7 Best Marketing Side Hustle Ideas for Extra Cash
Are you looking for ways to make extra money from home while maintaining flexibility? Starting a side hustle can be the perfect solution for earning outside your main job, and with the rise of digital work, it’s easier than ever to get started.
Whether you’re a student, parent, retiree, or looking for a way to supplement your primary income, side hustles offer a wide range of opportunities tailored to your skills, interests, and schedule.
In today’s fast-paced world, many people turn to side hustles to meet financial goals, bridge income gaps, or explore new career paths. The rise of automation and AI has made it essential to diversify income streams, and side hustles are a great way to do so.
Most of these jobs can be done remotely with just an internet connection and a laptop, making them perfect for those looking to work from home or travel the world as a digital nomad.
Why Pursue a Side Hustle?
Side hustles offer you the opportunity to learn new skills, increase financial security and improve your work-life balance. With the flexibility to set your hours, you can work around your full-time job or personal responsibilities, without the pressure of a second full-time job. Plus, they allow you to gain experience in a field that interests you, which can further help you start an online business from home, advance your career or even open up the possibility of turning your side hustle into a full-time career.
With economic uncertainty on the rise, having a side hustle can provide you with a safety net.
With the cost of living in the UK on the rise, taking on a part-time side hustle for extra income can help ease the pressure of everyday expenses. Explore the best side hustle opportunities and take control of your financial future with these accessible and profitable ideas.
7 Top Rated & Most Beneficial Side Hustles in the UK
A side hustle is an additional income stream that individuals pursue alongside their primary job or business. This flexible work allows people to explore their interests, acquire new skills, and gain financial independence by making money online.
In this article, we highlight the top 7 emerging and most popular marketing & web design-based side hustles for people in the UK. We provide a brief overview of each opportunity, covering key aspects such as scope, estimated income, and the essential skills and tools required to pursue these freelancing jobs.
Explore the options that best align with your strengths and interests, and take the first step towards a more flexible and financially secure future today.
Disclaimer: The information shared in this post was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change. The side hustles are listed from most profitable to least profitable according to the average estimated earnings.
1. Online Content Creator
Online content creation has become a lucrative side hustle in the UK, driven by the increasing demand for fresh and engaging content. A recent report found that 37% of content creators are willing to take a pay cut to pursue a full-time content creation career professionally, reflecting the appeal and flexibility of the field.
This side hustle involves working for businesses and individuals by creating blogs, videos, social media posts and other content formats. By creating valuable content and optimising it for search engines, content creators can attract a wider audience, leading to greater exposure and opportunities.
For writers, blogging is a great way to build an online presence and showcase their skills. As more businesses rely on digital marketing, content creation offers endless potential for income and growth, making it an attractive side hustle for those with a passion for creativity and storytelling.
Estimated Income:
The estimated annual salary for a Freelance Content Creator in the UK ranges between £28K to £60K.
Investment Needed:
To work as a freelance content creator in the UK, essential investments include a reliable computer, camera or smartphone for creating content, and software for writing, editing, and design.
Requirements:
A freelance content creator needs strong writing, storytelling, and editing skills to produce engaging content. Proficiency in SEO, social media management, and multimedia tools is also essential for maximising reach and impact.
2. Digital Marketer
Nowadays, the importance of an online presence is increasing, and businesses are keen to invest in digital marketing to improve their visibility. As a digital marketing consultant, an individual can provide services such as search engine optimisation (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, content marketing, and social media management.
This is a particularly attractive side hustle, especially for marketing professionals who have experience in creating online campaigns. The demand for effective digital strategies is increasing across multiple industries, making this side hustle a huge earning potential and a great opportunity for growth.
After reaching an estimated US$30.14 billion in 2024, the UK digital marketing sector is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.1% between 2025 and 2034, and its value could reach approximately US$77.61 billion by 2034. As a result, new opportunities and increased demand for digital marketing consultants have emerged, especially those who can create efficient digital strategies.
