Colorado Springs is renowned for its natural beauty, laid back lifestyle, and friendly community. Living in Colorado Springs means experiencing the beauty of all four seasons, from snowy winters perfect for skiing and snowboarding, to warm summers ideal for camping and fishing. So, if you’ve been asking yourself, “Should I move to Colorado Springs, CO?” you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of making Colorado Springs your home to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you. Let’s get started.
Colorado Springs at a Glance
Walk Score: 36 | Bike Score: 45| Transit Score: 19
Median Sale Price: $440,000 | Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,520
Colorado Springs neighborhoods | Houses for rent in Colorado Springs | apartments for rent in Colorado Springs | Homes for sale in Colorado Springs
Pro: Thriving arts and cultural scene
Colorado Springs is home to a vibrant arts and cultural scene. The city has numerous galleries, theaters, and museums that celebrate both local and international talent. The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center and the Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts are just two examples of venues that offer a diverse array of performances and exhibitions.
Con: Variable weather conditions
The weather in Colorado Springs can be unpredictable, with sudden changes that can catch residents off guard. While the city enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year, it also experiences its share of snow, hail, and rapid temperature fluctuations. This variability can make planning outdoor activities challenging and requires residents to be prepared for anything. The winter months, in particular, can see heavy snowfall, impacting travel and daily life.
Pro: Stunning natural beauty
Colorado Springs is located at the foot of the majestic Pikes Peak, offering breathtaking views that are hard to find elsewhere. The city is surrounded by natural wonders, including the Garden of the Gods with its iconic red rock formations. Residents enjoy easy access to hiking, biking, and outdoor adventures right in their backyard. This connection to nature enhances the quality of life for those who live here, making it a coveted location for nature lovers.
Con: High altitude
Located at an elevation of over 6,000 feet, Colorado Springs’ high altitude can be a challenge for new residents and visitors. The thin air can sometimes lead to altitude sickness, affecting one’s energy levels and overall health. It often takes time to acclimate to the elevation, which can be particularly tough for those moving from lower altitudes. This aspect can impact athletic performance and daily activities until one’s body adjusts.
Pro: Growing economy
Colorado Springs has a growing economy, with a focus on the aerospace and defense industries, technology, and tourism. This economic growth has led to an increase in job opportunities, attracting individuals from various career fields. The city’s economic development is supported by a proactive local government and a community that values innovation and entrepreneurship.
Con: Rising cost of living
The cost of living in Colorado Springs is on the rise since becoming more popular. In fact, the cost of living in Colorado Springs is 8% higher than the national average. Real estate prices have increased, making it more challenging for some first-time homebuyers and renters. While still more affordable than some major cities, the trend towards higher living costs could pose a problem for those on a tight budget or looking to move to the area.
Pro: Pet-friendly city
Colorado Springs is an incredibly pet-friendly city, with numerous parks, trails, and open spaces where pets are welcome. Many restaurants and businesses also cater to pet owners, allowing dogs in outdoor areas. This pet-friendly attitude is evident in the city’s numerous dog parks and pet events, including the Colorado Springs Pet Expo. The city’s devotion to pets makes it a great place for anyone who loves animals to call home.
Con: Limited nightlife
Compared to larger cities, Colorado Springs has a more subdued nightlife. While there are certainly bars, restaurants, and events to enjoy, those seeking a vibrant club scene might find the options limited. This quieter nightlife aligns with the city’s overall laid-back atmosphere but may be a drawback for those who prefer a bustling night out on the town.
The sense of community in Colorado Springs is strong, with friendly neighborhoods and an array of community events throughout the year. From local farmers’ markets to festivals celebrating the city’s culture and history, there’s a genuine camaraderie among locals. This community spirit makes it easy for newcomers to feel welcome and quickly become part of the city’s social fabric.
Jenna is a Midwest native who enjoys writing about home improvement projects and local insights. When she’s not working, you can find her cooking, crocheting, or backpacking with her fiancé.
Bunny Williams believes she was born to design. The celebrated decorator, author and furnishings designer said she thinks some enter the world with an innate ability to distinguish what looks good and what does not. But she warned that it takes more than having an eye to be successful in design.
“I do think we are born with an eye. All of us in this field, we see, we take in things, but it’s how we train that eye that I think is important,” she told an audience of fellow designers at the recent High Point Market in North Carolina. “When I was writing this book, I was looking back and thinking of how I got started and how important education is, and you educate yourself over and over again.”
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That book is “Life in the Garden,” a new coffee table tome filled with photos of the lush gardens surrounding Williams’ Connecticut home. She purchased the house and grounds — which were fairly rundown and overgrown — more than 40 years ago. In the years since, she and her husband, antiques dealer John Rosselli, have brought the home and garden back to flourishing life.
“I think one of the reasons I wanted to buy a house is I wanted a garden,” Williams said. “I was living in an apartment in New York, but I’d grown up in the country, and I wanted to get back to the country.”
Williams was raised on a farm in Charlottesville, Va., where she rode horses and developed an appreciation not only for the land, but also stately Southern homes.
“We lived in the country, but my mother and father both loved houses and loved gardens, and they took me constantly on tours,” she said.
Perhaps most memorable of those tours was a trip to The Greenbrier resort in West Virginia when Williams was a teen. As she wandered the newly opened hotel, the decor and furnishings unlocked an unexpected passion for design.
“The famous American decorator Dorothy Draper had decorated the hotel, and I went into this amazing place with these bright colors,” she said. “My family was fairly conservative, so frankly, I’d never seen anything like this in my life. And I loved every inch of it.”
The bold use of color and variety that epitomizes Draper’s Greenbrier design scheme reoccurs in the gardens in Williams’ book. Set against the verdant greens of all manner of grasses, stately boxwoods, delicate ferns and curling ivy, the deep crimson of poppies, bubblegum pink snapdragons, golden sunflowers and purple orchids create a tapestry of color that changes with the season.
Just as with her interiors projects and furnishings collections, Williams drew inspiration from her travels to help shape her gardens.
“John and I would go to France [and] to Italy, and we would not only go shopping, but we’d go look at gardens,” she said. “I went to gardens in Normandy. Obviously you go to Sissinghurst, the most extraordinary garden, I think, in the world. And you realize that these gardens had a plan. They were beautifully laid out. All I was interested in were the plants, but I realized that my garden needed structure.”
Williams outlines the structure of her gardens in the book, from the primly laid out parterre garden to the wild, unfettered growth of native plants in the woodland one. And she explains that just as in an interior room, a garden needs differentiation in height and spacing.
“And in a garden, just like in your house, you’ve got to go from one room to another. You have hallways, you have doors, there’s a flow.”
Williams collects gardening accoutrements, storing and displaying them in outbuildings such as her greenhouse and potting shed.
“I love old watering cans,” she said. “I’m always buying baskets, rakes, tools. I just think they look so beautiful. When I see wonderful terracotta pots, mossy terracotta pots, I can’t resist them. But we do use them.”
Williams brings elements of the outdoors inside as well. Tablescapes get a lively boost from centerpieces crafted with colorful vegetables from the garden. Single sunflowers in a bud vase add interest to the mantle, and during the holidays, Williams drapes her interiors in evergreens grown specifically for decorative use.
“Whether it’s coleus in urns or morning glories growing in a terracotta pot, all these things add so much to a garden and a property and a house,” she said.
Along with her book, Williams introduced new designs from her Bunny Williams Home collection with Wesley Hall at High Point Market. The line includes an assortment of seating and dining options, as well as beds and accent tables, which Williams said inspired the launch of the partnership with Wesley Hall.
“I couldn’t find enough drink tables,” she says. “I can’t stand sitting in a chair and not having a place to put my water or my bourbon or whatever. And so every time there’s a chair, I want a little table next to it. And I couldn’t find enough. So I started designing them.”
