100/hr | SafePay Escrow |
Microtask and Survey Gig Apps That Pay
Not everyone has hours to spare for freelancing or delivering food. If you’re looking for a way to make extra income in your spare time—like while watching TV, riding the bus, or waiting in line—microtask and survey apps can be a smart solution. These apps don’t pay as much per task as delivery or freelance work, but their low effort and accessibility make them a great way to supplement your income.
Let’s explore some of the best gig apps to make extra money by completing small tasks, answering surveys, or sharing feedback.
1. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is one of the most well-known microtask platforms. It pays you to perform small online activities like taking surveys, watching videos, shopping online, and using their search engine.
Best for: Passive multitasking during downtime.
How it works: Earn “SB” points for each activity, then redeem them for PayPal cash or gift cards.
Average Pay: $1–$5/day depending on usage.
Payout: Minimum payout is $3 (300 SB); PayPal or gift cards.
Tip: Focus on higher-paying surveys and daily bonus streaks to earn more quickly.
2. InboxDollars
InboxDollars is similar to Swagbucks, offering money for reading emails, taking surveys, playing games, and watching videos.
Best for: Users who prefer cash over points systems.
How it works: Tasks pay fixed amounts in USD rather than points.
Average Pay: $0.25–$5 per task; some surveys pay up to $20.
Payout: Minimum payout is $15; PayPal or check.
Tip: Be consistent. Logging in daily and completing bonus offers can add up over time.
3. Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk)
Amazon MTurk is a platform where businesses post HITs (Human Intelligence Tasks), such as data categorization, audio transcription, or content moderation.
Best for: Detail-oriented users with basic computer skills.
How it works: Complete HITs for small payments that vary in complexity.
Average Pay: $2–$15/hour depending on the type of HITs.
Payout: Pay is transferred to your Amazon Payments account.
Tip: Use tools like Turkopticon to find the highest-paying HITs and avoid bad requesters.
4. UserTesting
UserTesting pays you to review websites, apps, and digital experiences. You’ll speak your thoughts aloud while recording your screen as you complete tasks.
Best for: Clear English speakers with a microphone and stable internet.
How it works: You’re matched with tests based on your demographic profile.
Average Pay: $10 for a 20-minute test; live interviews can pay $30–$120.
Payout: PayPal (5–7 days after test approval).
Tip: Be thorough and articulate to get higher ratings and access to more tests.
5. Field Agent
Field Agent pays users to complete small jobs in retail stores—like checking prices, taking shelf photos, or answering customer experience questions.
Best for: Those who run errands and shop often.
How it works: Accept jobs in your local area using GPS-based listings.
Average Pay: $3–$12 per task.
Payout: PayPal, usually within 48 hours of approval.
Tip: Combine several tasks in one store visit to maximize efficiency and earnings.
6. Gigwalk
Gigwalk is another local task app similar to Field Agent. Tasks vary and can include mystery shopping, checking product displays, or verifying business addresses.
Best for: People who are already out and about.
How it works: Open the app, view available gigs on the map, and claim one nearby.
Average Pay: $3–$50 per gig depending on complexity.
Payout: PayPal after task completion and approval.
Tip: Maintain a high rating to get access to higher-paying gigs.
7. Appen (formerly Figure Eight)
Appen offers small online tasks like labeling images, transcribing audio, or categorizing data. Some users also participate in longer projects and research studies.
Best for: International users and remote workers.
How it works: Choose tasks based on your qualifications and location.
Average Pay: $3–$10/hour for microtasks; more for long-term projects.
Payout: Payoneer or PayPal.
Tip: Pass initial quizzes and training tasks to unlock more earning opportunities.
8. Respondent.io
Respondent.io pays higher rates for participating in research interviews and focus groups. It’s ideal for professionals or individuals with specific expertise or demographics.
Best for: Niche demographics or professionals in fields like marketing, tech, healthcare.
How it works: Apply to studies; if selected, participate via phone or video.
Average Pay: $25–$200 per session.
Payout: PayPal within 5 days of completion.
Tip: Fill out your profile thoroughly and apply to all relevant studies to improve acceptance chances.
