In Singapore, the reality is clear — costs are rising, from BTO down payments to the price of kopi at your neighbourhood hawker centre. For many, the idea of earning an extra income isn’t just about having more spending money; it’s about building financial resilience, gaining independence, and securing future goals like early retirement, children’s education, or that dream home upgrade.
Side hustles have become more than just a patch for financial gaps — they are pathways to developing new skills, expanding professional networks, and sometimes even launching full-fledged businesses. The growth of the “gig economy” and the accessibility of digital tools have made it easier than ever for Singaporeans to find opportunities that fit their schedules, interests, and living situations, whether you’re in an HDB flat, a condo, or renting a small studio.
Here are 20 side hustles, grouped into four categories, to inspire and guide you towards your own financial journey.
Digital & Remote Side Hustles (Work from home)
If you’d prefer to avoid commuting and work from the comfort of your home (or your favourite café), these options may be ideal:
1. Freelance Writing & Editing
Singapore’s demand for English-language content is booming as local SMEs and start-ups expand their online presence. From blog posts to corporate reports, businesses need clear, engaging writing. Websites like Upwork and Fiverr can help you find clients, while networking on LinkedIn can connect you to local opportunities.
2. Social Media Management
Brands — even small hawker stalls — are leveraging Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to reach customers. If you understand local trends (think #SGFoodie or the latest TikTok dance), you can help businesses grow their social reach.
Pro Tip: Use scheduling tools like Buffer or Hootsuite to manage multiple clients efficiently.
3. Virtual Assistant (VA) Services
Busy professionals often outsource administrative work such as calendar management, travel bookings, and data entry. VAs in Singapore can charge competitive rates, especially if you have experience with tools like Google Workspace or project management apps.
4. Graphic Design
From logo creation to social media templates, design skills are always in demand. Canva Pro offers an affordable way to produce professional-looking work, while Adobe Creative Cloud caters to more advanced designers.
5. Web Development & Coding
Small businesses need functional, user-friendly websites. Even basic WordPress or Shopify skills can land you steady projects. Coding bootcamps in Singapore can help you upskill quickly.
6. Online Tutoring
With Singapore’s strong emphasis on academics, there’s high demand for tutors in Mathematics, Science, and English. Platforms like TutorCity or ChampionTutor make it easy to connect with students, and lessons can be conducted via Zoom.
Service-Based Side Hustles (In-person & Local)
Prefer interacting with people or providing a hands-on service? These hustles are suited for local, in-person engagement:
7. Pet Sitting & Dog Walking
Pet ownership is rising, especially in condos and pet-friendly HDB blocks. TrustedHouseSitters and local Facebook groups are useful starting points.
Pro Tip: Use platforms that include insurance to give both you and the pet owner peace of mind.
8. Private Tutoring
A long-standing and lucrative side hustle in Singapore. Specialising in a specific level (PSLE, O-Levels, A-Levels) can allow you to command higher rates.
9. Event Photography/Videography
From weddings to corporate product launches, Singapore’s event calendar is packed year-round. Good-quality equipment and a creative eye can quickly build you a client base through referrals.
10. Personal Fitness Coaching
If you’re certified in fitness training, you can hold sessions in public parks, gyms, or even clients’ homes. Specialising in niches like postpartum recovery or senior fitness can set you apart.
11. Home Organisation Services
Singapore’s compact living spaces make decluttering a popular service. Helping clients maximise their HDB or condo storage space can be a highly valued skill.
E-commerce & Creative Ventures
For the entrepreneurial and creative at heart, these side hustles allow you to sell products or creations:
12. Baking & Home-Based F&B
Turn your kitchen into a micro-bakery. According to the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), home-based food businesses don’t require a licence as long as you comply with hygiene regulations and do not sell to licensed food retailers. Promote your creations via Instagram or Carousell.
13. Reselling on Carousell
Declutter your home or source items to resell for a profit. Singapore’s Carousell marketplace is active across everything from electronics to designer handbags.
14. Dropshipping
With dropshipping, you set up an online store and sell products without holding inventory — suppliers ship directly to customers. Shopify makes this accessible, though competition can be stiff, so niche products are key.
15. Selling Handmade Crafts
Whether it’s jewellery, pottery, or stationery, unique handmade items can find a loyal audience. Sell on Carousell, Etsy, or Instagram, and consider joining local pop-up markets.
The Gig Economy & Practical Jobs
Flexible, often app-based, these options can start earning you money almost immediately:
16. Food & Parcel Delivery
Sign up with GrabFood, foodpanda, or Lalamove to deliver meals and parcels. You control your hours, making it suitable for topping up income during off-hours.
17. Mystery Shopping
Evaluate retail stores, restaurants, or service centres while earning money and sometimes enjoying free products or meals. Local companies like AQ Services run regular assignments.
18. Participating in Paid Surveys & User Testing
While not a major income stream, surveys and product tests can add a small, steady boost. Try Toluna, Milieu, or UserTesting for Singapore-accessible tasks.
19. Renting Out a Spare Room
If you own property and have extra space, renting can bring in significant monthly income.
Singaporean Angle: HDB owners must adhere to URA and HDB rules, including minimum rental periods and tenant quotas.
Crucial Legal & Financial Considerations (The “Must-Read” Section)
Before you dive into your new side hustle, it’s vital to understand the legal and financial framework in Singapore.
Taxes (IRAS)
Any income from side hustles is taxable. IRAS requires you to declare all earnings, whether you consider your activity a hobby or business. Keep clear records of revenue and expenses — this will also help if you’re eligible for deductions.
Employment Contracts
Some employers include clauses preventing staff from taking on other paid work, especially if it competes with their business. Always check your contract to avoid breaching terms.
CPF Contributions
If you’re considered self-employed and your annual net trade income exceeds S$6,000, you’ll need to make MediSave contributions. This is in addition to your income tax obligations.
Conclusion: Taking the First Step
The biggest hurdle to starting a side hustle is often the first step. You don’t need to have the perfect plan, and you don’t have to quit your day job. Start small, experiment, and refine your approach as you learn what works best for you.
In Singapore, where the cost of living is high but opportunities are plentiful, a side hustle can be more than just extra income — it can be a stepping stone to greater financial freedom, personal growth, and even a whole new career.
Whether you choose to bake from your kitchen, tutor from your laptop, or deliver parcels in your neighbourhood, remember: consistency and professionalism will set you apart.
Who knows? The skill you pick up today could be the full-time business you run tomorrow.
