30 Jobs for Teens – How to Make Money as a Teenager

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An “allowance” from your parents when you were 8 years old was great, but it’s just not going to cut it now!

Or maybe you’ve aged out of the allowance stage altogether.

But not having money is a drag. And so is always having to ask your parents for cash.

Making money as a teenager can be a challenge. You’re in a place in life where you have no job experience and no resume. But you have to start somewhere right?

There are still many ways to get money as a teen, even without a job. Especially in this day and age of online jobs and endeavors!

From side hustles, to part-time jobs, to your own small business or online work, there’s no reason you have to be poor!

If you are asking yourself the question “How can I make money as a teenager?” read on to find the best jobs for teens!

Best Jobs for Teens

There are a ton of “starter” jobs out there for teenagers that don’t require work experience and offer flexibly hours.

1. Babysitter

Babysitting is one of the best jobs for teens  because you can set your own schedule and rates.

There is a reason it has always been a go-to job for teens who want to make money.

You’ll watch children while their parents are away, which includes feeding them, helping with homework, and keeping them safe.

Most babysitters earn between $12 and $20 per hour depending on location and experience.

You can start by watching kids in your neighborhood or for family friends. Many parents prefer hiring teens they already know and trust.

Getting certified in CPR and first aid makes you more appealing to parents and lets you charge higher rates.

The great thing about it is that parents often need sitters on weekend evenings and occasional weekdays, so it won’t interfere much with school.

2. Tutor

If you’re good at a particular subject, tutoring lets you help other students while earning money.

You can tutor younger kids or classmates who need extra help in subjects like math, science, or English. Tutors typically make $15 to $30 per hour based on the subject and grade level.

You can find students through your school, online platforms, or by advertising in your community.

Many parents look for tutors during the school year to help their kids improve grades. Online tutoring is also popular and lets you work from home.

This job builds your communication skills and deepens your own understanding of subjects. You create lesson plans and explain concepts in ways that make sense to different learners. It looks great on college applications too.

More reading:

• Highest Paying Apps
• Passive Income Ideas for Students
• 15 Ways to Make Money in One Hour
• How to Earn $300 Fast

3. House Cleaner

House cleaning is another great way to make money as a teenager. You can do it anytime that works with your schedule and it pays well.

You’ll vacuum, dust, mop floors, clean bathrooms, and tidy up rooms for busy families or elderly neighbors. Teen cleaners can earn $15 to $25 per hour or charge per house.

Start by offering your services to neighbors and family friends who know you’re reliable. You’ll need basic cleaning supplies, though many clients provide their own. Weekend mornings are popular times for cleaning jobs.

The work is physically active but doesn’t require special training. You can often finish a house in 2-3 hours, making it easy to fit around other commitments. Building a regular client base means steady income.

4. Grocery Store Cashier

I don’t know about you but when I was little my career-dream was to someday work a cash register at a grocery store!

But, it is actually an ideal job for teenagers to try. Working as a grocery store cashier gives you regular hours and a consistent paycheck.

You’ll scan items, handle payments, bag groceries, and help customers. Most grocery stores pay $10 to $14 per hour and offer employee discounts.

Many grocery chains hire workers as young as 14 or 15 for cashier and bagger positions. You’ll get trained on the register system and customer service basics.

Stores often need help during evenings and weekends when you’re out of school.

This job teaches you how to work with the public and handle money accurately. You’ll develop time management skills during busy rushes.

In addition, the experience looks good on future job applications and you might get promoted to better positions.

Popular Part-Time Jobs for Teenagers

Teenagers looking for work often find the best opportunities in food service, retail, and customer-facing positions.

These jobs typically offer flexible hours that work around school schedules and don’t require previous experience.

5. Library Assistant

Working as a library assistant gives you a quiet environment where you can earn money while staying around books and learning resources.

You’ll help visitors find materials, check books in and out, shelve returned items, and keep the library organized. It is pretty easy work!

The job teaches you money making skills like organization and customer service as well as how to use library systems.

You’ll also learn to help people with research questions and use computers and databases. Most libraries need you to be detail-oriented and comfortable working independently.