Summary: Microtask and Survey Apps at a Glance
| App | Task Type | Avg. Pay | Payout Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swagbucks | Surveys, videos, games | $1–$5/day | PayPal/gift cards |
| InboxDollars | Emails, games, surveys | $0.25–$5/task | PayPal/check |
| MTurk | Data tasks, transcription | $2–$15/hour | Amazon Payments |
| UserTesting | Website testing | $10/test | PayPal |
| Field Agent | Retail store tasks | $3–$12/task | PayPal |
| Gigwalk | Mystery shopping | $3–$50/task | PayPal |
| Appen | Image labeling, AI tasks | $3–$10/hour | Payoneer/PayPal |
| Respondent.io | Research participation | $25–$200/session | PayPal |
These microtask and survey apps won’t replace a full-time income on their own, but they’re incredibly helpful for stacking small earnings over time—especially if you use them during downtime throughout your day. Together, they represent some of the best gig apps to make extra money without long-term commitment or physical labor.
Gig Apps for Creative and Passive Income
Not all gig work requires driving around town or grinding through short tasks. In fact, some of the most rewarding and scalable income opportunities come from apps that allow you to be creative—or even earn passively. Whether you’re a crafter, pet lover, photographer, or someone with extra space at home, there are gig apps designed specifically for you.
This section highlights the best gig apps to make extra money through creativity, skill, and smart resource use—often with the potential for semi-passive or recurring income.
1. Etsy (For Handmade and Print-on-Demand Products)
Etsy is the go-to platform for selling handmade crafts, custom designs, vintage items, and even digital downloads. It’s also popular among users of print-on-demand services like Printify or Printful, where you can sell T-shirts, mugs, and art without handling inventory.
Best for: Artists, crafters, designers, and creators.
How it works: Create a storefront, list products, and fulfill orders manually or through POD services.
Average Pay: Varies; top sellers earn $500–$5,000/month or more.
Payout: Weekly via direct deposit or PayPal.
Tip: Use SEO-friendly product titles and high-quality images to stand out in Etsy search.
2. Shutterstock Contributor (Stock Photos and Videos)
If you enjoy photography or graphic design, Shutterstock lets you sell your creative work to people around the world. You earn royalties every time someone downloads your image, video, or vector design.
Best for: Photographers, videographers, designers.
How it works: Upload content, get approved, and earn passive income from downloads.
Average Pay: $0.25–$2 per image download; more for videos and extended licenses.
Payout: Monthly via PayPal or Payoneer.
Tip: Focus on popular niches like business, lifestyle, and tech to maximize earnings.
3. Rover (Pet Sitting and Dog Walking)
Love animals? Rover connects pet owners with trusted sitters, dog walkers, and pet boarders. You set your rates and schedule, and Rover handles the marketing and payments.
Best for: Animal lovers, stay-at-home parents, remote workers.
How it works: Set up a profile, get approved, and start accepting bookings in your area.
Average Pay: $20–$60 per visit or $25–$75/night for boarding.
Payout: Via PayPal 2 days after service is completed.
Tip: Get repeat business and better visibility by asking clients to leave positive reviews.
4. Airbnb (Rent Out a Room or Property)
If you have an extra room, guest house, or vacation property, Airbnb can help you turn that space into a lucrative gig. Hosting is flexible, and you can block out dates when your space isn’t available.
Best for: Homeowners, travelers, landlords.
How it works: List your space, set house rules, accept bookings, and manage guests.
Average Pay: $50–$250+/night depending on location.
Payout: 24 hours after guest check-in via bank transfer or PayPal.
Tip: Keep your listing clean, updated, and responsive to earn Superhost status (and more bookings).
5. Teachable or Gumroad (Sell Courses or Digital Products)
If you have expertise in a topic—anything from cooking to coding—you can create and sell your knowledge using platforms like Teachable or Gumroad. This allows you to earn passive income from digital products like ebooks, templates, or video courses.
Best for: Educators, creators, coaches, and marketers.
How it works: Upload your product, set your price, and promote to your audience.
Average Pay: Varies; some creators earn $100/month while others earn six figures.
Payout: Monthly or instant (depending on the platform and setup).
Tip: Combine your digital product with a lead magnet and email list for higher conversion rates.
6. Redbubble or Zazzle (Print-on-Demand Art)
Redbubble and Zazzle let artists upload designs that are automatically placed on T-shirts, phone cases, mugs, and other products. You earn a royalty on every sale.
Best for: Designers, illustrators, and creative hobbyists.
How it works: Upload your art, choose products, and promote your shop.
Average Pay: $50–$500/month for consistent sellers.
Payout: Monthly via PayPal.
