Two-thirds of business owners who are mothers say creating generational wealth for their children is a major reason they launched their business, according to a survey of 1,000 mothers and business owners conducted for SoFi in March 2024. Nearly half (48%) also expect their kids to take over some day, intending to pass the business onto the next generation.
Even so, nearly half (42%) of entrepreneurs who are mothers feel they are treated differently by society than entrepreneurs who are fathers.
According to the latest Census data, women own 13.8 million businesses across the U.S., employing 10 million workers and generating $3.9 trillion in revenue. Those businesses make up 39.1% of all U.S. businesses, a 13.6% increase from 2019 to 2023, according to the Small Business Administration.
Many entrepreneurs who are mothers – or mompreneurs, a term that was coined in the 1990s – have a long-term plan to grow their business, with 86% of those who have another job saying they want to devote themselves full-time to their own company eventually. More than half are actively working to educate their children on being entrepreneurs themselves.
The challenges in finding a balance between work and home are genuine, however, with mompreneurs feeling shortchanged on both sleep and time to spend with family and friends. And two-thirds feel judged by others for pursuing their entrepreneurial goals while being a parent to begin with.
Source: Based on a survey conducted between March 18-24 2024, of 1,000 female business owners aged 18 and over who have at least one child and live in the U.S.
Young Children and Businesses?
Our survey showed 29% of the respondents said their oldest child was 6 to 10 years old when they started their business, followed by 15% saying their oldest child was a teenager between 13 and 18. Another 14% started their business when their oldest child was just 3 to 5 years old.
A majority (74%) of our respondents were married or living with a partner, and most of the respondents had one child or two. As for the children’s ages, 51% had kids between 5 and 13, and 34% had teenagers between 13 and 18.
Among our survey respondents, the largest age group (37%) was 35 to 44 and the second largest (27%) was 25 to 34. As for education, the largest group (33%) had a university degree, but those who had a high school degree (28%) came in a close second.
Living in the Present, Envisioning a Better Future
A majority of the mompreneurs in this survey said desires for financial independence and personal growth motivated them to launch their own business.
So has being a mother made it harder or easier to run a business? Survey respondents said being a parent enhanced their entrepreneurial skills in a myriad ways:
• Improved problem-solving skills: 60%
• Enhanced multitasking abilities: 51%
• Increased empathy and understanding: 46%
• Greater resilience in the face of challenges: 46%
Two-thirds of respondents (66%) said creating generational wealth for their children was a big reason for launching their business.
And nearly half (48%) said they are confident their children will take over their business eventually. Many mompreneurs are already phasing in their kids when it comes to learning about business.
When asked how they involve their children in entrepreneurial activities, the respondents answered this way (multiple selections were possible):
• Educating them about entrepreneurship: 55%
• Introducing them to the business environment: 43%
• Assigning age-appropriate tasks related to the business: 41%
• Including them in decision-making processes: 31%
Work-Life Balance: Can It Be Found?
Running a business and raising children are tasks that are hard enough, but nearly two-thirds (62%) of survey respondents said they have another job in addition to the business they own. Interestingly, 50% of those with household incomes under $100K don’t have a different job aside from their business, compared to 17% of those with household incomes of over $100K.
Incredibly, for those who had a full-time or part-time job apart from their own small business, 26% still spent between 20 and 30 hours per week on their own company.
Something has to give, timewise, and our survey broke it down. When asked what they have to sacrifice to balance entrepreneurship and parenthood, this is what our respondents said (multiple selections were possible):
• Sleep: 48%
• Spending time with friends and family: 48%
• Hobbies: 38%
• Exercise: 28%
• Diet: 21%
• None of the above – I don’t have to make any sacrifices: 16%
Asked what challenges female entrepreneurs who have children face, they answered as follows (multiple selection were possible):
• Balancing work and family time: 58%
• Balancing multiple roles: 42%
• Managing stress and burnout: 40%
• Access to funding or financial resources: 38%
• Overcoming societal expectations about mothers who start their own businesses: 26%
• Navigating discrimination or bias: 18%
Having help at home in the form of a partner or other adults can go a long way, but 37% of respondents, the largest group, said it was mostly them alone left with the mental load of home responsibilities. However, an even split between the respondent and their partner came in a close second at 35%.
When the mompreneurs did get help, the percentages broke down in interesting ways.
Here’s how partners and extended family members offered support (multiple selections were possible):
• Assisting with childcare during work hours: 30%
• Providing emotional support: 20%
• Collaborating on business-related tasks: 16%
• Helping with housework: 14%
• Offering financial assistance: 11%
In terms of stress relief, respondents said they balanced self-care with roles as parent and entrepreneur:
• Participating in hobbies or leisure activities: 51%
• Scheduled breaks and downtime: 47%
• Regular exercise or physical activity: 45%
• Seeking professional help or counseling: 40%
Gender Disparities Revealed
While women-owned businesses are more prevalent in America than ever before, our respondents said that they experience inequity.
More than two in five respondents (42%) said they felt that entrepreneurs who are mothers are treated differently than entrepreneurs who are fathers. Only one in five (21%) said they thought mothers and fathers who owned business were treated equally.
More than 60% of mompreneurs said they felt “judged by others for pursuing entrepreneurial goals while being a parent.”
Making matters worse, the respondents said that this disapproval came into play if they sought financial support to grow their business.
When asked if they felt that being an entrepreneur and parent has affected their access to venture capital or other forms of financial support for their business, they answered:
• Yes: 43%
• No: 34%
• I haven’t tried to secure additional funding for my business: 21%
The Takeaway
Women own 13.8 million businesses in the United States, making up 39.1% of all businesses. Their numbers keep growing, yet nearly half of these mompreneurs feel society treats them differently than owners who are fathers, and balancing work and home is a challenge.
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The median annual salary for pediatricians is $198,420, according to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. There are many different paths a doctor can take when it comes to choosing their medical specialty. Doctors who enjoy helping children feel their best and live healthy lives will likely find a lot of fulfillment in their jobs.
To learn more about how much a pediatrician makes a year, keep reading.
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What Are Pediatricians?
A pediatrician is a type of doctor who provides medical care to children ranging from infancy to adolescence. They specialize in diagnosing and treating injuries, developmental issues, and illnesses children commonly experience. From routine exams to issuing vaccines to providing medicine to sick children, pediatricians can help.
The path to becoming a pediatrician can be a long and expensive one. Typically, that means college, medical school, a residency, and possibly a fellowship. Medical school can easily cost $250,000 in tuition. It’s wise to consider this investment when pursuing a career as a pediatrician. Many doctors have a high amount of medical school debt when starting out.
Also, keep in mind that being a pediatrician involves interacting with children and their families all day. This may not therefore be the best job for introverts. 💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.
How Much Do Starting Pediatricians Make a Year?
While pediatricians can eventually earn very competitive salaries, like any job, they tend to earn less when they are entry-level. The lowest 10% of earners in this role make just $75,670, which is significantly lower than the median annual salary for all physicians of $198,420.
What is the Average Salary for a Pediatrician?
On average, a pediatrician can make a salary that is considerably higher than the American average for all jobs. Where a pediatrician chooses to work can greatly impact how much a pediatrician earns. This is a quick glance at the annual mean wage for a variety of workplaces where a pediatrician may be employed:
• Offices of physicians: $203,690
• General medical and surgical hospitals: $180,790
• Outpatient care centers: $232,420
• Colleges, universities, and professional schools: $84,810
• Specialty (except psychiatric and substance abuse) hospitals: $201,100.
Another factor that also affects pediatrician earning potential is the state the doctor works in. This table below highlights how average pediatrician salaries vary by state, with typical pay arranged from highest to lowest by location.
In addition, it shares how much a pediatrician’s hourly pay vs, salary is.
What is the Average Pediatrician Salary by State for 2023
State
Annual Salary
Monthly Pay
Weekly Pay
Hourly Wage
Oregon
$222,171
$18,514
$4,272
$106.81
Alaska
$221,079
$18,423
$4,251
$106.29
North Dakota
$221,044
$18,420
$4,250
$106.27
Massachusetts
$218,405
$18,200
$4,200
$105.00
Hawaii
$216,375
$18,031
$4,161
$104.03
Washington
$211,404
$17,617
$4,065
$101.64
Nevada
$209,030
$17,419
$4,019
$100.50
South Dakota
$208,910
$17,409
$4,017
$100.44
Colorado
$206,290
$17,190
$3,967
$99.18
Rhode Island
$205,782
$17,148
$3,957
$98.93
New York
$196,083
$16,340
$3,770
$94.27
Delaware
$193,921
$16,160
$3,729
$93.23
Vermont
$191,477
$15,956
$3,682
$92.06
Virginia
$191,115
$15,926
$3,675
$91.88
Illinois
$191,057
$15,921
$3,674
$91.85
Maryland
$187,806
$15,650
$3,611
$90.29
Nebraska
$183,797
$15,316
$3,534
$88.36
Missouri
$182,659
$15,221
$3,512
$87.82
California
$182,152
$15,179
$3,502
$87.57
South Carolina
$181,082
$15,090
$3,482
$87.06
Pennsylvania
$179,627
$14,968
$3,454
$86.36
New Jersey
$179,258
$14,938
$3,447
$86.18
Oklahoma
$177,994
$14,832
$3,422
$85.57
Maine
$177,900
$14,825
$3,421
$85.53
Wisconsin
$177,526
$14,793
$3,413
$85.35
North Carolina
$177,345
$14,778
$3,410
$85.26
New Hampshire
$174,681
$14,556
$3,359
$83.98
Idaho
$174,250
$14,520
$3,350
$83.77
Texas
$173,077
$14,423
$3,328
$83.21
Kentucky
$172,518
$14,376
$3,317
$82.94
Wyoming
$171,910
$14,325
$3,305
$82.65
Minnesota
$171,467
$14,288
$3,297
$82.44
Michigan
$170,777
$14,231
$3,284
$82.10
New Mexico
$170,501
$14,208
$3,278
$81.97
Indiana
$169,638
$14,136
$3,262
$81.56
Ohio
$166,670
$13,889
$3,205
$80.13
Arizona
$166,130
$13,844
$3,194
$79.87
Connecticut
$165,286
$13,773
$3,178
$79.46
Mississippi
$164,126
$13,677
$3,156
$78.91
Iowa
$163,921
$13,660
$3,152
$78.81
Montana
$163,627
$13,635
$3,146
$78.67
Arkansas
$163,030
$13,585
$3,135
$78.38
Alabama
$161,584
$13,465
$3,107
$77.68
Utah
$159,236
$13,269
$3,062
$76.56
Tennessee
$159,121
$13,260
$3,060
$76.50
Kansas
$154,538
$12,878
$2,971
$74.30
Georgia
$150,529
$12,544
$2,894
$72.37
Louisiana
$149,706
$12,475
$2,878
$71.97
West Virginia
$138,728
$11,560
$2,667
$66.70
Florida
$133,219
$11,101
$2,561
$64.05
Source: ZipRecruiter
Pediatrician Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits
Alongside earning a $100,000 salary or more, most pediatricians also receive superior employee benefits. If a pediatrician runs their own practice, they will need to supply themselves and their employees with these benefits.