Have you been asking yourself, “Should I move to Tampa, FL?” From the thrilling rides at Busch Gardens to the serene walks along the Tampa Riverwalk, this city offers an exciting mix of excitement and relaxation. Whether you’re a fan of the arts, sports, or just looking for a sunny place to call home, Tampa’s diverse attractions and welcoming atmosphere make it a standout city. In this article, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of living in Tampa to help you figure out if it’s the right fit for you. Let’s get started.
Tampa at a Glance
Walk Score: 86 | Bike Score: 69 | Transit Score: 62
Median Sale Price: $424,000 | Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,740
Tampa neighborhoods | Houses for rent in Tampa | apartments for rent in Tampa | Homes for sale in Tampa
Pro: Access to beautiful beaches
Tampa’s proximity to some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches is a major draw. Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach are both just a short drive away. They offer stunning white sand and crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. These beaches are not only perfect for leisurely days but also provide picturesque sunsets that are truly unforgettable.
Con: Humidity and heat
Living in Tampa means dealing with high humidity and heat, especially during the summer months. It’s not uncommon for temperatures to soar into the 90s. The climate can be challenging for those not accustomed to the Gulf Coast weather. This intense heat can limit outdoor activities during peak times and may lead to higher electricity bills due to the constant need for air conditioning. For some, this weather is a significant drawback of residing in Tampa.
Pro: Outdoor recreation and activities
Tampa offers an abundance of outdoor activities and recreation options, thanks to its warm climate and natural surroundings. From kayaking on the Hillsborough River to biking along the Bayshore Boulevard, the longest continuous sidewalk in the U.S., there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the outdoors. The city also boasts numerous parks and green spaces, such as Lettuce Lake Park. These spaces provide locals with ample opportunities for leisure and exercise.
Con: Risk of hurricanes
Located on the Gulf Coast, Tampa is susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms, particularly during hurricane season from June to November. In fact, Tampa ranks second in the top 10 U.S. metros with the highest risk of hurricane winds. These natural disasters can cause significant damage and disrupt life for weeks or even months. Residents must be prepared for evacuation orders and have plans in place for securing their homes. The threat of hurricanes is a serious consideration for anyone thinking of moving to Tampa.
Pro: Thriving job market
The job market in Tampa is robust, with opportunities in the finance, healthcare, technology, and tourism industries. Companies like Raymond James and WellCare provide significant employment opportunities, contributing to the city’s economic growth. Tampa’s focus on innovation and business development makes it an attractive place for people looking to advance their careers or individuals looking to start new business ventures.
Con: Somewhat limited public transportation options
While Tampa has made strides in improving its public transportation system, options remain limited compared to other major cities. With a Transit Score of 62, the reliance on cars is high. There are bus services and a streetcar system in certain areas, however, the coverage is not extensive. This limitation can be a hurdle for those without personal vehicles or those who prefer to use public transit for environmental or financial reasons.
Pro: Sports and entertainment hub
Tampa is a haven for sports enthusiasts, home to professional teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL), Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL), and Tampa Bay Rays (MLB). The city rallies around its teams, creating a vibrant sports culture with year-round events and games. Beyond sports, Tampa hosts concerts, Broadway shows, and festivals at venues like the Amalie Arena and the Straz Center, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening.
Con: Rising cost of living
While the cost of living in Tampa is still 4% lower than the national average, living expenses has been on the rise. Tampa has been growing in popularity causing real estate prices and rents to increase year-over-year. This can make it challenging for some residents to find affordable housing. While expenses are still lower than some major US cities, the trend towards higher living costs is a concern for those moving to the area or looking to buy property.
Pro: Excellent cultural scene
From the historic Ybor City, known for its Cuban and Spanish roots, to the Tampa Museum of Art, Tampa is a hub for cultural exploration. The Gasparilla Pirate Festival, an annual event that captivates the city with parades and festivities, is a testament to Tampa’s unique local culture. This vibrant cultural scene provides an engaging lifestyle for those who appreciate art, history, and community events.
Con: Summer crowds
With its beautiful beaches and tourist attractions, Tampa becomes a hotspot for visitors during the summer months. While tourism boosts the local economy, it can also lead to overcrowded beaches, parks, and attractions, impacting residents’ enjoyment of these spaces. Planning ahead and seeking out less crowded times or places is often necessary to avoid the influx of summer crowds.
Pro: Diverse culinary scene
Tampa’s culinary scene is as diverse as its population, offering a wide range of dining options that reflect the city’s cultural mix. From authentic Cuban sandwiches in Ybor City to fresh seafood along the Gulf Coast, the food landscape in Tampa is a foodie’s delight. The city also hosts numerous food festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from craft beer to gourmet cuisine, making it an exciting place for culinary exploration.
Jenna is a Midwest native who enjoys writing about home improvement projects and local insights. When she’s not working, you can find her cooking, crocheting, or backpacking with her fiancé.
Were the good old days really all that good? Sure, when mortgage rates were below 3%, it was a lot cheaper to purchase a house, but we were also in the middle of a global pandemic.
At the start of 2021, the average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage was 2.65%, according to data from Freddie Mac. During the homebuying boom of 2020 and 2021, the number of borrowers taking out new mortgages reached a more than two-decade high.
Over the past two years, a combination of high mortgage rates, low housing inventory and sluggish wage growth has crippled affordability for homebuyers.
While many are holding out for mortgage rates to fall, it’s unlikely we’ll see 2% mortgage rates any time soon. In fact, experts hope we don’t.
A return to that kind of low-rate environment would indicate major problems in the economy, said Alex Thomas, senior research analyst at John Burns Research and Consulting.
Mortgage rates typically fall during a recession. But a recession also comes with widespread unemployment, increased debt, investment losses and overall financial instability.
In today’s housing market, homebuyers should have realistic expectations. Experts predict mortgage rates to inch closer to 6% by the end of the year as inflation cools and the Federal Reserve starts to cut interest rates. Record-low mortgage rates aren’t in the cards again, and that’s likely for the best.
Mortgage rates change every day. Experts recommend shopping around to make sure you’re getting the lowest rate. By entering your information below, you can get a custom quote from one of CNET’s partner lenders.
About these rates: Like CNET, Bankrate is owned by Red Ventures. This tool features partner rates from lenders that you can use when comparing multiple mortgage rates.
How did mortgage rates drop below 3% in the first place?
Economic uncertainty and market volatility — whether during an election cycle or a pandemic — impact the direction of mortgage rates. It’s often said that bad news for the economy is good news for mortgage rates, and vice versa.
A significant lever for mortgage rates is the federal funds rate, which the Fed keeps low when it needs to stimulate economic growth. For example, during the 2008 financial crisis, the Fed slashed that benchmark rate to zero to bolster the economy. When there were signs of recovery in 2015, the central bank started raising interest rates again, sending mortgage rates into the 4% to 5% range until 2020.
The COVID-19 pandemic sparked another economic crisis. To incentivize people to borrow and spend money — and avoid a prolonged recession — the Fed once again cut the federal funds rate to near zero and pumped money into the economy by purchasing government bonds and mortgage-backed securities. Mortgage interest rates fell quickly, bottoming out in the mid-2% range in 2021.
But the combination of supply shocks, record-low rates and an extreme increase in money supply from government stimulus helped send prices way up, according to Erin Sykes, chief economist at NestSeekers International.
In early 2022, the Fed had a new problem on its hands: inflation.
💰 Federal Reserve monetary policy
In a recession, the Federal Reserve tries to spur economic growth through quantitative easing, a monetary policy that consists of cutting the federal funds rate to encourage lending and borrowing to consumers, and increasing its purchase of government-backed bonds and mortgage-backed securities.
If the Fed needs to slow the economy down and reduce the money supply in financial markets, it does opposite: quantitative tightening. By increasing the federal funds rate and tapering its bond-buying programs, the central bank raises the cost of borrowing money, which puts upward pressure on longer-term interest rates, like 30-year fixed mortgage rates.
What caused mortgage rates to surge again?
