Side Hustle Income Calculator
Plug in your rate and hours to see monthly and yearly take-home — and how long until you hit a goal.
How to use the side hustle income calculator
Enter what you earn per hour (or your average hourly earnings for gig apps), how many hours you'll work each week and how many weeks a year. Subtract monthly costs such as app fees, supplies or gas. Then choose a tax set-aside: 25% is a safe default for most people with a full-time job.
The calculator shows your take-home pay per month and per year and how many months it will take to hit your savings goal. It also estimates what three years of that income could grow to if you invest it at a 7% average return.
Realistic hourly rates by side hustle
| Side hustle | Typical pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Food & grocery delivery | $15–$25/hr | Before gas; peak hours pay best |
| Rideshare driving | $18–$30/hr gross | Subtract 25–35% for car costs |
| Pet sitting / dog walking | $15–$30 per visit | Repeat clients make it steady |
| Cleaning & rental turnovers | $25–$45/hr | Supplies are a small cost |
| Freelance writing or design | $25–$75/hr | Grows with portfolio and niche |
| Digital marketing for small businesses | $300–$1,500 per client/mo | Retainers create predictable income |
Frequently asked questions
How much should I set aside for taxes on side hustle income?
A common rule is 25–30% of profit. It covers the 15.3% self-employment tax plus federal and state income tax for most earners. Use our side hustle tax calculator for a closer estimate.
How many hours a week should a side hustle take?
Most people sustain 5–15 hours a week alongside a full-time job. Start small and add hours once the hustle proves it pays.
Is $1,000 a month from a side hustle realistic?
Yes. At $25 an hour, about 10 hours a week gets you close to $1,000 a month before taxes. Higher-skill work gets there in fewer hours.