Those who are employed by employers like hospitals or medical groups can expect to gain access to benefits like paid time off, health insurance, and retirement accounts. They may also have unique benefits like continuing education allowances and malpractice insurance coverage. 💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.
Pros and Cons of Pediatrician Salary
The main advantage associated with competitive pay for pediatricians is that they are quite high. With a median salary of $198,420, pediatricians are greatly rewarded for their hard work.
However, they must pursue many years of higher education to earn that salary. Many young doctors struggle under the weight of their student loan payments. So, while this salary may seem high at first glance, much of it can go towards student loan debt initially.
It’s also worthwhile to consider work-life balance. Being a pediatrician and improving the health of children can be a very rewarding career, but it can also involve long, tiring hours and being on call for patients on nights and weekends. Medical problems and emergencies crop up all the time, so this is a factor to acknowledge.
Recommended: How Much House Can I Afford?
The Takeaway
Pediatricians can earn very high pay while making a big difference in the lives of their patients and their families. They do have to commit to many years of schooling and education to become a pediatrician, but once they do, they can earn a great living.
SoFi helps you stay on top of your finances.
FAQ
Can you make 100k a year as a pediatrician?
Most pediatricians make $100,000 a year or more, especially after gaining a few years of work experience. The median annual salary for a pediatrician is $198,420.
Do people like being a pediatrician?
Pursuing a career in pediatric medicine is a major commitment and those who are passionate about this field and patient care are likely to really enjoy their work. However, this role requires many hours of patient interaction a day, so even if someone finds the work fascinating, it won’t be a good fit for them if they are antisocial.
Is it hard to get hired as a pediatrician?
The main challenge in getting hired as a pediatrician surrounds not having the right credentials. Potential pediatricians must pursue medical school and any required medical licenses in order to find a job in this field, which is no easy feat.
Photo credit: iStock/alvarez
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Eurostar offers high-speed train travel between the U.K., Belgium, the Netherlands, France and Germany. Its trains can reach 186 mph, which means a train from London to Paris takes only 2 hours and 16 minutes. Eurostar merged with Thalys — another European high-speed train company — in 2023.
Taking a Eurostar train between these five countries can be more seamless than flying because you get a solid baggage allowance and don’t need to deal with airports, liquid restrictions in your carry-on and long security lines.
Here’s what you need to know about Eurostar’s destinations, cabin classes, lounges, loyalty program, amenities and pricing.
Destinations
Eurostar offers direct train service to London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam and Rotterdam, Netherlands. For all other destinations, you must connect to a different train, potentially with another carrier.
The fastest train journeys are the following:
Paris to Brussels – 1 hour, 22 minutes.
London to Lille, France – 1 hour, 22 minutes.
London to Brussels – 1 hour, 53 minutes.
Brussels to Amsterdam – 1 hour, 53 minutes.
London to Paris – 2 hours, 16 minutes.
London to Rotterdam – 3 hours, 13 minutes.
Paris to Amsterdam – 3 hours, 20 minutes.
Paris to Cologne – 3 hours, 20 minutes.
London to Amsterdam – 3 hours, 52 minutes.
Depending on where you’re headed, taking the train may take less total time than flying. For example, the train from London to Paris takes 2 hours and 16 minutes, while a flight takes 1 hour and 20 minutes. Though the train takes almost an hour longer, other factors involved with flying, including early airport arrival, travel time to/from the airport, security and boarding, make the train the faster option.
The Eurostar operates out of St. Pancras International Station, located in central London and easily accessible by several tube (underground) lines and buses. By contrast, London’s main airports, Heathrow Airport and London Gatwick Airport, are located outside the city and can take an hour or more to get to depending on where you’re traveling from and your mode of transport.
Furthermore, Eurostar’s rules are arguably more traveler-friendly than those of airlines. On even the cheapest tickets, Eurostar allows adults to bring two pieces of luggage and one carry-on with no weight limit. Children can bring one piece of luggage and one carry-on.
You also don’t have to worry about paying for a seat or dealing with liquid restrictions. You can make fee-free changes to your ticket as many times as you like until seven days before departure. Ticket changes within seven days of departure incur a $40 fee unless you’re in Business Premier.
Club Eurostar
Club Eurostar is Eurostoar’s loyalty program and you can sign up for a free account to start earning points. You earn 1 point per $1 spent on Eurostar tickets. Train + hotel packages also earn points, albeit at a lower rate (1 point per $2).
Eurostar has four membership levels, and with each increasing level you earn more points on travel and get access to additional perks.
Carte Blanche
Points required
Bonus points on tickets
All levels can pool points with friends and family, use points to pay a portion of their tickets and upgrade their seats from Standard to Standard Premier/Comfort. If you’re going for elite status with Eurostar, the biggest advantages are companion vouchers, lounge access and priority benefits when traveling.
Rewards can be used for as low as 100 points on various experiences from free tickets to upgrades.
Eurostar travel classes
Eurostar offers different travel classes, and these travel classes vary by destination. All trains offer Wi-Fi, but in my experience, the Wi-Fi has been awful, with upload and download speeds of less than 1 Mbps.
Trains to/from London
A Eurostar train to/from London offers three travel classes: Standard, Standard Premier and Business Premier. All seats offer U.K. and EU plug sockets. You can also choose your seat when traveling on this route.
Standard: This travel class offers the lowest priced tickets and food and drinks are available for purchase.
Standard Premier: You get free magazines and a more spacious seat, along with a light meal and drinks.
Business Premier: You get the same seat as in Standard Premier, plus additional perks including three pieces of luggage, a carry-on, hot meals created by Raymond Blanc OBE served with champagne, free newspapers and magazines and a dedicated fast-track ticket gate. You also get access to Eurostar lounges and NS International lounges.
Trains between Belgium, France, the Netherlands and Germany
When traveling between Belgium, France, the Netherlands and Germany, there are three travel classes: Standard, Comfort and Premium. All seats include EU plug sockets.
You also have access to Eurostar’s taxi booking service, which allows you to arrange transport to/from the train station. Unfortunately you cannot choose your seat when traveling between these destinations.
Standard: This travel class has the cheapest tickets. Food and drinks are not included but can be purchased onboard.
Comfort: You get a more spacious seat, but still need to pay for food and drinks. Comfort seats have access to premium Wi-Fi, but I found that Wi-Fi to be just as slow as in Standard class.
Premium: You have the same seat as in Comfort class and some additional perks including a gourmet cold meal served at your seat, access to Eurostar lounges and NS International lounges.
The Eurostar amenities you receive depend on which class you travel in. You receive a complimentary meal in Premium, Standard Premier or Business Premier. Those in Business Premier (only available on London routes) receive three-course meals created in collaboration with Michelin-star chef Raymond Blanc OBE. Passengers in Premium get a meal designed by Belgian chef Frank Fol.
Passengers in other travel classes don’t receive a complimentary meal but can purchase drinks or snacks from the Eurostar Cafe.
Lounge access
Travelers in Premium can visit the Eurostar lounge in Paris and Brussels, and NS International lounges in Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Those traveling in Business Premier can use the lounge in London, Paris and Brussels.
Club Eurostar elites traveling on any fare class can access certain lounges depending on their elite status:
Avantage, Carte Blanche and Etoile members: Eurostar lounge in Brussels and Paris.
Carte Blanche and Etoile members: Eurostar lounge in London, Paris and Brussels; DB lounges in Cologne, Düsseldorf and Essen; NS International lounges in Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Schiphol airport; Railteam lounges in France, Belgium, Switzerland and Austria.
Check each lounge’s information page for opening hours. Generally, you can expect to find various seating spaces, complimentary newspapers and magazines, free Wi-Fi as well as food and drinks to enjoy.
Eurostar allows you to book tickets up to 120 days in advance, and the sooner you book the better. You’ll generally find the cheapest tickets on Tuesday and Wednesday. Since you can change your ticket fee-free as many times as you want until seven days before departure, you might as well book as soon as possible.
There are also special or discounted fares for the following groups:
Children under age 4
Kids ages 4-11
Passengers under 26 or over 60
Travelers in a group
Wheelchair passengers and companions
The availability of discounts depends on your destination, so you’ll want to check Eurostar’s page for guidance.
If you have a credit card that earns travel rewards, you’ll want to use it for this purchase since trains are part of the travel category. Here’s a sampling of cards that earn extra rewards for travel and don’t charge foreign transaction fees.
Cards for traveling by Eurostar
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
on Chase’s website
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
on Chase’s website
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
American Express® Green Card
Earn rate on train travel
• 2 points per $1 spent on travel, including train travel.
• 3 points per $1 spent on travel, including train travel.
• 2 miles per $1 on every purchase.
• 3 points per $1 on transit, including train travel.
Terms apply.
Annual fee
Welcome offer
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.
Earn 40,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Still not sure?
You can pay in U.S. dollars when buying Eurostar tickets online. However, if you plan to buy anything on board the train, and you’ll be in Europe anyways, you’ll want to use a card that waives foreign transaction fees.
Is it cheaper to fly or take Eurostar?
The answer to this question depends on how far in advance you purchase your ticket, your day of travel, whether you need to pay for luggage, and the difference in costs between traveling to the airport and to a Eurostar train station.
Here’s a sampling of Eurostar fares in September 2024 from London to Paris.
Here’s a selection of flights from London to Paris on the same day.
Although the cheapest flight is $13 less than the train, bag fees are not included in that price. And since Eurostar stations are generally more centrally located, your overall cost may be cheaper on the train after factoring in a rideshare or taxi to the airport.
Eurostar recapped
Eurostar offers a convenient way to travel between the U.K., Belgium, Netherlands, France and Germany. If you’re deciding whether to fly or take a Eurostar, factor in the cost, travel time (including the time spent getting to and from the airport, as well as the time spent at the airport) and how many bags you’re bringing as part of your decision.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
Are you looking for ways to get paid to walk? Getting paid to walk is a side hustle with the benefits of getting daily exercise and even getting paid for it. There are tons of ways to get paid to walk including getting paid for steps, losing weight, and even picking up trash. I have…
Are you looking for ways to get paid to walk?