With prices surging in 2022, the Fed’s main tool was to adjust interest rates, making credit more expensive and disincentivizing borrowing. As a result of a string of aggressive rate hikes, the federal funds rate went from near zero to a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, where it’s remained since last summer. Average mortgage rates skyrocketed, peaking past 8% last October.
Although inflation has gone down, the Fed isn’t ready to start lowering rates just yet. The central bank would like to see evidence of a weaker economy (including consistently lower inflation and higher unemployment) before making any adjustments to its monetary policy.
📈 How the Fed impacts mortgage rates
Though the Federal Reserve doesn’t directly set mortgage rates, it controls the federal funds rate, a short-term interest rate that determines what banks charge each other to borrow money. When the federal funds rate moves up, it impacts longer-term interest rates, like 30-year fixed mortgage rates, as banks raise interest rates on home loans to keep their profit margins intact.
Why won’t mortgage rates move toward 2% again?
Economists and housing market experts agree that mortgage rates will fall over the next several years, but not below 3%.
When mortgage rates hit their record lows just a few years ago, the federal funds rate was near zero. As the Fed starts cutting rates later this year, the plan is to do so slowly and incrementally. Barring another major economic shock, the Fed projects the federal funds rate will take only modest adjustments down.
In the most recent policy meeting, Fed Chair Jerome Powell remarked that the federal funds rate “will not go back down to the very low levels that we saw” during the financial crisis, suggesting that the economy can adapt to a more “neutral” benchmark rate range of between 2.4% to 3.8% in the long run, i.e., less tightening, but not too much easing from the current range of 5.25% to 5.5%.
The Fed would be forced to lower rates close to zero only if there were a dramatic economic shock, such as a pandemic or recession, said Selma Hepp, chief economist at CoreLogic. In that case, if the central bank started purchasing government bonds and mortgage-backed securities again, there’s a possibility mortgage rates could return to those record lows.
However, without such an upheaval, there’s a floor under how low mortgage rates will go, and it’s highly unlikely they’ll ever drop to their 2020-2021 levels.
“With the Federal Reserve ending quantitative easing and stepping out of the market for mortgage-backed securities, rates will settle at a much higher level,” said Matthew Walsh, housing economist at Moody’s Analytics.
Moody’s Analytics predicts mortgage rates will stabilize between 6% and 6.5% over the next few years. That’s high compared with the recent past, yet it’s a historically normal range for mortgage rates.
How can homebuyers adapt to higher mortgage rates?
The housing market is frustrating, but prospective homebuyers are starting to come to terms with this new reality. Following the pandemic, people are moving on with their lives, whether that’s building a family, relocating, downsizing or upgrading.
For some households, that means making room in their budget for a monthly mortgage payment at a 6% or 7% rate.
When you monitor mortgage rate movement, you’re usually looking at national averages determined by weekly rate information provided by lenders. While those rates give a picture of the “typical” mortgage rate, that’s not necessarily the rate you’ll get when applying for a mortgage.
It’s possible to get a better deal on your mortgage.
To qualify for a mortgage, most lenders require you to have a minimum credit score of 620, but lenders offer the lowest mortgage rates to consumers with excellent credit scores, around 740 and above.
You might also consider purchasing mortgage points, also known as discount points. This is an extra fee you pay upfront in exchange for a lower interest rate. Each mortgage point typically costs 1% of the purchase price of a home and will lower your mortgage rate by 0.25%.
A shorter-term loan like a 15-year or 10-year mortgage will have a lower interest rate than a 30-year fixed mortgage. Your monthly payments will be higher with a shorter-term loan because you’re paying the loan off in less time, but you’ll save big on interest.
Buying a home is likely the biggest transaction you’ll make in your lifetime. Regardless of the market, carefully assess your needs and what you can afford.
Borrowing money for home repairs and other projects this spring can be very expensive. For example, if you take on debt via a 24-month personal loan, you can expect to pay an average interest rate of 12.49%, according to the Federal Reserve. Credit cards charge even higher rates at an average of 21.47% currently.
One way to borrow money at a typically lower rate than credit cards or personal loans is to tap into your home equity with a home equity loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC). However, there are pros and cons to borrowing against your home equity to finance spring repairs, and you might find that certain situations make this financing more feasible than others.
Learn more about the best home equity loan rates you could qualify for here.
When to use home equity for spring repairs, according to experts
Tapping into your home equity can provide several benefits, like saving money on interest charges in the long run and improving your home. Some specific situations to consider using home equity for spring repairs include:
Lowering your taxes
If you can find a way to borrow against your home equity in a way that lowers your total tax liability more than the cost of borrowing, that could be worth it. Through 2025, interest on home equity loans and HELOCs may be deductible if used for making substantial improvements to your home, provided that you meet other stipulations.
“Whether you’re boosting potential resale value or enhancing your home, using home equity for repairs is a great choice, capitalizing on lower interest rates in comparison to unsecured consumer loans, and potential tax deductions,” says Kelly Miskunas, head of capital markets at Better.
That said, tax considerations are not one-size-fits-all.
“Remember to seek personalized tax advice tailored to your financial circumstances,” says Miskunas.
Compare today’s best home equity borrowing options online now.
Improving energy efficiency
Home equity funds could also be beneficial when put toward making energy-efficient upgrades to your home. Doing so could help you lower monthly utility bills, says Karl Jacob, CEO at LoanSnap.
Also, energy efficiency upgrades like adding solar panels and batteries “have substantial tax rebates,” says Jacob. “It’s definitely worth checking the federal and state rules on this.”
Doing important maintenance
Your home equity can also be useful for affording maintenance issues that save you money or boost your home’s value overall.
“Ignoring items that need repair can turn a small repair into a major, costly project,” says Michael Micheletti, chief communications officer at Unlock Technologies.
Home equity financing can also help you afford the required maintenance.
“Taking care of needed repairs also is part of most homeowners’ association regulations; many will impose fees if repairs are not attended to in a timely manner,” says Michaeletti.
When to not use home equity for spring repairs, according to experts
While using home equity for spring repairs is often helpful, not every homeowner benefits from this borrowing. Consider alternatives when:
You don’t have a clear repayment plan
Tapping into your home equity might help you afford the upfront cost of home renovations, but if you don’t have a clear repayment plan, you’re risking a lot.
“When you get a home equity loan or HELOC, it’s important to remember that the loan you’re obtaining is secured by your home as collateral. That means if you do not make timely payments on your loan, the lender has the right to foreclose,” says Miskunas.
So, make sure you know what you’re getting into ahead of time.
“If you don’t have a plan to repay the loan, don’t take the loan,” says Jacob.
You have significant high-interest debt
If you have a lot of existing high-interest debt, you might be better off taking care of that first, before making repairs or upgrades to your home. Rather, you might use home equity financing for debt consolidation instead, which could lower your monthly payments.
“If you have a lot of high-interest debt, like credit cards, use the loan to pay those off before you consider home improvements. We generally advise that you first reduce your debt payments as much as possible since you can then use the extra cash to make the improvements and save money for the long run,” says Jacob.
You’re planning to move soon
If you’re not going to keep your home for a while, it might not be worth going through the cost and effort of taking out a home equity loan and living through home improvement projects. Instead, you might let the next buyer deal with repairs.
“For most repairs, the price can be negotiated into the sale of the home,” notes Micheletti.
The bottom line
Tapping into your home equity can be a great way for many homeowners to afford home improvements this spring, and there are several ways to go about this borrowing. While home equity loans and HELOCs are popular options, some homeowners find that a cash-out refinance works best, such as if you have the ability to lower your overall mortgage rate. Also, some seniors might prefer taking out a reverse mortgage instead so they don’t have to pay back the loan while living in the home.
That said, borrowing against your home equity isn’t without risk. You want to make sure you can afford repayments or understand that it can affect your proceeds if selling your home — or if you move out, in the case of reverse mortgages.
