Side hustle ideas in Austin, TX

Austin has a busy tech scene, big colleges and a big music and events scene. That's where the paying work is. Here are side hustles that fit Austin, with what they cost to start, what people usually charge, and how to land your first customer this week.

1. 🎸

   1. Music lessons

   Beginner guitar, piano or drums, in person or online.

   Start: $0Charge: $30–60 a lesson

   First step: Post in a local parents group offering a first lesson free.

2. 📱

   2. Social media for local businesses

   Short videos and posts for restaurants, gyms and shops that don't have time.

   Start: $0–200Charge: $300–1,000 a month per business

   First step: Make a free sample Reel for one local shop and show them.

3. 🎧

   3. Event DJ or sound setup

   Parties, school dances and small events.

   Start: $300–1,000 (speaker, controller)Charge: $200–600 an event

   First step: DJ a friend's party for free and film it.

4. 🚗

   4. Mobile car detailing

   Interior and exterior detailing at the customer's home or office.

   Start: $200–600Charge: $100–250 a car

   First step: Detail a friend's car, film it, and offer a launch price to your first 10 customers.

5. 🤖

   5. AI and website setup for small businesses

   Simple websites, Google profiles and AI tools for local shops.

   Start: $0–100Charge: $300–1,500 a project

   First step: Fix one local business's Google profile for free and ask for a referral.

6. 🍳

   6. Meal prep for busy families

   Weekly prepped meals picked up or delivered. Check your state's cottage food rules first.

   Start: $100–300Charge: $80–150 a week per family

   First step: Cook a week for one family you know and ask for a testimonial.

7. 🔑

   7. Errands and house sitting

   Groceries, pickups, plant watering and house checks for busy people and travelers.

   Start: $0Charge: $20–35 an hour

   First step: Tell neighbors and coworkers of your parents that you're starting.

8. 🐕

   8. Dog walking and pet sitting

   Midday walks for people at work and drop-in visits when they travel.

   Start: $0–100Charge: $20–35 a walk

   First step: Make a profile on Rover and tell 10 neighbors with dogs you're starting.

Prices are typical US ranges. What people pay in Austin can be higher or lower, so check a few local listings before you set yours.