Getting paid to walk is a side hustle with the benefits of getting daily exercise and even getting paid for it. There are tons of ways to get paid to walk including getting paid for steps, losing weight, and even picking up trash.
I have personally been paid to walk, and it’s great!
How To Get Paid To Walk
Below are 19 ways to get paid to walk.
Recommended reading: 19 Ways To Get Paid To Workout
1. CashWalk
CashWalk is a free app that pays you to earn money just for running or walking outside or on a treadmill. You earn coins and can exchange them for gift cards to places like Amazon, Walmart, Apple, Starbucks, and more.
This pedometer app is designed to motivate you to achieve fitness goals and help build healthy exercise habits.
You won’t get rich with CashWalk, but it’s an easy way to make money by doing what you already do, which is walking.
You can sign up for CashWalk by clicking here. Also, you can get a free 100 points by using the referral code ESPU5.
2. Sweatcoin
Sweatcoin is a free app that helps motivate you to walk by rewarding your daily steps. This pedometer app only counts outdoor steps right from your phone (such as your iPhone or Android device), so if you’re a treadmill walker, those steps will not count in the app.
Once you accumulate enough coins, you can redeem them for products or donate to charity. The products that can be redeemed change regularly. You may see things such as Amazon credits, electronics, and other popular products. If you’re feeling generous, you can donate your earnings to charities like Save The Children, The African Wildlife Foundation, or Cancer Research.
3. Walk dogs
Rover is an app that connects you with pet owners who need help with pet sitting, dog walking, and drop-in visits. If you’re an animal lover, this is a great side hustle to try.
I was a Rover dog walker for several pet owners and it’s still one of my favorite side hustles to date. The app works on both Android and iOS devices.
How much money you earn on the Rover app varies on how many pets you’re walking, your experience, and what you set your rates at. Some pet sitters make $40,000 a year, while the top dog walkers in the field earn $100,000+. You can expect to earn between $15 and $25 per hour on Rover, with that rate being more depending on how many dogs you’re walking at one time.
Finding jobs is relatively easy because there are so many pet parents out there looking for a pet sitter or someone to walk their dog.
Click here to sign up for Rover.
Learn more at 7 Best Dog Walking Apps To Make Extra Money (another popular pet walking app that you can learn about is Wag!).
4. Get paid to pick up trash
A great way to help clean the environment, get exercise in, and get paid is by picking up trash. Many businesses want their property and parking lots to be clean so customers are shopping at a clean property.
Getting paid to pick up trash is a small business that you can start entirely on your own. Picking up trash can pay between $30-$50 an hour. There is a ton of trash to pick up in the world. Tools you will need include a broom, dustpan, and grabber tools.
You can learn more at Get Paid $30 – $50 Per Hour To Pick Up Trash.
5. Stepbet
Stepbet is a popular fitness app that pays you for walking. The app is user-friendly and even lets you connect your fitness tracker (such as your Fitbit, Google Fit, Samsung Health, or Apple Watch). Stepbet is a great way to stay motivated to complete your daily step goal and even get paid for doing this.
This is how the app works:
You choose a game to set your step goals
Bet a certain amount of money into the pot to join the game
If you meet the weekly step goal, you can split the pot with others who also completed their goals and get your bet back plus more.
6. HealthyWage
HealthyWage is a popular fitness app that pays you to lose weight. To get started, go to HealthyWage and enter how much weight you want to lose, how long you’ll have to complete the weight loss goal, and how much money you want to bet.
Let’s say I wanted to lose 30 pounds in 9 months or less and I bet $60 of my own money. The website shows my prize range would be between $588 and $1,116.
HealthyWage has weekly weigh-ins and support from other people who are also trying to lose weight. The purpose of HealthyWage is to motivate you to lose weight by using a financial incentive, which makes it more motivating to complete your weight loss goal.
7. DietBet
DietBet is a fun and unique app that makes fitness fun and motivating. DietBet works by you choosing a game/challenge to complete. For example, there are current weight loss challenges where you bet $40 and have to lose 10% of your body weight within 6 months to win the shared pot of money.
This is how it works:
You get started by choosing a challenge and betting money into the pot
Two days before the challenge begins, you must weigh in which involves taking two photos (one of you standing on the scale with lightweight clothing, and the second photo of the scale and weight)
The challenge will share how much weight you have to lose to win the pot of money at the end of the challenge.
8. Fit For Bucks
Fit For Bucks is an app that lets you earn rewards for being active. You can earn points by doing things like walking to the grocery store, hitting the gym, going for a hike, dancing, and more.
Rewards you can redeem include things like coffee, fitness classes, massages, haircuts, wine, and more. Using this app is a fantastic way to stay motivated to get more movement in while also getting rewarded for your hard work.
9. Charity Miles
Charity Miles is the app for you if you love giving back and being generous. Instead of giving rewards to you, the app lets you give your rewards to a charity of your choice. Every mile you walk earns a credit to be used as a donation to a charity.
One of my favorite charities, Save The Children, is on Charity Miles. So my daily walking that I already do helps me donate more money to my charity of choice.
10. Guided walking tours
If you’re an extrovert and have knowledge about your local town, you may want to become a walking tour guide. As a guided walking tour operator, you can create your own unique walking route and showcase special landmarks and sites to tourists. You must have in-depth knowledge of the area and provide excellent customer service.
I recommend researching what similar tours are charging to get an idea of what you should charge. You should also think about factors such as the duration of the tour, the experience you have, and any additional services you’ll include when deciding how much the walking tour will cost.
Having a website and/or social presence for your tour company is a great way to get new customers interested in your tours. Network with local hotels, travel websites, and tourism organizations to promote your tours. You may even want to offer a special discount or promotion to attract new customers.
11. Evidation
Evidation is an app that lets you earn points and rewards for actions like walking, sleeping, and more. Participating in this app helps contribute to research and new health findings that will benefit everyone.
For example, one of the current programs in the Evidation app gives you 300 points for joining a program focused on the flu. The app monitors your activity and can alert you when it sees a change that suggests you may be feeling under the weather.
You can connect all kinds of fitness electronics to the Evidation app, including but not limited to Fitbit, Garmin, Google Fit, and Dexcom.
12. MyWalgreens (Walgreens Balance Rewards)
MyWalgreens is a program run by Walgreens with the purpose of getting people to make healthier decisions.
You can earn points in the program by walking and tracking other fitness activities. You can even earn points for tracking your blood pressure, blood glucose, sleep, and other health markers.
13. Gigwalk
Gigwalk is an app that connects gig workers with quick tasks like going to a store, reviewing product displays, checking prices, availability of products, and conditions. You get to choose which gigs you choose and get to decide your schedule and how often you work.
Here’s how Gigwalk works:
First, you download the app on your phone.
Then, you look for gigs nearby.
Choose a gig that you like.
After you finish the job, you get paid.
Money is sent directly to your PayPal account and each gig pays differently. It typically can range anywhere from $3 to over $100 – the time to complete a gig can vary from 5 minutes to a few hours.
14. Runtopia
Runtopia pays you to get fit by providing a motivational incentive to get moving.
The app has benefits like letting you record activities with GPS, data analysis to improve your performance, connecting with friends, and getting rewarded for various activities.
15. PK Rewards
PK Rewards is an app that rewards you for tracking all kinds of workouts. Your workouts get converted into coins which can be redeemed for cool prizes from brands like Lululemon, Nike, Amazon, and more. You earn coins based on the effort you put in.
Workouts can include pretty much anything from going to the gym, cycling, dancing, walking, and more. You can set personal goals in the app, compete with friends, and track your progress all within the app. You can even see your effort over time as you use the app.
16. Instacart
Instacart is a platform that connects customers with Instacart Shoppers who grocery shop and deliver food to customers. This job requires a lot of walking and physical activity and allows you to control your schedule and how often you work.
Signing up to become an Instacart Shopper is straightforward. Download the Instacart Shopper app and apply as a Shopper. Once your application is accepted, you can use the app to find orders, pick an order you like, and go to the store and start grocery shopping for the customer. When you’re done grocery shopping, deliver the groceries to the customer.
You earn money with each delivery and the more you deliver, the more job opportunities you’ll have available. Giving great service to your customers can lead to better tips, so customer service is important.
You can click here to sign up to be an Instacart Shopper.
Learn more at Instacart Shopper Review: How much do Instacart Shoppers earn?
17. DoorDash
Working for DoorDash is an active gig job that requires you to deliver restaurant meals to customers. This side hustle can require a lot of walking and physical activity depending on how you’re delivering food. You may decide to deliver food by car or by bike.
The benefits of working for DoorDash include choosing the hours you work and deciding where you want to work. The app is user-friendly and allows you to take orders, where to go, and how to get there. Each delivery earns between $2-$10, plus tips.
Please click here to sign up for DoorDash.
18. Distribute flyers
A side hustle that requires a lot of walking is getting paid to distribute flyers. To find jobs distributing flyers, check online job platforms like Indeed or Craigslist, and also search for jobs in newspapers, and community bulletin boards. Search for jobs using the keywords “flyer distribution”, or “leaflet distribution”.
You can also create a profile on gig platforms like TaskRabbit, Gigwalk, or Thumbtack and post or search for flyer distribution jobs. Make sure to check local events, trade shows, and festivals as these events always need promotional material to be distributed.
Before accepting any jobs, make sure to clarify pay rates and the schedule from the employer. This job is likely going to take a lot of daily steps and physical activity.
19. Mystery shopping
Mystery shopping is a tool companies use to learn ways to improve their customer experience. Mystery shoppers can get jobs in person, online, or on the phone. Jobs are different and may require you to buy something, sit down at a restaurant and eat, or even get your hair done in a salon. If you are required to buy something, make sure to keep your receipts as you will need them to complete your questionnaire.
My sister was a mystery shopper and I got to go with her on one of her gigs. We got to visit a restaurant for free as long as she gave her honest opinion after. Mystery shopping also involves going to stores such as Best Buy, salons, car dealerships, movie theaters, makeup counters, and more.
BestMark is a popular mystery shopping website that connects you with opportunities to earn money while helping companies improve their customer service.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Mystery Shopper
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about ways to get paid to walk.
Can I get paid for walking?
There are tons of ways to get paid for walking including via fitness apps like SweatCoin and CashWalk that reward you for meeting daily step goals or participating in walking challenges. Rewards include things like gift cards, discounts, cash, and free stuff.
Besides using fitness apps that reward you for walking, you can also make money walking by working as a gig worker for TaskRabbit and DoorDash. These jobs include tasks like delivering food, running errands, and other jobs that require walking.
One of my favorite ways to make money walking is working as a Rover dog walker. If you love spending time with animals, you should consider becoming a dog walker.
What is the best app that pays you to walk?