As the latest season of the hit reality competition series “The Circle” hit our screens, we couldn’t help but notice that something looks a little bit different.
And no, we’re not talking about the new AI bot that has entered the chat (sorry, Max).
The reality show has a brand new building, a whole new series of colorful apartments, and a fresh filming location set on American soil — stepping away from the UK filming location where all international versions of the dating series have been filmed up until now.
Season 6 sees contenders take residence in a Midtown Atlanta apartment building, with each of their units meticulously designed by art director Karen Weber, a reality series vet who also worked on America’s Next Top Model.
And she took extra care in designing each apartment, as well as the communal spaces the contestants get to enjoy while filming the Netflix production.
So let’s take a closer look at the Atlanta building that now houses the popular series, the colorful The Circle apartments and the design principles that brought them to life, and how you too can book a stay here — though your apartment might look a tad different than those the contestants live in.
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The Circle building is now the Sonder Midtown South, in Atlanta
Unlike previous seasons and all other international versions of the series — which all filmed in Northern England, at the 206-unit Adelphi Wharf building in Salford, UK, right outside of Manchester — Season 6 takes place stateside in Atlanta, Georgia.
Offering a fresh setting for the drama to unfold, the Sonder Midtown South apartment building at 126 Renaissance Pkwy NE in Midtown Atlanta serves as the main filming location for the hit Netflix series.
Designing the colorful apartments
Art director Karen Weber led the charge in designing the vibrant new apartments, housed in the Sonder Midtown South building.
With communal spaces like a retro launderette and a rooftop courtyard, Weber aimed to create distinct yet cohesive living environments for the players, each measuring approximately 1,200 square feet.
And this was no easy feat, especially while trying to emulate the bold, colorful aesthetics the series is already known for.
Each apartment has its own theme and decor
From bold color palettes to whimsical themes inspired by Barbie and Wes Anderson, the transformed spaces offer a Pinterest-worthy aesthetic that’s sure to catch the eye of viewers.
The apartments, given names like Glamour Room and Artist Loft, were curated with furniture and decor sourced from vintage shops and salvage yards around Atlanta, lending them a bespoke feel.
For some spaces, art director Karen Weber aimed to create “really bright high energy,” while other rooms were meant to feel “more adult, laid-back, and [a] little more restful,” she shared on Netflix’s blog. After all, the players actually had to live in the spaces throughout filming, so comfort is key.
And while the budget was the same for each apartment in the new The Circle building, creating a variety of spaces and aesthetics is paramount to the show’s success.
“Giving producers that kind of a range [of types of spaces] lets them figure out who fits where,” Weber added.
Design inspiration for fans of the series
But in Weber’s eyes, the apartments aren’t just for the players who inhabit them.
She also wanted viewers watching along to imagine themselves in the living spaces and perhaps inspire them to transform their own — either by stenciling something on a wall or spray-painting fish scales on a bathroom cabinet.
“I try to do a couple of DIY projects in each space that could be done by someone at home,” she says.
Re-designing 10 more apartments for the next contestants
As if Weber didn’t have her work cut out for her, as soon as she was done setting up the apartments for Season 6, she had to do it all again in preparation for the already-announced Season 7. For the upcoming season, another 10 new apartments had to be designed from the ground up.
“It’s the sandcastle theory, because you build this beautiful thing and then you let it all just get washed away and it’s done,” she says. “The rooms have their moment and then you have to move on.”
You can stay at the Atlanta building where The Circle filmed
While fans won’t be able to book a stay in the exact apartments seen on-screen, they too can book a stay in the building featured on the show whenever visiting Atlanta.
The Sonder Midtown South offers sleek and modern accommodations with amenities like a fitness center, outdoor grill, and in-unit laundry. And its colorful, imaginative makeover for The Circle only adds to the building’s appeal.
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Have you ever wondered, “Should I move to Atlanta, GA?” From the historic streets of the Martin Luther King Jr. District to the modern vibes of the Midtown arts scene, Atlanta offers a diverse experience that’s hard to find anywhere else. Whether you’re indulging in the world-famous Georgia peach cobbler or getting lost in the vast greenery of the Atlanta BeltLine, this city has a way of enchanting its residents. In this article, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of living in Atlanta to help you figure out if this dynamic city is the right place for you. Let’s jump in.
Atlanta at a Glance
Walk Score: 48 | Bike Score: 42 | Transit Score: 44
Median Sale Price: $430,000 | Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,850
Atlanta neighborhoods | Houses for rent in Atlanta | apartments for rent in Atlanta | Homes for sale in Atlanta
Pro: Thriving job market
Atlanta’s economy is booming, with a strong presence in sectors like logistics, film, and information technology. Companies like Coca-Cola, Home Depot, and Delta Air Lines offer ample employment opportunities. This diversity in industries makes Atlanta an attractive place for people looking to advance their careers. The city’s job market is a significant draw for those seeking stability and growth.
Con: Traffic congestion
One of the biggest challenges of living in Atlanta is dealing with traffic congestion. The city’s reliance on car transportation and its sprawling layout lead to heavy traffic during rush hours. Major highways like the I-285 and I-75/I-85 connector are often jam-packed, making commuting times longer than desired. This can be a daily frustration for some locals.
Pro: Rich cultural scene
Atlanta has an exciting cultural scene, with an array of museums, theaters, and music venues. The High Museum of Art and the Fox Theatre host a variety of exhibitions and performances year-round. The city’s history in the civil rights movement, explored at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, adds depth to its cultural landscape. Atlanta’s diverse cultural offerings cater to a wide range of interests.
Con: Hot and humid summers
Summers in Atlanta can be extremely hot and humid, making outdoor activities uncomfortable during peak months. Temperatures often soar into the 90s, with high humidity levels adding to the discomfort. This climate can be a significant drawback for those who prefer milder weather or enjoy spending a lot of time outdoors during the summer.
Pro: Ample green spaces and parks
Despite its urban sprawl, Atlanta is home to numerous parks and green spaces. Piedmont Park, in the heart of Midtown, offers walking trails, sports facilities, and scenic views of the city skyline. The Atlanta BeltLine, a multi-use trail, connects neighborhoods with parks and markets. These green spaces provide residents with a much-needed escape from the urban environment.
Con: Pollen allergies
Spring in Atlanta brings a significant challenge for allergy sufferers: pollen. The city’s abundant greenery contributes to high pollen counts, affecting air quality and causing discomfort for many individuals. This can be a considerable drawback for people with severe allergies, impacting their daily life during peak seasons.
Pro: Great local sports scene
Atlanta is a sports enthusiast’s dream, home to professional teams like the Falcons (NFL), Braves (MLB), and Hawks (NBA). The city also hosts major sporting events, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to engage in the excitement. Additionally, recreational leagues and facilities for sports like soccer, tennis, and golf are abundant, providing ample opportunities for active lifestyles.
Con: Limited public transportation
While Atlanta has MARTA for public transportation, its reach is limited, making it challenging for those without cars to navigate the city efficiently. With a Transit Score of 44, the public transit system doesn’t cover all areas equally, forcing many residents to rely on cars. This limitation can be a significant inconvenience, especially for those seeking eco-friendly transportation options.
Pro: Thriving entertainment industry
Atlanta’s entertainment industry, particularly in film and television, has seen remarkable growth. The city has become a popular filming location, dubbed the “Hollywood of the South.” This boom has created jobs and brought a spotlight to the city, offering unique opportunities for locals to engage with film and television productions. Atlanta’s role in the entertainment industry adds to its dynamic and creative atmosphere.
Jenna is a Midwest native who enjoys writing about home improvement projects and local insights. When she’s not working, you can find her cooking, crocheting, or backpacking with her fiancé.
Get ready: There’s a new home renovation show to binge.
While you might be used to seeing the Property Brothers and Gaineses on your TV, Amazon Prime Video’s latest reality TV show/docuseries, Going Home with Tyler Cameron, features former Bachelorette star Tyler Cameron (yes, that Tyler).