Library assistants usually work after school hours and on weekends when students need help with homework.

The pace is generally calm compared to retail or food service jobs. You might also get first access to new books and materials.

6. Busser

I have made a lot of money in my life from restaurant jobs. When it comes to jobs for teens, I think getting started in a restaurant is the best work you can do!

It is an excellent fall-back at any point in your life and the money is typically better.

You can get started as a busser. Bussers clear and clean tables in restaurants so new customers can sit down quickly.

You’ll remove dirty dishes, wipe down tables and chairs, and sometimes help refill water glasses or bread baskets.

This job keeps you moving throughout your shift. You need to work fast during busy meal times and stay organized when the restaurant fills up.

Bussers often share tips with servers, which means you can earn more than just your hourly wage.

The work builds your stamina and teaches you how restaurants operate. You’ll learn to work as part of a team and handle pressure during rush hours.

Many bussers move up to server positions once they learn how the restaurant works so it is a great starting point.

7. Restaurant Hostess

As a restaurant hostess, you’re the first person customers see when they walk in. You greet guests, manage the waiting list, seat people at tables, and answer phone calls about reservations or hours.

You need good communication skills and a friendly attitude for this role. The job requires you to stay calm when customers get frustrated about wait times.

You’ll also work with servers to make sure tables get seated in a fair rotation.

This position gives you valuable customer service experience. You’ll learn to multitask by handling walk-ins while managing phone calls and tracking which tables are available.

The work environment is usually cleaner than kitchen jobs since you stay in the front of the restaurant.

8. Server

The best restaurant job for teens on our list is server. That is the highest paid position in a restaurant.

Servers take customer orders, deliver food and drinks, and make sure diners have everything they need during their meal.

You’ll answer questions about the menu, make recommendations, and handle payment at the end.

The job requires strong memory skills and the ability to carry multiple plates at once. You need to be friendly and patient, even with difficult customers.

Servers earn tips on top of their hourly wage, which means you can make a lot more money doing this than working at a retail store.

You’ll develop thick skin and learn to handle complaints professionally. The work teaches you time management as you juggle multiple tables at different stages of their meals.

Peak hours like Friday nights and weekend brunches are your busiest and most profitable times. Becoming a server is one of the best money making jobs to try.

9. Dishwasher

Dishwashers keep restaurants running by cleaning plates, glasses, silverware, and cooking equipment. You’ll load and unload industrial dishwashers, scrub pots and pans, and help maintain a clean kitchen workspace.

The work is physically demanding and hot since you’re around steam and hot water all shift. You don’t interact with customers, which some teens prefer.

The job is straightforward and doesn’t require you to memorize complex information.

Most restaurants desperately need reliable dishwashers, so these positions are often easy to find. You’ll work as part of the kitchen team and learn how professional kitchens operate. The experience can lead to other kitchen positions if you’re interested in cooking.

10. Barista

Baristas make coffee drinks, teas, and other beverages in coffee shops and cafes. You’ll take customer orders, operate espresso machines, steam milk, and create drinks according to specific recipes.

The job requires you to learn different drink recipes and work quickly during morning rush hours.

You need good customer service skills since you’ll chat with regular customers and handle special requests.

Many baristas enjoy the creative aspect of making latte art and customizing drinks.

You’ll often get free or discounted drinks during your shift. The work teaches you to multitask as you make multiple drinks while taking new orders.

Coffee shops attract a regular crowd, so you’ll get to know customers and build relationships with them.

11. Retail Sales Associate

Another ideal way to make money as a teenager is by working as a sales associate at a store. you can work at a clothing store, shoe store, or even ice cream shop. There are endless options for this type of work.

Retail sales associates help customers find products, answer questions, and process purchases at stores. You’ll also restock shelves, organize displays, and keep the store clean and presentable.

The job requires you to learn about the products your store sells. You need to be approachable and willing to help shoppers find what they need.

Many retail positions offer employee discounts, which is great if you like the store’s products.

You’ll develop sales skills and learn to handle cash registers and payment systems. The work varies between busy periods when lots of customers need help and slower times when you focus on organizing and restocking.