Many activity tracker apps pay you to walk and each has its pros and cons. The most popular walking apps include CashWalk, Sweatcoin, Charity Miles, and StepBet. Each of these apps is user-friendly, easy to use, and rewards people for their movement. You get to choose from many rewards including gift cards, fitness gear, or donating your money to the chosen charity of your choice.
Is Sweatcoin real money?
Sweatcoin is not real money, but instead digital currency used in the Sweatcoin app. Sweatcoin users earn Sweatcoins based on how much they walk per day. As you take steps, digital coins are accumulated and can be redeemed for different rewards in the app like products, services, and discounts.
Can you earn money with a Fitbit?
While you can’t earn any rewards or money on the Fitbit app, you can connect your Fitbit to fitness apps that reward you for daily movement. Programs and apps like MyWalgreens, StepBet, and others allow you to easily connect your Fitbit to the app.
Why do apps pay you to walk?
Apps pay users to walk because they make money from advertisements when users use their apps.
19 Ways To Get Paid To Walk – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to get paid to walk.
There are many ways to make extra money and get free stuff by walking, dancing, cycling, sleeping, and other health-related activities. Take advantage of these free apps and keep your motivation up by earning points and rewards toward free things like gift cards, fitness classes, food, and more.
The walking side hustles above have health benefits and even mental health positives, plus you may be able to earn an income, cash rewards, or even money for charity donations.
Have you ever tried any of these side hustles or walking apps that pay you for steps?
Legislation targeting LGBTQ+ communities is intensifying across U.S. states. Since 2022, the number of states banning gender-affirming care has risen from four to 23, and 21 states banned or restricted abortion. Two-thirds of states also currently have laws on the books that criminally penalize certain activities based on a person’s HIV-positive status.
Recent Washington Post analysis of FBI crime data reveals that hate crimes in K-12 schools have more than quadrupled in response to restrictive laws.
In 2017, long before the most recent legislation, a survey by National Public Radio, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found more than half of the LGBTQ+ community regularly reported experiencing threats, harassment or violence due to their sexuality or gender identity.
It stands to reason that community members may wonder how to plan for their safety and well-being. If you need to move due to safety concerns — and have some time to prepare for the move — any financial planning you can do beforehand will go a long way. Consider the following six tips from financial and LGBTQ+ experts around the country.
How to financially prepare for a move (if you can)
1. Evaluate your assets and expenses
Taking stock of your income, expenses and assets can help you figure out what it will take to make your move a reality. Lindsey Young, a certified financial planner in Baltimore, says reviewing regular expenses, moving expenses and any costs you may face from temporary unemployment can help you understand where your money is going and plan where you want it to go.
Moving is expensive, and the LGBTQ+ community already tends to earn less than straight and cisgender workers on average, according to a Human Rights Campaign analysis of full-time LGBTQ+ workers and Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Transgender men and women, LGBTQ+ people of color and LGBTQ+ women face even more pronounced pay gaps and discrimination.
However, the LGBTQ+ community also has a rich history of supporting one another through mutual aid. So, check with your support network to see what’s available. Be aware that seeking help and support is normal, especially during challenging political moments.
2. Acquire cash on hand
Once you know how much money you need, consider how you might get it and create cash flow, says Young. For example, can you take on extra shifts at work? A second job? Can your chosen family or a GoFundMe make up the difference?
If you need to move but don’t have cash, says Young, consider what existing lines of credit you can access, such as a home equity line of credit, or HELOC, or credit card.
Also, consider whether you would want — or be able — to take on repaying new debt over the next several months or years. Are you more comfortable taking on debt to make a move happen, or would you prefer to tough it out where you are? Young says there is no correct answer, and it’s a matter of “understanding what their priorities are to really figure out what the right path forward is.”
3. Assemble your documents and back them up
Wherever you are, it’s always helpful to get your important documents together in one place. Make photocopies of anything important, such as medical records and personal IDs, and upload them to a safe cloud location so you can access them anywhere.
4. Specify your power of attorney
Officially designating who will make medical and financial decisions on your behalf is essential to putting someone you trust in charge if something happens to you. Make your will and choose your power of attorney so one isn’t chosen for you.
This step is crucial for anyone concerned that their biological family members (or the state) might try to challenge their wishes, even if they’re married. If your situation is complicated, finding an attorney who specializes in LGBTQ+ clients can help ensure that your wishes are followed despite any contentious family relationships you may have.
The risk of not planning can include that your wishes and loved ones aren’t honored, says Frank Summers, a certified financial planner in Charlotte, North Carolina. “I know of situations in which the estate of somebody who passed away went to a family member who did not approve of their relationship, who didn’t like gay people and proceeded to make the life of the surviving partner extraordinarily difficult when that person is dealing with a tremendous and profound grief,” says Summers.
5. Connect to members of your community, old and new
Connecting to an LGBTQ+ organization or group in a new city might make you feel safer, as well as possibly open up connections to new jobs, health care providers and relationships.
As director of transgender services at The Center on Colfax in Denver, Sable Schultz has seen a significant uptick in people connecting to peer support group services in person and online as they prepare to move to Colorado. Considered a “refugee” state, Colorado has sheltered thousands of newcomers in 2024, and its Medicaid coverage includes gender-affirming services.
Summers sees particular groups of people impacted by legislation — trans and nonbinary people, people wanting to start families, people with children and people who require ongoing care. Needing to access care and not knowing if you’ll be able to get it (or, if you can get access, not knowing if you’ll receive care with respect) can be overwhelming and scary, especially in a state like North Carolina that recently banned gender-affirming care and severely restricted abortion.
So wherever you’re headed, identify a support group, Queer Exchange, Facebook affinity group, or a social service provider that can connect you with housing, medical care, community or other support nearby.
6. Plan a safe travel route
If you’re getting on the road, consider how you can safely get from one place to another, including where you can use the restroom. Be sure to check in with local queer groups to identify where travelers have successfully stopped and stayed in the past.
If moving or traveling requires you to go through states targeting the LGBTQ+ community, particularly trans and nonbinary people, make a plan for how you can drive along large interstates and stop in larger towns and cities, or at least places that identify themselves as allies to the community.
What to do if you have to move and can’t prepare
Conversations about money aren’t usually related to an immediate life or death scenario, but for too many members of the LGBTQ+ community, that is the current reality. Safety is top of mind, especially given the ongoing rise in hate crimes.
Schultz describes Colorado as a refugee state because it mandates health care protections — including requiring gender-affirming care of Medicaid services — as well as general protections around gender identity and gender expression.
Other states where gender-affirming care is practiced include Alaska, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming; and Washington, D.C.
If you’d feel safer in any of these states, it’s possible even a lack of financial planning shouldn’t keep you from making the move. For those who are currently unhoused or living out of their car, says Schultz, sometimes “it’s at least safer to be unhoused here [in Colorado] than it would be to be wherever they were. And they can at least get the health care that they need.”
There’s no shame in doing what you must to get to a safer place where you are valued and wanted. And if you’re an ally to the LGBTQ+ community, check in on your loved one. Consider what emotional, financial or other support you can offer them during this challenging time.
Paying for groceries comes with some sticker shock these days. No matter what you fill your shopping cart with, you’re bound to feel some pain at the checkout aisle.
But creating a sensible grocery budget can help you take back control. Of course, the more realistic your budget is, the more likely you’ll be to follow it. So, identifying a reasonable amount to spend is your first step.
Next is learning a few smart ways to save, including knowing when and how to splurge. You can also explore getting rewards for the food you buy—like how a Discover® Cashback Debit account can provide a bonus for every dollar you spend.
It all comes together to make budgeting for groceries an achievable and helpful goal.
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Rising costs hit your grocery budget where it hurts
It’s no secret that food costs have soared in recent years. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), food-at-home prices rose 5% from 2022 to 2023 and an even more significant 11.4% from 2021 to 2022—both increases are well above the prior 20-year annual average growth of 2.5%.
And high prices aren’t likely to go away anytime soon. The good news is that compared to eating out, preparing your own food already puts you one step closer to spending less. The next thing you need to decide is exactly how much you can afford to spend when you shop.
Unfortunately, there isn’t one figure for how much is typically budgeted for food. That’s because families vary in size, and individual grocery needs can fluctuate depending on diet, age, lifestyle, and location.
However, the USDA publishes annual reports on monthly food budgets based on gender and age. It also separates the plans into four cost categories: thrifty, low-cost, moderate-cost, and liberal.
For example, according to the USDA’s thrifty food plan for January 2024, the average weekly grocery budget (in the continental U.S.) for a single male ages 20-50 was $70.10 but only $55.90 for a similar-aged single female. For families, the thrifty food plan comes in at an average weekly cost of $225.20 for two adults and two young children.
While this USDA spending data isn’t a one-size-fits-all recommendation, it can be a helpful starting point for grocery shopping on a budget.
Your grocery budget is set; now stick to it
Going over budget on groceries is an unappetizing prospect for most shoppers. But, sticking to your budget can be difficult in certain situations—such as when you entertain guests or experiment with new recipes. That’s why it’s important to make these five key strategies part of your routine:
1. Create a detailed shopping list
Planning your meals in advance is helpful because it can establish a ballpark cost for each grocery run. If one or more of your recipes ends up breaking the budget, you can consider swapping it for a more economical alternative.
2. Check for deals and discounts
Yes, you can still use paper and digital coupons to help you save when you shop. Another option is to sign up for members-only deals at your local grocery store. Doing so can help keep costs down, and there’s usually no fee for being a member.
3. Buy in bulk
Opting to buy in larger quantities usually translates into a lower cost per item, which is handy for things you use frequently or items with a long shelf life. Jumbo packs of toilet paper can help you save (if you have the room), but big bags of fresh avocados will likely lead to waste—of both food and money.
Tip: If you find yourself frequently throwing out expired food or other items, check out this guide to a zero-waste lifestyle.
4. Don’t snub store brands
The quality of today’s store brands has come a long way over the past decade, and many of these lower-cost products are worth trying.
5. Pay with a debit card that pays you back
With the Discover Cashback Debit card, for example, you can earn 1% cash back1 on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases every month.
To splurge or not to splurge?
If you want to treat yourself to premium items now and then, you can probably snag a couple of luxury groceries without blowing your weekly budget. However, those few small indulgences can add up if you’re not careful—so scout for deals that still fit your grocery budget.
And remember, certain grocery items tend to inflate the tab even when you only purchase a relatively small amount. Think imported/specialty foods and alcohol. (Word to the wise: Taxes on spirits may be higher than on beer and wine.)
Proceed to checkout
Grocery shopping on a budget won’t look the same for every shopper. However, getting some practice for how to grocery shop on a budget can reduce stress when it comes time to pay for other necessities like rent, utilities, clothing, and transportation.