The eight-episode series, which all air on April 18, documents Tyler’s journey as he builds his construction and renovation company in his hometown of Jupiter, Florida, after losing his mother. Viewers will see him remodeling everything from his aunt and uncle’s multi-million dollar property to a short-term rental and his late mother’s home. And as you might have guessed, there will also be a few cameos in the mix; former Bachelor Nation stars Matt James, Rachael Kirkconnell and Jason Tartick. The real kicker? Hannah Brown, the bachelorette who turned down Tyler’s proposal, will also make an appearance.
Tyler recently sat down with Good Housekeeping to discuss how to make the renovation process go smoothly and where homeowners should splurge and save. Plus, he reveals some of the home design trends he’s loving right now.
Courtesy of Prime
Tyler Cameron gets a hand from former Bachelor Nation star, Jason Tartick.
Good Housekeeping: What surprises most people about renovating a home?
Tyler Cameron: A lot of our clients have a hard time when we’re ripping things out and tearing things apart. They don’t see how it’s all going to come together, so you really need a forward-thinking mind. You have to be able to see what’s not there. When we’re putting in those finishing touches, arranging all the furniture, that’s where the fun and the magic happens.
GH:Is there one tip to ensure the whole process goes smoothly?
TC:When you’re going to renovate your place, it’s best to live in it for a little while. Feel how you’re going to use the space, so you can really plan it out correctly. If you have a real plan, sticking to it will help protect your budget. It won’t make it as scary or dreadful.
Michael SeRine/Prime Video
Tyler Cameron’s construction and renovation company, Image One, is based in Jupiter, Florida.
GH:When it comes to a renovation, what spaces should one splurge and save on?
TC: Splurge on the spaces you’re going to spend the most time in. For me, it’s the primary bedroom and bathroom. But when it comes to a home’s resale value, people always say go with the bathrooms, kitchens and closets.
I’m also a big believer that if you’re going to live in this space for a long time, you need to build out a little quiet place — your own getaway. In my home, for instance, I opened up the back wall of a room, installed French doors and built a deck that’s going to have a sauna, a cold plunge and couches for lounging. We all need that place in our home to just take a breath, get away and recharge.
GH: Are there certain projects homeowners can consider tackling without the help of a professional?
TC: Find some type of wainscoting or paneling that can make a huge difference in a room and make it feel customized. It may take you a few times to figure out the 45-degree cuts, but you start moving pretty fast once you do. You don’t really need to hire a professional to do it and paint it. However, when it comes to moving electrical stuff or plumbing, hire a pro. You don’t want to wake up to flooding or anything like that. It’s not fun. I’ve been there, done that.
GH: What design trends are resonating with people right now?
TC:We’re getting past light colors and grays. People are going for darker, moodier shades. They’re going bold with color and taking chances, which is fun.
Despite the obvious appeal of side hustles — more money! — they’re not for everyone. If your side hustle makes you stress out, neglect relationships, or miss opportunities at your day job, then consider it a bad idea. Side hustles are only beneficial when they help you accomplish goals without sacrificing what matters most.
Side hustles are often promoted as a simple way to generate extra cash or fulfill your passions. However, the often-ignored price tag is physical and mental strain. Not to mention the time requirement and potential financial commitment necessary to get a gig going.
Read on to find out how to evaluate your options and goals before taking on a side hustle.
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What Is a Side Hustle?
A side hustle refers to a second job or source of income that people pursue outside their primary employment. The purpose may be to earn extra money, pursue a pet project, or develop skills in a different area.
A side hustle can take various forms, from freelance work or consulting to selling handmade crafts or driving for a rideshare service. Renting out property and offering tutoring services also qualify. The point is leveraging your time and skills to pad your budget or explore a wider field than your day job allows. 💡 Quick Tip: We love a good spreadsheet, but not everyone feels the same. A free budget app can give you the same insight into your budgeting and spending at a glance, without the extra effort.
Pros and Cons of a Side Hustle
Browse the pros and cons below, and make a mental note of how many of each apply to your situation. If one side of the scales is considerably heavier, your decision may be obvious.
Pros of a Side Hustle
Here’s a breakdown of the benefits of a side hustle:
• Develop Your Career: Side hustles can provide a valuable opportunity to develop skills, gain experience, and broaden your professional horizons. By taking on projects or roles outside your main job, you may acquire new competencies to help advance your career or get a promotion. Additionally, side hustles can demonstrate initiative, entrepreneurial spirit, and versatility to potential employers, enhancing your marketability and opening up new opportunities.
• Switch Up the Norm: A side hustle allows you to break away from the routine of your primary job. This variety can be refreshing and stimulating, helping to prevent boredom and burnout. Whether you’re pursuing a different passion, exploring a new industry, or experimenting with creative projects, having a side hustle can inject excitement and fulfillment into your life outside work.
• Build Your Network: Side hustles often involve interacting with different people and communities, which can expand your professional network. Whether you’re collaborating with clients, partners, or fellow freelancers, each connection presents an opportunity to exchange ideas, learn from others, and potentially uncover new career prospects. Building a diverse network through your side hustle can provide valuable support, mentorship, and referrals in your professional journey.
• Channel Creativity: Side hustles offer a platform for expressing your creativity, passions, and interests outside your primary job. Whether it’s writing, photography, crafting, or any other form of expression, a side hustle can bring more meaning and fulfillment than your 9-to-5. This outlet can serve as a source of inspiration, relaxation, and personal growth, enriching your life beyond the confines of your main occupation.
• Increase Income: One of the most practical benefits of a side hustle is the extra money. Whether saving for a major purchase, paying off debt, or simply seeking financial security, the income from your side hustle can provide greater financial flexibility and stability. Likewise, having multiple streams of income can be a buffer against economic uncertainty and provide a safety net in case of job loss or another hardship.
Cons of a Side Hustle
On the other hand, these are the potential drawbacks of a side hustle:
• Less Time to Relax: Side hustles require time and effort, eroding your leisure time. Working 60+ hour weeks can lead to fatigue and even burnout. When juggling your day job, side hustle, and personal commitments causes you to lose sleep, your quality of life can become unsustainably low.
• Distraction from Work: A side hustle can encroach on your attention and focus during work hours. Constantly thinking about your other gig, responding to email, or taking calls while at your main job can detract from your performance. If colleagues or supervisors perceive your divided attention, this can also strain your professional relationships and undermine your credibility.
• Managing the Stress of Two Jobs: Managing the demands of a side hustle on top of your primary job and personal responsibilities can significantly increase stress. Deadlines, client expectations, financial pressures, and the need to constantly switch between different roles and tasks can elevate anxiety. Chronic stress associated with balancing multiple commitments can affect your mental and physical health over time.
• Sustainable Prices Can Be Elusive: Setting prices or negotiating rates for your side hustle services can be challenging, especially if you’re just getting started or dealing with imposter syndrome. Striking the right balance between competitiveness and fair compensation can be tricky, and you may encounter situations where clients or customers undervalue your work. Plus, breaking into a competitive market may require setting prices so low that you work at a loss for the first few months or even years. As a result, your side hustle may ding your budget instead of adding to it.
💡 Quick Tip: An online money tracker makes monitoring your spending a breeze: You can easily set up budgets, then get instant updates on your progress, spot upcoming bills, analyze your spending habits, and more.
When Does a Side Hustle Make Sense?
Several ingredients are key for a side hustle to make sense for your situation. First, it’s essential to have a clearly defined reason for pursuing a side hustle. For example, you may want to generate income, follow a creative impulse, or pave a path to a new career. This clarity of purpose will guide your efforts and motivate you throughout your side hustle journey.
Second thorough research is crucial to understanding the market, demand, competition, and potential challenges associated with your chosen side hustle. This is significant even if you don’t have financial aspirations for your other gig.