Holiday seasons bring extra hours and increased pay opportunities. You can get a job during the holidays for extra money.

Retail jobs are excellent summer jobs for teens as well.

Summer Jobs for Teens

Summer break opens up job opportunities that aren’t available during the school year. Many of these positions are outdoors or recreation-focused, taking advantage of warm weather and kids being out of school.

12. Camp Counselor

Working as a camp counselor is a weekly side hustle puts you in charge of leading activities and supervising groups of kids at day camps or overnight camps.

You’ll organize games, help with arts and crafts, and make sure campers stay safe and have fun.

Most camps look for counselors who are at least 16 years old, though some accept younger teens through counselor-in-training programs.

You don’t usually need previous experience to start, but you should enjoy working with children and be comfortable leading groups.

The pay varies by camp type and location, but you can expect anywhere from minimum wage to $15 per hour.

Overnight camps sometimes provide room and board as part of your compensation. This job teaches you leadership skills and responsibility while keeping you active all summer.

You can find summer camp counselor positions by checking with local YMCAs, recreation departments, religious organizations, and private camps in your area.

13. Lifeguard

One well-known summer job for teens has always been lifeguarding.

Lifeguard positions open up at pools, beaches, and water parks when warm weather arrives. Your main job is watching swimmers and responding to emergencies, but you’ll also enforce pool rules and keep the facility clean.

You need to get certified before you can work as a lifeguard. The American Red Cross and similar organizations offer training courses that teach water rescue techniques, CPR, and first aid.

These classes usually take about 25-30 hours to complete and cost between $200-$300.

Most places require lifeguards to be at least 15 years old. Once certified, you can earn $12-$20+ per hour depending on your location.

There’s currently a national lifeguard shortage, which means pools and beaches are actively hiring.

The certification lasts for two years, so you can use it for multiple summers. Strong swimming skills are a must before you even start training.

14. Swim Instructor

If you’re a skilled swimmer, teaching swim lessons is another water-based option for summer work.

You’ll work with kids or adults who are learning to swim, helping them build confidence and master different strokes.

Many community pools, YMCAs, and private swim schools hire teen instructors. You typically need lifeguard certification or specific swim instructor credentials from organizations like the Red Cross. Some facilities will hire you at 15 or 16 if you have strong swimming skills.

Swim instructors often earn more than regular pool staff, with rates ranging from $12-$25 per hour.

You might teach group classes or private one-on-one lessons. Private lessons usually pay more.

This job requires patience and good communication skills since you’ll be working with students who might be nervous about the water.

You set your own pace with lessons and celebrate each student’s progress.

15. Golf Caddy

Golf courses get busy during summer, and many need caddies to assist golfers during their rounds which makes for an ideal job for teenagers.

As a caddy, you carry golf bags, clean clubs, help find lost balls, and offer advice about the course when asked.

You don’t need previous golf experience, but knowing basic golf rules and etiquette helps. Most courses provide training to new caddies. The minimum age varies by course, but many accept teens as young as 14.

Caddies typically earn minimum wage from the golf course, but tips from golfers can significantly boost your income.

A friendly attitude and good communication can lead to better tips. Some caddies make $50-$100 per round when tips are included.

You’ll spend several hours walking outdoors for each round of golf. The work can be physically demanding since golf bags are heavy, but it’s a good way to stay active and potentially network with successful adults.

16. Landscaper/Lawn Mower

Lawn care and landscaping businesses need extra help during summer when grass grows fast and people want their yards looking good.

Your duties might include mowing lawns, trimming hedges, pulling weeds, mulching, and basic yard maintenance.

Some teens work for established landscaping companies while others start their own lawn mowing mini business in their neighborhood.

If you work for a company, expect to earn minimum wage to $15 per hour. Running your own operation lets you set your own rates, typically $25-$50 per lawn depending on size.

You’ll need access to equipment like mowers and trimmers. Companies provide these tools, but if you’re working independently, you might use your family’s equipment or invest in your own.

This job involves working outdoors in hot weather and requires physical stamina. You’ll probably need reliable transportation to travel between job sites. The work is straightforward and you can often listen to music while mowing.