And like most things, the grocery budget you set isn’t carved in stone. Review and revise your grocery spending often to see if there are additional ways to save or cut back on food waste. Bon appétit!
If you’ve ever struggled to create a budget, you’re not alone. Check out these 5 basic budgeting tips that can help you get started, even if making (or sticking to) budgets hasn’t worked for you in the past.
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Groceries are one of the biggest budget items on most families’ lists. Of course, how much you spend will depend on where you live, what you eat, and what your spending habits are. As food costs increase, so may the grocery budget for a family of three.
As you create or revise a monthly budget, it can help to look at how your food spending compares to other families.
Table of Contents
American Average Grocery Budget for Family of 3
Each month, the USDA publishes a report showing the average costs of groceries at three price levels: budget, moderate, and liberal. Here’s a look at the middle-of-the-road spending for a family of three in 2023. Notice how the average cost of groceries rose more than $87 over the course of the year.
Month (in 2023)
Average Cost of Groceries
January
$975.00
February
$975.00
March
$967.50
April
$970.90
May
$976.70
June
$977.80
July
$981.30
August
$981.00
September
$980.10
October
$983.20
November
$977.00
December
$975.70
💡 Quick Tip: We love a good spreadsheet, but not everyone feels the same. An online budget planner can give you the same insight into your budgeting and spending at a glance, without the extra effort.
How Much to Budget for Groceries Per Person
No matter the size of your family, your grocery budget can depend largely on the cost of food where you live. For instance, according to data from the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, people in Hawaii, Alaska, and New York tend to pay more for food than residents of Texas, Wyoming, and Michigan. This means $700 per month for groceries may be more reasonable in Texas than in, say, Hawaii.
Creating a household budget and aren’t sure how much to allocate for food? A good rule of thumb is to set aside 10% of your income for groceries and other food costs. So if you take home around $5,000 a month, plan on budgeting $500 for food.
However, you may need to adjust that percentage, especially if you have a larger family or live in an area with a higher cost of living. It may be wise to track how much you spend in any given month on food and see what a reasonable budget would look like for you and your family.
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How to Prioritize Your Grocery Spending
What does it mean to prioritize your grocery spending? It’s simply a way to ensure you’re making the most every dollar when you’re grocery shopping on a budget.
One strategy to consider is to set aside money each month automatically so you have enough to spend on food. Another option is to put groceries as one of the top line items in your monthly budget so you don’t forget to set aside money for it first.
It’s also important to scrutinize how much you spend on food and the choices you make in the grocery store aisles. It could be that your grocery budget is fine, but you may need to reel in how much you spend on certain ingredients or find cheaper alternatives.
Above all, though, make sure you settle on a budget that works for you and your family. Be sure it’s enough to cover what’s important to you all while still sticking to your larger spending plan.
How to Stay Within Your Grocery Budget
It’s easy to give in to temptation at the grocery store, but rest assured, staying within budget is possible. These tips can help:
Shop at discount retailers
Buying your groceries at lower-priced retailers can add up to significant savings, even better if you’re able to purchase ingredients you need on sale. Some retailers may have rewards programs, helping you earn free or heavily discounted groceries.
• Make pricey purchases go the distance: Meat or related products like eggs tend to cost more than other ingredients. Look into recipes that help you stretch a pack of meat or carton of eggs over several meals.
• Use what you have: Before heading to the grocery store, go through your refrigerator, freezer, and pantry to see what you already have. Besides preventing food waste, this also helps you avoid purchasing items you don’t need.
• Buy store brands: In many cases, store-brand items cost much less than brand-name items. The quality for generic items may also be similar.
• Use coupons: Though it may not seem like it’ll make a huge difference, using coupons or grocery store rebates can help make every cent count. Be sure to do some comparison shopping before you hit the checkout counter. Even with discounts, you may still come out ahead with generic or store-brand versions.
• Embrace meal planning: Making plans can help you estimate your food costs for the week and ensure you only purchase items you need.
• Do a spending audit regularly: Tally up how much you’ve spent and what you’ve spent it on. Look for places to cut back on spending, such as purchasing pricey ingredients that can only be used once.
Recommended: Does Buying in Bulk Save Money?
How to Budget for Restaurants and Dining Out
Eating out is a luxury, but it can also be done on a budget. Consider the following tips the next time you’re considering a night out on the town:
• Decide how many times a month you want to eat out: Knowing approximately where and how many times you go out in a given month will help you make a realistic budget.
• Consider drinking only water: While it’s tempting to order fancy drinks when you’re out, sticking with water can help you and your family save money.
• Look for weekly specials or discounts: In an attempt to earn your business, many restaurants will offer specials, such as free kids meals or discounted menu items. These deals usually happen on a weekday, though on occasion you may find discounts during restaurants’ busier times as well.
• Budget for tipping: Paying for your meal isn’t the only cost involved in dining out. Make sure to leave enough room so you can tip your server or bartender.
Recommended: Examining the Price of Eating at Home vs Eating Out
Tips for Getting Help if You Can’t Afford to Buy Groceries
Sometimes, budgeting will only get you so far. If you need help with food and other necessities, there are some organizations and agencies you may be able to turn to for temporary help:
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): If you can meet the program’s eligibility requirements, the government-run program will give you a monthly stipend to spend on food for you and your family.
• Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): The WIC program is for eligible pregnant women or mothers who have infants up to age 5 who are at risk of not receiving enough nutrients. Note that you’ll need to apply for this government-funded program.
• USDA National Hunger Hotline: If you’re facing food insecurity, you can call the hotline daily from 7am to 10pm ET to find resources like local meal sites or food banks.
• Local food pantries: Many religious organizations, colleges, and other local nonprofits may have food pantries. Call ahead to see when you can receive assistance.
💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.
The Takeaway
Budgeting for grocery costs isn’t always easy, but it’s worth the effort. It may be worth considering looking at average costs in your area as a guideline for how much to budget and looking at ways to save on food to ensure you’re not spending more than you can afford to. You may also want to consider using online tools like a money tracker app so you can maximize every dollar you make.
Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.
With SoFi, you can keep tabs on how your money comes and goes.
FAQ
What is a reasonable grocery budget?
Most experts recommend budgeting around 10% of your income to food costs.
How much should a family of four spend on groceries?
Depending on where you live, the average cost of groceries for a family of four can average from $1,044.70 to $1,568.10, according to data from USDA.
How much does an average family spend on groceries?
The average family spends about 11.3% on groceries, according to USDA data.
Photo credit: iStock/Prostock-Studio
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Do you want to learn how to make $10 a day? Whether you want to make an extra $10 every day or if you just need an extra $10 fast right now, you have options. Plus, if you are looking to make $10 a day every day, this is about $300 each month or $3,650…
Do you want to learn how to make $10 a day? Whether you want to make an extra $10 every day or if you just need an extra $10 fast right now, you have options.
Plus, if you are looking to make $10 a day every day, this is about $300 each month or $3,650 extra each year!
Surprisingly, you might not need to spend much time to reach this goal – maybe just an hour or less each day. The great thing about this is that many of the ways mentioned below are flexible and can be done on your own schedule.
Whether you work full-time, stay home with kids, or have a packed student schedule, there are lots of ways to make that extra $10. And even though $10 may seem small, if you do it every day for a month, it adds up to a few hundred dollars, which can be a big help for your budget or savings.
Getting some extra money can be easy by using what you already have online. You don’t need a second job to make $10 more each day. There are lots of online ways to do this. Maybe you want more money or just some spending cash without working a lot. Either way, you can find ways to meet your money goals.
Recommended reading: How To Get $20 PayPal Now
Best Ways To Make $10 a Day Fast
Below are the best ways to make $10 fast.
1. Paid online surveys
Earning $10 by taking surveys is a real possibility and a simple way to make money from home. Some survey companies will even give you $5 or $10 just for signing up and becoming a new member.
When I was repaying my student loans, I filled out surveys every week. I did this before work, during lunch, or after work. It was easy because I could do it whenever I had some free time and could do it on my own schedule. I enjoyed doing them because it was super flexible and would earn me some extra money without any physical labor or really even any brain power.
Survey companies pay you for answering surveys, watching videos, and trying out products. Sometimes, they might even send you free products to test. The best part is, signing up with these companies is completely free!
The paid online survey companies I recommend include:
These survey websites typically give out rewards as cash deposited into PayPal accounts or as free gift cards for places like Amazon.
2. Start a blog
Starting a blog is a creative way to make $10 a day.
Starting a blog won’t immediately earn you $10 a day because it takes time to set up. However, with time and effort, bloggers can usually start earning at least $10 a day in the future.
A blog is a website that contains articles, similar to what you’re reading now. You can start a blog on many different niches and topics like personal finance, recipes, travel, pet care, family life, and more. There are many different kinds of blogs available on the internet.
You can earn money from a blog by teaming up with companies for sponsorships, displaying ads, doing affiliate marketing (such as promoting products from Amazon), and selling items like ebooks, candles, T-shirts, and more directly on your blog.
This is how I make money online, earning well over $10 a day. It took me about 6 months to make my first $100 with my blog, so getting started does take time. It took around a year to reach about $5,000 a month and approximately 2 years to reach $10,000 a month.
You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).
3. High-yield savings accounts
A high-yield bank account is a low-risk way to earn extra money. These accounts offer a higher interest rate than regular savings accounts, so your money grows faster.
While you might not earn $10 every day from a high-yield savings account, it’s quite easy to earn $10 or more over time. You can then stack this with other methods to make $10 every day or $300 a month.
I personally use Marcus by Goldman Sachs because they have a very high interest rate. At the time of this writing, you can get up to 5.40% through a referral link bonus. So, if you have $10,000 saved, you could earn $540 in a year with a high-yield savings account like this. In comparison, with normal banks, your earnings would only be around $50 for the same amount saved.
4. Sell printables on Etsy
One way to make $10 a day from home is by selling printables on Etsy. Printables are digital products that buyers can download and print at home. Think planners, art, or even educational materials.
You have probably used printables in your life, just like most people have. I purchase printables all the time because they make my life much easier. It’s convenient to print things out and have them readily accessible when needed. I recently downloaded a digital printable that is a calendar of new activities to do with my toddler, in fact. (It has a specific new activity to do each day for her age group.)
You can learn more at How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy.
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
5. Mystery shopping
Mystery shopping can be a fun way to earn money. If you enjoy shopping and going out, this option can help you make $10 a day.
Companies hire mystery shoppers to visit stores and behave like regular customers. You’ll make purchases, ask questions, and then give feedback on your experience.
Secret shoppers evaluate places like restaurants, stores, car dealerships, banks, and more.