Tip: Focus on trending topics (holidays, memes, hobbies) to drive seasonal spikes in sales.
7. Bandcamp (For Musicians)
Independent musicians can upload albums and singles to Bandcamp, where fans pay what they want (or a set price) to download your music.
Best for: Musicians, indie artists, bands.
How it works: Upload tracks, set prices, and customize your music page.
Average Pay: Varies; many artists use it to fund albums and tours.
Payout: PayPal within 24–48 hours after sale.
Tip: Engage your fanbase via email and social media to drive direct sales.
Summary: Gig Apps for Creators and Passive Earners
| App/Platform | Best For | Avg. Monthly Pay | Type of Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| Etsy | Handmade & POD products | $100–$5,000+ | Active & passive |
| Shutterstock | Stock photos & videos | $50–$1,000+ | Passive |
| Rover | Pet sitting/walking | $100–$1,500+ | Active |
| Airbnb | Home/room rentals | $300–$3,000+ | Active/passive |
| Teachable/Gumroad | Digital products/courses | $100–$10,000+ | Passive |
| Redbubble/Zazzle | POD designs on merchandise | $50–$500+ | Passive |
| Bandcamp | Selling music | Varies | Active/passive |
These platforms offer creative freedom and potential long-term income. With the right approach, you can build an income stream that doesn’t depend on clocking in daily. Among all the options, these represent some of the most fulfilling and scalable best gig apps to make extra money—especially if you want to monetize your creativity or resources.
Final Thoughts on the Best Gig Apps to Make Extra Money
The gig economy has transformed how people earn, giving rise to flexible, scalable, and location-independent income opportunities. Whether you’re a student, stay-at-home parent, retiree, or full-time worker looking for a side hustle, there’s no shortage of platforms designed to help you monetize your time, talent, or resources.
Let’s quickly recap what we’ve covered in this guide to the best gig apps to make extra money:
💼 Delivery & Rideshare Apps
These offer the fastest path to immediate earnings with low startup requirements. Apps like DoorDash, Uber, and Instacart are perfect for people with vehicles and flexible schedules.
Pros: Fast sign-up, daily payouts, low skill requirement.
Cons: Vehicle wear-and-tear, fluctuating demand.
🎯 Freelance Platforms
If you have digital skills—such as writing, design, programming, or marketing—apps like Fiverr, Upwork, and Toptal offer higher earning potential and long-term client relationships.
Pros: High income ceiling, remote work, skill-building.
Cons: Competitive, takes time to build a profile.
⏱️ Microtask & Survey Apps
For those looking to earn in their spare minutes, platforms like Swagbucks, MTurk, and UserTesting are ideal. They may not replace your job, but they can cover a bill or two each month.
Pros: Easy to start, mobile-friendly, work-from-anywhere.
Cons: Low pay per task, can be time-consuming for returns.
🎨 Creative & Passive Income Apps
Looking to build something sustainable? Apps like Etsy, Rover, Shutterstock, and Teachable offer a chance to earn through creativity, assets, or intellectual property.
Pros: Scalable, semi-passive, fulfillment-driven.
Cons: Takes time to set up, requires marketing.
Choosing the Right Gig App for You
To get the most out of gig work, ask yourself:
What’s your availability? If you have 1–2 hours daily, microtasks or delivery may suit you. If you can commit 10+ hours weekly, freelancing or creative gigs offer better returns.
What skills do you already have? Don’t waste time learning from scratch if you already have valuable skills in writing, design, coding, or customer service.
Do you prefer active or passive work? Some apps pay only when you work (Uber, surveys), while others continue to earn passively (stock photos, digital courses).
Do you enjoy working with people? If not, avoid apps that require face-to-face interaction like rideshare or pet sitting.
Ultimately, mixing different types of gig apps often works best. For example, you can do food delivery in the evening, complete surveys while watching TV, and work on a digital product in your spare time.
Wrapping Up: Best Gig Apps to Make Extra Money
The landscape of work has shifted. You no longer need a traditional job to make ends meet or reach your financial goals. From delivering groceries to building an Etsy brand or freelancing from your laptop, the opportunities are endless.
These best gig apps to make extra money aren’t just side hustles—they can be stepping stones to financial freedom, flexibility, and even full-time entrepreneurship.
Start with one or two apps that match your lifestyle. Test, learn, optimize, and expand. Whether you want to make an extra $100 a month or replace your 9–5 income, there’s a gig app out there ready to help you succeed.