17. Car Wash Attendant

Car washes hire additional staff during summer when more people get their vehicles cleaned.

You’ll wash and dry cars, vacuum interiors, clean windows, and apply wax or other treatments depending on the service package.

Most car wash positions are entry-level and don’t require experience. The minimum hiring age is usually 16, though some places hire at 15.

You’ll earn minimum wage, but many locations allow employees to accept tips from satisfied customers.

The work keeps you active since you’re constantly moving between vehicles. You’ll be working with water and cleaning products, so expect to get wet and wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.

Some car washes operate on a team system where everyone works together on each vehicle, while others assign specific tasks to different employees.

The job teaches you attention to detail and customer service skills in a fast-paced environment.

Best Online Jobs for Teens

Online work gives you flexibility to earn money from home while managing school and other commitments. The jobs below pay well and help you build real skills for the future.

18. Virtual Tutoring

Tutoring online lets you share what you already know while getting paid $15 to $25 per hour. You can teach younger students in subjects where you excel, like math, science, or English.

Most tutoring platforms require you to be at least 16 years old. Websites like Tutor.com and Wyzant connect you with students who need help. You set your own schedule and work from home.

Advanced subjects like SAT prep or calculus pay more than basic tutoring. You’ll need a quiet space, reliable internet, and a computer with a webcam. Some platforms ask you to pass a subject test before you start tutoring.

The best part about tutoring is that you’re helping someone learn while earning money. You can work a few hours a week or more, depending on your availability.

19. Freelance Writing

Freelance writing pays around $22 per hour and only requires good writing skills. You can write blog posts, articles, or social media content for businesses and websites.

Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork let you create a profile and bid on writing projects. You need to be 13 or older, but anyone under 18 needs parental consent to sign up.

Start with small projects to build your portfolio and get good reviews.

Your earnings grow as you gain experience and positive feedback. Some teen writers make over $1,000 per month once they have regular clients. You pick the projects you want and work on your own time.

Writing jobs teach you communication skills that help in almost any career. The more you write, the faster you get, which means you can earn more in less time.

20. Social Media Manager

As a teenager, you probably spend a LOT of time on social media. So, why not make money for it?

Managing social media for small businesses pays well and uses skills you already have. You create posts, reply to comments, and help businesses connect with customers online.

Many local shops and startups need help with platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. You can charge $15 to $20 per hour or offer monthly packages. Most businesses want someone who understands what content works and can post consistently.

You typically need to be 14 or older for this type of work. Your job includes planning content, designing graphics, and tracking what posts get the most engagement. This role works great if you’re creative and spend time on social media anyway.

Small businesses often prefer working with teens because you understand current trends better than adults. You can start by helping family friends or local businesses to build your experience.

You can also try easy social media jobs that involve commenting and more daily tasks.

21. Virtual Assistant

Virtual assistants handle tasks like email management, scheduling, and data entry for busy professionals.

This job pays around $18 per hour and teaches you valuable organization skills. Plus, it looks great on your resume as it is essentially an office job done remotely.

You need to be at least 16 years old for most virtual assistant positions. Your work might include organizing files, making appointments, or entering information into spreadsheets. The tasks vary depending on who hires you.

This job requires attention to detail and good communication. You’ll use tools like Google Calendar, Microsoft Office, and email programs.

Most virtual assistants work part-time hours that fit around school schedules.

The job is straightforward once you learn what your client needs. You gain professional experience that looks great on college applications and future resumes.

When it comes to easy online jobs, this is a good one to try. FlexJobs is a good site to look for this work.

22. Play games and Watch Videos

Did you know you can make money online on sites like Branded Surveys and Swagbucks just for playing games or watching videos?

You can even make money just for watching ads online.

One of the best sites where you can earn for playing games and completing simple tasks is Survey Junkie. They are one of the highest paid survey sites out there.

Survey Junkie and Branded Surveys will also pay you to take online surveys. Paid online surveys can be done anytime as well!

You won’t make a ton of money from these survey sites, but it is an easy way to make some pocket change!