Estimated Income:
The average salary for a digital marketing consultant in the United Kingdom is £35,975 per year or £18.45 per hour. Entry-level positions typically start at £28,000 per year, while highly experienced professionals can earn up to £60,000 annually.
Investment Needed:
Working as a digital marketing consultant in the UK requires some initial investment. First, you need a reliable computer or laptop and some software for digital marketing tools such as Google Analytics, SEMrush, Ahrefs and social media management platforms. You may need to invest in advertising platforms such as Google or Facebook Ads to promote your services.
Requirements:
Working as a freelance digital marketing consultant requires SEO, PPC, content marketing, social media management, and analytical skills.
3. Social Media Manager
Social media management has emerged as a prominent side hustle in the UK, driven by extensive social media usage. As of January 2024, the UK had 56.2 million active social media users, representing a penetration rate of 82.8% of the population.
This side hustle involves creating and scheduling engaging content, monitoring audience engagement, and analysing performance metrics to optimise strategies. As social media trends evolve rapidly, managers must stay up-to-date with the latest features and user behaviours to deliver impactful campaigns that resonate with target audiences.
The rise of platforms like Threads and the continued dominance of Instagram and Facebook present diverse opportunities for freelancers to support small businesses, entrepreneurs, and established brands. Social media management offers flexibility and creative freedom, making it an attractive option for those looking to earn extra income while leveraging their digital skills.
Estimated Income:
The estimated total annual salary for a Social Media Manager in the UK is approximately £27K to £40K, with an average base salary of approximately £33,103 per year.
Investment Needed:
To start as a freelance social media manager in the UK, you’ll need a reliable computer or a smartphone to create content & schedule it. It requires some social media management tools like Hootsuite, Later or Buffer, and some graphic designing software like Adobe Creative Cloud or Canva Pro.
Requirements:
A social media manager requires expertise in content creation, copywriting, and analytics tools like Meta Business Suite or Hootsuite. Strong communication skills, creativity, and a deep understanding of platform trends are vital for managing and growing online communities.
4. SEO Services Provider
SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) is another growing side hustle in the UK, offering individuals the opportunity to help businesses improve their online visibility and attract organic traffic. With 93% of online experiences beginning with a search engine, companies are eager to rank higher in results, making skilled SEO professionals highly sought after.
This side hustle involves tasks such as keyword research, on-page optimisation, technical audits, and backlink building. By implementing effective SEO strategies, freelancers can help businesses increase their web traffic and conversions, creating a measurable impact on their online presence. The demand for SEO expertise spans industries, from e-commerce to local services, providing varied opportunities for freelancers.
SEO services are well-suited for remote work, allowing flexibility and scalability. As search algorithms evolve, staying updated on trends and tools can enhance success. For individuals with analytical skills and a results-driven mindset, SEO is a rewarding and impactful side hustle.
Estimated Income:
The estimated total annual earnings for an SEO Specialist in the UK are approximately £25K to £39K, with an average base salary of £31K per year.
Investment Needed:
To start as a freelance SEO service provider in the UK, the required investments include SEO tools like Ahrefs, Moz pro or SEMrush for keyword research, site audit & backlink analysis.
Requirements:
A freelance SEO service provider requires skills in keyword research, on-page optimisation, and technical SEO. Strong analytical abilities, proficiency in SEO tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush, and an understanding of search engine algorithms are essential.
5. Freelance Web Designer
Freelance web design has become a prominent side hustle in the UK, reflecting the nation’s expanding digital landscape. As of 2024, the UK boasts over 11.1 million active websites, underscoring the increasing demand for skilled web designers.
With “freelance web designer” receiving over 1,100 monthly searches in the UK, this side hustle has become a popular option for creators with technical expertise. As companies seek innovative and functional website designs, freelancers enjoy the opportunity to work flexibly while contributing to the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Web design is one of the most demanded skills that people want to learn. To learn all about web design or to master your design skills you can apply for the WordPress-based training course offered by ClickDo.