My favorite mystery shopping company that I have personally used is BestMark. There are many other good mystery shopping companies as well.
I have mystery shopped a lot over the years. At one point, I was earning around $150 to $200 a month from it, as well as getting free restaurant meals, free retail items, and more. Most of the shops were very easy to complete and I could do them on my own schedule.
6. Get a raise at work
If you’re wanting to increase your daily earnings by $10, asking for a raise at your current job can be a great strategy as you would be simply continuing the job you already have and not having to find a second job.
Start by evaluating how your skills and experience contribute value to the company. Are you taking on additional responsibilities? Have you achieved any big goals or improved anything at work lately?
Remember, timing is everything when it comes to asking for a raise. I recommend setting up a private meeting with your boss to talk about your raise and make sure it’s a calm period in the work cycle, not the middle of a big project or problem.
Then, during your meeting, be direct about your request and explain how your hard work deserves additional compensation and talk about the value you bring to the company.
7. Answer questions in a focus group
Joining a focus group is a great way to earn $10 quickly, or potentially more! Now, you typically won’t be able to make $10 every single day with a focus group because they are more limited in availability, but you can make well over $10 in a single day with them.
A focus group is a small gathering of people who share their opinions about new products or services. Companies use these insights to improve their offerings.
I have participated in a focus group that paid me approximately $400 for just 75 minutes of my time. While this payment was higher than usual, most focus groups typically pay anywhere from around $50 to over $100 per hour. The amount you get paid can vary greatly depending on the length and topic of the study, but there are certainly studies that offer higher compensation than others.
One focus group company that I recommend joining is User Interviews.
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User Interviews pays very well for market research studies and these are some of the highest paying online surveys, with each paying $50 to $100 or more. The average pays over $60.
8. Donate plasma
Donating plasma can earn you between $20 to $50 each time you donate, and you can earn up to $300 a month if you donate regularly.
Plasma is the liquid part of your blood, and it’s in high demand for medical treatments. Your plasma can help individuals with immune deficiencies, bleeding disorders, and other health problems.
The process is similar to donating blood, but it takes a bit longer – usually about an hour. You’ll be comfortably seated during the procedure, and a machine will take your blood, separate the plasma, and return the blood cells to your body.
Typically, you can donate plasma twice a week. Most donation centers require a 48-hour gap between sessions to make sure that your body has time to recover.
Recommended reading: How to Make Money in One Hour: 15 Real Ways
9. Food delivery
If you want to make an extra $10 a day, food delivery is a good choice. It’s a flexible way to earn cash by helping people get their meals delivered right to their doorstep. With apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Postmates, you can sign up and start delivering right away.
When you choose to be a food delivery driver, you work on your schedule. All you need is a reliable way to get around, like a car, bike, or scooter, and a phone. The exact amount you’ll make can depend on the time of day, your location, and how many orders you take.
Typically, you receive more than $5 for each delivery. Plus, customers may tip you for your service as well.
Recommended reading: How To Make $5 Fast
10. Deliver groceries
If you’re looking for a way to make an extra $10 a day, delivering groceries might be the perfect side gig for you. With many people busy or preferring to stay home, you can help by bringing their food shopping right to their doorstep.
Popular apps like Instacart and Shipt are always looking for shoppers. You’ll need to meet some basic requirements, like having a car and a phone. After you’re approved, you can start to accept delivery jobs through the app.
You can choose when you want to work. Maybe it’s after your day job or just on weekends. Each trip to the store and delivery earns you money, and you can see your earnings add up with every order you complete.
I have ordered groceries through Instacart many times when I’m too tired to shop, when I’m on vacation and want groceries delivered straight to the vacation home, and when I’m running low on time at home. It is a great service to have!
11. Transcribe
Transcribing is when you get paid to type out what you hear, and it’s a way to make $10 a day if you have a good ear and can type fast.
Transcription jobs are found online and offer flexible schedules. To start, you’ll need a computer and a solid internet connection.
As a beginner, you can earn around $15 an hour, but with more experience, that number can go up.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Online Transcription Jobs For Beginners To Make $2,000 Monthly
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In this free training, you will learn what transcription is, why it’s a highly in-demand skill, who hires transcriptionists, how to become a transcriptionist, and more.
12. Freelance on Fiverr
If you’re looking to earn an extra $10 a day, Fiverr is a platform to try out if you want to freelance.
Fiverr lets you sell skills you’re good at, such as graphic design, data entry, social media management, writing blog posts for others, and more. You can sell thousands of different kinds of freelance gigs, and you can make your service as customized as you want.
I have freelanced a ton over the years, and it’s a great way to make money from home without having to pay anything to get started. You just need your skills and time!
13. Walk dogs
If you love dogs and want to learn how to make $10 a day (or more) without paying, then walking dogs is a side hustle you can easily get started with.
Dog walking apps like Rover help you to list your dog walking services. This is an in-demand service where you may be able to earn $15 to $30 an hour walking dogs.
Once you’re signed up on a dog walking platform, you’ll get alerts for dog walking jobs in your area. You can choose the ones that fit your schedule. A typical session lasts about 30 minutes, and you might walk one or more dogs during this time.
If you have the chance to walk multiple dogs at once, then you may be able to earn more money by aligning many dog walking gigs at the same time. Some clients do pay more for their dog to be walked alone if that’s what they want.
I have two close family members who are dog walkers and they both really love it!
14. Invest in stocks for dividends
If you’re looking to make some extra money daily, you can try dividend stocks. These are shares of companies that give you money back, called dividends, just for owning them. This is like getting a “thank you” for investing in the company.
To make $10 a day, you’d need to earn around $300 a month from dividends.
Dividends work by paying shareholders a portion of a company’s earnings per share of stock they own. For example, if you own 10 shares of Company ABC and they pay $5 in cash dividends per share each year, you will receive $50 in dividends annually. Dividends are usually paid on a monthly, quarterly, or yearly basis, with quarterly payments being the most common (four times a year). In this scenario, the $5 in cash dividends per year would likely be distributed as $1.25 per quarter for each share of stock you own.
Recommended reading: What Are Dividends & How Do They Work? A Beginner’s Guide
15. Play games online
If you enjoy playing games, you can actually make money from it! While you might not consistently earn $10 every day, you can likely make $10 occasionally by doing something in your spare time.
Game apps can pay you real money because they generate revenue from ads and in-app purchases. They then share a portion of their earnings with players to keep them engaged and playing their games.
Here is a quick list of popular online game platforms that offer real cash rewards:
Swagbucks
KashKick
InboxDollars
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Swagbucks is a site where you can earn points for answering surveys, shopping online, watching videos, using coupons, and more. You can use your points for gift cards and cash.
16. Sell things you no longer need
A simple way to earn $10 quickly (or even more) is by selling items you no longer need around your home.
Everyone has things like old books, clothes, unused gift cards (to many places such as Walmart, Starbucks, Target, Amazon, and more), or electronics that they no longer use. Selling these items can help you make money fast.
You have several options for selling your old stuff, like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Mercari, Craigslist, or even holding a garage sale at your home.
17. Charge scooters
If you’re looking to make an extra $10 each day, then you may be able to find a side gig as a scooter charger for companies like Lime or Bird. These companies pay individuals to pick up, charge, and redeploy their electric scooters around the city.
You can get started by signing up on the company’s website by submitting your name, email, and location. You’ll need to download an app that will guide you to scooters needing to be charged.
Typically, a single scooter gives you around $3 to $5 once fully charged. It might sound small, but charging just a couple of scooters can quickly add up to your $10 daily goal.
18. Babysit
Babysitting is a popular way to bring in some extra cash. If you enjoy spending time with children and have some free hours, this could be a smart pick for making $10 a day or even more.
On average, you could earn between $15 to $25+ per hour for watching kids. The rate might go up if you’re taking care of more than one child or if the children need special attention.
Jobs can range from a couple of hours after school to full days. This makes babysitting a flexible job that can fit into your schedule.
19. Sell on Amazon
If you’re looking to make some cash each day, you might try selling retail items on Amazon. Amazon’s Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) program can be a great way. You send your products to Amazon, and they handle shipping and customer service for you.
Here’s a quick start guide:
Sign up – Creating an Amazon seller account is your first step. It’s pretty easy and you can do it online.
Choose your products – Find items you want to sell.
List your items – Describe what you’re selling, add pictures, and set your price. Make sure it looks good so people want to buy it.
Ship to Amazon – Box up your items and send them to an Amazon warehouse.
Sell and earn – Once your products are listed, you can start making sales. Amazon gives you a part of the sale price, and that’s how you make your money.
If you want to learn more about starting an Amazon business, I recommend signing up for this free training that will teach you how to sell products on Amazon and make $100 to $500 per day.
20. Rent out your storage space
If you have unused space in your home like a closet, garage, or even a spare bedroom, you can turn it into money! Yes, by renting out your storage space, you could easily make a payout of around $10 a day or $300 a month without much work.
A site to use to rent out your space is Neighbor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to make $10 a day fast.
How can I make $10 a day?
You can make $10 a day by doing small freelance gigs, completing online surveys, or selling items that you no longer need. Another way could be to save your spare change from everyday purchases (such as with the Acorns app).
How to make $10 an hour online?
You might be able to earn $10 an hour online by selling virtual assistant services, content writing, graphic design, or tutoring through platforms made for freelancers. Your hourly rate will depend on the skills you have and the demand for them.
How to make $10 a day for free? Can I make $10 daily without any upfront investment?
Making $10 a day for free is possible through apps that reward you for participating in surveys or completing certain tasks, freelancing services like writing or virtual assisting, and walking dogs. You can learn more about this at 22 Ways To Make Money Online Without Paying Anything.
How can kids make $10 each day?
Kids can make $10 a day by doing chores for neighbors (such as by going around the neighborhood and seeing who needs their lawn cut or leaves raked), setting up a lemonade stand, or pet sitting. It’s great for teaching them about the value of work and earning at a young age.
How To Make $10 a Day – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to make $10.
There are many ways to make an extra $10, whether you need $10 right now or if you want to make $10 each day.
Making an extra $10 can be helpful, whether you have a full-time job, are a stay-at-home parent and just need to make a little extra money, or whatever else.
If you like sharing your thoughts, you can make money doing online surveys. If you’re good at crafts and art, selling printable designs on Etsy could be a good fit. For those who love pets, walking dogs using apps can bring in extra cash. And if you prefer working at night, you can offer your skills on freelance websites after the day is over to make that extra $10.
These little bits of money each day can add up and give your budget more room to move each month.
Are you looking to learn how to make $10 a day or fast?