For example, if you’re interested in fitness, is your specific angle better suited for a blog or a YouTube channel? Will you create a social media presence to drive more traffic? What kind of value are you delivering to your audience?
In a different vein, if you want to become a rideshare driver, which company offers the best pay? Do you have a presentable vehicle that you’re willing to put miles on? Answering these kinds of questions will help you make informed decisions and set realistic expectations. Not doing your homework will likely bring a lack of results, monetary loss, and frustration.
Next, understand the time commitment your side hustle will require. For instance, a few hours of woodworking on the weekend is less demanding than taking a constant flow of orders on Etsy. If your schedule is already full to the brim from your primary job, family responsibilities, and personal pursuits, incorporating a side hustle can do more harm than good. Even if you work a side gig with your significant other, it’s not the same as spending quality time together.
Finally, your side hustle should fit into the larger picture of your goals and values. For instance, you might start a side hustle in order to build a $5,000 emergency fund. Or you could take a software engineering course in the evenings that will help you eventually switch careers. In any case, your side hustle should have specific benefits and point toward a defined objective. Otherwise, you’ll burn time without accomplishing much.
The Opportunity Cost of a Side Hustle
The “opportunity cost” of a side hustle depends upon the resources you invest. When you dedicate yourself to anything, you lose opportunities to engage in leisure activities, spend time with family and friends, and take vacations. In essence, the opportunity cost of a side hustle equals the value you place on other aspects of life that matter most.
Also ask yourself what is the financial cost of your side hustle? You might have to invest money to purchase materials or pay for marketing. You might also give up overtime at your primary job. That’s cash that could go into savings, investments, or paying off debt.
Likewise, your time could be going into skill development for your day job, leading to promotions or raises. Plus, your employer might sponsor specific types of professional development, resulting in free training that moves your career forward and increases your salary.
Ultimately, the opportunity cost of a side hustle varies depending on individual circumstances, goals, and priorities. It’s essential to carefully consider these factors and assess how the benefits of the side hustle compare to the time and money.
Examples of Side Hustles
While there are unusual ways to make money, side hustles are typically more accessible. Here are some side hustles that match with a range of backgrounds and skill sets:
• Freelancing: Offer services such as writing, graphic design, programming, bookkeeping, and more. You’ll take projects on a contract basis with multiple clients.
• Dog Walking: Providing exercise and companionship for dogs by taking them on walks on a regular or as-needed basis.
• Blogging: Creating and maintaining a consistent feed of valuable written content on a topic you love or have expertise in. Find out how much it costs to start and run a blog.
• Non-Medical Senior Care: Assisting elderly individuals with daily tasks (shopping, bathing, housework, etc.) and providing companionship to support their wellbeing.
• Babysitting: The tried-and-true income-generator for teenagers and adults alike. You’ll care for children in the evenings and on weekends when parents are busy or need a break.
• Personal Assistant: Providing administrative support and assistance to individuals or businesses. You’ll manage schedules, run errands, and handle correspondence. You can also be a virtual assistant and provide numerous essential services (bookkeeping, arranging travel, etc.), therefore creating a side hustle from home.
• Handyman: Offering services to repair, maintain, and improve residences. You can specialize in one or more areas: plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, or general home tasks.
• Crafting: Creating handmade goods and artwork, such as jewelry, clothing, and home décor, to sell online or at craft fairs.
• Cooking/Baking: Crafting you can eat! Get to work in the kitchen to make treats, desserts, or meal kits for sale.
• Private Tutor: Providing personalized academic instruction to students in a particular subject or skill, often on a one-on-one basis.
• Self-Publishing: Writing and publishing books or other written works independently, without the involvement of traditional publishing companies. Self-publishing is inexpensive because your work will be accessible as an ebook.
• Teaching Online Courses: Creating and delivering educational courses or tutorials on a specific topic via online platforms is another side hustle from home.
• Product Tester: Testing and reviewing products or services for companies or brands, often providing feedback and insights based on personal experience.
• E-Commerce: Selling products or services online through a website or online marketplace, which may involve sourcing or creating products, managing inventory, and handling customer inquiries and orders.
When Is a Side Hustle Not Worth It?
A side hustle may not be worthwhile because of the toll on your physical, mental, and financial wellbeing. Here are more specific ways that a side hustle can negatively impact your life:
• Burnout: Working an 8-hour job and dedicating 2 to 4 additional hours per day to your side hustle leaves little room for anything else. The demands of a side hustle can result in excessive stress, fatigue, and burnout.
• Missed Career Advancements: Devoting significant time and energy to a side hustle may detract from opportunities for advancement in your primary job. They can also keep you from visualizing a sustaining career. So if you’re in a job you don’t like, a side hustle can act as a bandage instead of a cure. It’s advisable to focus on switching vocations instead of supplementing your income through another unsatisfying side job.
• Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits: A demanding side hustle may lead to poor eating choices due to lack of time for meal prep, insufficient exercise, and disrupted sleep. Over time, these habits damage physical health and overall quality of life.
• Strained Relationships: Spending excessive time on a side hustle can strain relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners. Missing significant events or quality time with loved ones due to work commitments can lead to feelings of resentment and isolation.
• Financial Costs: Some side hustles require upfront investments of time and money, for purchasing inventory or equipment, marketing expenses, or training courses. If the return on investment does not justify these costs, the side hustle may not be financially sustainable in the long run.
• Not-So-Passive Income: Many side hustles require active participation and ongoing effort to generate income, which can limit scalability and long-term earning potential. Without the ability to create passive income streams, you’ll constantly trade time for money without achieving financial freedom.
• Neglecting Personal Growth: A side hustle that consumes all available time and energy may leave little room for hobbies or other interests. Over time, this can lead to stagnation and dissatisfaction with your lifestyle.
Side Hustle Tips
A side hustle can quickly get out of hand or detract from your life if you’re not careful. Here’s how to create a practical side hustle that serves your needs:
• Start Small: When beginning a side hustle, starting with manageable tasks or projects that don’t require a significant investment of time or resources is wise. Starting small allows you to test the waters, gain experience, and assess the viability of your chosen side hustle without taking on too much risk. As you gain confidence and experience, you can gradually expand and scale your side hustle over time.
• Play to Your Strengths: Identify your special skills, interests, and areas of expertise, and leverage them in your side hustle. By focusing on activities that align with your strengths, you’re more likely to enjoy the work, excel at it, and differentiate yourself from competitors. This approach also allows you to maximize your earning potential by offering high-value services or products that cater to a specific niche or market. Remember, this doesn’t mean you must stick to your current skill set. Your interests and abilities can also lead you to pick up new skills.
• Maintain Your Performance at Work: Balancing a side hustle with a full-time job means prioritizing high performance and professionalism in your primary job while pursuing your side hustle. To that end, it’s recommended to set boundaries for the time you dedicate to your side hustle and to manage your schedule efficiently. By maintaining your performance at work, you can preserve your job security and opportunities for advancement.
• Aim at a Goal Instead of a Job: Instead of treating your side hustle as just another job, set out to achieve specific goals or milestones that align with your long-term aspirations. Whether your goal is to generate additional income, pursue a passion project, or transition to full-time entrepreneurship, having a clear vision and purpose for your side hustle will keep you motivated and focused on what truly matters to you. By focusing on goals rather than simply exchanging time for money, you can create a more fulfilling and meaningful side hustle.
The Takeaway
Side hustles can be a bad idea when they damage your quality of life. While picking up a side gig can create more income, this result must be weighed against other priorities, including advancement in your day job, time dedicated to relationships, and alternatives that slowly but surely create passive income.
Asking yourself whether a side hustle is a good move might not be the most relevant question. Instead, you can ask yourself if a second job makes sense after developing a clear vision of the future.
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FAQ
Are side hustles risky?
Side hustles can be risky because of the opportunity cost of picking up extra work. Specifically, a side hustle can drain time and financial resources, add unmanageable stress to your life, and lead to worse quality of life because of the sacrifices required to work a second job. As a result, it’s essential to evaluate your circumstances and identify your goals before starting a side hustle.