Estimated Income:
The estimated total annual earnings for a Freelance Web Designer in the UK are approximately £22K to £37K, with an average base salary of £28K per year.
Investment Needed:
To start as a freelance web designer in the UK, you will need a reliable computer, web design software like Adobe Creative Cloud, alternative tools like Sketch or Figma, and development tools like Sublime Text or Visual Studio Code. Optional investments include project management tools, and accounting software, making it a low-cost yet scalable side hustle.
Requirements:
A freelance web designer requires skills in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and familiarity with design tools like Adobe XD or Figma.
6. Graphic Designer
Graphic design is also a thriving side hustle in the UK, offering individuals the opportunity to assist businesses in creating visually appealing materials for branding, marketing, and digital platforms.
This side hustle encompasses a variety of services, including logo creation, social media graphics, infographics, business cards, and product packaging. The demand for skilled graphic designers spans multiple industries, as companies seek to enhance their visual identity and engage effectively with their target audience.
The UK’s graphic design industry is projected to reach a market size of £4.1 billion by 2025, indicating a growing need for design professionals. This trend presents ample opportunities for freelancers to offer their expertise and contribute to the visual success of various businesses.
Estimated Income:
Starting salaries for junior graphic designers in the UK typically range from £18,000 to £23,000. With experience, this can increase to around £27,000. At a mid-level, graphic designers can expect to earn between £25,000 and £38,000, while senior designers or creative leads can command salaries ranging from £35,000 to £55,000.
Investment Needed:
To work as a freelance graphic designer in the UK, essential investments include a high-performance computer or laptop, and optional tools like a graphics tablet. Design software such as Adobe Creative Cloud or alternatives like Affinity Designer and Canva Pro are necessary. A personal website or portfolio is important for showcasing work, and marketing through online ads or social media promotion can help attract clients.
Requirements:
A freelance graphic designer requires proficiency in design software like Adobe Creative Cloud, Affinity Designer, or Canva. Strong creativity, attention to detail, and an understanding of typography, colour theory, and layout are essential for producing impactful designs.
7. Affiliate Marketer
Affiliate marketing is a dynamic side hustle in the UK, which allows individuals to earn passive income by promoting products or services online. In 2023, UK companies invested £1.1 billion in affiliate marketing, reflecting a 4% increase on the previous year.
This side hustle involves creating content, such as reviews, blogs or videos, that includes affiliate links. When someone buys a product through your referral, you earn a commission. It is a flexible opportunity that can be operated entirely from home, making it accessible to a wide audience.
Affiliate marketing is particularly effective for those who already have an online presence or social media following. As your audience grows, so does your income potential, making it a scalable and rewarding side hustle in the UK’s digital landscape.
Estimated Income:
The estimated annual salary for an Affiliate Marketer in the UK ranges between £22K to £36K.
Investment Needed:
To work as a freelance affiliate marketer in the UK, you’ll need a website or blog, email marketing tools, and social media scheduling software. Investments in content creation tools, paid advertising, and optional courses to enhance your skills may also be necessary. These costs are flexible and can scale as your business grows.
Requirements:
A freelance affiliate marketer needs strong content creation skills, including writing, SEO, and social media management. An understanding of analytics, conversion optimisation, and the ability to build and nurture online audiences are also essential.
Conclusion
If you are bored of your silly 9-5 job or have ample time to invest in a more productive way these amazing side hustles can be the great saviours. Here in this blog, we have listed the most emerging and remarkable marketing and web design-focused options for work enthusiasts to effectively utilise their idle time.
From freelance web design, social media management, SEO services, and affiliate marketing, there are many ways to tap into the growing demand for digital services. With a relatively low initial investment, many side hustles give you the flexibility to work from home or anywhere else, making them ideal for people who value work-life balance.
With the right perspective, tools, and commitment, you can start a side hustle and start earning a side income while maintaining control of your time.
If you want us to add a suggestion here based on your experience, please get in touch with us!
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