A tax deduction reduces your taxable income, potentially lowering the amount of income you can be taxed on. A tax credit directly reduces the amount of tax owed. Tax deductions are based on expenses or contributions, such as mortgage interest or charitable donations. Tax credits are applied after calculating how much you owe in taxes and can provide a dollar-for-dollar reduction.
When you file your federal and state tax returns, you probably look for ways to reduce the amount of money you owe. To maximize your savings, you need to know the difference between a tax credit vs. a deduction. Both affect the amount of tax due, but they do so in different ways. Here’s how to distinguish between the two.
Note: This is for informational purposes only and is not tax advice. Please consult your tax professional to discuss your individual situation.
Defining Tax Credit vs. Tax Deduction
A tax credit is a tax incentive that allows you to subtract the amount of the credit from the amount of tax you owe. For example, if you owe $2,000 in taxes and take a credit worth $1,000, the credit reduces your tax bill to $1,000. The tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar adjustment.
In contrast, a tax deduction is an amount of money deducted from your income. When you take a deduction, it reduces your taxable income by the same amount of money. For example, the standard deduction allows you to deduct $14,600—$29,200 for married couples—from your adjusted gross income.
Here’s the main difference between the two. Tax credits reduce your tax bill directly, as they offset your tax liability. Tax deductions don’t reduce your taxes directly, but they lower your tax bill by reducing the amount of taxable income you have.
Refundable vs. Nonrefundable Tax Credits
Once you understand the difference between a tax credit vs. a deduction, you also need to know the difference between refundable and nonrefundable tax credits. The type of credit you apply makes a big difference in determining the size of your refund.
If you owe less than the amount of a refundable credit, you get the difference back from the IRS or your state revenue agency. Assume you owe $500 and are eligible for a refundable credit worth $1,500. Not only would the credit wipe out your $500 tax bill, but it would also help you qualify for a $1,000 tax refund.
With nonrefundable credits, you don’t get back the difference between the amount of the credit and the amount of tax you owe. In the scenario above, the credit would reduce your tax bill to $0, but you wouldn’t get the extra $1,000 as a refund.
Common Tax Credits and Deductions
Before you prepare your tax return, take time to learn about some of the most common tax credits and deductions for taxpayers in your situation. Many credits and deductions are based on your income, family size, and filing status. You may also qualify for credits and deductions based on college enrollment, self-employment, or charitable donations.
Tax Credits
Earned Income Tax Credit
The EITC is a federal tax credit for filers with low to moderate incomes. To qualify, you must have earned income, which is income you get from working. Dividends, bank interest, and other forms of passive income don’t count as earned income.
You must also earn less than $63,398 annually. The amount of the EITC ranges from $600 to $7,430, depending on how many children you have.
American Opportunity Tax Credit
The American Opportunity Tax Credit is a federal tax credit worth up to $2,500 per year. You may qualify if you have expenses related to your first four years of higher education, such as tuition, textbooks, or course fees.
Additionally, the AOTC is partially refundable. If you owe $0, you can get back 40% of the remaining amount of the credit as a refund. For example, if you owe $0 and are eligible for the $2,500 maximum, you can get a $1,000 refund when you file your return.
To qualify for the AOTC, you must have a modified adjusted gross income of no more than $80,000 per year—$160,000 if you’re married and file a joint tax return.
Lifetime Learning Credit
The Lifetime Learning Credit is also an educational credit, but it’s a little more flexible than the AOTC. To claim this credit, you must meet the following requirements:
You paid qualified expenses for higher education.
You paid the expenses for an eligible student enrolled at any college, trade school, university, or other educational institution that meets the requirements to participate in a federal student aid program. This is known as an “eligible institution.”
The eligible student is you, your spouse, or a dependent claimed on your tax return.
Your modified adjusted gross income doesn’t exceed $90,000—or $180,000 if you’re married and file a joint tax return. Note that the amount of the credit is gradually reduced if you have a MAGI between $80,000 and $90,000. If you’re married and file a joint tax return, the phaseout starts at $160,000.
This credit is worth up to $2,000 per year, and there’s no limit to the number of times you can claim it.
Child and Dependent Care Credit
The child and dependent care credit reimburses you for some of the expenses you paid for the care of a qualifying individual. If you have a child, they must be under the age of 13 at the time you pay for care. A qualifying individual may also be an adult who’s mentally or physically unable to care for themselves.
The IRS only allows you to claim this credit if you paid for care because you were working or actively looking for work. You can’t claim the credit if you needed child or dependent care for another reason, such as attending school or taking time off to care for an elderly parent.
If you qualify for the credit, the amount you can claim depends on your income. Under the IRS rules, an eligible taxpayer may claim 20% to 35% of their child and dependent care expenses. However, you’re only allowed to claim up to $3,000 in expenses for one dependent or $6,000 in expenses for two or more dependents.
Assume the following:
You have one eligible dependent.
You spent $3,600 on childcare expenses during the tax year.
Based on your income, you can claim 35% of your eligible expenses.
In this scenario, you can’t claim the full $3,600 in expenses, so you’d multiply $3,000 by 35% to determine the amount of your credit.
Tax Deductions
Medical Expense Deduction
The medical expense deduction allows you to deduct unreimbursed medical expenses on your federal tax return. However, you can’t use this deduction unless you itemize, which involves deducting specific expenses rather than taking the standard deduction. Itemizing doesn’t always save you the most money, so consult with a tax professional before you take this deduction.
If you decide that itemizing is right for your situation, you can only deduct medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income. Here’s an example:
Assume you have an AGI of $60,000 and $7,000 in unreimbursed medical expenses. If you multiply $60,000 by 0.075, you get $4,500. You can only deduct expenses exceeding the 7.5% threshold, so your deduction would be $2,500, not the full $7,000.
An unreimbursed medical expense is any expense that hasn’t been reimbursed by your health insurance company or another entity. Note that you can’t claim expenses that were paid from a flexible spending account or a health savings account, as both types of accounts already have tax advantages.
Mortgage Interest Deduction
If you have a home loan, you may be able to deduct the interest on your federal tax return. To qualify for this deduction, you must file Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR, itemize your deductions on Schedule A and have an ownership interest in the mortgaged property.
The amount of money you can deduct depends on the amount of your mortgage and when you took it out. Calculating the deduction can be a bit tricky, so don’t be afraid to consult a qualified tax professional.
Student Loan Interest Deduction
If you have student loans, the IRS allows you to deduct $2,500 or the amount of interest you paid during the year, whichever is less. For example, if you paid $2,346 in interest during the year, you can deduct $2,346 from your AGI. You can’t deduct the full $2,500.
Additionally, you can’t claim the student loan interest deduction if you earn more than $75,000 as a single filer or $155,000 if married filing jointly.
Making Sense of Tax Credits vs. Deductions
Credit and deduction amounts aren’t set in stone. The IRS may decide to change the eligibility criteria for some of these credits and deductions. It’s wise to consult a tax professional if you need help determining the best way to file your tax return.
Note that the credits and deductions above apply to your federal tax return only. Your state may offer additional savings opportunities, or it may have different eligibility criteria. Ask your tax professional if you qualify for any state-level credits or deductions.
Visit Credit.com for more information that may help you during tax season.
Looking for the best jobs that help people? Whether you are looking for a full-time job or a way to make extra income, there are many ways to make money by helping others. Picking a job that matches what you want to achieve personally and lets you help others can feel really good. In lots…
Looking for the best jobs that help people?
Whether you are looking for a full-time job or a way to make extra income, there are many ways to make money by helping others.
Picking a job that matches what you want to achieve personally and lets you help others can feel really good. In lots of different fields, jobs where you can help people have become very popular.
Whether it’s teaching, counseling, healthcare, or responding to emergencies, each job lets you change someone else’s life for the better. If you like the idea of helping out your community and giving assistance to those who need it, there are plenty of rewarding jobs that might be right for you.
Now, that doesn’t mean the jobs below are easy. While you may feel good knowing that you are helping people, many of these jobs are very hard. But, you will know that you are truly helping people and changing the world for the better.
30 Best Jobs That Help People
Below are 30 full-time and part-time jobs helping others in crisis, in your community and at homes.
1. Social worker
If you’re someone who likes to help others, becoming a social worker might be the perfect job for you. Social workers support people who face challenges in their lives. This could mean working with children, families, or even whole communities.
Social workers might work in schools, helping kids and families get through tough times, or in hospitals guiding patients through health challenges.
2. Teacher
A teacher’s job is about more than just giving lessons. The job is to guide and help students understand new information. When you teach, you make a real difference in the lives of your students.
Teachers work in different settings, such as at a public school, private institution, or even provide one-on-one education as a tutor. Some teachers work online too, which is a great option if you’re looking for more flexibility.
You can choose to become a kindergarten teacher, high school teacher, college instructor, or anything in between.
Recommended reading: 36 Best Side Jobs for Teachers To Make Extra Money
3. Nurse
Nurses play an important role in healthcare, helping people feel better and stay healthy.
I have met so many amazing nurses in my life, and it is such a helpful career path. I still very much remember all of the wonderful nurses who helped me when I was in the hospital giving birth to my daughter – these nurses were amazing and helped me so much, and I truly felt like they cared.
Nurses can work from home, in a hospital, or even in a law firm. A similar career path where you can help people is to become a nurse practitioner, with a higher salary and extra responsibilities.
Recommended reading: 27 Best Side Hustles For Nurses To Make Extra Money
4. Personal trainer
If you like staying active and want to help others, becoming a personal trainer could be a great fit for you.
As a personal trainer, you’ll get to work with people every day, helping them achieve their fitness goals. It’s not just about showing exercises; it’s about motivating and guiding people to live healthier lives.
Here are some of the things that personal trainers do:
Create workout plans.
Show people how to exercise correctly.
Keep track of a client’s progress.
Teach clients about healthy lifestyle choices.
Personal trainers are found in places like gyms, fitness centers, and sometimes they can even come to your home. Some trainers lead group classes, while others give one-on-one sessions.
5. Occupational therapist
An occupational therapist (OT) helps people of all ages do different activities that are important for their daily lives, work, school, and leisure. Some examples of occupational therapy include:
Dressing – OTs help individuals in selecting appropriate clothing and developing strategies to independently dress themselves.
Eating – OTs may recommend adaptive equipment or techniques to help individuals with feeding difficulties.
Household chores – They provide strategies to make household chores more manageable for individuals with physical or cognitive limitations.
Job tasks – OTs help individuals develop skills and strategies to perform job duties effectively and safely.
Community integration – They support individuals in participating in community events, clubs, and social gatherings.
As you can see, OTs help people in so many ways.
They work in places like hospitals, schools, or even patients’ homes are common spots for occupational therapists.