Here are some other sites that will pay you for playing games:

• Mistplay lets you discover new games while earning rewards.
• App Station is another gaming app that pays in gift cards
• Coinpop is a free app that offers a lot of different types of games you can play for PayPal cash or gift cards.

You can even get paid to read emails.

Might as well make some extra cash from an easy side hustle while you are lounging on the couch.

An Easy Online Earner

Branded Surveys: Make money fast for simple surveys. $10 sign up bonus!

Start Earning Cash Now

23. Become an Entrepreneur

If you really want to make a lot of money as a teen, become an entrepreneur. Starting your own business might be easier than you think.

And there are a ton of business ideas for teens to choose from.

Hou can start a landscaping business, dog walking or start your own online business which gives you unlimited earning potential.

You can sell products on Etsy, create content on YouTube or TikTok, or offer services like graphic design.

Popular options include print-on-demand stores where you sell custom t-shirts or mugs without holding inventory. You can easily setting up an online store.

Digital products like study guides or templates cost nothing to make after the first one. Content creation through videos or podcasts can earn money through ads and sponsorships, though most creators start earning little to nothing.

Best places to start an online business:

• Shopify 
• Etsy

You’ll need patience because building a business takes time. The advantage is that you own your work and keep all the profits. Many teens use their earnings to save for college or fund travel experiences.

24. Start an eCommerce Business

Just because you are a teenager, doesn’t mean you can’t have a thriving online business as we just mentioned!

You could sell anything from jewelry to clothing to planners or even technology products. You can make thousands of dollars as a teenager online with an eCommerce business.

Setting up a Shopify account is an easy way to start your own teenage online business. Read this Shopify Launch Checklist and see how to start your own website selling products.

Find out what the best products to sell online are before you start selling though!

Another option is to start an Amazon by Fulfillment business which is a type of drop shipping business.

This is probably a better choice of business for a teen since it involves less work and headache. You don’t have to manage inventory or shipping yourself.

You figure out what products to sell and then buy them from a wholesaler. You have the products shipped to Amazon and they handle fulfilling orders and shipping them out when someone buys your products.

You just get to pocket all the profit! Here is an in depth guide on how to get started selling on Amazon FBA.

Start an eCommerce Store

Shopify: You can easily and affordably start your own online business!

Setup Your Online Store

25. Resell items

A great way to create income as a teenager is by selling items like clothing, collectibles or even furniture.

You can go to local estate sales or garage sales or the Goodwill and find deeply discounted items.

You can then resell these items for a profit on sites like Ebay, Etsy, or even Facebook Marketplace.

Shopping is a fun activity most teenagers like anyways, may as well turn that skill into a money maker!

If you are selling clothes online then you can try Poshmark. Reselling items is an excellent way to make money as a teenager without a job online.

You can even buy and resell big ticket items like cars for an even bigger profit in your pocket. It is a great way to make extra money.

Here are 16 Sites and Apps like OfferUp where you can sell things.

26. Create YouTube videos

Creating YouTube videos as a teenager is another great way to make money online. You can do make-up tutorials for instance. YouTubers get money from affiliate marketing and ads when they monetize their YouTube channel.

There are actually a lot of successful teenage YouTubers out there now. MattyBraps has over 10 million subscribers!!

You will need to be comfortable talking in front of a camera.

27. Rent a Car on Turo

You may want to buy a car for yourself and your freedom. But did you know you can rent cars on Turo and make a few hundred dollars or more a month?

It is like AirBnb for cars. You can rent your car on any days that you don’t need it. It is an excellent side business to start.

Pet-Related Jobs for Teens

Who doesn’t love hanging out with dogs? Why not make money for it?

Pet-related work gives you hands-on experience with animals while earning money in your neighborhood.

These jobs teach responsibility and work well with school schedules since you can often choose your own hours.

28. Pet Sitter

Pet sitting means caring for animals while their owners are away. You’ll feed pets, give them water, and make sure they’re safe and comfortable.

Some pet owners want you to stay at their house overnight, while others just need you to stop by once or twice a day.