Are side hustles a waste of time?
Side hustles can be an excellent way to generate more income, develop yourself professionally, or transition to a different career. However, they can also be a waste of time if you don’t set goals and create a realistic plan when starting. So a carefully planned side hustle that fits into the larger picture of your life can provide massive benefits, while picking up more work to simply stay busy can lead to missed opportunities in your professional and personal life.
Is starting a side hustle really worth it?
Starting a side hustle can be worth it for additional income, pursuing passions, or expanding your skill set. However, it requires careful consideration of the potential drawbacks, such as time constraints, increased stress, and the risk of hindering career advancement. Ultimately, the value of a side hustle depends on your aligning it with personal goals, managing resources effectively, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Photo credit: iStock/JLco – Julia Amaral
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Want to learn how to make $5,000 fast? Whether you’re in a rush to meet a financial goal this week or aiming for a steady income of $5,000 per month, there are several ways to make it happen. You’ll find different options, from short-term jobs that pay a lot at once to long-term ideas that…
Want to learn how to make $5,000 fast?
Whether you’re in a rush to meet a financial goal this week or aiming for a steady income of $5,000 per month, there are several ways to make it happen.
You’ll find different options, from short-term jobs that pay a lot at once to long-term ideas that bring in money regularly. And, sometimes, combining a few methods can help you reach $5,000 faster.
If you’re looking to make $5,000 fast, you’re not alone. Many people need a big amount of money quickly – for unexpected costs, important purchases, just to save up, or simply to make a stable amount of money regularly.
Best Ways To Make $5,000 Fast
Below is how you can make $5,000 fast.
1. Flip items for resale
If you want to learn how to make $5,000 without a job, then one way may be to flip items for resale.
Flipping items for resale means you buy things at a low price and sell them for more. This could be handmade goods, vintage items (like old games, cameras, clothing, etc.), furniture, sports equipment, appliances, and more.
Look for undervalued items at flea markets, garage sales, yard sales, and thrift stores, and then sell them for a profit. This job involves having an eye to spot valuable items that you think can be resold at a higher price.
You can resell items on eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and more.
I have flipped many, many items for resale over the years, and I think it’s a great way to work from home and make money on your own schedule.
Recommended reading: How Melissa Made $40,000 In One Year Flipping Items
2. Freelance online work
Making $5,000 a month from home is possible by becoming a freelancer.
Freelancers are people who run their own businesses and provide services to other businesses or clients on a contract basis. As a freelancer, you might be hired for onetime projects by businesses or you could secure long-term contract work with a company.
Online freelancing jobs include:
And more.
You can find freelance gigs through networking, reaching out to possible clients through email or phone, creating a freelance listing on Fiverr, searching for gigs on Upwork, and more.
I have personally been a freelancer for years (mainly freelance writing, and, in the past, I have also done freelance social media management), and it’s a great way to earn income while still being your own boss with a flexible schedule.
Recommended reading: 16 Best Freelance Jobs & How To Get Started
10
This free 76-minute workshop answers all of the most common questions about how to become a proofreader, and even talks about the 5 signs that proofreading could be a perfect fit for you.
3. Pet sit and dog walk
Rover is a website that connects pet owners with pet sitters and dog walkers. You can work this job on weekends all year round or choose to be available only during the summer months – it’s flexible and up to you.
Getting started on Rover is simple. You create a profile highlighting your experience with pets and the services you offer, such as dog walking, pet sitting, and house sitting.
After setting up your profile, customers will send you requests, and you can discuss pricing with them. Rover handles payment processing, and you’ll receive payments directly into your account.
I have two close family members who are professional dog walkers, and they both love this side hustle.
Recommended reading: 7 Best Dog Walking Apps To Make Extra Money
4. Short-term rental your home
If you have a spare room in your home that you’re not using, you may want to try renting it out either on a short-term basis through Airbnb or Vrbo or by finding a long-term roommate to make extra cash.
I’ve rented out rooms multiple times before to roommates, and it’s a great way to earn extra income from unused space.
Recommended reading: What You Need To Know About Renting A Room In Your House
5. Deliver food
If you’re looking to make $5,000, finding a food delivery driving gig is a good option.
With companies like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Instacart, you can start earning money by bringing people their favorite food. It’s flexible too, so you decide when you work and for how long.
Delivery services like Instacart hire personal grocery shoppers, and the average shopper earns $15 to $20 per hour delivering groceries. Drivers are paid per order, and you keep 100% of your tips. You can also pick your own schedule, which means teachers can work in the evenings or weekends, or only during the summer if they prefer.
6. Sell high-value items
If you’re looking to make a quick $5,000, selling high-value items can be a smart move. Take a look around your home; you might have things you don’t need that others are willing to buy for a good price.
You could sell an old cell phone, laptop, camera, designer clothes, your car, and more.
There are many different buyers for high-value items – from people like you and me on Facebook, to pawn shops, eBay, and more.
7. Tutor
Tutors who specialize in subjects such as math, language, science, graphic design, and more help students improve in those areas.
And, some tutors can make money rather quickly, such as one who specializes in college courses or high-level exams.
Becoming an online tutor depends on the subject you want to teach. Experience in the field is usually required, but there are opportunities for beginners as well. Tutors who teach advanced subjects like calculus or college entrance exams generally earn more than those teaching simpler topics.
Tutoring rates can range from $15 to over $100 per hour, depending on the subject and where you sell your tutoring services.
8. Stock photo photography
Stock image websites are popular platforms where photographers can sell their pictures. Customers can buy royalty-free photos for personal or business use, and these images are commonly used in websites, TV shows, books, social media, and more.
One advantage of using stock photo sites is that they can generate passive income. You can take pictures, upload them, and potentially earn money from them for months or even years. You’ll earn a commission every time someone downloads your photos.
Some well-known stock photo websites include Shutterstock, iStock by Getty Images, Adobe Stock, and Dreamstime.
In the world of stock photography, quality is important, but quantity matters too. The more pictures you have in your stock photo portfolio, the more potential you have to earn money.
Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures
9. Sell an online course
Creating and selling an online course can be a great way to make money quickly, especially if you have knowledge or skills in a high-demand area.
If you have expertise in a certain subject, you can create and sell an online course. Platforms like Teachable and Udemy allow you to develop, host, and sell your course to students. While you may not earn $1,000 immediately, having students enroll over time can generate a substantial income.
I have an online course that I personally sell, Making Sense of Affiliate Marketing. I have also taken many online courses, such as on helping my toddler get better sleep, speech therapy for parents, business courses, blogging courses, and so much more.
There are many different subjects you can teach in an online course, including:
Painting
Music lessons
Exercise
Parenting
Languages
Photography and photo editing
Plants and gardening
Baking and cooking
Arts and crafts
10. Rent out your unused storage space
Just like Airbnb transformed the way you can earn money from your spare room, peer-to-peer storage platforms are doing the same for your unused spaces.
If you have extra space at home, consider renting it out to local people for storage. This could be a garage, driveway, closet, basement, or attic.
While making $1,000 in a single day from this may be challenging, renting out your space can provide a steady, long-term income when combined with other income sources.
You can use a website like Neighbor to list your available space for rent, potentially earning up to $15,000 per year.
11. Sell your jewelry
If you need to learn how to make $5,000 dollars in a day, then one option is to sell any expensive jewelry that you may have.
If you’ve got jewelry you no longer wear, selling it can be a quick way to earn some cash. You might have pieces like engagement rings, necklaces, or bracelets tucked away.
Recommended reading: Where To Sell Jewelry: 12 Best Places For Extra Money
12. Flip real estate
Flipping real estate means buying homes that need fixing, making improvements, and selling them for a profit. This can be a way to make $5,000 (and well over that if you are smart and careful!).
To do this type of real estate investment successfully, you may start by focusing on making cost-effective improvements, especially in areas like the kitchen and bathrooms, and address any major structural or safety issues.