6. School counselor
School counselors play a big part in guiding students toward their future.
They help with class schedules, give advice, or plan big steps like going to college or finding a job. This job is important because school counselors help students do their best and feel good about themselves.
They also help in other ways, such as helping students who are going through a hard time in life, like helping them with handling a mental health issue or even dealing with the passing of a parent. They are very much needed in all schools!
7. Substance abuse counselor
Substance abuse counselors help people fight addiction and get their lives back on track. Their job is important because they guide people through tough times, showing them how to stay away from drugs or alcohol and live a healthier life.
They meet with people and listen to their stories, teach them new ways of dealing with problems without using substances, and support them as they make changes to better their lives.
8. Physician
Being a doctor is a way to make a big impact in your community, as everyone knows.
Depending on the specialty, they can check your health, find out what’s wrong when you’re sick, and give you the right medicine to help you feel better.
Doctors are important because they help us when we’re sick and also keep us healthy. They listen to our concerns, offer comfort, and provide treatments. This makes a big impact on many people’s lives every single day.
9. Lawyer
A lawyer’s main job is to protect the legal rights of their clients. This means giving advice based on the law and, sometimes, defending your client in court.
A lawyer might work at a large law firm, for businesses, or for everyday people with different problems. Lawyers tend to specialize in one area of law, like helping injured people, family issues, working with businesses, traffic tickets, and so on.
10. Paramedic
Paramedics are the people who arrive first when there’s a medical emergency.
Their job is to take care of people who are hurt or very sick, right there on the spot or while they’re on the way to the hospital for further treatment. They give first aid and other medical care, stay calm under pressure, and drive an ambulance if needed.
11. Firefighter
Firefighters are trained to fight fires and keep people, buildings, and nature safe. They rescue people and animals from burning buildings, help at accident scenes, and teach the public about staying safe from fires.
This is a tough job that every community needs.
12. Nutritionist
If you like helping people and love everything about food and health, think about becoming a nutritionist! A nutritionist is someone who helps people eat better and live healthier lives.
A nutritionist is a health expert who knows a lot about food and how it affects our bodies. They look at what people eat, their health goals, and make personalized plans to help them eat better. Nutritionists teach people about healthy eating, help with meal plans, and give support to make lasting changes in lifestyle.
They work in different places like schools, hospitals, or their own offices to help people be healthier through good nutrition.
13. Pediatric sleep consultant
Getting enough sleep is super important for babies and their parents. But sometimes, parents have trouble making sure their baby sleeps well.
This can lead to some parents getting nearly no sleep, and it impacts their life, their job, and their mental health.
That’s where pediatric sleep experts come in handy. They know a lot about helping kids sleep better, which helps families have better nights. If you really like working with kids and want to help them, becoming a sleep coach could be a great career option for you.
This is an area that so many parents need so that they can continue living their lives.
For me, I have taken many tips from pediatric sleep consultants so that I could help my child sleep better, and so that I in turn could get sleep as well. These were life-changing tips!
Recommended reading: How To Become A Sleep Consultant And Make $10,000 Each Month
14. Dentist
Dentists work with teeth and gums, and they help keep your mouth healthy as well as fix problems when they come up.
If you have a cavity, they can fill it. Or if you have something more serious, they can fix it too. Dentists tell you how to take care of your teeth so you can keep them strong and avoid future problems.
15. Psychologist
Psychologists help people deal with their feelings and thoughts by listening to people and understanding their problems. They work in schools, offices, and sometimes even online.
They ask questions, do tests, and figure out the best way to help people feel better.
16. Police dispatcher
Being a police dispatcher is an extremely important job that helps people in crisis.
Dispatchers have an important job in keeping communities safe and making sure everything runs smoothly. They answer emergency calls when you call 911 and send out the right help.
17. Police officer
Police officers in law enforcement keep areas safe by stopping crime and making sure laws are followed. They patrol the streets, keep an eye out for any trouble, and if someone calls for help or there’s an accident, police officers are the first to arrive.
A police officer’s work is very important for everyone’s safety. They are trained to handle many kinds of situations.
Some police officers have a degree in criminal justice, but not all have college degrees.
18. Massage therapist
Massage therapists use their skills to help relax tight muscles and ease pain. They work in many places like spas, hospitals, or sports centers.
This is a career path where you can make others feel physically better, relieve stress, and feel relaxed.
19. Speech and language therapist
Speech therapists (also known as speech-language pathologists) help people of all ages overcome difficulties with communication, as well as swallowing disorders.
Speech therapists work with children and adults who face challenges with speaking and understanding others, help those who have trouble eating or swallowing due to health issues, and create fun and engaging exercises to improve clients’ speech and language skills.
Many, many people use speech-language pathologists these days, especially for young children, and it is such a needed career path right now. Many cities have very long waitlists because there simply are not enough speech therapists, so this can be a very helpful career choice to get into.
20. Rehabilitation specialist
Rehabilitation specialists give support to those who need a little extra help due to health troubles like injuries or mental health challenges.
A day in the life of a rehabilitation specialist could include working with kids or adults, helping them with their skills to live a good life (kind of like teaching and cheering on someone as they learn or remember how to do important daily stuff).
These jobs are often found in places like hospitals, private clinics, or community centers.
21. Caregiver
Caregiving roles are very important careers that help people who really need it.
Caregivers play an important role in the lives of those who need help due to age, sickness, or disability. They provide support and company, making a real difference every day.
Caregivers do things like cook meals, drive people places, or just talk to make someone’s day brighter.
22. Home health aide
A home health aide is somewhat similar to a caregiver. Caregivers and home health aides both help people who need support with daily activities because of sickness, disability, or getting older. However, caregivers usually do a wider range of tasks like keeping people company, driving people places, cooking, and doing chores.
Home health aides focus more on personal care, such as helping with bathing, dressing, and reminding about medications. Home health aides often get formal training and might work under a nurse or another healthcare worker, while caregivers might not have formal training and often work on their own or for agencies.
Home health aides have an important job where they help people who need extra care to live comfortably in their homes. People like seniors or those with disabilities count on them to be there for them.
23. Translator
Translators connect people who speak different languages, and this job is important because they help people understand each other.
Translators work in many places. Some work in hospitals, making sure doctors and patients understand one another. Others translate books or websites, so everyone can enjoy stories or information, no matter what language they speak.
Many translation jobs let you work from home. Some jobs are full-time, and some are part-time. You can find what fits your life.
Recommended reading: 28 Ways To Get Paid To Text And Make Money
24. Environmental engineer
Environmental engineers figure out how to keep nature clean and safe. They sometimes work on projects that prevent pollution or create plans to fix damage that’s already been done, like cleaning up oil spills.
25. Pharmacist
Pharmacists know all about medicine, fill doctors’ prescriptions for patients, and explain how to take the medicine safely. This is a job that helps people because people need medicine in order to feel better.
Pharmacists work in pharmacies, drugstores, clinics, and hospitals.
26. Optometrist
Optometrists are eye doctors that help people see better. They check your eyes, find out if you need glasses or contacts, and can spot eye troubles before they become a bigger issue.
Eyes are important, of course, and so this is a job that definitely helps people.
27. Midwife
Becoming a midwife might be a great job for you if you enjoy helping people and have an interest in healthcare. Midwives are healthcare professionals who help women before, during, and after they have a baby.
Midwives work in different places, such as in a hospital, in a clinic, or visiting moms at their homes.
I had a midwife and doctor team for my pregnancy, and the midwife was amazing. She made me feel comfortable and was very friendly and calming.
28. Conservationist
Conservationists get to spend their days outdoors, helping plants and animals survive and stay healthy. They research and learn about different species and find ways for humans to live alongside them without causing harm.
The planet is home to incredible animals and places, but some are at risk. Conservationists help protect these natural wonders and make sure there are plenty of wild areas for animals to thrive in. They also work to keep the air and water clean for everyone to enjoy.
29. Dental hygienist
Dental hygienists are important in preventing and treating oral diseases. It’s more than just cleaning teeth.
They also teach patients how to take care of their mouth, show them the right way to brush and floss, and help them understand why oral health is so important.
30. Blogger
Okay, so I realize that this option is not like any of the rest.
But, I have personally helped thousands of people over the years with my blog, so I think being a blogger definitely helps people. I have received many emails and letters from readers who have said that I helped them pay off their debt, stop living paycheck to paycheck, reach retirement, and more.
With a blog, you can help people understand different topics, learn actionable tips, get motivated to reach their goals, and more.
If you enjoy writing and sharing stories or expertise, becoming a blogger might be right up your alley. A blogger creates content for a blog, which is an online space for posting thoughts, knowledge, and insights.
Your blog can become a helpful resource on topics you’re passionate about. Whether it’s cooking, personal finance, or even traveling, your words could be valuable to someone else.
I started Making Sense of Cents back in 2011. Since then, my blog has made over $5,000,000.
I didn’t plan to make money when I started the blog. It was just a way for me to keep track of my own money journey. At first, I didn’t even know people could make money from blogging or how to make a successful blog!
But after only six months, I started earning money from my blog.
You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to find jobs that help people.
What is the best career to help others?
The best careers to help others include becoming a social worker, teacher, nurse, therapist, counselor, and firefighter.
What job helps people with their money?
Financial planners or advisors help people manage their money effectively. They provide advice on investments, savings, and budgeting to help individuals achieve their financial goals and secure their future financial stability.
What job can I do to make people happy?
Many of the jobs above can help people become happy, such as being a teacher, personal trainer, school counselor, nutritionist, pediatric sleep consultant, psychologist, and massage therapist.
What are some jobs that help people’s mental health?
Mental health counselors and therapists give support and treatment to people dealing with mental illnesses. They play an important part in improving their clients’ emotional and psychological well-being.
What are some creative jobs that help others?
Art therapists help people deal with stress, trauma, or sickness by using creative activities. They combine the healing power of art with counseling techniques to support healing and personal development.
What are jobs that help people in crisis?
Jobs that help people in crisis include substance abuse counselors, social workers, registered nurses, and art therapists.
What are jobs helping others without a degree?
A bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or doctoral degree is not required for all jobs that help people. For example, home health aides and personal care aides help people with daily tasks and give companionship. Typically, formal education is not required, but training and a caring personality are important to actually help people.
Best Jobs That Help People – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best jobs that help people.
When you think about jobs that help others, you might think of social work or healthcare right away.
But there’s a wide range of options, including jobs in teaching, therapy, public service, and even technical fields like translation or environmental engineering.
Each of these jobs is important for making our community better and healthier, often by working directly with people to make their lives better. These roles give more than just a paycheck – they give you the satisfaction of knowing that your work helps people outside of the office too.
What do you think are the best jobs that help people and pay well?