You might also need to give pets medicine, clean litter boxes, or let dogs outside. Pet owners look for sitters who are responsible and love animals.

You can start by asking neighbors and family friends if they need pet care help.

Most pet sitters charge between $15 to $30 per visit. Overnight stays usually cost more. You can use apps like Rover to find clients, but many teens get jobs through word of mouth.

Building trust with pet owners takes time, but once they know you’re reliable, they’ll hire you again.

29. Dog Walker

Dog walking is perfect if you enjoy being active and spending time outdoors. You’ll take dogs on walks around the neighborhood, usually for 20 to 30 minutes per walk.

Some dogs need walks once a day, while others need two or three walks.

You need to be comfortable handling dogs of different sizes and energy levels. Some dogs pull on the leash or get excited around other animals. Always ask the owner about the dog’s behavior before your first walk.

Most dog walkers charge $10 to $25 per walk. You can walk multiple dogs at once to earn more money, but start with one dog until you gain experience.

Create a simple schedule that works with your school day and homework time.

30. Start Selling Dog Treats

Tap into the pet market and use it to make money for yourself. You can actually bake your own dog treats and sell them at local fairs, to your neighbors or even local pet stores.

Here is an actual course teaching you how to make money creating dog treats! The course is taught by Kristen Larsen who actually created her own money-making side hustle making dog treats.

Finding and Applying for Teen Jobs

Looking for your first job takes effort, but knowing where to search and how to present yourself makes the process much easier.

Focus on places that regularly hire teens, create simple application materials, and practice basic interview skills.

Where to Look for Openings

Online job boards are a great starting point for your search. Sites like Indeed let you filter by keywords such as “teen jobs” or “entry-level” combined with your city or zip code.

You can also check out specialized platforms like Hire Teen that focus specifically on connecting teenage workers with employers.

Local businesses in your area often hire teens for entry-level positions. Walk into fast food restaurants, grocery stores, retail shops, and movie theaters to ask about applications.

Many managers prefer when candidates show up in person because it demonstrates initiative.

Don’t overlook your personal network. Tell your parents, neighbors, teachers, and friends that you’re looking for work.

Many teens find their first job through someone they know. Family friends might need help with yard work, babysitting, or pet sitting.

Check community bulletin boards at libraries, recreation centers, and coffee shops. Summer camps, pools, and seasonal businesses post openings in these spots during hiring season.

Tips for Applying

Create a basic resume even if you don’t have work experience yet. List your school activities, volunteer work, sports teams, or any babysitting you’ve done.

Include skills like communication, teamwork, responsibility, and any computer programs you know how to use.

Tailor your resume for each job by highlighting the most relevant activities and skills. If you’re applying to work at a pet store, mention any experience caring for animals. If it’s a retail position, talk about working well with people.

Fill out applications completely and carefully. Read each question before answering and double-check for spelling mistakes.

Use a professional email address that includes your name, not a nickname or joke address.

Some states require work permits for teens under 18. Check your state’s requirements and get the necessary paperwork before you start applying. Your school guidance office can usually help with this.

Preparing for Interviews

Practice answering common questions before your interview. Employers often ask “Why do you want this job?” and “What are your strengths?”

Prepare honest answers that show you’re responsible and eager to learn. Practice with a parent or friend until you feel comfortable.

Dress neatly for your interview. You don’t need formal business clothes, but wear clean, presentable clothing without wrinkles or stains. Avoid anything too casual like sweatpants or clothes with inappropriate graphics.

Arrive 10 minutes early and bring a copy of your resume. Turn off your phone before entering the building. Make eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and speak clearly when answering questions.

Prepare a few questions to ask the interviewer. You might ask about training, typical work schedules, or what a normal shift looks like. This shows genuine interest in the position.

Final THoughts on Making Money for Teens

As you can see from this long list of jobs for teens, there are many options to make money as a teenager!

Or, you can try more than one and really increase how much money you earn.

Figure out what your preferences are. Would you prefer to make money online from home? Or do you want to do something social and be around people? Maybe you want to try your hand at something entrepreneurial.

The point is, you have a gazillion options and can choose whatever you most want!