Recommended reading: 23 Best Real Estate Side Hustles To Make Extra Money
14. Sell printables
If you’re looking to make $5,000 online, selling printables is an option.
Printables are digital files that customers can download and print at home, such as grocery shopping checklists, monthly budget planners, wedding invitations, wall art, and more.
I buy printables all the time, and actively search them out at least a few times a month. And, I’m not alone – many people buy printables frequently as well!
I recommend signing up for the Free Workshop: How To Earn Money Selling Printables. This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
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.
15. Help businesses with their Facebook ads
Managing Facebook ads for local businesses is an online job where you can earn at least $1,000 per month per client.
Local businesses want to expand their audience through Facebook ads, but many don’t have the expertise to do it effectively. That’s where you come in. By learning this skill, you can sell your services to small businesses and help them reach more customers online.
Plus, this can be a part-time job that you do in your spare time or even a full-time job.
16. Write an ebook
Creating your own ebook can be a way to earn money online, and you likely have knowledge to share (even if you don’t realize it!) or a good story to write about.
Platforms like Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) allow you to reach a wide audience without a traditional publisher.
Examples of genres you can write in include romance, travel, self-help, sci-fi, and more.
17. Blog
If you want to learn how to make $5,000 from home, then one of my favorite ways is to start a blog.
Now, starting a blog doesn’t instantly make you $5,000 because it takes time to set it up. However, with time and effort, some bloggers can make $5,000 a month in the future.
A blog is a website filled with articles, similar to what you’re reading now. You can start a blog on various topics like personal finance, recipes, travel, pet care, family life, and more.
You can earn money from a blog by partnering with companies for sponsorships, displaying ads, engaging in affiliate marketing (like promoting products on Amazon), and selling items such as ebooks, candles, T-shirts, and other products directly through your blog.
Blogging is my primary source of income, and I make well over $5,000 a month online. It took about six months to earn my first $100 from my blog, so getting started requires some patience. It then took me about a year to reach a monthly income of around $5,000 from blogging.
You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).
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Want to see how I built a $5,000,000 blog?
In this free course, I show you how to create a blog, from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.
18. Affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing is a way to earn money by promoting products or services online, and it’s one of my favorite ways to make $5,000 (or more) fast online.
Affiliate marketing is when someone buys a product through a referral link you share, and you earn a commission.
To start, you will want to find products you genuinely like and believe others will benefit from. Then, sign up for their affiliate program, which will provide you with a unique affiliate link. This link tracks the clicks and purchases made from your recommendation.
Recommended reading: Affiliate Marketing Tips For Bloggers – Free eBook
19. Sell on Amazon
Starting your own Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) business can be a great way to make $5,000 fast.
You can sell items from household goods to clothes, games, electronics, and more.
Selling on Amazon FBA works by you sending the items you want to sell to an Amazon fulfillment warehouse. Amazon stores these items for you until they sell on their platform.
When an item sells, Amazon handles the shipping and sends it directly to the customer. This means you don’t have to worry about packing and shipping the sold items yourself.
Recommended reading: How To Sell Items On Amazon FBA
20. Start a YouTube channel
Creating content for your own YouTube channel can be a fun way to work toward making $5,000 fast.
You can create a YouTube channel about topics such as finance, home improvement, travel, toys, pets, and more. There’s a YouTube channel for almost every interest these days.
Like blogging, this isn’t a guarantee that you’ll make money, and it will definitely take time to reach $5,000. But, it can be a lot of fun, and you get to be your own boss.
21. Buy a business that already makes income
Buying a business that’s already bringing in money is a way to possibly skip the tough start-up phase and have a business that is making over $5,000.
Now, existing businesses are typically expensive – someone has done a lot of hard work building a business over years and years, after all. They can cost anywhere from a few thousand to millions or even billions of dollars.
You can start by looking at online marketplaces like BizBuySell or Flippa. They list all kinds of businesses for sale, and you’ll see lots of options from online sites (like retail stores and blogs) to local shops (like bike shops, clothing stores, toy stores, and laundromats).
An example – I was recently in a small local bike shop, and they told me that it was for sale. They earned around $20,000 a month (I’m not sure if that was before or after expenses or anything else), and their shop was for sale for around $500,000. You got all the bikes, parts, customers, etc. with the sale. The building wasn’t owned by them, they had monthly rent and other bills to pay. I’m not going to say if this was a good or bad deal – it’s just an example of a real business that is for sale that I recently came across.
22. Consulting
Consulting is when you provide expert advice to individuals or businesses facing challenges. Consultants use their knowledge to understand problems, give advice, and help clients make better decisions from an outside perspective.
Consultants work in fields like management, finance, technology, or marketing. They focus on areas like strategy, process improvement, or restructuring to help clients achieve their goals effectively.
Here’s an example of how a consulting gig works: A company is struggling with managing its products and deliveries. They bring in a consultant who knows a lot about solving these issues. First, the consultant looks at how things are currently done. Then, they suggest better ways to store and ship items. The consultant helps put these ideas into action and teaches the company’s team how to use the new methods. Even after the changes, the consultant keeps an eye on things to make sure everything works well. This helps the company save money and makes sure that customers get what they need on time.
23. Detail cars
Starting a mobile car detailing business can be a way to earn money quickly. After all, you don’t need a lot to get started, and people are always wanting a good detailer to clean their car.
You’ll want to start by getting quality cleaning supplies like car shampoo, wax, and microfiber towels. You can then set fair prices based on what others charge nearby and promote your services on social media and with local businesses.
24. Rideshare driving gigs
Driving for a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft can be a way to reach your $5,000 goal quickly.
Here’s how you can work toward earning $5,000 with Uber or Lyft:
Drive during peak hours when demand is high, such as weekend nights, rush hours, or during busy events in your city.
Maximize your earnings by strategically positioning yourself in high-demand areas where there are plenty of potential riders, like near popular restaurants, bars, or events.
Take advantage of Uber’s driver bonuses, which may include incentives for completing a certain number of rides or driving during specific times. For example, you might earn an extra $10 for completing three rides in a row during rush hour.
While you won’t make $5,000 in one day, driving for a ride-sharing service can be a flexible way to earn money and work toward reaching your financial goal over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to make $5,000 fast.
What are some ways to earn an extra $5,000 quickly?
If you need to make an extra $5,000 quickly, then selling expensive items that you already own is usually the fastest thing that I recommend doing. This is because you may have expensive things in your home already – like jewelry or electronics – that you can sell and get paid for within just a few days.
Can I make $5,000 in a single day and how?
Making $5,000 in a single day is hard but not impossible. It may require a combination of having high-value items to sell or landing a big client for your freelance business. It’s about making the right move at the right time with the resources you have.
How can I double $5,000 dollars?
There are many ways to double $5,000 dollars, but it will depend on how much time you have to double your money, as well as how much risk you want to take on. Some ways will be much more risky than others, such as by investing in stocks or real estate. Due to this, it’s important to research and consider your risk tolerance before investing your money.
How can I make $5,000 in a month?
Ways to make $5,000 in a month can include freelance writing, blogging, proofreading, bookkeeping, and more.
How to make $5,000 fast without a job?
If you want to make $5,000 fast but not get a job, then the fastest thing to do is typically to sell items around your home that you already have, such as jewelry or electronics. You can also combine a bunch of different side hustles, such as freelancing, selling stuff, running a business, flipping real estate, and even small things like taking online surveys (like Survey Junkie for free gift cards).
How to make $5,000 a day online?
Some ways to make $5,000 a day online may include selling courses or other digital products. Now, this will not be an easy thing to do, and it will require a lot of hard work (as well as some luck).
How To Make $5,000 Fast – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to make $5,000 fast.
As you read above, there are many different ways to make $5,000. Some are faster than others (such as selling expensive items that you already own), and others may be more of a full-time career (such as freelance proofreading).